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how do I become a therapist?
how do I become a therapist? What kind of credentials do I need? What is the starting salary? What are the best companies to work for? Where are the best colleges for psychology?
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Dana’s Answer
Sienna,
States regulate the professions of psychology and counseling so each one has its own standards for practice. Most states require at least a masters degree, for psychology some require PhD. There are positions for bachelors degrees but they are entry level and/or limited in scope of practice.
There are credentialing agencies that validate fields of study within universities; check with college advisors to make sure the program you are interested in is nationally recognized.
Salaries vary according to where you live/practice. I don't think its a "high paying" career choice but it can be lucrative if you are willing to put in the work. Salaries are usually "livable"; with further education/certification in speciality work, you can enhance your income. Do some research on agencies and see what their starting salary range is; with time in the field, you often can earn more.
Most college and university programs are about the same except maybe with a different focus. Some are more academic in nature, some lean into social justice, some use a specific foundation for study ( religious, integrated, etc).
Best companies to work for? I can't answer without knowing what you seek; work/life balance, benefits, high income, low caseload...as you go through study programs, most of those questions are answered by what you experience and what you want to focus on.
I prefer contract/self-employment and have been able to carve out an income while maintaining work/life balance and feeling like what I contribute matters. I'm in the field because I know the value of what I do, not because I want fame or fortune!
As you pursue an education, stay curious about options and keep investigating!
Bachelors in Behavioral Sciences
Volunteer/internships to check out fields of interest
States regulate the professions of psychology and counseling so each one has its own standards for practice. Most states require at least a masters degree, for psychology some require PhD. There are positions for bachelors degrees but they are entry level and/or limited in scope of practice.
There are credentialing agencies that validate fields of study within universities; check with college advisors to make sure the program you are interested in is nationally recognized.
Salaries vary according to where you live/practice. I don't think its a "high paying" career choice but it can be lucrative if you are willing to put in the work. Salaries are usually "livable"; with further education/certification in speciality work, you can enhance your income. Do some research on agencies and see what their starting salary range is; with time in the field, you often can earn more.
Most college and university programs are about the same except maybe with a different focus. Some are more academic in nature, some lean into social justice, some use a specific foundation for study ( religious, integrated, etc).
Best companies to work for? I can't answer without knowing what you seek; work/life balance, benefits, high income, low caseload...as you go through study programs, most of those questions are answered by what you experience and what you want to focus on.
I prefer contract/self-employment and have been able to carve out an income while maintaining work/life balance and feeling like what I contribute matters. I'm in the field because I know the value of what I do, not because I want fame or fortune!
As you pursue an education, stay curious about options and keep investigating!
Dana recommends the following next steps:
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Stephanie LH’s Answer
The type of therapist and your state may have different credentials. I recommend searching O*Net online for a summary of the basic credentials and national pay average. There is also information on different types of therapists (genetic, massage, marriage, school, occupational, musical, etc.). Then go to the licensing board for the state in which you live and look at their specific credentials as they vary slightly state to state and by the type of therapy you'd like to provide. Another good tool if you r school has access is the YouScience tool as it not only has pathways but also shows the colleges in your state with those majors, the level of degree and how well your skills and aptitude match to different types of therapy (if that's still your goal).
Visit onetonline.org and search "therapist"
Google: (your state name) and "department of labor" "licensing" and or "regulation" "therapist"
Stephanie LH recommends the following next steps:
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