i wouldnt see an unlicensed therapist unless i knew they were being supervised by someone with a license....and even then i would REALLY have to like that person.

licensure is protection for the therapist and for the client, but it is also a safeguard to make sure that a therapist gets further training even after finishing school. continuing education credits/units are earned by going to conferences/workshops/trainings and (hopefully) keeping up to date with best practices and new techniques for treatment. (although, i think that new york is different - at least for psychologists - because you are licensed for life there. no CEU's required.)