Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for MFT Intern – 2021

If you're preparing for an interview for an MFT intern position, congratulations on taking the first step towards a fulfilling career in mental health. To help you ace your interview, here are 20 up-to-date questions and answers that cover all the essential areas of the job.

Behavioral Questions

• 1. Tell me about a time when you successfully helped a client achieve their therapy goals.
  Answer: In my previous internship, I worked with a client who struggled with anxiety and low self-esteem. Through cognitive-behavioral therapy and setting achievable goals, we were able to improve the client's self-confidence and reduce their anxiety levels over the course of six sessions.
• 2. Can you describe a time when you faced a challenging situation with a client and how you handled it?
  Answer: In my previous job as a mental health assistant, I had a client who displayed aggressive behavior towards staff. I utilized my training in de-escalation techniques to calmly talk to the client and redirect their behavior in a positive way. I also worked with the client's therapist to develop a behavior modification plan to prevent future incidents.
• 3. How do you maintain boundaries with your clients?
  Answer: I believe it's important to establish clear boundaries with clients to maintain a professional relationship. This can include maintaining confidentiality, avoiding dual relationships, and setting appropriate boundaries for communication. I also make sure to check in with my supervisor if I have any concerns about my boundaries with a particular client.
• 4. Tell me about a time when you received feedback from a client or supervisor and how you implemented it.
  Answer: During my internship, my supervisor suggested that I incorporate more cognitive restructuring techniques into my therapy sessions with clients. I attended a training on this technique and started implementing it in my sessions, which resulted in positive feedback from both my clients and supervisor.
• 5. How do you handle it when a client does not make progress in therapy?
  Answer: I understand that therapy progress can be affected by various factors, and it's important to approach this situation with empathy and understanding. I would carefully assess the reasons for lack of progress, collaborate with my supervisor and the client's treatment team, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Situational Questions

• 6. If a client expresses suicidal thoughts during a session, what steps would you take?
  Answer: I would first assess the level of risk and implement the necessary safety measures, such as contacting emergency services or engaging in a safety plan. I would also engage in active listening and offer support and empathy to the client while also involving their support system in the treatment plan.
• 7. How do you handle conflicting treatment recommendations from two different healthcare professionals?
  Answer: In this scenario, I would engage in open communication with both professionals to understand their rationale and discuss potential solutions. I would also consider relevant ethical guidelines and consult with my supervisor for guidance in such a complicated situation.
• 8. What steps do you take to ensure cultural sensitivity in your therapy sessions?
  Answer: I understand that cultural sensitivity plays a crucial role in the therapy process. To ensure I am providing culturally competent care, I regularly educate myself on various cultural backgrounds, listen to the client's perspective, and seek advice from culturally diverse professionals if needed.
• 9. How do you handle it when a client expresses resistance to certain therapy techniques?
  Answer: I would address the client's resistance with empathy and understanding, acknowledging that therapy can be challenging for some individuals. I would also explore the reason behind their resistance and work collaboratively with the client to find an alternative approach that is more suitable for them.
• 10. If a client discloses past trauma during a therapy session, how would you address it?
  Answer: I would approach the situation with sensitivity and allow the client to share at their own pace. I would also make sure to provide a safe and supportive environment for the client to process their trauma and offer referrals to other professionals if needed.

Job-Specific Technical Questions

• 11. Can you explain the difference between individual therapy and group therapy?
  Answer: Individual therapy involves one therapist working with one client, typically on a one-on-one basis. Group therapy involves a therapist working with a small group of individuals who share similar issues or experiences. In individual therapy, the focus is on the individual's specific needs, while group therapy allows for peer support and social learning.
• 12. How do you conduct an initial assessment with a client?
  Answer: An initial assessment typically involves gathering the client's personal information, including their presenting concerns, mental health history, and any relevant medical or social history. I may also use assessment tools, such as questionnaires or interviews, to further understand the client's needs and develop a treatment plan.
• 13. What is your experience with developing treatment plans?
  Answer: In my previous internships, I have gained experience in developing treatment plans using various approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions. I also ensure that the treatment plan is tailored to the client's unique needs and regularly review and modify it as needed.
• 14. Can you give an example of a challenge you faced while providing crisis intervention?
  Answer: In a previous position, I had a client who was experiencing a severe panic attack during a session. It took some time for the client to calm down, and I had to utilize my crisis intervention training to provide reassurance, relaxation techniques, and referrals for follow-up care.
• 15. How do you ensure confidentiality and HIPAA compliance in your work as an MFT intern?
  Answer: I understand the importance of maintaining client confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA regulations. I make sure to follow all confidentiality protocols, including obtaining appropriate consent and maintaining secure records. I also regularly review the HIPAA guidelines and consult with my supervisor if I have any questions or concerns.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. What attracted you to the field of marriage and family therapy?
  Answer: I have always been interested in human behavior and relationships, and as I learned more about marriage and family therapy, I realized it was the perfect fit for me. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build healthy and fulfilling relationships.
• 17. How would you contribute to creating a positive and inclusive work culture as an intern?
  Answer: As an intern, I understand that I am part of a team and will work collaboratively to create a positive and inclusive work culture. I value diversity and would make sure to respect and appreciate my colleagues' unique perspectives and experiences.
• 18. Can you give an example of a time when you took initiative and went above and beyond your role?
  Answer: During my previous internship, I noticed that several clients in the community were struggling with food insecurity. I took the initiative to organize a food drive and collaborated with local businesses to collect donations. This not only helped our clients but also strengthened the relationship between the community and our therapy clinic.
• 19. How do you handle stress and stay organized in a fast-paced and demanding work environment?
  Answer: As a mental health professional, I understand the importance of self-care and work-life balance. To manage my stress and stay organized, I prioritize my tasks, delegate when necessary, and practice self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones.
• 20. Do you have any experience working with diverse populations, and how have you adapted your approach?
  Answer: During my graduate program, I completed a clinical rotation at a community counseling center where I worked with a diverse population, including individuals from different cultural, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. I adapted my approach by educating myself on different cultural values, practicing cultural humility, and being open to learning from my clients.