Choosing accredited therapist courses aligned with your career goals is essential for licensure & impact.
Specialized training — like ACT, play therapy, or sex therapy — helps therapists stand out & serve niche populations.
Online therapy courses offer flexibility without compromising quality, making training more accessible than ever.
Dreaming of becoming a therapist who truly makes a difference?
The right training can shape your journey from passion to profession. With so many options available, choosing the best therapist courses can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build a strong foundation in counseling, psychology, or mental health, this guide will spotlight top therapist courses that offer practical skills, expert insight, and real-world impact.
From online flexibility to hands-on techniques, discover the program that can launch your career and empower you to support others with confidence and compassion.
Let’s get started!
Before you continue, we thought you might like to download our five positive psychology tools for free. These ready-made tools are perfect for enhancing your teaching approach, making it easier to engage students in meaningful, student-centered learning.
How to Choose the Best Therapist Course for Your Career
When choosing the best therapist training program, it’s essential to consider both accreditation and experiential learning.
Knowing the type of accreditation required for the state where you plan to practice will be paramount. Enrolling in an accredited program ensures that the curriculum meets rigorous national standards for content, faculty expertise, practicum hours, and licensure eligibility — factors that strongly predict professional competence and smoother licensure paths (Urofsky, 2013).
Experiential learning and supervision are also critical to consider. Programs offering active, hands-on training, such as role-play, video review, and reflective supervision, significantly enhance therapists’ skill development and fidelity to evidence-based practices, more so than classroom learning alone (Caron et al., 2021).
Other aspects to consider when choosing the right therapist course may include cost and specialty. Location and the availability of face-to-face or online options may also be determinants. For the scope of this article, we will focus on North America.
A List of the Best Therapy Courses
Whether you’re drawn to helping couples, supporting children through creative expression, or guiding clients with evidence-based techniques, choosing the right specialized therapy course can shape your impact.
In this section, we highlight top-rated therapy courses in key areas like marriage and family therapy, art therapy, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and systems therapy, each designed to equip you with the tools and training needed to thrive in your chosen path.
Marriage and family
Marriage and family therapist (MFT) programs prepare professionals to address relational and emotional challenges within couples and families.
These programs offer specialized training in systemic thinking, communication strategies, and evidence-based interventions to support healthy family dynamics. Completing an MFT program is often a key step toward licensure and professional practice in this rewarding field.
Syracuse University – Syracuse, NY, US
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education, Syracuse University offers the first accredited MFT master’s degree in the country and the first and only accredited PhD in MFT in the state.
An online master’s degree is available, and there is a Couple and Family Therapy Center onsite for hands-on clinical experience.
Art therapy
Art therapy does not just encompass the art of drawing and can be conducted through music, movement, and dance as well. For more on this expansive topic, visit our article on expressive arts therapy, which also lists a range of courses.
Here are three online art therapy programs worth considering.
PennWest – Edinboro, PA, US
If you already hold a master’s degree in a mental health field and want to begin a program that is 100% online, consider the post-master’s art therapy certificate offered by PennWest.
PennWest, formerly Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, offers a comprehensive foundation in art therapy, covering its history, core theories, and practical applications.
This fully online program is ranked #8 in the country by Nonprofit Colleges Online’s “Students Before Profits Award” according to the university’s website.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods & Lesley University – Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN, US
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and suggested by Thirstyforart.com, this program only requires four-to-six-day on-campus residencies twice per year. The residencies are offered in June, July, and January.
Students are organized by cohorts, thus encouraging collaborative learning and community building. The program is designed to take students three years to complete.
Play therapy
Play therapy offers specialized training in using play as a powerful tool for communication, healing, and emotional growth, especially for children.
These programs teach therapeutic techniques that help clients express thoughts and feelings through play when words fall short. Play therapy training can deepen your impact and expand your skills, whether you’re a counselor, educator, or mental health professional.
University of Kentucky – Lexington, KY, US
The University of Kentucky offers a graduate certificate in play therapy that is fully online and provides essential training in the use of play as a therapeutic tool.
Tailored for mental health professionals such as counselors and social workers, it can count toward the educational criteria for registered play therapist credentials.
Capella University – Minneapolis, MN, US
Another fully online graduate certificate is provided by Capella University. This program delves into the theory, methods, and practical use of play therapy.
It aligns with the core academic requirements set by the Association for Play Therapy for those looking to earn their registered play therapist credentials.
Acceptance and commitment therapy
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a powerful approach that helps individuals build healthier relationships with difficult thoughts and emotions while moving toward a more meaningful life (Harris, 2011).
Although no formal certification path exists for ACT practitioners, a wide range of high-quality training courses is available. Our article Acceptance & Commitment Therapy Training: Top 18 Courses highlights these programs and more.
PESI – Eau Claire, WI, US
PESI is a nonprofit continuing education organization that presents a wide range of ACT courses. Courses range from a 24-hour online course to a five-day in-person seminar in North Carolina. Further, this organization offers courses geared toward anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), disordered eating, and trauma.
Psychotherapy ACT: A Practical Guide for Therapists – Online, US
Psychotherapy ACT is a self-paced online course led by DJ Moran that equips clinicians with practical tools to apply ACT to a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, OCD, and substance abuse.
Designed for immediate integration into clinical practice, the training offers a clear, engaging introduction to ACT fundamentals. With easy-to-follow video lessons and a flexible format, the course combines professional development with an enjoyable learning experience.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched and effective approaches for treating a range of mental health concerns.
CBT courses offer structured, evidence-based training in helping clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Whether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your expertise, these programs provide valuable tools for impactful therapeutic work.
CBT Online Training – Online
CBT Online Training offers a truly remarkable selection of CBT training and is available to anyone with an internet connection. The service is provided by the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists.
Certification programs range from two to six hours in length and include focus areas such as social phobia, autism spectrum disorders, resistant clients, addiction, anger, and agoraphobia, among many others.
Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy – Bala Cynwyd, PA, US
If you’re looking for training, live virtual workshops, certification, or resources concerning CBT, the Beck Institute will have you covered.
The trainings are eligible for continuing education (CE/CME) credits and have been awarded the 2021 Outstanding Training Program Award from the Association for the Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.
Systems therapy
Systems therapy takes a holistic approach to mental health by focusing on the complex relationships and patterns within families and groups.
Rather than treating individuals in isolation, this method explores how dynamics within a system influence behavior and wellbeing. Courses in systems therapy equip professionals with the skills to understand and guide change within these interconnected relationships.
Internal Family Systems Institute – Oak Park, IL, US
Three levels of training and an IFS certification are available for students. A yearly, multi-day in-person conference is held, while the keynote livestream is made available to those who cannot attend in person.
Further, many free articles, videos, podcasts, and teleconferences are available to anyone interested in learning more.
Systems Thinking Alliance – Milton, ON, Canada
Systems Thinking Alliance (STA) is a global organization dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through comprehensive systems thinking training, coaching, and consulting.
Its mission is to equip practitioners with the skills to navigate complexity and foster sustainable, humane systems, while its vision envisions a world where systems thinking informs transformative, collaborative, and learning-led leadership.
STA offers micro-credentials and customizable programs focused on systems leadership and upholds core values like clarity, inclusivity, humility, innovation, and community building in its global learning community.
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Top Accredited Institutions Offering Therapy Training
Choosing the right institution for therapy training is crucial to building a successful and ethical practice. This section highlights top accredited programs that provide high-quality education, practical experience, and professional recognition in therapy.
1. Columbia University – New York, NY, US
As an Ivy League institution in the United States, Columbia has several advanced and extensive training programs for different types of therapists.
The Center for Psychoanalytic Training and Research offers a two-year adult psychodynamic psychotherapy program complemented with weekly individual supervisory sessions.
The university has a child and adolescent program and a parent–infant program specializing in treatment between mothers and infants that is also open to clinical social workers, nurses, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
If you know you want to become a clinical psychologist, consider the University of California–Los Angeles (UCLA). UCLA was ranked as the number one clinical psychology doctorate program in 2025 by US News and World Report (n.d.).
At UCLA, students engage in research, coursework, clinical training, and teaching throughout the program. The clinical psychology program has a stellar reputation, offers a PhD track, and is accredited by the American Psychological Association.
Find out more about the clinical psychology program on the UCLA website.
Certification & Licensing Requirements for Therapists
Before determining what certification and licensure are necessary for your area, you should ensure that you truly want to become a therapist.
If you want to be a therapist, watch this - Forrest Hanson
Speaking with individuals currently practicing therapy will be an excellent place to start. With more information on this exciting profession, this video will be an excellent resource.
After graduating from high school, the journey to becoming a therapist can take anywhere from seven to 15 years and usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree.
Some therapist certifications require further education after obtaining your undergraduate degree.
For example, becoming a clinical or counseling psychologist typically requires at least three to four years of graduate school and real-world clinical experience through training placements.
Do you want to become a therapist without going through advanced doctoral training? For certain types of therapy training, it’s possible after completing a master’s degree (typically one to two years of full-time study). This step can be followed by a doctoral degree, and it depends on where you are located.
In the United States, you are required to have 2,000 to 4,000 hours of clinical experience to practice therapy (Hodges, 2021).
All this information can dictate the type of therapy course you need to take to become a licensed therapist. Below is a simplified outline of what you must complete in the United States.
Earn the appropriate degree
You could earn a master’s degree in social work, counseling, or psychology
The programs are typically 48 to 60 credits
Should be a program accredited by Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs or Council on Social Work Education
Complete supervised clinical experience
States may require 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice
Licensure exams
States may require the National Counselor Examination, National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, or other national exams
States may also require ethics or jurisprudence exams
Apply and maintain licensure
Submit official transcripts, proof of supervised hours, exam scores, background checks, and application fees to the state board
To renew licensure, continuing education units will be required
Online vs. In-Person Therapy Courses
If you’re comparing online versus in-person therapy courses, know that both can effectively teach evidence-based psychotherapy techniques.
Mallonee et al. (2018) found that participants in synchronous online and traditional in-person workshops showed equivalent gains in knowledge and readiness to deliver treatment protocols, although in-person attendees reported slightly higher satisfaction.
If you’re looking to stand out in the field of mental health, niche therapy specializations can offer a unique path to making a deeper impact.
From ecotherapy to digital addiction counseling, these targeted courses equip you with specialized skills to serve distinct populations and emerging needs. First, you will need to complete a more general therapy program; however, let’s explore some top programs that align with your passion and professional goals.
Ecotherapy
If you’re interested in tapping into the healing power of nature while combining mindfulness, the Mindful Ecotherapy Center is an excellent starting point to pursue these courses.
Eco-art therapy, eco play, sandtray ecotherapy, and eco-spirituality are just a few of the courses you can choose from. You could also earn a mindfulness-based ecotherapy certification, which is approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors.
If you’re looking for a graduate program in ecotherapy, you may consider Prescott College in Arizona. This program provides students with four intensive placements: urban, wilderness, nature, and one on a special issue.
This selection is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counselor and Related Educational Programs and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
Pet loss and grief counseling
Grand Canyon University offers a Master of Science in mental health and wellness – grief and bereavement. This program is completely online, and you will explore the complexities of grief and bereavement, gain insight into their impact on overall wellbeing, and learn effective strategies to support healthy coping and healing in those experiencing loss.
After completion of the six courses, applicants can apply for and receive certification as a certified pet-loss grief specialist. The courses are provided in an online classroom and designed as independent study with one-to-one faculty mentoring.
Sex therapy
If you’re a social worker looking for a continuing education program and certificate specializing in sexual health, the University of Michigan offers an online, live, synchronous program.
The sexual health certification program offers the following tracks: sexual education, sexuality counseling, sex therapy, sex therapy and sexuality education, and sexuality counseling and sexuality education.
The Sexual Health Alliance includes certifications to become a sex therapist, couples and sex therapist, sex educator, sexuality counselor, sex coach or sexologist, and sex and relationship coach.
5 Student Testimonials and Success Stories
Testimonials and success stories play a decisive role in building trust and credibility, especially in fields like therapy and mental health.
They offer real-world proof of a program’s effectiveness, showing potential students what is possible through the experiences of others.
Beyond marketing, these personal accounts inspire hope, reduce stigma, and help people feel more confident in taking the next step in their careers.
Columbia University – New York, NY, US
“For me, it was particularly the strength and brilliance of the faculty. As a psychologist, I loved the cross-pollination between the minds of MDs and PhDs. These are two very different kinds of trainings, and they attract different kinds of people. But when they come together in their love of psychoanalysis, the interplay is wonderfully stimulating.”
“This program changed the way I practice and connect with others. I can’t recommend it enough! Every clinician needs this training to be effective in the field of relationships.”
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College – Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN, US
“SMWC is different from other schools in the aspect that we have created a close-knit community. We have a small school feel while still having competitive athletics and academic programs.”
Internal Family Systems Institute – Oak Park, IL, US
“The entire training program was remarkable. The design is inventive and perfect for an adult learner such as me. Through the didactic work, meditations, watching in-person demonstrations and videos, small group practice sessions, and home group, I feel I’ve taken in the model on a very cellular level. I can honestly say this is the first time I’ve come away from a training with confidence to use the model and use it well. This started with the first weekend, and kept building throughout.”
— E. Harmansky
Find this testimonial and more at the IFS Institute website.
Grand Canyon University – Phoenix, AZ, US
“The flexibility of the online program was one of the benefits of attending GCU. I got to work at my own pace. I was a full-time employee, so I had to take care of that first before I could focus on school.”
Use these 17 Positive Education Exercises [PDF] to enhance student engagement, resilience, and wellbeing while also equipping students with valuable life skills.
PositivePsychology.com provides a rich collection of resources designed to support student engagement. From worksheets and articles to practical tools, these materials offer valuable support that can enhance learning and engagement in meaningful ways.
Worksheets
In completing your hands-on training, our Student Session Notes worksheet will come in handy when recording session notes.
Whether you are returning to work after a hiatus, entering the workforce for the first time, or beginning a new career, our Returning to Work Checklist will help you to connect your strengths and skills to your future career in therapy.
Articles
Client-centered therapy emphasizes the therapeutic relationship that fosters personal growth. To learn more to benefit your eventual practice, our 10 Person-Centered Therapy Techniques and Interventions article will be helpful to you.
Are you looking for a guide to help you take meaningful steps toward a career in mental health? Our On Becoming a Therapist manual offers a comprehensive overview of therapist career paths, including work settings, required education, certifications, and core practices.
More importantly, this guide will help you determine if therapy is the right fit for you and outline a personalized path to achieving the goal of becoming a therapist.
If you’re thinking about building your own therapy practice, you may be interested in The Seven Pillars of a Profitable Practice Course. This course outlines the seven key elements that support a successful, scalable therapy practice. It’s ideal for professionals who want to make a meaningful impact while building a sustainable and rewarding career.
If you want to integrate the evidence-based principles of positive psychology into the classroom, consider this collection of 17 validated positive education exercises. Use them to enhance student engagement, resilience and wellbeing while also equipping students with valuable life skills.
A Take-Home Message
Choosing the right therapy course is a crucial journey to becoming a therapist. Whether you’re drawn to cognitive behavioral methods, creative approaches like art or play therapy, or systemic work with couples and families, the right training can shape your future impact.
Focus on therapist courses that align with your goals, meet licensure requirements, and offer hands-on experience. With the right foundation, you’ll be well equipped to support others and grow a meaningful, fulfilling career in mental health.
First, you must earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a similar field. Then you must earn a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field. Afterward, you must complete supervised clinical experience and pass a licensing exam.
How can I help children with mental health issues?
By becoming a family or child therapist, you can help children with mental health issues. In your practice, you should use evidence-based practices, build trusting relationships, educate and empower caregivers, advocate for the child, and encourage healthy habits.
How do I choose the right therapist course for me?
First, decide who you want to work with: children, families, couples, or individuals? Consider the learning format: in-person, online, or hybrid? Compare costs, program content, approach, accreditation, and licensing paths.
References
Caron, E. B., Lind, T. A., & Dozier, M. (2021). Strategies that promote therapist engagement in active and experiential learning: Micro-level sequential analysis. The Clinical Supervisor, 40(1), 112–133. https://doi.org/10.1080/07325223.2020.1870023
Hodges, S. (2021). The counseling practicum and internship manual (3rd ed.) Springer.
Mallonee, S., Phillips, J., Holloway, K., & Riggs, D. (2018). Training providers in the use of evidence-based treatments: A comparison of in-person and online delivery modes. Psychology Learning & Teaching, 17(1), 61–72. https://doi.org/10.1177/1475725717744
Urofsky, R. I. (2013). The council for accreditation of counseling and related educational programs: Promoting quality in counselor education. Journal of Counseling & Development, 91(1), 6–14. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.1556-6676.2013.00065.x
Tiffany Sauber Millacci, Ph.D., is an educator who works with both university and elementary students. As a lifelong learner, she is driven by a passion for research and enjoys translating her findings into writing to share her knowledge with others.
Thank you for your question. As mentioned in the article, the Syracuse Marriage & family Therapy Masters education course is excellent. They offer an online program that can be completed within a year if you partake in it full-time.
Alternatively, you might want to read this article to learn more about fast online coaching programs.
Hi, thank you for your interesting and helpful article. nevertheless, I am from Poland and I was interested in how it is organised (becoming a psychotherapist) in the Netherlands. What are the leading psychotherapy schools / centers? What is the education of future psychotherapists?
Nicole Celestine, Ph.D.
on March 29, 2021 at 04:07
Hi Gabriela,
Glad you enjoyed the post! You can learn more about the accreditation standards and opportunities for psychotherapists as they pertain to the Netherlands on the European Association for Psychotherapy’s website.
Dear author,
Thank you for this information, very insightful. I was trying to search for something as Im pursuing poetry therapy practitioner and Im having Psychology as many requirement that I need to fulfil
Dreaming of becoming a therapist who truly makes a difference?
Whether you’re drawn to helping couples, supporting children through creative expression, or guiding clients with evidence-based techniques, choosing the right specialized therapy course can shape your impact.
If you’re comparing online versus in-person therapy courses, know that both can effectively teach evidence-based psychotherapy techniques.
Testimonials and success stories play a decisive role in building trust and credibility, especially in fields like therapy and mental health.
What our readers think
Super useful, thank you!
Thank you for this
I want to become a counselor or family therapist or short course for psychology Plz let me know
Hi Abnash,
Thank you for your question. As mentioned in the article, the Syracuse Marriage & family Therapy Masters education course is excellent. They offer an online program that can be completed within a year if you partake in it full-time.
Alternatively, you might want to read this article to learn more about fast online coaching programs.
I hope this helps.
Kind regards,
-Caroline | Community Manager
Thank you Alison
What if you want to help kids with mental issues. which University is the best one for that choice Also I loved this article it helped me a bunch.
Hi Charlie,
Glad you enjoyed the article! Assuming you’re in the USA, you’ll find a good summary of child psychology degree programs listed here.
Hope this helps!
– Nicole | Community Manager
Hi, thank you for your interesting and helpful article. nevertheless, I am from Poland and I was interested in how it is organised (becoming a psychotherapist) in the Netherlands. What are the leading psychotherapy schools / centers? What is the education of future psychotherapists?
Hi Gabriela,
Glad you enjoyed the post! You can learn more about the accreditation standards and opportunities for psychotherapists as they pertain to the Netherlands on the European Association for Psychotherapy’s website.
Hope this helps!
– Nicole | Community Manager
Dear author,
Thank you for this information, very insightful. I was trying to search for something as Im pursuing poetry therapy practitioner and Im having Psychology as many requirement that I need to fulfil