---
title: Are psychotherapy interns qualified to help me?
description: Interns are supervised by a fully licensed therapist for every session, and their work is reviewed as part of their training toward RSW or RP designation.
image: https://www.shiftcollab.com/images/shift-collab-social-share.png
---
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September 16, 2026
# Are psychotherapy interns qualified to help me?
## Yes. Psychotherapy interns are supervised by a fully licensed therapist for every client they see, and they're held to the same standards of care as the rest of our team.
A psychotherapy intern is completing the final requirement of a Master of Social Work or Master of Counselling Psychology degree from an accredited Canadian university: the practicum. They've finished their coursework and are now applying it in a supervised clinical setting, working toward RSW (Registered Social Worker) or RP (Registered Psychotherapist) designation.
Every intern works under the direct supervision of a licensed therapist, with additional support from their program advisors and professors. Their supervisor reviews their work and is named on your receipt, so if you're submitting to insurance, the claim goes through under the supervisor's credentials.
Because interns are still completing their training, they typically offer a reduced rate. If cost is a factor for you, this may be a good option.
An internship placement runs for a fixed term, so if continuity matters to you, ask our Care Team what to expect when the placement ends and how we'd support a transition to another therapist.
Working with an intern is optional. If you'd rather be matched with a fully licensed RSW or RP from the start, let our Care Team know at your Meet & Greet and we'll match you accordingly. If you're interested in booking with an intern, please [reach out](mailto:hello@shiftcollab.com) to our Care Team for availability.
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