Top 10 Psychotherapist Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a psychotherapist's job market. Certifications provide employers with proof that the psychotherapist is competent and qualified to practice in the field. They demonstrate to potential clients the level of training and experience that a psychotherapist has and allow them to make informed decisions when selecting a therapist. Certifications also show potential employers that the psychotherapist has a commitment to continuing education and professional development, which can be beneficial for long-term career success. Furthermore, many state licensing boards require certain certifications as part of their credentialing process, meaning that having certifications can be essential for obtaining licensure or practice privileges in some states.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Psychotherapists and explains how they can contribute to a psychotherapist's career by providing knowledge, skills, and credentials to help advance their professional development.

What are Psychotherapist Certifications?

Psychotherapist certification is an official recognition of a professional's qualifications and experience in providing psychotherapy. It indicates that the individual has met certain standards set by a governing body or professional organization. Certification shows that the individual has achieved a level of expertise in the field and is competent to practice psychotherapy.

Certification can help both clients and therapists. For clients, it provides assurance that their therapist meets specific standards for providing effective psychotherapy services. This can help them make an informed decision when choosing a therapist, as well as provide peace of mind that their therapist is qualified to provide the best care possible.

For therapists, certification can open up new opportunities for advancement in their profession. It demonstrates a commitment to excellence and professionalism, which can help them stand out from other practitioners in the field. Certification also allows therapists to demonstrate their expertise and competency, enabling them to attract more clients and increase their income potential. Additionally, certified practitioners may have access to resources such as continuing education courses or networking events with other professionals in the field.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the certification requirements for psychotherapists in your state. Different states have different regulations and requirements that must be met in order to become certified as a psychotherapist.

Related: What does a Psychotherapist do?

Top 10 Psychotherapist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Psychotherapists today.

1. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) is a mental health professional who provides psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. LCSWs are trained to assess and diagnose mental health disorders, develop treatment plans, provide individual and group therapy, and make referrals for additional services or resources when necessary.

In order to become an LCSW in the United States, you must first obtain a master’s degree in social work from an accredited university. The amount of time it takes to complete a master’s degree will vary depending on the program chosen. After completing the educational requirements, you must also pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam in order to receive your license.

The cost of obtaining an LCSW license varies by state but typically includes registration fees for both the ASWB exam and for the licensing application itself. Additionally, many states require continuing education courses in order to maintain licensure status; these courses may also have associated costs.

2. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who provides counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. LPCs are trained to diagnose and treat mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, and relationship problems. They use evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients improve their emotional well-being and reach their goals.

In order to become an LPC in the United States, applicants must complete a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university. The degree must include at least 48 semester credit hours of coursework in areas such as human development, psychopathology, research methods, assessment techniques, counseling theories and techniques, professional ethics and standards of practice. After completing the degree program, applicants must pass a state-approved licensing exam.

The cost of becoming an LPC varies depending on the state where you live. Generally speaking it can range from $500-$2,000 for application fees alone. Additional costs may include tuition for your master's degree program as well as any additional exams or certifications required by your state board of licensure.

Once all requirements have been met (degree completion/state licensing exam), it typically takes between 6 months to 1 year before you receive your license from the state board of licensure.

3. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) is a professional who specializes in helping people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and other physical or mental impairments to lead independent and productive lives. The CRC provides counseling, job placement services, and vocational training to help individuals reach their goals.

To become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), one must complete an accredited rehabilitation counseling program at the master's or doctoral level. This typically takes two to three years of full-time study. After completing the program, candidates must pass the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) exam and obtain state licensure before they can be certified as a CRC.

The cost for becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor will vary depending on the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition for master’s programs range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year while doctoral programs may cost upwards of $40,000 per year. Additionally, there is an application fee of $195 for the NBCC exam which must be paid prior to taking the exam.

4. Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC)

A Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) is a professional who has been certified by a state or national organization to provide counseling services to individuals with substance use disorders. The CAC provides individual and group counseling, as well as education, prevention, and intervention services.

In order to become a CAC, an individual must have completed a minimum of 180 hours of training in addiction counseling from an approved program. This training includes coursework in areas such as client assessment, treatment planning, ethical practice, and crisis management. In addition to the training requirements, most states require that applicants for certification pass an exam administered by the certifying body.

The cost of becoming a CAC varies depending on the certifying body and the state in which you are applying for certification. Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$500 for application fees and exam fees.

Once certified, CACs must complete continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their certification status. This can range from 10-30 hours per year depending on the certifying body and state requirements.

5. National Certified Counselor (NCC)

National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a professional certification offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is the highest level of certification available to counselors in the United States. The NCC credential is recognized and accepted by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and many foreign countries.

To obtain the NCC credential, applicants must have earned a master’s degree or higher in counseling from an accredited college or university, completed at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience as a counselor within 10 years prior to applying for certification, and passed a national examination administered by NBCC.

The process of obtaining the NCC credential typically takes about 6-12 months from start to finish. Once you have met all of the eligibility requirements listed above, you will need to submit an application packet to NBCC which includes your official transcripts from your graduate program and verification of your clinical experience hours. After submitting your application packet, it may take up to 8 weeks for NBCC to review it and determine if you are eligible for certification. If approved, you will be sent instructions on how to register for the national exam and pay any applicable fees associated with taking it.

The cost of obtaining the NCC credential varies depending on where you live and other factors such as whether or not you are a member of NBCC or an affiliated organization. Generally speaking, however, expect fees ranging anywhere from $200-$500 USD in total including application fees, exam registration fees, and any other applicable costs associated with becoming certified.

6. Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)

Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a type of mental health counseling that focuses on the relationships between individuals and their families. MFTs help couples, families, and individuals to identify and work through issues that can cause distress in their relationships. They use therapeutic methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems theory, psychodynamic approaches, and humanistic techniques to help clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build healthier relationships.

It typically takes two to three years of graduate study to become an MFT. Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field before they are accepted into the program. During the program, students will take courses in marriage and family therapy theories and techniques as well as clinical practice. After completing their studies, students must pass a state licensing exam before they can practice as an MFT.

The cost of becoming an MFT varies depending on the school you attend and whether you choose to pursue a master's degree or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy. Generally speaking, tuition for master's degrees range from $15,000-$30,000 per year while doctoral degrees can cost up to $50,000 per year. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the licensing exam such as application fees or study materials that need to be purchased.

Overall, becoming an MFT is an expensive but rewarding process that requires dedication and hard work. With the proper education and training you can become an effective therapist who helps individuals strengthen their relationships with one another.

7. Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW)

A Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) is a professional certification granted by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work (ABE-CSW). It is an advanced credential that recognizes a social worker’s expertise and experience in clinical practice. To be eligible for the DCSW, a social worker must have a master's degree or higher in social work from an accredited college or university, at least two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience, and have passed the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) examination.

It typically takes three to five years to complete the requirements for the DCSW certification. The first step is to obtain a master's degree or higher in social work from an accredited college or university. Then, you must gain two years of post-master’s supervised clinical experience. Finally, you must pass the NASW examination.

The cost for obtaining the DCSW certification varies depending on your individual situation. The cost may include fees for tuition and textbooks for your master's degree program, fees associated with taking and passing the NASW exam, and any other related costs such as travel expenses and supervision fees.

Overall, obtaining a Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) is an important step towards becoming a highly qualified clinical social worker. It requires dedication and commitment to completing all of the necessary requirements but can ultimately lead to greater professional opportunities and recognition within the field of social work.

8. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a professional certification in the field of behavior analysis. It is an independent certification that requires knowledge and skills in the principles of behavior, as well as the ability to design, implement, and evaluate interventions for individuals with behavioral challenges. The BCBA credential is awarded by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), which is responsible for setting standards and certifying individuals who meet those standards.

It typically takes two to three years to become a BCBA. This includes completing a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis or related field, gaining supervised experience working with clients, and passing the BCBA exam.

In order to become certified by the BACB, applicants must first complete an approved graduate program in behavior analysis or related field and gain supervised experience working with clients. Applicants must then pass the BCBA exam before they can be certified. The cost of obtaining certification varies depending on the program chosen, but it typically costs between $2,000-$4,000 USD for tuition and fees associated with completing a graduate program in ABA or related field. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the BCBA exam which range from $200-$400 USD depending on when you take it.

9. Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CCBT)

Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CCBT) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved advanced training and experience in the practice of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping clients identify, understand, and change patterns of thinking and behavior that are causing them distress. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected, and by changing one aspect of this system we can influence the others.

In order to become certified as a CCBT, an individual must first complete a master's degree in psychology or counseling with an emphasis in cognitive behavioral therapy. After completing their degree program they must then pass the National Board for Certified Counselors’ Certification Examination for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (NBCC-CBT). This exam consists of two parts: Part A covers theoretical knowledge related to CBT, while Part B covers practical skills.

Once an individual has passed the NBCC-CBT exam they will be eligible to apply for certification from the American Association of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapists (AACBT). The AACBT requires applicants to submit evidence of their education, training in CBT, clinical experience working with clients using CBT techniques, letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues attesting to their competence as a CBT practitioner, and payment of an application fee.

The cost for applying for CCBT certification varies depending on the requirements set by each organization. Generally speaking it costs around $300-$500 USD to apply for certification through AACBT. Once certified individuals may also be required to pay annual renewal fees which range from $50-$100 USD per year.

Overall it typically takes between 1-2 years to become certified as a CCBT depending on how quickly you can complete your degree program and pass the NBCC-CBT exam.

10. Registered Play Therapist (RPT)

Registered Play Therapist (RPT) is a credential that recognizes professionals who have achieved a high level of competency in the practice of play therapy. It is awarded by the Association for Play Therapy (APT), which is a professional organization that sets standards for play therapists and provides education, training, and resources to those interested in the field.

In order to become an RPT, one must first complete an APT-approved training program. This includes at least 300 hours of supervised clinical experience with children and adolescents using play therapy techniques. After completing the training program, applicants must pass a written exam administered by APT to demonstrate their knowledge of play therapy theory and practice.

The cost of becoming an RPT varies depending on the training program chosen. Generally, it can range from $500-$3000 or more in tuition fees. The process typically takes 1-2 years to complete depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and completing the required supervised clinical hours.

Do You Really Need a Psychotherapist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are considering pursuing a career in psychotherapy, a psychotherapist certificate is likely to be beneficial. A certificate can provide evidence of your knowledge and experience in the field and can give you an edge over other applicants. It can also help you to establish credibility with potential employers and clients.

In some cases, a psychotherapist certificate may not be necessary or even desirable. For example, if you are already working as a psychotherapist, but want to expand your skills or specialize in a certain area, then additional training may be more appropriate. Similarly, if you are looking for work as a mental health counselor in an educational setting, then having a counseling degree may be more important than having a psychotherapist certificate.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a psychotherapist certificate should be based on what is best for you and your career goals. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of obtaining certification before making any decisions.

Related: Psychotherapist Resume Examples

FAQs About Psychotherapist Certifications

1. What certifications do psychotherapists need?

Answer: Psychotherapists typically need to obtain a license from their state's licensing board in order to practice. Depending on the state, this may require completion of a master's degree or doctorate in psychology, supervised clinical experience, and passing an examination.

2. How long does it take to become certified as a psychotherapist?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as a psychotherapist varies depending on the individual's educational background and state requirements. Generally speaking, most individuals can expect to spend at least two years completing the necessary coursework and clinical experience before becoming eligible for licensure.

3. What type of continuing education is required for psychotherapist certification?

Answer: Continuing education is required for all licensed psychologists in order to maintain their license. This typically includes taking courses related to new developments in the field of psychology and attending workshops or conferences that focus on specific areas of practice.

4. What is the difference between a psychologist and psychotherapist?

Answer: A psychologist has earned a doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD) in psychology and has completed rigorous training in research, assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapy techniques. A psychotherapist is usually someone who has obtained licensure as a mental health counselor or marriage and family therapist with a master’s degree in counseling or social work but does not necessarily have any additional training beyond their master’s degree program.

5. Is there an age requirement for becoming certified as a psychotherapist?

Answer: Generally speaking, most states do not require any specific age requirement for becoming certified as a psychotherapist; however, some may require that applicants be at least 21 years old prior to applying for licensure.