What Type of Degree Do You Need to Become a Therapist?
Becoming a therapist typically requires a significant investment of time and education. The specific requirements for becoming a therapist will vary depending on the type of therapy you wish to practice and the state in which you plan to work.
For example, to become a clinical psychologist, you will typically need to earn a doctoral degree in psychology. This typically takes around 5-7 years to complete, including a 1-2 year internship. A doctoral degree in psychology will qualify you to provide therapy and conduct research. Doctoral programs in psychology are typically very competitive, and you will need to have a strong undergraduate background in psychology, including coursework in statistics and research methods.
Another type of therapist is a licensed professional counselor (LPC). They typically need a master's degree in counseling or a related field, which can take 2-3 years to complete. After obtaining the degree, you will need to pass a licensure exam and meet other requirements to become a licensed professional counselor.
A Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) also need a master's degree in counseling or a related field with a focus on marriage and family therapy. After obtaining the degree, you will need to pass a licensure exam and meet other requirements to become a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
In addition to the education requirements, most states also require therapists to be licensed. This typically involves passing an exam and meeting other qualifications, such as continuing education requirements. The specific requirements vary by state, so it's important to research the requirements in the state where you plan to work.
It is important to note that some states have different licensure for different specializations like addiction counseling, child and adolescent counseling, etc. Therefore it's important to be aware of the specific requirements in the state where you plan to work and the type of therapy you wish to practice.
Is It Necessary to Have a Master's Degree to Become a Therapist?
It depends on the type of therapy you wish to practice and the state in which you plan to work. In general, a master's degree is required to become a licensed therapist, but there are some exceptions.
For example, as mentioned above, in many states, a master's degree in counseling or a related field is required to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). Similarly, in some states, a master's degree in social work (MSW) is required to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).
However, in some states, a person with a bachelor's degree in counseling or a related field may be able to become a licensed counselor through an "Associate" or "Provisional" licensure, and will be under supervision of a licensed therapist. These provisional licenses are usually granted for a limited period of time, and the counselor is required to complete additional coursework and supervised experience to become fully licensed.
A doctoral degree in psychology is typically required to become a licensed clinical psychologist. This typically takes around 5-7 years to complete, including a 1-2 year internship. Clinical psychologists are qualified to provide therapy and conduct research
What are the Different Types of Therapy Degrees?
There are several different types of therapy degrees that prepare individuals for careers as therapists, including:
- Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D): These are the most common degrees for becoming a clinical psychologist. A Psy.D program focuses more on clinical practice, while a Ph.D program focuses more on research.
- Master of Counseling (MC), Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC), or Master of Education in Counseling (MEd): These degrees are typically required to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in most states.
- Master of Social Work (MSW): This degree is typically required to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in most states.
- Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP): This degree prepares nurse practitioners to provide therapy and medication management for individuals with mental health conditions.
- Master of Science in Occupational therapy (OTM) : This degree prepares individuals to work with people of all ages who have mental health conditions, injuries, or disabilities to help them participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities.
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO): Physicians with these degrees may provide therapy as part of their practice, but they typically focus more on medication management and other medical treatment.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Degree in Therapy?
The length of time it takes to obtain a degree in therapy will depend on the type of degree and the program you choose.
- A Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D) typically takes around 5-7 years to complete, including a 1-2 year internship.
- A Master of Counseling (MC), Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC), or Master of Education in Counseling (MEd) typically takes 2-3 years to complete.
- A Master of Social Work (MSW) typically takes 2 years to complete.
- A Master of Science in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) typically takes 2-3 years to complete.
- A Master of Science in Occupational therapy (OTM) typically takes 2-3 years to complete.
- A Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) typically takes 4 years to complete.
These are general estimates and the length of time it takes to complete a therapy degree can vary depending on the institution and the specific program you choose.
How Can I Find an Accredited Therapy Degree Program?
There are several ways to find an accredited therapy degree program:
- The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits master's and doctoral degree programs in counseling and related fields. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
- The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits doctoral programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
- The Commission on Accreditation of Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) accredits master's and doctoral degree programs in marriage and family therapy. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
- The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits baccalaureate and master's degree programs in social work. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits nursing programs, including those for psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
- The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) accredits occupational therapy programs. You can search for accredited programs on their website.
What are the Course Requirements For a Therapist Degree?
The course requirements for a therapist degree will depend on the type of degree and the program you choose. However, most therapy degree programs will include coursework in the following areas:
- Psychological and/or counseling theories: This will include coursework on different theoretical perspectives and approaches to therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, humanistic therapy, and others.
- Diagnosis and assessment: This will include coursework on how to assess and diagnose mental health conditions and disorders, as well as how to use diagnostic tools such as the Diagn and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
- Research methods: This will include coursework on how to design and conduct research studies in the field of psychology and/or counseling.
- Ethics and professional issues: This will include coursework on ethical principles and standards of practice in the field of psychology and/or counseling, as well as laws and regulations that govern the field.
- Human development and diversity: This will include coursework on how individuals develop and change over the lifespan, as well as how to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Practicum and/or internship: Most programs will require students to complete supervised practical experience, either through a practicum course or an internship.
- Specializations: Depending on the type of degree and the program, students may have the option to take specialized coursework in areas such as child and adolescent therapy, couples therapy, gerontological counseling, health psychology, neuropsychology, and forensic psychology.
Can I Get a Therapy Degree Online?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a therapy degree online. Many colleges and universities now offer online therapy degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. However, it's important to note that not all online therapy degree programs are created equal, and it's important to make sure that the program you choose is accredited and meets the state licensure requirements.
It's also important to note that some states have regulations that may limit the ability to practice therapy remotely via teletherapy, even if the degree was obtained online. Therefore, it's important to check with the state board where you plan to practice and make sure that the online program you're interested in will meet the state's requirements.
It's also important to note that some programs, like clinical psychology and psychiatry, require in-person supervised clinical hours which can't be done online, so make sure to check the program's requirements before applying.
It's also important to consider the format of the program. Some online programs are fully online, while others are hybrid programs that combine online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Hybrid programs can offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to complete most of the coursework online while still getting the hands-on experience you need to become a therapist.
What are the Prerequisites For a Therapy Degree Program?
The prerequisites for a therapy degree program will depend on the type of degree and the program you choose. However, most therapy degree programs will require the following:
- Undergraduate degree: Most graduate therapy degree programs are at the graduate level and require applicants to have already completed a bachelor's degree, usually in psychology, counseling, or a related field.
- GPA: Most programs have a minimum GPA requirement, usually around a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Standardized tests: Some programs may require applicants to take standardized tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT)
- Relevant coursework: Some programs may require applicants to have completed certain courses as an undergraduate, such as statistics, research methods, and courses in psychology or counseling.
- Experience: Some programs may require applicants to have some experience working in a related field, such as a volunteer or paid position in a mental health clinic or hospital.
- Personal statement or essay: Most programs will require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay describing their interest in the field and their goals for the program.
- Recommendation letters: Most programs will require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from professors or other professionals in the field.
- Interviews: Some programs may require applicants to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process.
What are the Differences Between a PhD and a PsyD in Therapy?
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) are both professional doctoral degrees in psychology, but they differ in their focus and curriculum.
A PhD in Psychology is a research-focused degree that prepares graduates to conduct original research in the field of psychology. The program emphasizes the scientific study of behavior and mental processes, and students typically spend a significant amount of time learning research methods and statistics, as well as completing a dissertation based on their own research. Graduates with a PhD in Psychology are often prepared for careers in academia, research, or consulting.
On the other hand, a PsyD is a practice-focused degree that prepares graduates to provide psychological services, such as therapy and assessment, in a clinical setting. The program emphasizes the application of psychological knowledge to real-world problems and the development of clinical skills. Students typically spend more time in supervised practica and internships, and less time on research. Graduates with a PsyD are often prepared for careers as clinical psychologists or counseling psychologists in private practice, hospitals, or other healthcare settings.
What Kind of Job Opportunities are Available With a Therapy Degree?
A therapy degree can open up a wide range of job opportunities in various settings, including:
- Clinical psychology: Clinical psychologists provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals, families, and groups who have mental health conditions or disorders. They work in a variety of settings, such as private practice, hospitals, clinics, and community mental health centers.
- Counseling psychology: Counseling psychologists provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals, families, and groups who have mental health conditions or disorders. They work in a variety of settings, such as private practice, schools, universities, and community mental health centers.
- Social work: Social workers provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals, families, and groups who have mental health conditions or disorders, as well as other social and economic problems. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and government agencies.
- Psychiatric nursing: Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioners provide therapy, medication management, and other services to individuals with mental health conditions or disorders. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice.
- Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists help individuals with mental health conditions or disorders, injuries, or disabilities to participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, schools, and community mental health centers.
- Private practice: Many therapists choose to open their own private practice, which can provide more flexibility and autonomy in terms of the types of clients and services offered, as well as the scheduling and billing.
- Research: Some therapists choose to work in research, either in academic or non-academic settings.
Can I Specialize in a Specific Type of Therapy With My Degree?
Yes, it is possible to specialize in a specific type of therapy with a therapy degree. Many programs offer specialized coursework and clinical training in specific areas of therapy, such as:
Child and Adolescent Therapy
Specializing in child and adolescent therapy involves working with children and teenagers who have mental health conditions or disorders. This specialization may include coursework in child development, family therapy, and evidence-based treatments for children and adolescents.
Couples and Family Therapy
Specializing in couples and family therapy involves working with couples and families who have relationship problems or other issues that affect the family dynamic. This specialization may include coursework in family systems theory, communication skills, and evidence-based treatments for couples and families.
Gerontological Counseling
Specializing in gerontological counseling involves working with older adults who have mental health conditions or disorders. This specialization may include coursework in aging, geriatric psychology, and evidence-based treatments for older adults.
Health Psychology
Specializing in health psychology involves working with individuals who have chronic medical conditions and helping them to manage the psychological and emotional aspects of their illness. This specialization may include coursework in health behavior, stress management, and evidence-based treatments for individuals with chronic medical conditions.
Addiction Counseling
Addiction counseling involves working with individuals who have substance abuse or other addiction problems. This specialization may include coursework in addiction theory, pharmacology, and evidence-based treatments for addiction.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
Trauma-focused therapy involves working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events and helping them to process and cope with their trauma.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology involves working with individuals with neurological conditions and disorders, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia, and helping them to manage the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects of their condition. This specialization may include coursework in neuroanatomy, neuropsychological assessment, and evidence-based interventions for neurological conditions.
Sport Psychology
Specializing in sport psychology involves working with athletes and coaches to improve their performance and well-being. This specialization may include coursework in exercise psychology, motivation, and evidence-based interventions to enhance athletic performance.
What is the Difference Between a Counseling Degree and a Therapy Degree?
Counseling and therapy degrees are similar in that they both prepare graduates to provide psychological services, such as therapy and assessment, in a clinical setting. However, there are some differences in the focus and curriculum of the degrees.
A counseling degree, such as a Master of Counseling (MC) or Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC), typically focuses on the general practice of counseling and the application of psychological knowledge to real-world problems. The curriculum usually includes coursework in counseling theories, techniques, and skills, as well as supervised practica and internships. Graduates with a counseling degree are prepared for careers as professional counselors in various settings, such as schools, universities, community mental health centers, and private practice.
A therapy degree, such as a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD), typically focuses on the scientific study of behavior and mental processes and the application of psychological knowledge to real-world problems. The curriculum usually includes coursework in psychological theories, research methods, and statistics, as well as supervised practical and internships. Graduates with a therapy degree are prepared for careers as clinical or counseling psychologists in various settings, such as private practice, hospitals, and community mental health centers.
What are the Best Therapy Degree Programs?
There are many excellent therapy degree programs available, and the best program for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. Some factors to consider when choosing a program include accreditation, curriculum, faculty, clinical training opportunities, and location.
To find the best therapy degree program for you, it is important to research multiple programs and compare their offerings. Some reputable sources for researching therapy degree programs include:
- The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
- The American Psychological Association (APA)
- The Commission on Accreditation of Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
- The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
- The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)
It's also a good idea to talk to people in the field and ask for their recommendations, as well as to reach out to the program and ask for more information about their curriculum, clinical training, and job placement rate.
Some of the well-known therapy degree programs include:
- Harvard University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Columbia University
- Boston University
- University of Colorado
- University of Utah
- University of Maryland
What are the Licensing Requirements For Therapists With a Degree?
The licensing requirements for therapists with a degree vary depending on the type of degree and the state in which you plan to practice. However, most states have similar requirements, which typically include:
- Education: Most states require therapists to have a graduate degree in a related field, such as psychology, counseling, or social work.
- Exam: Most states require therapists to pass a national exam, such as the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), or the Clinical Social Work Examination (CSWE).
- Supervised experience: Most states require therapists to complete a certain number of supervised hours of experience, such as a practicum or internship, before they can be licensed.
- Continuing education: Most states require therapists to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.
- Background check: Most states require therapists to submit to a background check to ensure they have no criminal record and that they meet the ethical standards of the profession.
Can I Transfer Credit From Another Degree Program to a Therapy Degree Program?
It is possible to transfer credit from another degree program to a therapy degree program, but the process and requirements vary depending on the institution and program.
Many therapy degree programs will accept transfer credit from another accredited degree program if the coursework is deemed equivalent and relevant to the program. For example, a master's degree in counseling may accept transfer credit from a master's degree in psychology if the coursework is related to counseling.
It is important to keep in mind that each program has its own transfer credit policies and some may have more restrictive requirements. Some programs may only accept a certain number of transfer credits, while others may only accept credit from specific institutions or for specific courses.
Are There Any Financial Aid Options For Therapy Degree Students?
There are financial aid options available for therapy degree students. Some options include:
- Federal student loans: Federal student loans, such as Stafford Loans and Graduate Plus Loans, are available to graduate students who demonstrate financial need. These loans have fixed interest rates and can be deferred while you are in school.
- Scholarships: Scholarships are available for therapy degree students from a variety of sources, including colleges and universities, professional organizations, and private foundations. Scholarships can be based on merit, need, or a combination of both.
- Grants: Grants are a form of financial aid that do not have to be repaid. Federal grants, such as the Federal Pell Grant, are available to graduate students who demonstrate financial need. State and private grants may also be available.
- Assistantships: Assistantships are a form of financial aid that provide students with a stipend or salary in exchange for working as a teaching or research assistant. Assistantships may be available through the program or through the university.
- Work-study: Work-study is a form of financial aid that provides students with a part-time job on campus or in the community. The wages earned can be used to help pay for tuition and other expenses.
What are the Career Prospects For Therapists With a Degree?
The career prospects for therapists with a degree vary depending on the type of degree, the program, and the state in which you plan to work. However, in general, therapists with a degree can expect to have a wide range of job opportunities in various settings, such as:
- Private practice: Many therapists choose to open their own private practice, which can provide more flexibility and autonomy in terms of the types of clients and services offered, as well as the scheduling and billing.
- Hospitals: Therapists can work in hospitals and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to patients with mental health conditions or disorders.
- Community mental health centers: Therapists can work in community mental health centers and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals, families, and groups who have mental health conditions or disorders.
- Schools: Therapists can work in schools and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to students with mental health conditions or disorders.
- Universities: Therapists can work in universities and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to students, faculty, and staff with mental health conditions or disorders.
- Rehabilitation centers: Therapists can work in rehabilitation centers and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities or injuries.
- Research: Some therapists choose to work in research, either in academic or non-academic settings.
- Government agencies: Therapists can work in government agencies and provide therapy, assessment, and other services to individuals, families, and groups with mental health conditions or disorders.
How Can I Continue My Education in Therapy After Completing My Degree?
There are several ways to continue your education in therapy after completing your degree, depending on your interests and career goals. Some options include:
- Certification: Many professional organizations offer certification programs in specific areas of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, family therapy, and hypnotherapy.
- Continuing education: Many professional organizations and state boards require therapists to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license. These courses may cover new research, treatment techniques, and changes to the field.
- Specialization: Some therapists choose to pursue specialized training in a specific area of therapy, such as neuropsychology, sport psychology, or forensic psychology.
- Post-graduate programs: Some therapists choose to pursue post-graduate programs in a specific area of therapy, such as neuropsychology, sport psychology, or forensic psychology.
- Research: Some therapists choose to conduct research in a specific area of therapy and to publish their findings in academic journals.
- Supervision: Some therapists choose to provide supervision to other therapists or to students in therapy programs.
Can You Be a Therapist With a Social Work Degree?
Yes, you can be a therapist with a social work degree. Social work is a profession that focuses on helping individuals, families, and communities to cope with and solve problems in their everyday lives. Social workers often provide therapy and counseling services, as well as assessment and case management services.
To become a licensed clinical social worker, one typically needs to have a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program and pass a clinical level exam. Some states have different licensing requirements for social workers, so it's important to check with the state board where you plan to practice for more information on the specific licensing requirements.
Social workers often work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, community mental health centers, and private practice. They may also work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and other community-based organizations.
While social workers can provide therapy, they may not have the same level of training or expertise as licensed therapists with a degree in psychology, counseling or other related fields. The scope of practice, supervision and licensing of social workers may be different than therapists with different degrees.
What Masters Degree Do I Need to Be a Therapist?
To become a therapist, you generally need to have a graduate degree in a related field, such as psychology, counseling, or social work.
- Master of Arts in Counseling (MAC) or Master of Counseling (MC) are the most common degree programs for those who want to work as professional counselors. These programs typically include coursework in counseling theories, techniques, and skills, as well as supervised practica and internships.
- Master of Social Work (MSW) is another option for those who want to work as professional counselors or therapists, Social Work programs also include coursework in counseling theories, techniques, and skills as well as supervised practica and internships.
- Master of Science in Psychology (M.S.) is another option for those who want to work as professional therapists. This program typically includes coursework in psychological theories, research methods, and statistics, as well as supervised practica and internships.
- Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is another option for those who want to work as professional marriage and family therapists. This program typically includes coursework in family systems theory, communication skills, and evidence-based treatments for couples and families.
- Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling (MSRC) is another option for those who want to work as professional rehabilitation counselors. This program typically includes coursework in disability and rehabilitation, counseling theories, and assessment and intervention methods.