How to become a therapist?

The profession of therapist in France encompasses different professions and specializations in the field of mental health. Whether you want to become a psychologist, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist, each path requires specific studies and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. This article details the key steps to becoming a therapist in France, highlighting the differences between the various professions and the training required.

Understanding the different professions

In France, the title "psychologist" is protected and requires a specific university course, while the term "therapist" can refer to different mental health professionals , including psychotherapists, psychoanalysts, and sometimes psychiatrists.

• Psychologist: To become a psychologist, you must obtain a Master's degree (Bac +5) in psychology, which includes a professional internship.
• Psychotherapist: This title is also regulated. To use it, you must be registered in the national register of psychotherapists, which requires training in clinical psychopathology and practical training in addition to an initial diploma.

Academic training required 

To enter the field of therapy, it is necessary to follow a rigorous academic course:

• License in Psychology: This is the first level of higher education after the baccalaureate, lasting three years (Bac +3).
• Master in Psychology: A specialization is necessary to become a psychologist, lasting two years after the license (Bac +5), including in-depth theoretical training and a clinical internship.

Professional licenses and certifications

• Psychologists: After obtaining the Master's degree, the student must register with the Regional Health Agency ( ARS ) to obtain the right to practice.
• Psychotherapists: Non-psychologists or non-physicians must complete additional training in clinical psychopathology to be registered as psychotherapists.

Develop professional skills

Essential skills for all therapists include empathy, listening skills, integrity, patience, and communication skills. Good training offers not only the theoretical foundations but also practical skills through internships and supervision.

Major Therapeutic Approaches

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT approach that helps patients recognize and change dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors. It is particularly effective in treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders and certain personality disorders. CBT training is often integrated into clinical psychology curricula and may require additional certifications from specialized institutes.

Psychoanalysis 

Psychoanalysis , founded by Sigmund Freud, focuses on the exploration of the unconscious mind. Psychoanalysts in France generally follow a post-graduate course in specialized schools after their training in psychology or medicine.

Family systemic therapy 

Systemic therapy examines the interactions between family members and how these dynamics influence the individual's behavior. Systemic therapists are trained to observe and intervene in these dynamics, rather than focusing solely on the individual. This training is often offered as part of master's programs in psychology or social work.

Where to train in family and marital therapy online?

LACT, online family and marital therapy training 

Systemic and strategic therapy 

Systemic and strategic therapy is an evolution of systemic therapy which includes an interactional reading of complex situations with brief interventions. It is particularly suitable for situations where problems seem to resist conventional treatment methods. This approach requires specific training which can be obtained through workshops, seminars and specialized courses after the initial diploma.

Read also: The profession of systems engineer

Training in brief systemic and strategic therapy 

LACT offers several live certified web training courses with 50 international trainers:

• Generalist systemic training
• DU relationship clinic with the University of Paris 8
• Clinical Master of Giorgio Nardone LACT/CTS

LACT, supporting you in your retraining journey

LACT training courses are particularly suited to retraining situations with 100% distance learning and follow-up towards professional installation. 

See testimonials from former students.