Courage in Training: How Interns Learn to Sit with Big Feelings

 

Thinking about working with a therapy intern, but not sure what to expect? You're not alone. A lot of people wonder what it's like to sit down with an intern, whether they'll get the support they need, and how interns fit into the bigger picture of therapy. This series is here to answer your questions, clear up myths, and show you the real benefits of working with a therapist-in-training.

One of the most important parts of becoming a therapist isn't about memorizing theories or techniques - it's about learning to sit with emotion. 

That means being able to stay grounded when a client cries, feels angry, or shares something heavy. It means listening without rushing to fix and creating space for whatever needs to show up.

For interns, this skill - the courage to sit with big feelings - is something they practice every day.

Learning to Be Present, Not Perfect

Interns are trained to hold space, even when emotions are intense or uncomfortable. They learn that being a good therapist isn't about having all the answers - it's about being steady and present while someone works through their pain.

Support Through Supervision

When interns face emotionally charged sessions, they don't carry it alone. They bring those experiences into supervision, where they process their reactions, learn from them, and receive guidance on how to support their client's even better next time.

This supervision structure helps interns build emotional resilience - an essential part of becoming an effective therapist. 

Balancing Empathy and Boundaries

Part of learning to sit with big emotions also means learning where to set boundaries. Interns are taught to balance deep empathy with self-care, so they can stay grounded and fully present with each client without burning out.

Growth Through Vulnerability

Therapy is about courage - for both the client and the therapist. Interns are growing in real time, learning to trust their instincts, stay compassionate, and sit in the unknown right alongside their clients.

Final Thoughts

It takes courage to feel. It takes courage to sit with someone else's feelings too. Therapy interns are trained and supported to do both - not perfectly, but authentically. That kind of courage creates a safe, healing space where real change can happen.

This post is part of our "Intern Insights" series - a closer look at the world of therapy interns and the unique value they bring to clients. If you're curious to learn more, check out our next post: The Power of Reflection: How Interns Learn from Every Session.