How to Become a Behavioral Health Counselor for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a behavioral health counselor is a deeply rewarding career choice for individuals passionate about improving mental health and supporting clients through challenges. Nearly half of the United States population—47% or 158 million people—live in a mental health workforce shortage area, highlighting the urgent need for skilled professionals in this field. With increasing demand for mental health services, 2025 offers promising opportunities for those entering this profession. This guide will provide comprehensive insights into the education, skills, and career pathways necessary to succeed as a behavioral health counselor.

Key Things You Should Know About How to Become a Behavioral Health Counselor

A bachelor’s degree is the starting point, but most roles require a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.
State licensure, including supervised clinical experience and exams, is required to practice legally.
Interpersonal skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities are critical for success.
Behavioral health counselors can work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, and private practices.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in this field from 2023 to 2033, outpacing many other professions.

What are the key skills required to become a successful behavioral health counselor?
What degree do you need to become a behavioral health counselor?
Do you need a license to become a behavioral health counselor?
What is the career path for a behavioral health counselor?
What industries hire behavioral health counselors?
What is the average salary of a behavioral health counselor?
What are the common challenges faced by behavioral health counselors?
What are the legal and ethical considerations in behavioral health counseling?
What additional certifications can enhance my career as a behavioral health counselor?
How does accreditation enhance your career in behavioral health counseling?
How can I finance my behavioral health counseling education?
How can advanced degrees accelerate career growth in behavioral health counseling?
Should I pursue a psychology degree vs social work degree for behavioral health counseling?
How can professional networking and mentorship accelerate career growth?
Is obtaining a doctoral degree beneficial for behavioral health counselors?
How can behavioral health counselors maintain work-life balance?
What are the emerging trends in behavioral health counseling?
Is pursuing a behavioral health counseling career worth it?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Behavioral Health Counselor

What are the key skills required to become a successful behavioral health counselor?

Success in behavioral health counseling hinges on a combination of technical knowledge and interpersonal abilities. Below is a list of essential skills and how they contribute to success in this field:

Communication Skills: Exceptional communication is vital for building trust with clients and effectively conveying therapeutic strategies. Counselors must clearly articulate complex concepts in a way that resonates with clients, making them an essential skill, especially for those who aim to be the easiest therapist to become for individuals seeking guidance and support.
Empathy: The ability to understand and share the emotions of others helps foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Empathy builds rapport and makes clients feel heard and valued.
Active Listening: Actively focusing on what clients are saying—both verbally and nonverbally—helps counselors understand underlying issues and respond thoughtfully.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Counselors develop tailored treatment plans by analyzing each client’s unique challenges and identifying effective solutions.
Patience: The process of behavioral change can be slow, requiring counselors to remain patient as clients work through setbacks and challenges.
Resilience: Managing emotionally intense situations and high caseloads demands a strong ability to recover from stress and maintain a positive outlook.
Adaptability: Staying open to new methods, techniques, and client needs ensures counselors remain effective in a constantly evolving field.
Continuous Learning: Engaging in professional development helps counselors stay updated with emerging techniques, tools, and trends in mental health care.

These essential skills are also the skills requirements for licensed mental health counselor. By mastering these skills, behavioral health counselors can provide effective support, build meaningful client relationships, and navigate the challenges of their profession with confidence.

What degree do you need to become a behavioral health counselor?

Education requirements for becoming a behavioral health counselor vary depending on the role, employer, and state regulations. For those seeking a cost-effective pathway, pursuing one of the most affordable online counseling degrees can be a practical option. Below are the essential educational milestones:

Bachelor’s Degree

Foundational Knowledge: The first step is earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. This undergraduate education lays the groundwork for understanding human behavior, research methods, and effective communication.
Typical Fields of Study: Psychology, Public Policy and Social Services, or Social Science.
Key Benefits: A bachelor’s degree helps build foundational knowledge that prepares students for advanced studies or entry-level roles in behavioral health.

Master’s Degree

Requirement for Licensure: Most states require a master’s degree to practice as a licensed behavioral health counselor.
Specialized Education: Master’s programs in counseling or behavioral health include coursework in therapeutic techniques, mental health diagnosis, and ethics.
Clinical Training: These programs often include an internship or practicum, providing hands-on experience in a supervised clinical setting.

By following this educational pathway, aspiring counselors can gain the expertise and qualifications needed to make a significant impact in the field of behavioral health.

How do you become a BCBA or board-certified behavior analyst? Are the requirements the same? There are similarities and differences in the requirements. Check out our article on how to become a BCBA.

Do you need a license to become a behavioral health counselor?

Obtaining licensure is a fundamental requirement for practicing as a behavioral health counselor in most states, ensuring that counselors are adequately prepared to provide professional and ethical care. Many aspiring counselors choose to pursue one year masters programs online, which offer a convenient and flexible path to meet educational requirements. These programs equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the field and are an efficient way to begin the licensure process. Here are the typical steps involved:

Supervised Clinical Hours: After completing your degree, you’ll need to accumulate between 2,000 and 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. This hands-on training helps you apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings under the guidance of an experienced professional.
Licensing Exam: Candidates must pass a state-approved examination, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). These exams assess your competency in key counseling areas, including ethics, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
Continuing Education: Licensure renewal typically requires ongoing professional development. This ensures counselors stay current with advancements in mental health practices and maintain their qualifications.

Licensure requirements vary by state, so it's essential to research the specific guidelines for the state where you plan to practice. As of 2023, California employs the highest number of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, with over 56,660 professionals in the field.

What is the career path for a behavioral health counselor?

The career path of a behavioral health counselor often starts with entry-level roles that provide valuable hands-on experience. These positions help build practical skills and professional foundations, which are critical for long-term success. Common entry-level roles include:

Case Manager: Assisting clients with accessing community resources and coordinating services to support their well-being.
Counseling Assistant: Working under supervision to support counselors in implementing treatment plans and managing client needs.

In these roles, aspiring counselors develop core competencies such as:

Client Assessment: Conducting interviews and evaluations to identify clients' challenges and set goals.
Case Documentation: Creating and maintaining detailed records to track client progress and ensure compliance with professional standards.
Care Coordination: Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to provide clients with comprehensive, holistic support.

Once licensed, professionals can specialize in areas tailored to their interests and the needs of their clients. Specialized roles include:

Addiction Counselor: Supporting individuals in overcoming substance use disorders through evidence-based recovery strategies.
Trauma Therapist: Addressing the psychological effects of trauma to help clients regain stability and resilience.
Child and Adolescent Counselor: Focusing on the unique mental health challenges of younger populations and their families.

Leadership and advanced opportunities also emerge with experience and further education, such as:

Clinical Supervisor: Providing guidance and oversight to early-career counselors and ensuring high standards of care.
Program Director: Managing mental health programs, overseeing operations, and leading strategic initiatives.
Private Practice Owner: Establishing and managing a counseling practice to work independently and serve diverse client bases.

Continued education and certifications, such as the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), further enhance advancement opportunities in careers in counseling by showcasing expertise, increasing earning potential, and enabling advanced specializations.

You can also be a registered behavior technician (RBT) as your entry-level career, move forward to become a behavioral health counselor, obtain a doctorate and further advance into becoming a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA). BCBA vs RBT salary difference is very significant.

What industries hire behavioral health counselors?

Behavioral health counselors have opportunities across a wide range of industries, including:

Healthcare: Hospitals, outpatient care centers, community health clinics, and mental health facilities, where counselors support patients with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Education: Schools, universities, and educational support services, where counselors work with students on mental health, academic challenges, and personal development.
Government: Public health departments, correctional facilities, social service agencies, and military settings, provide counseling to at-risk populations and those involved in the justice system.
Nonprofits: Organizations dedicated to mental health advocacy, community outreach, and providing support services to underserved or vulnerable communities.
Private Practice: Independent counselors offering individual and group therapy services, often specializing in specific mental health areas like anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction.

This diverse range of industries offers counselors the flexibility to align their careers with their professional interests, skills, and preferred work environments. According to a report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are employed in outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers in 2023.

What is the average salary of a behavioral health counselor?

The average salary of a behavioral health counselor can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, experience, and the specific industry in which they work. According to Glassdoor, behavioral health counselors in the United States typically earn between $53,000 and $88,000 per year.

Salary levels for behavioral health counselors, however, can vary based on factors such as geographic location and the type of employer. For example, counselors employed in government positions or private practice typically earn higher salaries than those working in residential facilities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While behavioral health counseling may not be among the highest paying jobs with a psychology degree, it still offers a competitive income for those with the right qualifications and experience.

What are the common challenges faced by behavioral health counselors?

Behavioral health counselors often encounter several challenges in their profession. These obstacles can test both their emotional resilience and professional skills. Some of the most common challenges include:

Emotional Strain: Supporting clients through trauma, addiction, and severe mental health issues can be emotionally taxing, leading to significant mental and emotional fatigue.
Complex Client Situations: Counselors frequently face cases involving co-occurring disorders, resistance to treatment, or clients in crisis, requiring advanced problem-solving skills and a high degree of resilience.
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: Behavioral health counselors often encounter ethical dilemmas, such as maintaining client confidentiality while ensuring their safety, which requires careful consideration and adherence to professional standards.
Managing Personal Well-being: Given the emotional demands of the job, effective self-care, professional supervision, and peer support are essential for counselors to manage stress and maintain their well-being.
Burnout: High caseloads, long hours, and the emotionally taxing nature of the work are significant contributors to counselor burnout. This not only affects the counselor’s well-being but also impacts the quality of care provided to clients. According to a 2021 survey by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, burnout is one of the primary reasons mental health organizations struggle to recruit and retain new employees.

What are the legal and ethical considerations in behavioral health counseling?

Behavioral health counselors must adhere to stringent legal and ethical standards to protect both clients and their own professional integrity. Practitioners are expected to maintain strict confidentiality, secure informed consent, and implement thorough record-keeping practices in compliance with state and federal guidelines. Counselors should also be well-versed in handling digital data and managing telehealth services while ensuring client privacy. Regular consultation with legal experts and participation in professional ethics training can help navigate complex scenarios and mitigate potential conflicts of interest. Moreover, seeking further education, such as enrolling in marriage and family therapy programs online, can provide additional frameworks for ethical decision-making and up-to-date practices in the evolving landscape of behavioral health.

What additional certifications can enhance my career as a behavioral health counselor?

Pursuing specialized certifications can deepen expertise, expand skills, and offer a competitive edge in an evolving healthcare landscape. Targeted credentials provide advanced techniques for addressing complex client needs, especially in areas such as substance abuse and addiction. For instance, obtaining an addiction counseling certification can equip professionals with practical strategies for intervention and client management, enhancing both clinical effectiveness and career development.

How does accreditation enhance your career in behavioral health counseling?

Accredited programs uphold rigorous academic standards and provide a curriculum aligned with current industry practices, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for professional challenges. They offer structured training, expert mentorship, and extensive hands-on experiences that contribute to enhanced professional credibility. Studies indicate that graduates of accredited programs often have a competitive edge in the job market and improved career advancement opportunities. For a cost-effective and high-quality educational pathway, explore CACREP-accredited online counseling programs.

How can I finance my behavioral health counseling education?

For many aspiring counselors, managing education costs is a significant concern. Exploring a mix of financial aid options—including federal loan programs, scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement—can substantially reduce the financial burden. In addition, evaluating cost-effective program alternatives is crucial. Researching programs such as the most affordable online counseling degrees can help identify education pathways that offer both quality and financial sustainability. Detailed budgeting and speaking with financial aid advisors are essential steps to ensure the chosen educational route aligns with long-term career goals while mitigating excessive debt.

How can advanced degrees accelerate career growth in behavioral health counseling?

Pursuing advanced degrees offers behavioral health counselors an opportunity to refine clinical competencies and gain access to specialized roles that can significantly impact career progression. An advanced education not only deepens theoretical and practical knowledge but also facilitates greater integration of research and real-world application, positioning professionals at the forefront of innovative practices. In particular, enhancement through focused programs can open doors to supervisory or specialized positions, making candidates more competitive in the job market. Many industry experts recommend considering online applied behavior analysis master's programs as part of a broader strategy to build expertise and drive long-term career growth.

Should I pursue a psychology degree vs social work degree for behavioral health counseling?

Evaluating educational pathways is critical for aligning academic preparation with career aspirations in behavioral health counseling. A thoughtful comparison highlights variations in curriculum focus, practical application, and licensure requirements that influence professional roles. For instance, reviewing a detailed psychology degree vs social work degree analysis can provide insights into how each degree supports specialized practice within the behavioral health field.

How can professional networking and mentorship accelerate career growth?

Effective professional networking and mentorship are critical components for advancing a behavioral health counseling career. Establishing connections with experienced practitioners, attending industry conferences, and participating in professional associations not only provide valuable insights into best practices but also open avenues for collaborative opportunities and referrals. Engaging with mentors can offer guidance on navigating complex cases, understanding evolving licensure standards, and identifying niche specializations. In addition, pursuing further education—such as the cheapest masters in clinical psychology—can supplement networking efforts by connecting counselors with academic professionals and peer groups committed to innovative, evidence-based practices.

Is obtaining a doctoral degree beneficial for behavioral health counselors?

Doctoral education offers an opportunity to deepen clinical expertise and expand leadership potential, opening avenues in academic research and policy development. An advanced degree, such as a PsyD, equips professionals with robust training in evidence-based practices and specialized therapeutic approaches that enhance treatment outcomes. This pathway can serve as a strategic investment for those aiming to diversify their roles and influence broader systemic improvements in mental health care. Exploring an online PsyD program provides a flexible and credible option for counselors committed to elevating their practice.

How can behavioral health counselors maintain work-life balance?

Work-life balance is essential for behavioral health counselors to prevent burnout and ensure long-term career satisfaction. Given the emotional demands of their work, maintaining balance is key to both personal well-being and professional effectiveness. Effective strategies include:

Setting Boundaries: Establishing clear work hours and maintaining boundaries between professional and personal life can help counselors avoid overcommitting to their caseloads and reduce stress.
Regular Supervision: Seeking ongoing guidance from supervisors, mentors, or peers offers opportunities for reflection, support, and professional development, which can help counselors navigate difficult cases and stay emotionally balanced.
Engaging in Self-Care: Regular self-care practices such as mindfulness, physical exercise, and pursuing hobbies can significantly promote mental and emotional health, providing counselors with the resilience needed for their demanding roles.
Taking Time Off: Scheduling regular vacations or breaks allows counselors to recharge, helping to prevent burnout and maintain their ability to provide effective care to clients.

By actively prioritizing their well-being and implementing these strategies, counselors can continue to deliver high-quality care while safeguarding their health and maintaining a fulfilling personal life.

What are the emerging trends in behavioral health counseling?

The field of behavioral health counseling is undergoing significant changes, driven by various emerging trends that are reshaping its practice and accessibility. Key trends include:

Focus on Preventative Care: There is a growing emphasis on early intervention programs designed to address mental health concerns before they develop into more serious issues. These proactive approaches aim to reduce the long-term impact of mental health challenges by identifying and treating symptoms early.
Integration of Technology: The use of technology in behavioral health counseling is on the rise, with tools like AI-driven therapy apps, virtual therapy platforms, and digital tracking systems becoming more prevalent. These innovations enhance the accessibility, efficiency, and personalization of care.
Diversity and Inclusion: There is an increasing focus on culturally competent counseling that acknowledges and respects the diverse backgrounds of clients. This trend reflects a growing awareness of the need to serve a wide range of populations, including those from different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Telehealth Services: Virtual counseling sessions are expanding access to mental health care, especially for clients in remote or underserved areas. According to a study by the RAND Corporation, 80% of over 1,900 mental healthcare facilities across the U.S. offer telehealth services, including counseling, medication management, and diagnostic services. This shift has significantly increased the reach of behavioral health services, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mental health care facilities telehealth services

Is pursuing a behavioral health counseling career worth it?

A career in behavioral health counseling can be deeply rewarding, both personally and professionally. Counselors play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate mental health challenges, trauma, and addiction, guiding them toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. This capacity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others is one of the most significant draws of the profession.

In addition to personal fulfillment, the field of behavioral health counseling offers substantial career stability and growth potential. The demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to increase by 84,500 between 2023 and 2033, reflecting the growing recognition of mental health as a critical component of overall well-being. This expanding demand also opens up a wide range of career paths, from working in healthcare settings and schools to private practice and nonprofit organizations, offering counselors the flexibility to find an environment that aligns with their interests and skills. Many prospective counselors opt for accredited online degree programs, which provide a convenient, high-quality education to help them enter this growing field.

While the profession does present challenges, such as emotional strain and burnout, the rewards often outweigh these difficulties. Counselors not only witness their clients’ progress but also experience personal growth through the work they do. If you are passionate about mental health and committed to helping others, a career in behavioral health counseling can be an immensely fulfilling and impactful choice.

An alternative career that is still centered on behavior is behavior analyst. A career in Applied Behavior Analysis can be achieved through an ABA degree. What are the best ABA programs in the US? Check out our article on this topic.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming a Behavioral Health Counselor

Becoming a behavioral health counselor has been the most rewarding decision of my life. Every day, I get to help individuals navigate challenges and rediscover their strengths, which is both humbling and fulfilling. The growth I’ve seen in my clients and in myself makes this career truly worthwhile. Alissa
The journey to becoming a behavioral health counselor wasn’t easy, but it was worth every effort. With the skills I gained, I’ve built meaningful relationships with clients and contributed to their healing, all while enjoying job stability and professional growth. I wake up each day knowing I’m making a difference. David
Working as a behavioral health counselor has given me a deep sense of purpose. I love that my career allows me to combine empathy with evidence-based practices to create real change in people’s lives. It’s a profession that challenges and inspires me daily. Margaux

Key Findings

Around 47% of the U.S. population lives in a mental health workforce shortage area, highlighting the urgent need for skilled behavioral health counselors.
The demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is expected to increase by 84,500 professionals between 2023 and 2033, reflecting the growing need for mental health services.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in the field of behavioral health counseling from 2023 to 2033, a rate that outpaces many other professions.
Behavioral health counselors in the U.S. typically earn between $53,000 and $88,000 annually, with variations depending on location and industry.
According to a study by the RAND Corporation, 80% of over 1,900 mental healthcare facilities in the U.S. offer telehealth services, including counseling, medication management, and diagnostic services.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Behavioral Health Counselor

Is a behavioral counselor the same as a therapist?

While the terms “behavioral counselor” and “therapist” are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct roles with subtle differences. A behavioral counselor typically focuses on helping clients manage and modify specific behaviors, often using techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address issues like addiction, anxiety, or depression. A therapist, on the other hand, may work with broader mental health issues and employ a variety of therapeutic approaches, including talk therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or family therapy, depending on their specialization. The distinction lies mainly in the approaches and techniques used, but both professionals aim to improve mental health and well-being.

How long does it take to be a behavioral therapist?

Becoming a behavioral therapist typically requires a significant commitment to education and training. Most candidates start with a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, which typically takes four years. Afterward, they must earn a master's degree in counseling or a similar discipline, which generally takes an additional two to three years. Following this, aspiring therapists must complete supervised clinical hours, ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 hours, and pass a state licensing exam. Overall, the process can take around six to eight years, depending on the specific requirements of the state or country.

Why would someone see a behavioral therapist?

Individuals seek behavioral therapists for a variety of reasons, primarily to address specific mental health challenges or behavioral issues. Common reasons include managing anxiety, depression, addiction, phobias, or stress-related disorders. Behavioral therapists are skilled in using structured, goal-oriented techniques, such as CBT, to help clients change negative patterns of thinking or behavior. This can lead to improved emotional regulation, better coping strategies, and an overall healthier approach to managing life's challenges.

References:

Guth, M., Saunders, H., Corallo, B., & Moreno, S. (2023, March 17). Medicaid coverage of behavioral health services in 2022: Findings from a survey of state Medicaid programs. KFF.org. Retrieved December 28, 2024.
Glassdoor. (2024, June 6). How much does a behavioral health counselor make? Glassdoor.com. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
HWI. (n.d.). Mental & behavioral health career pathways. Health Workforce Initiative. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
NIH. (n.d.). Opportunities and challenges of developing information technologies on behavioral and social science clinical research. National Institute of Mental Health. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
Saunders, H., Guth, M., & Eckart, G. (2023, January 12). A look at strategies to address behavioral health workforce shortages: Findings from a survey of state Medicaid programs. KFF.org. Retrieved December 28, 2024.
U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Occupational outlook handbook: Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved December 28, 2024.
U.S. BLS. (2024, August 29). Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors: Pay. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved December 29, 2024.