Just to answer your original question...I can only speak to that from what I have experienced in California. I went to the "free clinic" here several years ago with severe depression and bi-polar issues.

It was worth it and I felt that although many of the therapists there were in college and studying to get into a graduate school to become pdocs, they were very knowledgable and there was a certified pdoc. overseeing the center.

The group sessions were not very helpful but they did allow for about 2 one-on-one sessions a month. If it's available you should take advantage for as long as possible and as long as you feel it is helpful.

Take care!