The profession of therapist has become one of the most popular occupations in the US. Within the next five years, it is projected to grow in demand by 25%. With such prospects, becoming a therapist turns into one of the most promising and secure career choices one can make. However, like in any other profession, here, too, you have to take the time and fulfill all the requirements to become a therapist. 

To find out more about the steps to take on that journey, read on.

Education

Like in many other cases, here as well, education is key to a successful career and professional development. Thus, you need to pay special attention to the matter and create a solid foundation through good education. The state of Connecticut has its own requirements in order to grant a Connecticut Therapy & Counseling License. One of them is that you need to have a graduate degree in counseling, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or social work. For example, if you are keen to work with people with mental health issues, you can complete a master’s degree in counseling. This entails specialization in areas such as:

  • Cultural and Social Foundations
  • Research Methods
  • Human growth and development
  • Addiction treatment etc.

Similarly, any other specialization within the range of therapy would require its relevant degree, coursework, and preparation.

Apart from having relevant coursework, you also need to make sure that the educational institution you are attending has regional accreditation. This is a crucial point that will enable you to find employment in the state. 

In addition to formal education, keep in mind that skills such as empathy, patience, listening, and effective communication are key to high-quality counseling. You can develop these with time and practice.

Experience

Apart from receiving formal education, another important requirement for becoming a therapist is professional experience. In Connecticut, you need 3000 hours of supervised, postgraduate work experience. The experience should last at least one year. It should also include 100 hours of direct supervision from an already licensed professional. 

During your studies, you can take the opportunity and do accredited internships in the area of your specialization. This will give you both work experience and a hands-on understanding of how your specialization is carried out on a day-to-day basis. 

Exams

After completing the requirements mentioned above, you will need to take license exams. The National Board for Certified Counselors is the agency administering the tests. There are two exam types that you can choose from. You can either take the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination or the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification. Completing the exam is an essential step on your way to becoming a therapist. Without a license, you will not be able to practice your profession. 

Licensing

Lastly, after you have completed your exam successfully, you will be able to apply for licensing. To take this step, you need to provide appropriate documentation:

  • You have to submit transcripts from all the educational institutions you have attended, as well as any relevant coursework you have completed. You will also need to submit a Course of Study Form along with the transcripts. Both of the documents have to be submitted directly from educational institutions.
  • You must also have your work supervisors send a direct form attesting that you have completed the necessary 3000 post-graduate work hours. 
  • A score report from your exam is also a necessary part of the licensure.
  • Finally, the completed application form is to be submitted to the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

After completing all these documents, you will receive a notification as to whether your license is approved or not. The email will include your license number, effective date, and other details if approved.

What’s next?

You can start practicing as a therapist as soon as your license is in effect. The profession is full of challenges, ups and downs, and opportunities for growth and learning. As a therapist, you will be able to serve your community and help people deal with pressing mental health issues and disorders. The difference you will make in people’s lives and the impact you will have on them will soon become the greatest inspiration and reward that any profession could possibly have.