Masters Level Interns
Since 2022 Athens Therapy Co-op has welcomed multiple masters level intern therapists. As a field instruction site for Tulane University, Mercer University, University of the Cumberlands, University of North Georgia, and University of Georgia, ATC supervises and trains interns working with children and families. Interns meet weekly with licensed therapists Leslie Schwartz, LPC, and Leigh Ellen Magness, LCSW, to create treatment plans, brainstorm interventions to use with clients, ask questions, get additional resources, and monitor progress. In this way, clients who work with intern-therapists are getting the benefits of working with 3 therapists in one.
All intern sessions are $45, and there are several sliding scale spots available. Insurance companies do not cover sessions with interns, and no insurance will be billed. We are currently maintaining a waiting list for clients who would like to work with an intern. Clients who are on the waiting list will be contacted in August to schedule an appointment, though there is no obligation to do so if needs have changed by that time.
FAQ:
All intern sessions are $45, and there are several sliding scale spots available. Insurance companies do not cover sessions with interns, and no insurance will be billed. We are currently maintaining a waiting list for clients who would like to work with an intern. Clients who are on the waiting list will be contacted in August to schedule an appointment, though there is no obligation to do so if needs have changed by that time.
FAQ:
- Does this apply to all ages?
- Interns will work with ages 3 to adult.
- Is every client appropriate for an intern to see?
- Most clients will be appropriate for interns, but there may be a few for whom we recommend a higher level of care. If you aren't sure, feel free to send us an email with more information and we can decide on a case-by-case basis.
- Is every client appropriate for every intern?
- Most of our interns have a specific population they are interested in working with, as well as specific work experience that may be relevant. That may be young kids, older kids, teens, families, or adults, experience with the disability community or homeschooling. We will do our best to match clients with the intern who is the best fit for their needs.
- How long will interns be there?
- Most of the internship programs run August to May, meaning they will graduate in May. Sometimes we have a student who stays with us throughout a summer semester as well. Since intern therapist time at ATC is limited to approximately 10 months, we recommend weekly therapy sessions to make the most of your family's time with them.
- What if I'm not ready to finish therapy when they graduate?
- Depending on your intern therapist's plans after graduation, you may be able to continue working with them at their new place of employment, if applicable. So far, 100% of our intern-therapists have accepted full time jobs after graduation, and many of them have remained local. Before finishing their placements, interns will collaborate and discuss with all clients details of therapy termination and further treatment recommendations.
- Are these sessions going to be virtual or in-person?
- To best meet the needs of the community, each intern will have both virtual and in-person options for scheduling.