Job Description

Therapist in Training – Job Description

A Therapist in Training provides mental health support under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Responsibilities include conducting intake assessments, assisting with treatment planning, facilitating individual or group therapy sessions, and maintaining accurate clinical documentation. The role requires adherence to ethical and legal standards, active participation in supervision, and ongoing skill development.

Ideal candidates are enrolled in or have completed a graduate program in counseling, social work, or a related field, and demonstrate strong communication, empathy, and a commitment to professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct intake assessments and gather client history under supervision
• Provide individual (and occasionally family/couples) therapy sessions appropriate to training level
• Develop and implement treatment plans in collaboration with a supervising clinician
• Maintain timely, accurate clinical documentation (progress notes, treatment updates, discharge summaries)
• Participate in regular clinical supervision and incorporate feedback into practice
• Ensure compliance with ethical, legal, and HIPAA standards
• Build and maintain therapeutic rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds
• Monitor client progress and communicate concerns (e.g., risk issues) promptly to supervisor
• Coordinate care with other providers when appropriate (with proper consent)
• Manage scheduling, session preparation, and basic administrative tasks within the practice system

Skills & Experience

• Graduate-level coursework in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field
• Practicum or internship placement with supervised clinical hours
• Volunteer or paid helping roles (crisis lines, shelters, schools, hospitals, community programs)
• Experience working with diverse populations (age, culture, socioeconomic background)
• Exposure to mental health settings (outpatient clinics, inpatient units, nonprofits, etc.)
• Training in basic therapeutic modalities (e.g., CBT, person-centered therapy, trauma-informed care)
• Crisis intervention or de-escalation experience (even at a basic level)
• Documentation practice (case notes, assessments, treatment planning)
• Supervision or mentorship experience (receiving and applying feedback)
• Personal self-reflection work (therapy, journaling, or personal development)