How to become a Clinical Therapist

A Clinical Therapist is a highly trained mental health professional dedicated to helping people navigate and overcome various psychological and emotional challenges. 

Clinical Therapist's responsibilities include providing direct client care, completing clinical documentation, establishing rapport with patients, facilitating admissions and more. 

At DBH, we are actively seeking skilled Clinical Therapists to join our compassionate team and contribute to our mission of providing exceptional mental health care. Learn about how you can become a Clinical Therapist in America. 

How to become a Clinical Therapist 

Becoming a Clinical Therapist requires dedication, education, and licensure. Here are the essential steps to embark on this rewarding career path: 

Earn a Master’s or Doctorate degree in a relevant field 

Obtain a graduate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field from an accredited university. This advanced education provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for clinical practice.

Complete state requirements for licensure 

You might be wondering “How do I get a therapist license in the USA?”. Well, you will need to research and fulfill the specific requirements set by the state licensing board where you plan to practice. 

This typically involves completing supervised clinical hours, passing a licensure exam, and meeting educational criteria. Obtain provisional licensure initially, followed by a state clinical license to conduct therapeutic interventions.

Obtain Basic Life Support (BLS), CPR, AED, and First Aid Certification 

Within 90 days of hire, acquire certification in Basic Life Support (BLS), Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) usage, and First Aid. 

These certifications ensure you are prepared to respond effectively to medical emergencies that may arise during therapy sessions or in clinical settings.

How long does it take to become a Clinical Therapist? 

The length of time it takes to become a Clinical Therapist in the USA can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's educational path, licensure requirements, and personal circumstances. 

Overall, the entire process to become a licensed Clinical Therapist typically takes a minimum of six to eight years of post-secondary education and training.

Generally, the process involves…

• Obtaining a bachelor's degree - typically four years
• Followed by a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field - an additional two to six years 
• After completing the required education, individuals typically need to accumulate supervised clinical experience - this can range from 1,000 to 4,000 hours, depending on state requirements
• Finally, obtaining licensure usually involves passing a licensure exam and fulfilling any additional state-specific requirements - this can take several months to complete

Explore Clinical Therapist jobs with DBH 

Pursuing a career as a Clinical Therapist at DBH offers a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health challenges. 

By following the outlined steps and investing in your education, experience, skills, and licensure, you can embark on a fulfilling journey towards becoming a valued member of our multidisciplinary team. 

Join us in our dedication to providing exceptional care and making a positive impact as a Clinical Therapist at DBH.