What licensure or certification is required to be a therapist in georgia?

Answer 1

To become a licensed therapist in Georgia, you must typically follow these steps, depending on the specific type of therapy you wish to practice. Here are the common licensure and certification requirements:

1. Counselors:

   • You need a Master's or higher degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field from an accredited institution.
   • After graduation, you will need to complete a specified number of supervised hours of clinical experience.
   • Then, you must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or a similar exam.
   • Finally, you apply for licensure through the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists to obtain your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential.

2. Social Workers:

   • A Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program is required.
   • You would typically need to complete supervised post-graduate clinical experience.
   • You can obtain licensure by passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam.
   • You can become either a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) depending on your level of training and supervision.

3. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT):

   • A Master's or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy (or a closely related field) is necessary.
   • You are required to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours.
   • Passing the Examination in Marital and Family Therapy or a similar exam is required.
   • After successful completion of these requirements, you can apply for licensure as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).

4. Psychologists:

   • A Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology from an accredited institution is required.
   • You must complete an APA-accredited internship and obtain a certain amount of supervised postdoctoral experience.
   • Passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is needed for licensure as a psychologist.

5. Other Licensure:

   • Various other specializations may require different credentials, such as Art Therapists or Play Therapists, and may require specific credentials or certifications relating to those fields.

It is important to keep updated on any changes in regulations by consulting the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists or other relevant state regulatory bodies for the most current information. Additionally, professional organizations may provide resources and guidance regarding licensure and certification.