Therapist vs. Counselor: Education, Training, and Careers

If you care about mental health, you can consider many different careers. The two most common are therapists and counselors�which may seem like the same thing, but there are plenty of differences.

Both careers require slightly different college degrees and licensing. Plus, you will have different goals as a therapist or a counselor. Below, we'll explain everything you need to understand about each career to help you choose the right one.

Definitions and Roles

First, therapists and counselors have different purposes. A therapist focuses more on mental health, while a counselor focuses more on supporting people going through major changes.

Therapist Role

A mental health counseling therapist is a professional who provides various forms of therapy to individuals, couples, and families. They are trained to help people deal with a wide range of mental health issues and emotional challenges.

• Psychotherapists focus on treating mental health conditions through talking therapies.
• Clinical social workers provide therapy and support services to individuals and families, often addressing social issues impacting mental health.
• Marriage and family therapists specialize in relationship dynamics, working with couples and families.

Counselor Role

Mental health counselors, on the other hand, primarily focus on helping individuals manage specific life issues and transitions. They offer guidance, support, and practical solutions rather than intensive therapy.

• School guidance counselors assist students with academic, career, and personal issues.
• Substance abuse counselors help individuals struggling with addiction.
• Career counselors provide guidance on career choices and professional development, aiding individuals in navigating their professional lives.

Education and Training

When it comes to education, both careers pretty much require the same amount: both a bachelor's and a master's degree. However, the focus of the degree is different along with the type of licensing.

Therapist Education & Training

After earning a bachelor's degree, aspiring therapists need to complete a master's degree in psychology, social work, or marriage and family therapy, all depending on the type of therapist they want to be. Their coursework includes subjects like human development, psychopathology, therapeutic techniques, and ethics. Specializations may require additional training in areas such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or family systems.

Licensing requirements vary by state but generally include graduating from an accredited program, completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours, and passing a state-recognized exam.

Read more: What Are the Education Requirements To Be a Therapist?

Counselor Education & Training

Most counselors need at least a bachelor's degree, with many positions requiring a master's degree in counseling or a related field. Their coursework covers counseling theories, human development, assessment techniques, and specialized areas such as substance abuse or school counseling.

Licensing varies by state and counseling type but also typically involves completing an accredited program, having a specified amount of supervised clinical hours, and passing a certification exam to ensure they are qualified to practice.

Career Pathways and Specializations

Now that you understand what education you need to be a therapist or a counselor, let's look at what types of jobs you can get after earning those degrees.

Therapist Career Opportunities

Therapists work in diverse settings, including private practice, hospitals, mental health clinics, and community service agencies. We've outlined a few therapist career opportunities below.

• behavioral therapist: works on finding the cause and solution for those with PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and other unhealthy behaviors
• recreational therapist: uses music, art, and games to help those with mental health conditions or physical disabilities to recover and regain a positive outlook
• marriage and family therapist: focuses on their clients' interpersonal relationship development by understanding their problems and helping find resolutions

Counselor Career Opportunities

Counselors are often found in educational institutions, rehabilitation centers, community organizations, and corporate environments. Below are some counseling careers that you could pursue.

• rehabilitation counselor: assists individuals with disabilities in achieving personal and professional goals, helping them lead more fulfilling lives despite their challenges
• career counselor: helps individuals make career choices and navigate professional challenges
• high school counselor: helps students' academic success along with their emotional well-being while also preparing them for their future after graduating
• substance abuse counselor: helps individuals overcome a dependence on drugs or alcohol by evaluating their progress and creating plans to reach recovery

Skills and Competencies

Since therapists and counselors have different goals, they have different skills that they need to be successful at. The skills can be learned in school, but it's better if they naturally have the necessary competencies.

Therapist Skills

Therapists possess key skills such as diagnostic abilities, enabling them to identify mental health conditions and create treatment plans tailored to their clients' needs. They are proficient in various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychodynamic therapy, depending on their specialization.

Important competencies for therapists include empathy, which allows them to understand and share the feelings of others, and active listening, which involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to clients during sessions.

Counselor Skills

Counselors, meanwhile, excel in guidance techniques, helping clients set and achieve goals through structured support and practical advice. They are adept at crisis intervention, providing immediate support and solutions during emergencies.

Essential competencies for counselors include communication, which involves clearly conveying information and advice, and problem-solving, which requires identifying issues and developing practical solutions to help clients overcome their challenges and improve their well-being.

Job Outlook

Both therapists and counselors are in demand, meaning they make a competitive wage and will be able to find a job more easily than other career fields after graduating.

Therapist Job Outlook

The demand for therapists is expected to grow significantly, driven by increased awareness of mental health issues and the need for professional support. For example, the demand for marriage and family therapists will increase by 15%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics from 2022 to 2032.

Salaries for therapists vary based on specialization, location, and experience. Highly specialized therapists or those in private practice may earn more, reflecting their expertise and the demand for their services.

Counselor Job Outlook

Counseling professions are also experiencing growth, particularly in schools, healthcare settings, and substance abuse programs. The need for school counselors will grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, while substance abuse counselors will grow by 18%.

Average salaries for counselors depend on specialization and work environment. School counselors and those in private practice may earn higher salaries because of the important role they play in supporting individuals through various life challenges and transitions.

Tips on Deciding Whether To Become a Therapist or a Counselor

Choosing between becoming a therapist or a counselor can be a challenging decision since both professions involve helping others navigate their mental health and personal challenges. Below are some tips to help you make an informed choice.

Understand the Differences

A therapist treats mental health issues through talk therapy and may have various titles, such as psychologist, psychotherapist, or clinical social worker. They often focus on deeper psychological issues and long-term treatment.

On the other hand, counselors often help individuals navigate specific issues or transitions, such as career guidance, relationship problems, or coping with grief. Counselors typically engage in shorter-term treatment and may work in a variety of settings, including schools, private practices, and community organizations.

Know the Educational Requirements

Becoming a therapist requires advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctorate in psychology, social work, or a related field. Therapists often need to complete supervised clinical hours and obtain state licensure.

Becoming a counselor also requires a master's degree in fields like counseling, psychology, or education. Licensing requirements vary by state and specialization, but they generally include having supervised clinical experience and passing a licensing exam.

Consider Your Interests

If you are interested in understanding psychological issues and enjoy long-term client relationships, a career as a therapist may be more suitable. However, if you prefer to work on specific, practical issues and enjoy helping people make immediate improvements in their lives, becoming a counselor might be a better fit.

Think About the Work Environment

Therapists often work in private practices, hospitals, mental health clinics, or academic settings, where the environment can be more clinical and may involve dealing with severe mental health conditions.

Counselors, on the other hand, can work in a wider variety of settings, such as schools, community centers, businesses, and private practices, often dealing with less severe situations compared to therapy.

Reflect on Your Career Goals

If you aim to engage in research, teaching, or specialized clinical practice, becoming a therapist might provide more opportunities for these roles. However, if you seek a more flexible career that allows for various specializations and work settings, counseling could offer diverse career paths.

Evaluate Financial and Time Commitments

Training to become a therapist can be more time-consuming and expensive due to the need for advanced degrees and extensive supervised practice. A counselor's training involves a shorter and less costly educational path compared to becoming a therapist.

Consider Licensing and Certification

Research the licensing requirements for both professions in your state. Understand the steps involved, such as exams, supervised hours, and ongoing continuing education. Additionally, consider obtaining additional certifications in specialized areas that interest you, such as trauma therapy, addiction counseling, or family therapy.

Seek Advice and Mentorship

Talk to professionals currently working as therapists and counselors to learn about their experiences, challenges, and the rewards of their careers. Seek out mentors in both fields who can provide guidance and help you navigate your career decision.

Experience the Field Firsthand

Consider volunteering or working in related roles to gain insight into both professions. Positions such as a case manager, support worker, or intern in a mental health setting can provide valuable experience. Participating in informational interviews, job shadowing, or attending industry conferences can also deepen your understanding of each profession.

Follow Your Passion

Choose the path that aligns with your passion and values. A fulfilling career is often driven by a genuine interest in the work and a desire to make a positive impact on others' lives.