Benefits of Working with a Student Psychotherapist

As I am sure you all are aware Student Psychotherapists have been popping up all over Ontario over the last few years. So, we felt it would be important to give you a little insight into what it looks like working with one of our Student Psychotherapists at Wellness Within Therapy and Counselling Services. Firstly, as a team we are so excited that the mental health community is booming with new passionate skilled therapists because the reality is mental health and wellness should never not be a priority! What an exciting time it is to be a part of the education and growth of the mental health community. We also strongly believe there is the right therapist for every client – even if the search can feel a bit daunting at times.

So, what are some perks to working with a Student Psychotherapist?

1.      Fresh Perspectives: Student psychotherapists are trained in the latest techniques and theories, bringing innovative ideas and fresh insights to your sessions. Their passion fuels their creativity and they are always open to learning more!

2.      Compassionate Support: They are passionate about helping others and approach therapy with empathy and understanding, creating a safe space for you to share your thoughts and feelings.

3.      Affordable Rates: Many student psychotherapists offer services at a lower cost, making mental health support more accessible to everyone. Their services are also covered under most extended health benefit programs which means you typical get more sessions than you would with more experienced therapists with higher rates.

4.      Building Skills Together: As they learn and grow, you can benefit from their development, gaining new coping strategies and tools tailored to your needs. They are eager to learn more and have dedicated time in their days to be planning for your wellness goals! They also work very closely with their mentors and clinical supervisors for clinical guidance.

5.      Contributing to Education: By working with a student, you're helping them gain valuable experience, ensuring that future therapists are well-prepared to support their clients. Overall contributing to a stronger and healthier mental health community.

6.      Immediate Availability: As they are growing their practice there is rarely a wait time to get connected. This allows the opportunity to start quicker and have more frequent follow ups for your wellness needs. An extra bonus of the Student Therapists at Wellness Within is they all offer evening and weekend appointments!

The Student Therapist program at Wellness Within Therapy and Counselling Services is supervised by myself, Kyla Balderson (Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist) with 10+ years in the field of psychotherapy and community mental health. The supervision of student therapists has been a part of my passion for the last 6 years. Each Student Therapist is chosen based on their level of experience, passion and confidence in independent practice with the goal of transitioning into their own practice following their placement. They are required to have a valid “Registered status” with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario in good standing.

If you're considering therapy, a student psychotherapist could be the perfect fit for you! Take a peek at our Team page to read the bios of our current Student Therapists and sign up for the upcoming Free Monthly Wellness Webinars they are offering.

We also offer FREE phone and virtual consultations that give you the option to meet with your therapists to ask questions, discuss your wellness goals and determine if the fit feels right!