How to become a cognitive behavioural therapist
You can get into this job through a university course or by applying directly.
University
You'll usually need an accredited postgraduate course in cognitive behavioural therapy and experience of working in mental health.
To do a postgraduate course, you'll usually need a degree in a health and social care subject like:
- mental health nursing
- social work
- counselling
- art therapy
- psychology
You might be able to get onto a postgraduate course without a degree if you have the knowledge, skills and attitudes required by the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).
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.
You could:
- volunteer at a mental health charity like Mind, Rethink Mental Illness or Turning Point
- find volunteering opportunities though the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) and Do IT
- get advice from the volunteer services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust
Direct Application
If you're already a qualified healthcare professional, you might be able to do cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) training with the NHS.
You could apply 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 (BABCP) for professional accreditation and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a cognitive behavioural therapist from the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP) and Health Careers.