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Are there opportunities for self-employed family counselors?
#counseling #psychology #self-employment
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4 answers
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Sidney’s Answer
There are a few options toward private practice at this uncertain time. You can search for a secure platform to perform family therapy services online, or practice privately with the necessary safety precautions taken to avoid spreading Covid 19. I realize the counseling profession has an uphill battle effectively transitioning to tele-therapy, however, you still have the possibility of offering your services within both areas. At this time I am a clinical mental health intern that also works at Ford Motor Company.
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Dr. Ray’s Answer
Dear Anastasia,
I just saw your question. You may no longer need an answer but in case you are still interested here is what I know. In Texas there are several paths to being a family therapist. You can specifically be licensed as a marriage and family therapist, and other mental health professionals, such as psychologists, perform family therapy. Educationally you would need to have a master's or Ph.D. degree in a behavioral science field. plus some post degree supervised experience.
As to the self employment part of the question, most of the family therapists I know are in private practice. Most health insurance companies reimburse mental health services, especially when major concerns are about children in the family. As a psychologist I see lots of children and I always involve the parents if possible.
I hope this gives you a little more information. I wish you the best in your career pursuits.
Ray Finn, Ph.D.
Psychologist
I just saw your question. You may no longer need an answer but in case you are still interested here is what I know. In Texas there are several paths to being a family therapist. You can specifically be licensed as a marriage and family therapist, and other mental health professionals, such as psychologists, perform family therapy. Educationally you would need to have a master's or Ph.D. degree in a behavioral science field. plus some post degree supervised experience.
As to the self employment part of the question, most of the family therapists I know are in private practice. Most health insurance companies reimburse mental health services, especially when major concerns are about children in the family. As a psychologist I see lots of children and I always involve the parents if possible.
I hope this gives you a little more information. I wish you the best in your career pursuits.
Ray Finn, Ph.D.
Psychologist
Updated
Ana’s Answer
Possibly. I have a couple of friends that started out as counselors within the department of education, primarily working at public schools and then they transitioned to having private practices. But for them, it made sense to start out with a job where they were guaranteed a paycheck and simultaneously build up a roster of patients.
Updated
Veronica’s Answer
You could do virtual counseling through an app.