Why Seeing an Associate-Level Therapist Could Be the Right Choice for You

Aug 30

If you've started looking for a therapist, you've probably noticed the string of letters that follow different clinicians' names. You may have wondered whether you should find the therapist with the most experience. It’s normal to look for a professional with the most experience possible. At the same time, it's worth knowing the advantages that associate-level therapists offer.

My name is Rick Marino, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) in the state of Kentucky. I recently completed a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Kentucky. Associate-level therapists like myself have the same graduate degree and the same core training as seasoned therapists. The difference is that I'm currently in the supervision stage of my career rather than practicing independently. There are a number of benefits of seeing an associate-level therapist.

Training Based on Current Research

One benefit of seeing associate-level therapists is recency of graduation. Because I graduated recently, my education reflects the most current research and thinking in the mental health field. The field of mental health is constantly evolving as new studies deepen our understanding of what helps people heal and grow. As a newer clinician, I bring that most recent body of knowledge directly into the work I do with clients, meaning the approaches I use are aligned with today's evidence-based best practices.

The Support of Experienced Supervisors

Every associate-level therapist works under ongoing clinical supervision. This supervision benefits clients and new therapists. Clinical supervision is essentially structured mentorship: a space where therapists receive feedback, guidance, and support to sharpen how they show up for clients. As part of my associate license, I'm required to complete 4,000 hours of supervised practice before I can become fully licensed.

I meet regularly with my clinical supervisor, Aaron, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has worked with a wide range of clients over the course of his career and brings deep clinical knowledge. I also receive consultation from Danielle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at our practice who has specialized expertise in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and eating disorders, including extensive training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a therapeutic approach with decades of research supporting its effectiveness for OCD.

When you work with me, you're benefiting from my training and attention, as well as the insight of two seasoned clinicians who help guide and inform the care I provide. Every session is shaped by more than one perspective that benefits the client.

Shorter Wait Times, Faster Access to Care

Anyone who has tried to schedule therapy recently knows that finding an available, qualified therapist can be difficult. Waitlists with many experienced clinicians often stretch out for months. Because I'm newer to practice and still building my caseload, I'm frequently able to offer appointments within days rather than months. At the time of writing this, I'm able to schedule next-day appointments for new clients. I also keep a flexible schedule, seeing clients Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm. If you're ready to start therapy, many associate-level therapists, including myself, offer easy and quick scheduling.

Looking Beyond the Letter Behind the Name

It's natural to place a lot of weight on credentials when choosing a therapist. But research on psychotherapy consistently points out the strongest predictor of positive outcomes in therapy is the therapeutic relationship. The connection, trust, and collaboration between a client and therapist creates the environment where real healing and growth can happen. A positive therapeutic relationship depends on things like feeling safe, respected, and genuinely understood.

If you're looking for a new therapist, it may help to ask yourself less about how many years someone has practiced and more about whether you feel comfortable being open and vulnerable with them. Your comfortability and trust with a therapist is often the most important factor that leads to change, healing, and growth

Take The Next Step

Working with an associate-level therapist comes with many benefits. Associate-level therapists have current, research-informed training, added insight of experienced supervisors, and oftentimes more accessible scheduling. Ultimately, it is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with and that you can trust.

If you're ready to explore whether I might be a good fit, I'd be happy to hear from you. Reach out today to learn more or give my office a call to schedule a consultation.

Taking the first step is often the hardest part of starting therapy. It's also the first step toward the life you're hoping to build.