can people be an unlicensed therapist?

Question

is there a such thing as an unlicensed therapist that is legal? like could someone be a therapist without a license and be legal? the kind of therapist i mean is the kind that listens to peoples' problems and talks to them

Answer 1

It depends on the state -- many states have a "licensed only" policy -- some have provisions where people can practice as long as they don't claim they are licensed.

Most states also have exceptions for pastoral counselors -- whose qualifications are determined by churches rather than by the govt -- but such individuals are often limited (again, laws vary by state) in terms of the type of counseling they can offer.

Generally, unless someone is licensed -- they cannot diagnose, nor can they claim to treat psychological or psychiatric conditions. And most insurance companies will not pay for unlicensed therapy.

Answer 2

Like another said there is the whole "life coach" thing. But you would still need a business license and maybe bonding.

Probably the big thing would be insurance. Say you were counseling somebody for a time and one day the person just jumps off a building. The family could come after you in civil court and you would not have the insurance a licensed therapist would have to cover it.

Answer 3

Therapists generally have a speciality or area of focus, so I looked at Family & Marriage Therapists for your question. Most states require a license; Delaware, D.C., Montana, N. Dakota, and W. Virginia have not not passed legislation to license marriage and family therapists.

Answer 4

Generally, no. But people who call themselves "life coaches" and "motivators" frequently have no special licenses.

Answer 5

i don't think so. even minister's need documentaionbewrae of pyschlogists. seen 2 different one's their answer is always the same. come from a dysfunctional family with a bunch of a***oles for relatives

Answer 6

its illegal