Clinical Intern Counseling Services
High-Quality, Accessible Therapy at $25 Per Session
At Brighter Minds Therapy, we are proud to offer low-cost counseling services through our Graduate-Level Clinical Internship Program. Working with an intern is a meaningful way to access affordable therapy while also contributing to the growth and development of future mental health professionals.
Accessible Care with Intention
We believe therapy should be more accessible. Our internship program allows us to expand services to individuals who may not otherwise be able to afford private practice rates.
While interns do not accept insurance, the $25 out-of-pocket rate is intentionally set to reduce financial barriers while maintaining a high standard of care.
A Collaborative Investment
When you choose to work with a graduate-level student intern, you are not only investing in your own growth — you are contributing to the future of the mental health field. Internship experiences shape competent, ethical, and compassionate clinicians.
We are deeply committed to ensuring that every client in our internship program feels respected, supported, and cared for!
What to Expect
Intern sessions may take place in one of two formats:
One-on-one sessions directly with the intern
Actively supervised sessions, where the supervising clinician may observe or participate as part of the intern’s training process
Supervision is designed to enhance the quality of care you receive. It ensures that each case is thoughtfully reviewed, and that clinical decisions are supported by experienced oversight.
You will always be informed in advance about the structure of your sessions and have the opportunity to ask questions.
Confidentiality & Informed Consent
Your privacy and autonomy are deeply important to us. Interns at Brighter Minds Therapy adhere to the same professional and ethical standards as licensed clinicians, including strict confidentiality in accordance with state law and professional codes of ethics.
Because interns are in training, all cases are discussed in clinical supervision to ensure you receive high-quality, thoughtful care. Supervision may include case consultation and, at times, live or recorded observation. If a session will be actively supervised (such as a supervisor observing or joining), you will be informed in advance and your consent will always be obtained.
Before beginning services, you will receive a clear informed consent document outlining:
The intern’s training status
The supervision structure
Confidentiality policies and limits
Your rights as a client
The $25 self-pay fee structure
We believe informed consent is not just paperwork — it is an ongoing conversation. You are always welcome to ask questions, request clarification, or discuss any concerns about your care.
Intern Caseload Eligibility Policy
Our Clinical Internship Program is designed to provide accessible, high-quality care for individuals seeking support for mild to moderate concerns. To ensure client safety and provide appropriate supervision, there are certain clinical situations that may require referral to a licensed clinician within our practice or to a higher level of care.
Intern clinicians may not be the appropriate level of care for individuals experiencing:
Active psychosis or unmanaged severe mental health symptoms
Current high suicide risk or recent suicide attempts
Court-ordered or legally mandated therapy
Highly complex presentations requiring advanced specialization
These guidelines are not about exclusion — they are about ensuring that every client receives care at the level that best supports their safety and clinical needs. If during the intake process we determine that a licensed clinician would be a better fit, we will provide clear recommendations and support in transitioning you to appropriate care.
Our goal is to match each client with the right provider so you can receive thoughtful, competent, and ethical treatment from the start.
Please feel free to reach out for more information!
Current Interns
Mikayla Loo
Clinical Intern at Brighter Minds Therapy, PLLC
Graduate Student at the University of Tennessee
Mikayla Loo is a student completing her final year of her Masters of Social Work, and currently works as a clinical intern at Brighter Minds Therapy under the supervision of Rachel Kimbrel, LCSW. Mikayla is committed to creating a nonjudgmental, sex-positive, and affirming therapeutic space. She utilizes evidence-based, non-religious interventions and is especially passionate about supporting individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Her approach is intentionally inclusive and grounded in an understanding of how shame, stigma, and limited sex education can impact mental health. Mikayla is dedicated to reducing shame around sexuality and fostering open, respectful conversations about sex in a way that feels safe, empowering, and affirming for all clients.