09/01/2026
“Associate” doesn’t mean you’re getting less of a therapist.
When you see LPC-Associate after a therapist’s name, you may wonder: Should I choose someone who is fully licensed instead?
Here’s something we want more clients to know.
An LPC-Associate has completed the graduate education required to become a professional counselor and is continuing to develop clinically while practicing under the supervision of an experienced, board-approved LPC-Supervisor.
And at 8 Phases, we take that development seriously.
Our Associates aren’t simply accumulating hours toward full licensure. They are being taught, challenged, mentored, observed, supported, and encouraged to think critically about the care they provide.
Ashton Holmes, LPC-Associate, describes learning under Shalonvia Gundy, MA, LPC-S as an experience that has prepared him to walk into sessions with confidence—even as a newer therapist.
That’s the value of great supervision. ✨
Associates bring graduate-level clinical education, fresh training, intentionality, and something else incredibly valuable: another experienced clinician helping them think through their work.
So choosing an Associate doesn’t have to mean compromising on the quality of your therapeutic experience.
It can mean choosing a therapist who is actively learning, receiving ongoing clinical guidance, and deeply invested in becoming exceptional at what they do.
👉🏾 Swipe to hear Ashton describe what that preparation has looked like for him.
💬 Would knowing how much supervision and continued training an LPC-Associate receives make you more comfortable choosing one as your therapist?
