In Need of Therapy? Let a Student Counselor Help!

WRITTEN BY Bianca Barratachea

Graduate Student Counseling intern

In need of therapy? Let a student counselor help!

When searching for a counselor, it can be difficult to find someone that you believe is a good fit for you. While reading through so many biographies and seeing so many different qualifications, it can be difficult to keep up with all that is being shared with you. While there are many options available to seek out professional counseling, have you ever considered seeking therapy with a graduate student intern? Wait, did you say an intern?? What is a graduate student intern in counseling exactly, and how are they qualified to offer counseling? Well, I'm here to provide you with some helpful information on what a graduate student counselor is and why selecting a graduate student intern can be beneficial.

What exactly is a graduate student counseling intern?

Graduate student counselors are master's or doctoral-level students who are nearing completion of their graduate program. Students are typically in the last year of their program and must complete 700 hours of combined practicum and internship under supervision in addition to their coursework to achieve their program's requirements. Graduate students can provide counseling services to clients by putting the expertise and skills they have acquired throughout their education to use.

Graduate programs require that before starting an internship, students complete a 100-hour practicum. Graduate students are under the supervision of a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with at least three years of post-graduate experience. Graduate students will frequently consult with their supervisors for guidance and obtain feedback on their skills, communication, and client-interaction abilities. As part of their practicum, graduate students will offer counseling to individuals, couples, and families, as well as lead group sessions where they will put their theoretical knowledge of person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other methods into practice.

After completing their practicum, graduate students can move on to the internship component of their program. Students must complete a 600-hour supervised internship during which they will sharpen their abilities, broaden their theoretical perspectives, and continue to develop relationships with clients.

Why should I consider a graduate student intern for counseling?

There may be some concerns about choosing a student as your counselor, but the advantages listed below might alleviate your worries.

Reduced fees:

Every insurance company is different, and some have more affordable rates for therapy services than others. Selecting a graduate student intern has the advantage of making counseling more affordable for individuals with high copays or no insurance, as interns practice at a reduced rate.

Willingness to grow and learn:

Student counselors are providing counseling services while still attending classes to help build and expand their knowledge base. They are provided with new information, familiarity with more recent research, and approaches that have been proven effective. With students being required to meet with their supervisor and professor weekly, it is almost like you have three therapists in one!

A devoted and empathetic counselor:

When I work with my clients as a student counselor, my first priority is making sure the client feels safe and comfortable in our session. Counseling can be a scary experience, but it does not have to be. My goal for my clients is to help them be their true selves and explore new perspectives. I guide and gently challenge my clients to help them reach their goals, and together we will work to develop a treatment plan that is unique to their needs.

Begin Counseling in Houston, TX, or San Antonio, TX: 

Our team of skilled therapists is passionate about helping you build the life you want. We are value-driven and help people navigate life to make sense of their stories. Together, we ensure they are creating meaning and purpose in their lives. We would love to work with you. Follow these steps to begin counseling in Houston, TX & San Antonio, TX, or online therapy in Texas:

1. Contact our counseling clinic to set up a free phone consultation

2. Meet with one of our  therapists

3. Begin individual counseling including anxiety therapy