How to Become an Online Therapist for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Did you know that the average online therapist in the U.S. earns between $55,000 and $86,000 per year? With the growing demand for mental health professionals and the convenience of teletherapy, more people are entering this field.

This guide will show you how to become an online therapist, including salary expectations, licensing requirements, career paths, and certifications that can boost your earning potential.

What are the benefits of working as an online therapist?

You can set your own hours and work from anywhere, making it a flexible career.
Online therapists make between $55,000 and $86,000 per year, depending on experience and specialization.
You can provide therapy to clients in underserved areas who may not have access to in-person counseling.

What is an online therapist?
What do online therapists do?
How do I become an online therapist for 2025?
How long does it take to become an online therapist?
What are the educational requirements to become an online therapist?
Do I need a license to practice online therapy?
How much can I make as an online therapist?
What advanced education opportunities are available for online therapists?
How can I accelerate my path to success in online therapy?
How do online therapists navigate risk and liability issues?
Can specialized religious counseling training boost my online therapy career?
How can I market your online therapy practice effectively?
What future trends are shaping online therapy?
What certifications do I need as an online therapist?
What are the career paths for online therapists?
Is a career in online therapy worth it?
Other Things You Should Know About Online Therapists

What is an online therapist?

An online therapist is a licensed mental health professional who provides therapy services remotely using video calls, phone sessions, or text-based communication. Like traditional therapists, they help clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health challenges, but they do so through secure digital platforms. Online therapy is growing in popularity because it offers greater flexibility and accessibility, allowing clients to receive mental health care from anywhere.

Many professionals choose online therapy because it provides a better work-life balance and eliminates the need for office space. Some therapists transition to telehealth after working in traditional clinical settings, while others enter the field through specialized training programs. Those interested in healthcare careers may also explore options like a 12-month respiratory therapy program online, which provides fast-track training for respiratory therapists working in telemedicine or clinical settings. As online therapy continues to expand, it remains a vital part of modern mental health care.

What do online therapists do?

Online therapists provide mental health support to clients through video calls, phone sessions, and messaging platforms. They diagnose mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and use evidence-based therapies to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.

Unlike traditional therapists, online therapists work remotely, offering greater accessibility to clients in underserved or rural areas. Their roles can sometimes overlap with other mental health professionals—so if you’ve ever wondered what is a behavior analyst, it’s important to know that while both aim to improve emotional and behavioral well-being, behavior analysts focus more on modifying specific behaviors using applied behavior analysis techniques, often working with individuals with developmental disorders.

Here’s a list of what online therapists typically do:

Conduct virtual therapy sessions via video, phone, or chat.
Assess and diagnose mental health conditions.
Develop personalized treatment plans for clients.
Use therapy techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Monitor client progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Maintain secure, HIPAA-compliant records of therapy sessions.
Provide crisis intervention and referrals when necessary.

There are over 192,497 therapists employed in the US, and the demand is growing rapidly, with over 159,770 therapist job openings in the U.S. as of 2025, as shown in the chart below. This high demand reflects the increasing need for mental health professionals, particularly in online settings.

How do I become an online therapist for 2025?

Becoming an online therapist requires obtaining the right education, gaining clinical experience, and securing licensure. Are you wondering, "What can I do with a school psychology degree?" Online therapy is also an option, as with other psychology-related degrees.

Here’s how to become an online therapist:

Earn a Relevant Degree: You’ll need at least a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy. Some roles, such as clinical psychologist, require a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.).
Complete Supervised Clinical Experience: Most states require 2,000–4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical training, where you gain hands-on experience under a licensed therapist.
Pass the Required Licensing Exams: To practice legally, you must pass a national or state-approved licensing exam, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the Association of Marital & Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB) Exam.
Apply for State Licensure: Licensure requirements vary by state, but generally include education, clinical experience, and exam scores. Some states require an ethics or jurisprudence exam as well.
Obtain Additional Certifications (Optional): Certifications such as the Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH) can enhance your credibility as an online therapist.
Set Up Your Online Practice: You can either work for a telehealth platform like BetterHelp or Talkspace or start your own independent practice, ensuring you have HIPAA-compliant tools for video calls and client management.

Now is a good time to explore a career in online therapy. It is a thriving practice. In fact, BetterHelp reports it has helped over 5 million people with online therapy, and the numbers are expected to grow. The 207,500 psychologists and 76,000 marriage and family therapists reflected in the chart below are no longer enough.

How long does it take to become an online therapist?

It typically takes six to eight years to become an online therapist, depending on your educational path and state licensing requirements. First, you’ll need to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Then, you must earn a master’s degree, which takes about two to three years. Some therapists, such as clinical psychologists, may pursue a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), which can add four to six more years to their training. If you're considering this route, PsyD online programs offer flexible options for working professionals.

After earning a graduate degree, most states require 2,000–4,000 hours of supervised experience, which takes one to two years to complete. Finally, you must pass a state-approved licensing exam before practicing independently. In total, the timeline to become an online therapist can vary, but most professionals are fully licensed within six to ten years.

What are the educational requirements to become an online therapist?

To become an online therapist, you must complete at least a master’s degree in a relevant field. The process begins with a bachelor’s degree, typically in: psychology, social work, counseling, or a related discipline, which takes about four years. Some professionals gain experience in entry-level jobs for industrial-organizational psychology before transitioning to therapy roles.

After earning a bachelor’s, you’ll need a master’s degree in counseling, marriage and family therapy, or clinical psychology, which takes two to three years. Some states allow master’s-level therapists to practice independently, while others require additional supervised hours. If you want to become a clinical psychologist, you’ll need a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Ph.D., adding four to six years of education.

Graduate programs include practicum and internship experiences, preparing students for real-world therapy settings. Once educational requirements are met, you’ll need postgraduate supervised training and state licensure before practicing independently as an online therapist.

Do I need a license to practice online therapy?

Yes, you need a license to practice online therapy. Online therapists must hold the same state-issued licenses required for in-person therapy. The type of license depends on your field, such as

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC),
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT),
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or
Licensed Psychologist.

Just as each state has its own licensing board and specific course requirements for pyschology majors, the same applies to licensing online therapists. For the latter, all states generally require at least a master’s degree, 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and a passing score on a state-approved exam.

The licensing process includes passing exams like the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or Marital & Family Therapy (AMFTRB) Exam. Some states require additional exams, such as a jurisprudence or ethics test.

License costs vary by state. The image below shows you the typical fees.

How much can I make as an online therapist?

The average salary for an online therapist in the U.S. ranges from $60,000 to $112,000 per year according to Glassdor. The salary depends on experience, specialization, and platform. According to ZipRecruiter, the average is around $66,131, but online therapists working for platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace can earn up to $135,000 annually. Of course, this depends on caseload and hours worked.

Compared to other psychology careers, online therapists earn slightly less than some specialized roles. For example, the industrial psychology salary averages $154,380 per year, making it a higher-paying field.

In contrast, traditional marriage and family therapists earn a median of $58,510 per year, while clinical and counseling psychologists make $92,740 on average. The chart below compares these salaries.

What advanced education opportunities are available for online therapists?

Advanced education can expand clinical expertise and support career progression beyond basic licensure requirements. Specialized programs and continuing education courses offer exposure to the latest research and innovative treatment methods, helping online therapists address complex client needs. For instance, pursuing programs such as online ABA master's programs can provide in-depth training in behavior analysis, a valuable asset in certain therapeutic practices. Evaluating advanced degree options, accredited certificates, and targeted workshops ensures that practitioners remain competitive and are equipped to adapt to evolving digital care landscapes.

How can I accelerate my path to success in online therapy?

For professionals seeking to fast-track their online therapy careers, targeted programs and streamlined clinical experiences can considerably reduce the time to practice independently. One effective approach is to identify accredited accelerated training options that integrate coursework with practical experience, ensuring rapid yet comprehensive preparedness. In addition, leveraging mentorship opportunities and specialized workshops can aid in swiftly adapting to industry standards and emerging telehealth practices. For a streamlined strategy, explore the quickest way to become a therapist.

How do online therapists navigate risk and liability issues?

Online therapists encounter distinct risk factors associated with remote service delivery, including potential data breaches, miscommunications regarding digital privacy, and professional liability concerns. To mitigate these risks, practitioners should secure malpractice insurance specifically tailored for telehealth, ensuring that coverage aligns with evolving federal and state regulations. Establishing robust informed consent policies that clearly outline the limitations and safeguards of online platforms is essential. Regular training on digital security protocols and reviewing compliance requirements can further enhance risk management strategies. For insights on aligning your educational path to support these professional safeguards, refer to What is an LPC?.

Can specialized religious counseling training boost my online therapy career?

Specialized credentials that emphasize the integration of spiritual and mental health principles can distinguish your online therapy practice. Focused training equips practitioners to address clients' needs holistically through culturally and religiously informed frameworks. For example, obtaining a master degree in Christian counseling provides specialized methods to blend faith-based perspectives with evidence-based treatment, thereby attracting a unique client base and enhancing therapeutic outcomes.

How can I market your online therapy practice effectively?

Develop a targeted digital strategy that highlights your specialized skills and builds trust among prospective clients. Focus on optimizing your professional website with informative content and regularly updated blog posts that address common mental health concerns. Leverage search engine optimization techniques to increase online visibility and utilize social media platforms to share client success stories, expert insights, and thought leadership content. Additionally, consider expanding your credentials through reputable educational programs such as the cheapest MFT degree online to further enhance your credibility in the competitive telehealth market.

What future trends are shaping online therapy?

Emerging trends in digital mental health care are redefining how services are delivered and experienced. Advancements such as artificial intelligence–assisted diagnostics, enhanced data privacy protocols, and integrated treatment platforms are boosting the efficiency of therapy sessions while also increasing client engagement. Additionally, evolving telehealth regulations continue to promote standardized practices across state lines, prompting many practitioners to explore fast‐track training options that streamline professional development. For those aiming to accelerate their entry into the field, consider exploring how to be a counselor fast to stay competitive in this dynamic landscape.

What certifications do I need as an online therapist?

While certification is not required to practice as an online therapist, obtaining specialized credentials can enhance credibility, expand job opportunities, and demonstrate expertise in telehealth. Many therapists pursue additional certifications to specialize in specific treatment methods or improve their ability to provide therapy online. This is especially helpful when navigating specific fields such as clinical psychology vs counseling psychology, where additional credentials can highlight a therapist's focus and qualifications. Below are some of the most recognized certifications for online therapists:

Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH) – A certification focused on ethical and effective online therapy practices. Cost: $150 application fee + $45 annual renewal.
National Certified Counselor (NCC) – A general counseling credential that adds credibility and requires passing the NCE exam. Cost: $335 application fee.
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) – Provides training in trauma-informed therapy. Cost: $250–$300 for training + ~$100 certification fee.
Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist (C-DBT) – Specializes in DBT techniques for treating emotional regulation disorders. Cost: $200–$500.

Although these certifications are optional, they can boost your professional standing and increase client trust in your online therapy practice.

What are the career paths for online therapists?

Online therapy offers multiple career paths, allowing professionals to specialize in different areas of mental health. Depending on your education and licensure, you can work as a counselor, social worker, or psychologist.

When choosing a path, it's important to consider MSW vs. Masters in Psychology—a Master of Social Work (MSW) prepares you for roles in case management and clinical social work, while a master’s in psychology focuses more on therapy and mental health counseling.

Here are the career paths for online therapists:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC/LPC) – $55,000–$73,000/year: Provides therapy for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – $58,510/year: Specializes in relationship and family therapy.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – $73,600/year: Works in mental health settings, assisting clients with life challenges.
Clinical Psychologist – $96,100/year: Requires a doctoral degree and provides in-depth psychological assessments.

Each career path offers unique opportunities, whether in private practice, telehealth platforms, or online group therapy.

Is a career in online therapy worth it?

Yes, a career in online therapy is worth considering due to strong job growth, competitive salaries, and increasing demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 16% job growth for marriage and family therapists between 2023 and 2033, adding 12,300 new jobs. Similarly, psychologists are expected to see 7% job growth in the same period. Additionally, therapist salaries have increased by 7% over the last five years, showing a positive trend.

While online therapists earn between $55,000 and $86,000 per year, including marriage and family therapist salary, this must be weighed against the cost of living in the U.S., which includes housing, healthcare, food, and transportation. The average monthly expenses for a single person are around $1,173 (excluding rent), while a family of four needs approximately $4,177 per month.

To better understand whether this career aligns with your financial goals, see the infographic below showing the key components of the cost of living in the U.S.

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Therapist Careers

Working as an online therapist has allowed me to help clients from all over the country without being tied to a physical office. The flexibility of setting my own schedule has improved my work-life balance, and the demand for teletherapy means I always have a steady stream of clients. Seeing the impact of therapy in a virtual space has been incredibly fulfilling. Azariah
Studying in an online program prepared me for the digital therapy world from day one. I was already comfortable using telehealth platforms and managing virtual client interactions, which gave me a head start in my career. Now, I get to provide therapy in a way that’s convenient for both me and my clients, making mental health support more accessible. Edgar
Becoming an online therapist has been life-changing. I’ve been able to specialize in anxiety and trauma therapy while working from home, reducing the stress of commuting and office overhead costs. It’s rewarding to see how online therapy can reach people who otherwise wouldn’t have access to mental health care. Leah

Key Findings

Online therapists earn between $55,000 and $86,000 per year.
Therapist jobs are growing 16% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average.
Most therapists need a master’s degree and 2,000–4,000 supervised hours.
Licensing costs range from $275 to $400 for exams and $150 to $400 for fees.
Online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for anxiety and depression.
A school psychology or social work degree can lead to an online therapy career.

Other Things You Should Know About Online Therapists

Can online therapists work across state lines?

Not always. Online therapists must be licensed in the state where their client is located, even if they live elsewhere. Some states participate in licensing compacts, like PSYPACT for psychologists, allowing multi-state practice. However, most therapists must obtain separate licenses for each state they serve, which involves additional applications and fees. Some telehealth platforms help therapists navigate state licensing requirements.

What technology do online therapists need?

Online therapists need a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform like Zoom for Healthcare, Doxy.me, or SimplePractice to protect client privacy. A secure messaging system, cloud-based record-keeping software, and a private, professional workspace are also essential. Reliable internet and noise-canceling headphones improve session quality. Some therapists also use therapy-specific apps for client homework and progress tracking.

Do online therapists have to follow different ethical guidelines?

Online therapists follow the same ethical guidelines as in-person therapists but must also comply with telehealth-specific laws. This includes ensuring client confidentiality in a virtual setting, handling emergencies remotely, and verifying the identity and location of clients before starting therapy. Professional organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the American Psychological Association (APA) provide specific telehealth ethics guidelines.

Can online therapists accept insurance?

Yes, but insurance coverage for online therapy varies by provider and state. Many insurers now cover teletherapy, especially after the pandemic expanded access to virtual healthcare. Therapists must be credentialed with insurance networks or work through telehealth platforms that handle billing. Some therapists operate as private pay only, offering sliding-scale fees for clients who cannot afford full rates.