Children face a number of problems and issues that greatly affect them emotionally, mentally and physically. When these problems and issues are never addressed, these children may find it difficult to express themselves. They just close up and choose not to talk about their true feelings. Now, if you are interested in helping these kids, most of which are 12 years old and younger, then, perhaps you may consider becoming a child therapist. In order to start a career in child therapy, you’ll need to meet many educational requirements. There are many accredited online universities that can help you obtain an online child psychology degree.
Use these tips for child counseling and becoming a child therapist.
- Build your academic credentials. Begin with your bachelor’s degree. You should major in any of these three fields: psychology, nursing or child development. Then, earn you master’s degree. You may specialize in psychology, psychiatric nursing or counseling. You may also beef up your training list. A number of schools are now offering certificate programs in the various forms of child therapy. Play therapy is one of the most popular programs.
If you want to start your own practice to provide quality care for children, or you are typically competitive, getting your doctorate degree in child psychology becomes indispensable. In your dissertation, you may consider refining, structuring or designing your own methodologies and treatment strategies in child therapy. Your post-graduate degree certainly vouches for your credibility and pushes you confidence in dealing with patients.
- Gain relevant hands-on experience. As a child therapist, you are obligated to accumulate as much exposure as you can. You should look for opportunities to work directly with kids. If finding a regular post in a hospital or a school isn’t an option, volunteering or working in a day care center or a children’s institution may be a good alternative.
Becoming an intern is another viable option for you. You may get in touch with senior licensed therapists in your local community. You may apply as an apprentice. You may also shadow therapists in these healthcare jobs whenever it is necessary. If you have the privilege, try networking with child therapists who run group sessions. They are normally in search of assistants to partner with. Those group sessions can give you the access to private counseling sessions.
- Get your license to practice the profession in the state. Directly coordinate with your state’s Licensing and Regulative Services (LRS). They can instruct you on how to comply with the requirements and register for licensure examinations. Note, however, that practicing in another state may demand some specific arrangements. For example, if you earned your degree from another state, then, a reputable university in the state where you wish to move to may be asked by the LRS to assess and eventually approve your transcript of academic records.
Once you have gotten your license, join the official circle of child therapists. You may also take an active participation in some associations or organizations involving child therapists. They are certainly going to be helpful in letting you set up and kick-off your own private practice as a child therapist. They may even assist you in getting your initial pool of patients.