- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): This is the most common credential for therapists in the United States. To obtain an LPC, you must have a master's degree in counseling or a related field, as well as complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): This credential is similar to the LPC, but it focuses on therapy for couples and families. To obtain an LMFT, you must have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, as well as complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours.
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): This credential is held by social workers who have a master's degree in social work and have completed a certain number of supervised clinical hours. LCSWs can provide therapy as well as other social work services, such as case management and advocacy.
- Licensed Psychologist (PhD or PsyD): This is the highest level of credentialing for therapists. To become a licensed psychologist, you must have a doctorate in psychology and have completed a certain number of supervised clinical hours. Psychologists can provide a wide range of therapy services, including psychotherapy, counseling, and psychological testing.
In addition to these general requirements, some states may have additional specific requirements for therapists. For more information, visit the website of the licensing board for your state.
Some Additional Voluntary Credentials for Therapists:
- National Certified Counselor (NCC): This is an optional credential offered by the National Board of Certified Counselors. To obtain the NCC, you must meet certain educational and training requirements and pass an examination.
- Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC): This is an optional credential offered by the American Mental Health Counselors Association. To obtain the CCMHC, you must meet certain educational and training requirements and pass an examination.
- Certified Addictions Counselor (CAC): This is an optional credential offered by the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium. To obtain the CAC, you must meet certain educational and training requirements and pass an examination.
- Certified Sex Therapist (CST): This is an optional credential offered by the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. To obtain the CST, you must meet certain educational and training requirements and pass an examination.
These voluntary credentials are not required to practice therapy, but they can demonstrate your competency and expertise in a specific area of therapy.