Why You Should Consider Working With A Prelicensed Therapist

You may be wondering what a prelicensed therapist is and why you would want to work with one. A prelicensed therapist is a mental health professional who is in the process of completing their clinical hours and licensure requirements. In other words, they are not yet licensed to practice independently, but are able to provide therapy under the supervision of a licensed clinician. There are a number of benefits to working with a prelicensed therapist that are well worth considering. 

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Prelicensed therapists have completed graduate-level coursework in psychology or a related field and have likely taken at least one of their comprehensive exams. This means that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide high-quality therapy services. At Laurel Therapy Collective, we ONLY employ post-degree registered associates, which means they have completed their graduate degree and registered with their future licensing board. It’s a lot like medical residency; they’ve completed their education and are highly qualified, but are still gaining professional experience before taking their board licensure exam.

There are many benefits to working with a prelicensed therapist. Prelicensed therapists are often more affordable than licensed therapists, and sometimes more flexible with their scheduling. Perhaps the most undervalued aspect of working with a prelicensed therapist is the fresh perspective they likely have, as they have completed their training more recently than licensed clinicians and are more recently trained and educated on different therapeutic modalities, best practices, and theories. 

All therapists must complete hours of direct clinical experience under the supervision of a licensed clinician before they can become licensed. This ensures that therapists have received adequate training and supervision to provide ethical and clinically sound therapy services. It also means that your prelicensed therapist is consulting with an experienced provider regularly, giving you more attention and care devoted to you outside of session. Think of it as getting two therapists for the price of one: you see your prelicensed therapist weekly, and they consult with their supervisor regularly who may have additional ideas about how to help you feel better and achieve your therapy goals. Professionals who consult and collaborate usually have better outcomes. 

If you are considering entering therapy, working with a prelicensed therapist may be a good option for you. You can schedule a free consult today to get started.

Prelicensed therapists at Laurel Therapy Collective include: Alexis Bibler, AMFT.