5 Benefits of Receiving Care from an Associate Therapist or Psychologist-in-Training

At first thought, the idea of receiving care from an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training might seem a bit scary or even risky. While it is understandable to be nervous about the capabilities of a not-yet-fully-licensed therapist, several benefits are often overlooked.

Before we talk about those benefits, let’s first talk about what it means to be an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training. An associate therapist has been participating in a rigorous education program through their school of choice. They have already completed a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field from an accredited program. A psychologist-in-training has a master’s degree and has completed a minimum of 15 graduate hours in their doctoral program. Both are working in an office setting to complete requirements for their formal licensure.

Now, let’s look at some of the benefits of receiving care from an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training:

1.) It’s like seeing multiple therapists at once. 

An associate therapist or trainee is not working alone. He/she/they is being supervised by other trained and formally licensed counseling professionals. Together they can offer the best solutions and course of action for your troubles. 

Supervision is designed to make sure the associate is practicing in the best, most ethical way possible. It is also a time for collaboration between the associate, supervisors, and client. 

For more information on how associate therapists are supervised, visit our master’s level associates and psychologists-in-training page:https://cwpsychologicalservices.com/associate-level-clinicians/

2.) They have a fresh education. 

Associate therapists and psychologists-in-training are straight out of the classroom. All of the guiding principles and theories they were taught in psychology and counseling classes are fresh in their minds. They can more easily pull on those when needed. They are educated on the most up-to-date evidence-based practices. While licensed therapists are required to stay up-to-date through continuing education courses and training, associates have just learned the most up-to-date information. They know the research and what has been most effective. 

They also have fewer assumptions based on past cases. They don’t have a career history to draw on so they are more open-minded to trying new things.

3.) They have increased enthusiasm, excitement, and overall energy. 

Remember the excitement you felt the first time you did something you were passionate about—that is what it is like to work with an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training.

Associates and trainees ask more questions. They are excited to help and provide solutions and collaborate with clients. Overall they have more energy since this is a new exciting adventure in their lives. That energy often rubs off on the client helping them to excel in any life changes or challenges. 

This can be a very valuable time for both the clinician and client.

4.) They have more time to focus on you.

Associate therapists and trainees work with fewer clients at a time so that they are able to give more attention to each individual client. They aren’t just working on solutions and techniques to help you while you are meeting with them. They are putting energy into your concerns outside of sessions. They also aren’t having to spend as much time working on back-office stuff, like scheduling and billing. So, they have more time for you. More attention can mean quicker, more successful solutions.

5.) It will save you money.

Receiving care for your mental health is super important. Many times the reason people choose to not receive care is because of cost. Working with an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training solves that problem. Associates and trainees do not have the same overhead costs as licensed therapists. They aren’t responsible for office fees, taxes, licensure fees, and other costs. So, they can charge less. 

Some insurance panels, such as Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Evernorth, and Optum/United Healthcare/UMR, will even allow services from an associate therapist or psychologist-in-training to be billed through your plan. 

Why Wait? 

Proper care for your mental health can help you to feel your best and lead to positive changes in your life and overall well-being. Working with an associate-level therapist or psychologist-in-training provides you the unique opportunity to receive care and grow together. 

For more information on what it is like to work with an associate-level therapist or psychologist-in-training visit https://cwpsychologicalservices.com/associate-level-clinicians/

Ready to begin counseling in Pennsylvania?

At CW Psychological Services we have openings with our associate-level therapists and psychologist-in-training. We also have professionally trained and licensed therapists available. We have openings for online, or telehealth, therapy appointments. Email us at [email protected] or call at (610) 308-7575. We are here for you.