The Benefits of Working with a Graduate Student Intern as Your Couples Therapist
Graduate Student Intern providing marriage counseling
Choosing the right couples therapist can be challenging, but it’s so important to getting good outcomes and improving your relationship. Therapeutic alliance, or the relationship between the client and therapist, is responsible for 65% of the change that occurs in therapy. A good fit with a therapist is more important than the model they use, how many certifications they have, and which license they possess, all put together.
As a clinical Supervisor and business owner, I love bringing on graduate student interns each year to work with couples and finesse their own skills and therapeutic style. I have the opportunity to train and form a new generation of therapists to uphold high standards for clinical work, ethical behavior, and creating resources to help the public. It also allows our practice to offer high quality couples therapy sessions at a reduced rate.
While many may initially lean towards seasoned professionals, working with a graduate student intern can offer unique and valuable benefits. Since a strong connection with your therapist is the most valuable factor, their level of experience has less impact on success than you may think. Here are several compelling reasons why you should consider working with a graduate student intern for your couples therapy.
Fresh Perspectives and Innovative Approaches
Graduate student interns are immersed in the latest research, theories, and techniques in the field of couples therapy. Their education includes up-to-date knowledge on what strategies are currently proving most effective. This means they bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to their practice. Their familiarity with the newest methodologies can be particularly beneficial in addressing modern relationship challenges.
High Level of Supervision
One of the greatest advantages of working with a graduate student intern is the high level of supervision they receive. Interns are supervised by experienced, licensed professional experts who oversee their cases. This means that when you work with an intern, you are essentially getting two therapists for the price of one. The intern brings new knowledge and enthusiasm, while the supervisor provides seasoned insight and guidance. This dual-layer of care ensures that you receive a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to your therapy.
Dedication and Commitment
Graduate student interns are in a crucial phase of their career development. They are often highly motivated, eager to learn, and deeply committed to their clients. This dedication translates into a strong therapeutic alliance and a high level of attention to your case. Interns often go above and beyond to ensure they are providing the best possible care, bringing a level of energy and passion that can be incredibly beneficial in therapy.
Affordability
One of the practical benefits of working with a graduate student intern is the cost. Therapy sessions with interns are usually offered at a reduced rate compared to those with fully licensed therapists. This can make therapy more accessible and sustainable for couples who may be concerned about the financial investment. The lower cost does not mean lower quality; with the supervision and rigorous training they undergo, interns are well-prepared to provide effective therapeutic support.
Customized and Flexible Care
Graduate student interns often have smaller caseloads than fully licensed therapists. This allows them to offer more flexible scheduling and potentially more personalized attention to each couple. They can spend extra time preparing for sessions, developing tailored interventions, and ensuring that each session meets the unique needs of the couple they are working with. This individualized care can make a significant difference in the therapeutic process.
Ethical and Professional Standards
Despite being in training, graduate student interns are held to the same ethical and professional standards as licensed therapists. They adhere to strict guidelines and codes of conduct, ensuring that your confidentiality, safety, and well-being are always prioritized. Additionally, their desire to build a strong professional reputation often drives them to maintain the highest standards of practice.
Building a Strong Therapeutic Relationship
Interns are trained to build strong therapeutic relationships based on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. The importance of creating a safe and supportive environment is emphasized throughout their education. This focus on the therapeutic relationship can foster a deep level of connection and understanding, which is essential for effective couples therapy.
Access to Comprehensive Resources
Many graduate programs provide their interns with access to a wide range of resources, including advanced training materials, workshops, and peer support. This access allows interns to continually enhance their skills and stay informed about the latest developments in the field. Consequently, couples benefit from a well-rounded therapist who is constantly growing and evolving in their practice.
The Center for Couples Counseling has been grateful to be the home to many interns over the years. As the site Supervisor, I have been impressed with the highly rewarding experiences our clients have had working with graduate student interns for their couples therapy. Their eagerness to work with clients and provide top quality therapy is inspiring as I get to witness and develop a new generation of therapists. If you’re interested in working with a graduate student intern for all of the above reasons, contact our office to learn more about your options.
My name is Erika Labuzan-Lopez, LMFT-S, LPC-S and I’m the owner of the Center for Couples Counseling. I love using a variety of techniques to help couples learn why they move into childish spaces during the conflict, how to put down those defenses for good, and what to do when you can’t access the tools you know will work to get out of conflict. I love working with couples and individuals to learn how to live in the world more relationally and engage in meaningful relationships. With over a decade of couples therapy experience, I am passionate about training and supervising therapists to become specialized in highly effective couples therapy. We see couples, individuals, and all residents of Texas online. Call (832) 827-3288 to schedule your FREE phone consultation.
Interested in Meeting a Couples Therapist in League City, TX?
If you want to improve your relationship and reconnect with your partner, take action now and start being more curious about your relationship. At Center For Couples Counseling, one of our skilled couples therapists can help you and your partner navigate your challenges and rediscover the curiosity and passion that brought you together in the first place. Don't wait any longer to invest in the health and happiness of your relationship. To meet with a couples therapist follow these three simple steps:
Contact us to schedule an appointment
Meet with one of our skilled couples therapists
Begin to find the curiosity in your relationship and reconnect with your partner!
Other Services Offered at Center for Couples Counseling
At Center For Couples Counseling, our team of skilled therapists understands that your relationship may be facing different challenges. In addition to couples therapy, our Texas practice offers individual therapy, infertility counseling, postpartum anxiety and depression counseling, therapy for self-care and burnout, and therapy for perfectionism. For more about us check out our FAQs and blog!