Personally I wouldn't see an unlicensed counselor because there would be no board to hold them accountable if they break ethics rules. I don't know if beginning counselors are better than more seasoned. I've seen both therapists that are just starting out and more seasoned ones and my current therapist which I've seen twice, I'm not sure how long she's been practicing. It just depends on who you "click" with, what their experiences are that led them to this profession, what type of skill set they have and so forth but you won't know that until you see them and get to know them. But as for the unlicensed thing--is it that the counselor is an intern working towards her license? Or is it just unlicensed. Because if the counselor is working towards their license and is a registered intern then they have supervision and a licensing board. I hope that made sense. I'm kind of all over the place today. Good luck on your PhD.