Types of Degrees for Different Therapy Careers

Individuals aiming to become a therapist or work in the mental health field are presented with diverse career paths. While clinical psychology gains prominence, numerous other therapy degrees offer the requisite knowledge and skills. Here are common therapy career options and their corresponding degrees:

1. Clinical Psychologist and Counseling Psychologist:

• Required Degree: PhD in clinical or counseling psychology, or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology).
• Degree Focus: Clinical psychologists conduct more research, while counseling psychologists emphasize professional practice.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's followed by direct entry into a doctoral program.
• Average Annual Salary: $90,130 (May 2022, BLS)
• Career Specializations: Geriatric psychology, learning disabilities, substance abuse, adult mental health, etc.

2. Licensed Social Worker:

• Required Degree: Master's in social work (MSW).
• Degree Focus: Social workers merge psychotherapy and client advocacy, connecting them with resources and programs.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's followed by a two-year MSW program (some offer one-year options).
• Average Annual Salary: $55,350 (May 2022, BLS)
• Career Specializations: Child welfare, mental health, substance abuse, family counseling, etc.

3. Marriage and Family Therapist:

• Required Degree: Two years of graduate study in marriage and family therapy.
• Degree Focus: Therapists address mental disorders and psychological issues within the context of families and relationships.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's and a two-year graduate program.
• Average Annual Salary: $56,570 (May 2022, BLS)
• Projected Growth: "Much faster than average" (15% growth rate, 10,600 new positions by 2032, BLS)

4. Licensed Professional Counselor:

• Required Degree: Master's in counseling.
• Degree Focus: Counselors assess individuals facing mental distress, conduct individual and group therapy, and assist in crisis situations.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's followed by a master's program, supervised experience, and a state licensing exam.
• Average Annual Salary: $49,710 (May 2022, BLS)
• Career Specializations: Mental health counseling, school counseling, career counseling, rehabilitation counseling, etc.

5. Licensed School Psychologist:

• Required Degree: Doctoral or specialist degree in school psychology.
• Degree Focus: School psychologists apply psychological principles to education-related issues, working with students facing academic, psychological, or social challenges.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's degree and a doctoral or specialist degree (EdD), supervised internship, and state licensing.
• Average Annual Salary: $87,550 (May 2022, BLS)
• Career Settings: Elementary and secondary schools, state agencies, private clinics, hospitals.

6. Creative Arts Therapist:

• Required Degree: Varies based on specialization.
• Degree Focus: Therapists harness creativity and art to address psychological disorders and mental distress.
• Educational Background: A master's degree in art therapy, dance therapy, music therapy, or drama therapy, along with additional coursework.
• Average Annual Salary: $71,860 (May 2022, BLS, for "other therapists")
• Career Settings: Hospitals, mental health clinics, private practices, schools.

7. Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse (APRN):

• Required Degree: Associate's or bachelor's in nursing; master's in psychiatric and mental health nursing.
• Degree Focus: APRNs assess, diagnose, and treat mental illnesses, with the ability to prescribe medications in some states.
• Educational Background: A bachelor's in nursing, master's in psychiatric nursing, clinical practice hours, and continuing education.
• Average Annual Salary: Varies based on education, experience, and specialty.

It's crucial to note that educational requirements and salary figures may differ depending on location and specific circumstances. Thorough research and exploration of each therapy career path are essential before making an informed decision about pursuing a particular degree.