Do you feel called to be a therapist? Therapists are tasked with enriching the lives of many people by helping to deal with the stress, depression, anxiety and psychiatric disorders that occur as a result of a situation. There are many avenues open to people who wish to pursue a career in therapy; some may specialize in fields such as marriage or family guidance, others choose to engage in social work, and still others work in schools and other institutions. Learn about the different types of therapists, the educational requirements for becoming a therapist, and how to start a career in therapy.
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Method 1 of 3: Understanding the Field of Psychotherapy
Step 1. Know the various opportunities that exist
All therapists have the same desire to help people by providing guidance, but there are a wide variety of jobs that fall into this field. Consider the following positions related to therapy:
- Some counselors help certain community groups in places such as schools and places of worship. A mentor does not need special training to practice, but most do take certain courses to earn a certificate.
- Social workers have a master's degree and are usually hired by an agency to work to help individuals or families who need guidance. Some social workers specialize in child guidance.
- Marriage and family therapists often have private practice and provide therapy for married couples in addition to individual and family therapy.
- Psychologists hold a Ph. D. and study a variety of major approaches to therapy, including cognitive, behavioral, humanitarian and psychodynamic approaches, as well as working with individuals suffering from depression and other disorders. Psychologists usually perform psychological testing and provide therapy by conversing with their patients, but in most cases, psychologists cannot prescribe medications or other medical interventions.
- Psychiatrists are actually medical doctors who study psychiatry after finishing medical school. A psychiatrist usually performs medical tests, prescribes medication and works with doctors and other psychotherapists to develop a program or treatment for his or her patient.
Step 2. Talk to multiple therapists
If you are deciding which type of therapy is right for you, find out through discussions with therapists who have chosen different career paths.
- Different types of therapists have different sets of skills and abilities. For example, psychologists spend time researching different types of therapy. Social workers are often in emotional situations and act as mediators between the two conflicting parties. Observe different types of therapists to determine which one is right for you.
- Ask the therapists about the educational path they took to get to where they are today.
Step 3. Begin designing a plan for a career in therapy
Some degrees take years to earn, and there is additional time to get the right job and set up a practice. Once you know the general areas that interest you, build a plan for yourself.
- Get a bachelor's degree. No matter what type of therapy you decide to pursue, you should start on the path by earning a bachelor's degree. Consider majoring in psychology, and study both the sciences and the humanities, as both fields have a role to play in the therapist's work.
- If you know exactly what graduate program you want to study in, be sure to take all prerequisite courses.
Method 2 of 3: Educational Requirements for Therapists
Step 1. Earn a postgraduate degree
Enroll in a graduate program that will prepare you for the career you have chosen. Complete a master's program or Ph. D.
- Most programs will include classroom work, research, fieldwork, and supervised psychotherapy.
- Always keep your career goals in mind as you work towards your degree. Choose classes that will help you learn as much as possible about the type of therapy you will specialize in.
Step 2. Gain clinical experience
Requirements for obtaining clinical experience vary depending on the degree you wish to earn, but in most cases two years of working experience as a therapist in a clinic or private practice is required before you can obtain a permit.
- The experience must be at postgraduate level and under the supervision of a licensed therapist.
- The clinical requirements are much more stringent for people wishing to study psychology and psychiatry.
Step 3. Obtain a license
In addition to obtaining a master's degree and at least two years of clinical experience, most areas require the therapist to pass a licensure exam
- Find out the test requirements in your area to prepare for and pass the exam.
- Renew your license annually according to the rules in your area.
Method 3 of 3: Getting a Job as a Therapist
Step 1. Work in an institution
Look for job listings for candidates who are at your level of education and experience in schools, public health clinics, hospitals, and other places that employ therapists.
Step 2. Work as part of a group practice
Many therapists share office space together by leveraging their various areas of expertise to serve the needs of multiple clients. Find out about shared practices in your area and contact them to see if you are interested in joining them.
Step 3. Set up your own practice
As you build confidence and build relationships with clients, you may need to set up your own practice. Rent office space in the building or meet clients in your home.
