How to Train to Be a Child Therapist
A child therapist specializes in treating children struggling with emotional challenges. A child therapist uses a variety of techniques, including art and play, to assist children in expressing emotions. Demand for therapists is expected to increase by 18 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Before launching this career, prospective child therapists must secure the necessary education and meet state licensing requirements.
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Instructions
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Complete a bachelor’s degree program. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, prospective child therapists must complete a bachelor’s degree. Focus on coursework in psychology, child development and biology. Sociology coursework is also desired by graduate schools.
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Gain hands-on experience. During undergraduate study, volunteer with a child therapist. Acceptance to graduate school is competitive and having this experience makes an applicant more attractive. This experience also will help you verify that a career in child therapy is right for you.
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Schedule a time to complete the graduate record examination, also called the GRE. This exam should be completed during the junior year of the bachelor’s program. The GRE exam tests a student’s critical thinking, verbal and writing abilities. Practice exams are available at the GRE website.
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Attend graduate school. Prospective child therapists should apply to graduate schools during the junior year of their bachelor’s program. Wait to apply until after GRE scores have been received because schools will require your scores. Find programs that have an emphasis on child therapy through the American Psychological Association. Graduate school takes approximately two years to complete, depending on the program.
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Meet state licensing requirements. Most states require child therapists to obtain a license. Contact the state licensing board to learn about regulations in your state. Typically, licensure requires completing an application and passing a background check and a state-administered examination.
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Tips & Warnings
Consider earning a doctorate degree in child therapy or child psychology. Counselors with this degree have access to more employment opportunities and higher salaries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Working as a child therapist can be emotionally draining. Talk with child therapists before attending graduate school to ensure this career is the right fit for you.
