As a pre-licensed therapist, you will experience what is likely to be the steepest learning curve of your professional life. Your clients will challenge and educate you, help you build your skills and tap into your intellect and creativity. During this phase of your coming into your own as a pre-licensed therapist, support groups consisting of your peers can be an important part of the growing process. Pre-licensed therapist support groups improve your practice.
PRE-LICENSED THERAPIST SUPPORT GROUPS ARE IMPORTANT
It makes sense that, when helping others deal with personal difficulty and pain that therapists, particularly those newer to the field, find their own personal issues being triggered by those of their clients. It is essential for your growth as a human and as a professional, that your pre-licensed years are well supported both personally and professionally.
While adequate supervision fulfills the professional section of need, most pre-licensed clinicians find their personal needs being neglected. Financial constraints may be a limiting factor to seeking personal therapy and process groups, while more cost effective, can be difficult to access.
PRE-LICENSED SUPPORT GROUPS ARE A VALUABLE TOOL
I find pre-licensed therapist support groups to be the most valuable tool for early stage clinicians. The opportunity to come together with your colleagues facing similar issues and stressors during this time is such an important support to your practice. We therapists often instruct our clients to build solid connections within their communities – we would do well to heed that advice ourselves.
If you are a pre-licensed clinician, find a support group. This should not be about supervision or case consult. Rather, it should provide a forum in which your personal reactions to your work can be fully and safely explored and where you can bring your considerable gifts to your colleagues who, after all, are on similar journeys to your own. Not only will you be able to have affordable and helpful therapy with your peers, you will build valuable group therapy experience and tremendous connections with other professionals.
PRE-LICENSED THERAPIST SUPPORT GROUPS IN SAN LUIS OBISPO
A Balanced Approach offers pre-licensed process groups, meeting once a month from October to June. Size is strictly limited to assure a positive experience for all and members must commit to attending all meetings, including the final full day retreat. To apply for group, please call (805)541-4090.