How to become a mental health counselor without a degree?

To become a mental health counselor, students should start by obtaining their bachelor's degree in counseling-related subjects like psychology or sociology. Their curriculum should include courses that span human development and subjects like abnormal psychology.

In many states, a mental health counselor must also possess a master's degree in counseling. This program needs to be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This indicates that the program's content met the high standards set forth by the mental health profession.

All states, along with the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico, require mental health counselors to pass one or more of the National Board of Certified Counselors Exams. Applicants may also be required to pass state-specific examinations.

Before being able to practice as a licensed mental health counselor, you must also have hands-on experience through graduate and post-graduate internships under the supervision of licensed counselors. States may require between 2,000 and 3,000 clinical hours to become licensed.

Once you have the hours required and have passed the licensing exam, you can apply for your mental health license in your state. This will be considered the last step needed to have an independent practice license.

While you can't become a mental health counselor without a degree, there are avenues in the mental health field that do not require formal education. Often, these roles still allow you to provide critical assistance to those struggling with mental health issues, and they can offer a pathway into counseling roles.

For example, becoming a peer support counselor is one such path. Peer support counselors use their own experiences with mental health to guide and support others facing similar challenges. Certification may be required, but it usually doesn't require a degree. Prerequisites such as personal experience with mental health recovery, completion of a specific training program, and passing an exam are common requirements for certification in this role.

Career counseling, community outreach work, and youth work are other options. These positions require strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to connect with diverse groups of people. Some may require certification or additional training, but not necessarily a degree.