Earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field
Complete a master’s degree or doctoral degree in a therapy-related discipline
Choose a specialization such as clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, psychology, or social work
Complete required supervised clinical hours
Pass the required licensing exam for your profession and location
Apply for state or regional licensure
Meet any background check or ethics requirements
Maintain licensure through continuing education
Gain experience through internships, practicums, or entry-level clinical roles
Develop strong communication, empathy, and active listening skills
Learn and follow professional ethics and confidentiality rules
Consider certification in specific therapy approaches if desired
Stay updated on mental health research and best practices