Is becoming a psychotherapist your vocation? This profession allows you to enrich and help others overcome depression, anxiety and mental illness. There are numerous career paths, from marriage and family therapy to social therapy. Find out which are the branches and the path to follow to choose the right one for you.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Understand the Field of Psychotherapy
Step 1. Be aware of the opportunities available
Psychotherapists have in common the fact that they help and advise others, but there are many job positions and each specialization includes many other branches:
- You can become a consultant to specific sections of the population in schools and various institutions. You won't need any specific training but most professionals get certain certifications to earn credentials.
- The social worker has a degree in Social Work or a master's degree and usually works in associations in contact with individuals or families in need. Someone especially takes care of children.
- The marriage or family counselor often has a private practice and assists both individually and collectively.
- Psychologists specialize in various approaches: cognitive, behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic… They work with individuals suffering from depression or other disorders. They conduct psychological tests and therapy is based on dialogue. In most cases, they do not prescribe drugs.
- Psychiatrists are medical graduates. They conduct clinical trials, administer medications, and work with other doctors and psychotherapists to determine the appropriate treatment for their patients.
Step 2. Once you have chosen your preferred field, talk to several professionals
- Each field has its own peculiarities and requires certain skills. Psychologists, for example, conduct research on various types of therapy. Social workers often find themselves in difficult situations and work as mediators between the parties. Do a thorough research before choosing.
- Ask each professional you consult what path they took to get to their current position.
Step 3. Decide which faculty to enroll in
This career involves many years of study, so be sure to think and inform yourself before continuing.
- Graduates. Regardless of the type of therapy you want to specialize in, you will need a degree. Consider the undergraduate course in Psychology and study the scientific and humanistic aspects as both areas cover a specific role in the work you intend to do.
- If you have a clear idea of your study plan, make sure you complete all the required subjects.
Method 2 of 3: Training Requirements
Step 1. After your bachelor's degree, enroll in the master's and, when you're done, consider doing a master's
If you opt for Psychiatry, you will need to study Medicine first.
- Study programs typically include classroom work, research, clinical experience, and psychotherapy under the supervision of experts.
- Don't lose sight of your goals. Above all, study the subjects of your interest.
Step 2. Get clinical experience
Requirements vary, but in most cases two years of clinical work in the public or private sector are required before you can pursue the profession.
- The internship must be followed by an expert.
- Clinical requirements are much stricter for future psychologists and psychiatrists.
Step 3. Take the state exam for licensing
- Prepare by getting the necessary study materials and old tests to practice.
- Renew your license annually based on the laws of the state you are in.
Method 3 of 3: The Job Search
Step 1. Work in an institution
Read the offers and focus on schools, clinics, hospitals, etc.
Step 2. Work together with other professionals
Many psychotherapists share offices with others - each specializing in one area.
Step 3. Open your studio
After you've gained experience and learned how to manage customers, go on your own.
