What Degree Do You Need to Become a Therapist?

Therapy vs. Counseling

The terms “therapy” and “counseling” are often used interchangeably, but their degree requirements differ. Both therapists and counselors work in the mental health field to help people with their emotional health, but there are some differences in the scope of their practice.

• Education and Training: Therapists generally require a higher level of education than counselors. A therapist usually has a master’s degree or a doctorate in psychology or a related field, while counselors typically have a master’s degree in counseling or psychology.
• Scope of Practice: Therapists often work with clients on various issues, including severe mental health disorders. They can provide psychotherapy, which involves a range of treatments that can help with psychological problems, behavioral issues, and emotional distress. On the other hand, counselors tend to focus on specific issues such as addiction, grief, or marital problems. They often use talk therapy to guide clients toward goals, manage stress, and cope with life changes.
• Duration of Treatment: Therapy tends to be long-term and focuses on the past, introspection, and analysis, whereas counseling is generally more short-term and focuses on specific issues and behaviors.

It’s important to note that these are general distinctions and can vary based on individual practitioners and regions. Prospective therapists and counselors should always check the qualifications and specialties of a degree program to ensure it will meet their professional goals.

Titles Requiring a Master’s Degree (or Higher)

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), also often referred to as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), students must complete a series of educational and licensure requirements, which vary by jurisdiction. The process typically begins with pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field, providing a solid foundation in human development, behavior, and mental health. 

Next, aspiring LPCs must obtain a master’s degree from an accredited program focused on professional counseling or clinical mental health counseling, ensuring comprehensive knowledge of counseling theories, techniques, ethics, and multicultural counseling. The most common accreditation required is from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The program should include supervised practicum and internship experiences. 

After completing a master’s degree, candidates must gain postgraduate supervised clinical experience as mandated by their state’s licensing board. This hands-on experience is crucial for practical skill development. Lastly, prospective LPCs must pass a state-recognized licensure examination, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). 

Rehabilitation Counselor

Rehabilitation counselors assist clients with disabilities in achieving personal, social, and professional goals. Education for rehabilitation counselors typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Then, they must pursue a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a closely related discipline from an accredited program. 

Master’s level coursework covers disability theory, vocational assessment, counseling techniques, case management, and ethical considerations specific to rehabilitation counseling. These programs include supervised practicum and internship experiences, allowing candidates to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and develop practical skills. 

Upon completing their master’s degree, aspiring rehabilitation counselors must obtain certification or licensure, depending on their jurisdiction’s requirements. Generally, candidates must complete supervised clinical hours and pass a competency examination, such as the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) exam.

Marriage and Family Therapist

Becoming a marriage and family therapist (MFT) starts by earning a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as psychology or sociology, followed by a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy from an accredited institution. Most states require the program to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE). Advanced coursework students must complete in their graduate program covers essential topics such as family systems theory, therapeutic techniques, and ethical considerations, while supervised practicums and internships offer valuable hands-on experience. 

Post-graduation, candidates must obtain licensure by fulfilling their jurisdiction’s requirements, which generally include completing supervised clinical hours and passing a competency exam such as the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) exam. To maintain their credentials, MFTs must complete continuing education, keeping abreast of the latest research and best practices.

Titles Requiring Varying Levels of Education

Substance Abuse Counselor

Education requirements for substance abuse counselors can vary widely, depending on the job title and responsibilities. Entry-level positions may only require a high school diploma, while more advanced roles require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in addiction counseling or a related field. More advanced education programs will cover essential knowledge and practical skills through focused coursework and hands-on experiences. 

Licensure or certification, mandated by most states, typically entails supervised clinical hours and passing a competency exam. The most common exam candidates must pass is through the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP).