The Value of Collaborative Care with a Pre-Licensed Therapist
Finding a therapist for yourself or your child can feel daunting—especially when you’re facing long waitlists, rising costs, or simply don’t know where to start. One meaningful option that’s often overlooked? Working with a pre-licensed therapist.
Pre-licensed therapists include both graduate-level practicum students and post-graduate clinicians who are working under clinical supervision as they gain the experience required hours to obtain Minnesota licensure. These providers are deeply committed to their growth—and to yours.
At MMC, we believe in the power of supervised care that blends up-to-date training, close mentorship, and authentic therapeutic relationships. Whether you’re working with a student in their final stages of graduate training or a post-grad clinician collecting licensure hours, you’re in capable, caring hands—with the added support of a licensed supervisor guiding the process. Our supervisors hold years of experience and clinical expertise. This means you may benefit from collaborative care that prioritizes safety, insight, and support.
Here’s what it means to work with a pre-licensed therapist—and why this collaborative model might be a great fit for your family.
What Is a Pre-Licensed Therapist?
A “pre-licensed therapist” can refer to either:
Practicum or intern-level students: In graduate school, these therapists are completing hands-on training hours while under close supervision.
Post-graduate, pre-licensed clinicians: These providers have finished their degrees and are accruing supervised experience toward full licensure within their state(such as LPCC, LGSW, or LMFT).
Why Consider Working with a Pre-Licensed Therapist?
You Get Two Perspectives, Not Just One
Each case is carefully reviewed in supervision—so you're not just benefiting from one therapist’s insight, but also from a senior clinician who provides mentorship and oversight.
They’re Attentive, Present, and Purposeful
Pre-licensed therapists tend to carry smaller caseloads and spend more time preparing for sessions. Many clients notice how deeply focused and engaged these therapists are—often taking extra time to reflect, research, and bring fresh strategies to the table.
Grounded in Research, Guided by Ethics
Whether they’re still in graduate school or newly out, pre-licensed clinicians are immersed in the latest evidence-based models like CBT, DBT, ACT, or ERP. Their work is grounded in current theory and supervised for ethical care.
Accessible, Supported Care—Without the Wait
Working with a pre-licensed therapist often means you can begin care sooner, without the long waitlists that are common with fully licensed providers. At MMC, most major insurance plans are accepted for sessions with pre-licensed clinicians—with the exception of Optum (UBH &Medica) plans due to their current corporate restrictions. This means clients can access consistent, supervised care that is both timely and covered, without compromising on quality or connection.
Common Questions—Answered
Will the supervisor be in the room or talk to me directly?
Usually not. Supervision typically happens behind the scenes. Your therapist will consult with their supervisor for guidance, always with your privacy and comfort in mind.
Is everything I say confidential?
Yes. Pre-licensed therapists are held to the same confidentiality standards as licensed clinicians. The only additional person involved is the supervisor, who provides oversight in a professional, protected setting.
Can I switch to a licensed therapist later?
Absolutely. We want you to feel supported. Many clients stick with their pre-licensed therapist throughout care, but we’ll guide a smooth transition if your needs change.
Ready to Get Started?
Our team of pre-licensed therapists works with kids, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, OCD, anxiety, depression, grief, self-worth, relational challenges, life transitions, and more. Interested in learning more, please submit your inquiry by clicking here.
Reach out today to learn more or schedule an intake. We’re here to support—right where you are.
References
Milne, D. L., & Watkins, C. E. Jr. (2014). Defining and understanding clinical supervision: A functional framework. Counselling Psychology Review, 29(2), 5–9.
Bernard, J. M., & Goodyear, R. K. (2018). Fundamentals of Clinical Supervision (6th ed.). Pearson.
Hill, C. E., Sullivan, C., Knox, S., & Schlosser, L. Z. (2007). Becoming psychotherapists: Experiences of novice trainees in a beginning graduate class. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 44(4), 434–449.
