How to become a cognitive behavioural therapist
You can get into this job through:
- a university degree
- applying directly
University
You'll usually need an accredited postgraduate qualification in cognitive behavioural therapy and experience of working in mental health.
You'll need a degree in a subject related to health and social care to get onto a postgraduate course in cognitive behavioural therapy.
Relevant subjects include:
- mental health nursing
- social work
- counselling
- art therapy
- psychology
You may still be able to get onto postgraduate training without a related degree. To do this, you'll need to show that you meet the knowledge, skills and attitude requirements of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies.
You'll also need experience of working with people who have mental health issues through your job or from volunteering.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Volunteering
You'll find it useful to get experience of working in mental health, for example with charities like Mind, Rethink and Turning Point.
Do-it also has information on voluntary opportunities in your area.
You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for further advice.
Direct Application
If you're already a qualified healthcare professional, you may be able to do cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) training with the NHS. This could be through applying for roles like trainee psychological wellbeing practitioner or high intensity therapist.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies for professional accreditation and training opportunities.
Further information
You'll find more details about routes to qualifying through the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies and Health Careers.