How do I know if an online therapist is licensed and legit?

It's completely understandable to want to ensure your online therapist is licensed and legitimate! Your mental well-being is important, and choosing a qualified professional is key. Here's how you can verify this:

1. Check Their State Licensing Board:

This is the most crucial step. Every state in the US has a licensing board for mental health professionals (e.g., Board of Psychology, Board of Social Work Examiners, Board of Professional Counselors).

• How to find it: Search online for "[Your State] mental health licensing board" or "[Your State] Board of Psychology/Counseling/Social Work."
• What to look for on the board's website:
  • License Verification Tool: Most boards have a searchable database where you can enter the therapist's name.
  • License Number: If the therapist provides their license number, you can often use this to search directly.
  • Check License Status: Ensure their license is active and in good standing. Avoid therapists with expired, suspended, or revoked licenses.
  • Disciplinary Actions: Some boards also list any disciplinary actions taken against a therapist.

2. Look for Specific Credentials:

Licensed therapists will have specific degrees and credentials. Here are common ones you'll see:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): These professionals typically have a master's degree in counseling.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): These professionals typically have a master's degree in social work and have completed significant clinical experience.
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): These professionals typically have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy.
• Licensed Psychologist (Ph.D. or Psy.D.): These professionals have a doctoral degree in psychology.
• Psychiatrist (M.D. or D.O.): These are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication. They are licensed by medical boards.

3. Ask the Therapist Directly:

Don't hesitate to ask! A legitimate therapist will be happy to provide this information.

• What to ask: "What is your license number and in which state are you licensed?" or "Can you confirm your credentials and license status?"
• What to expect: They should readily provide their license number and the state(s) in which they are licensed.

4. Check Reputable Online Therapy Platforms:

If you're using a well-known online therapy platform, they usually have a rigorous vetting process for their therapists.

• Examples of reputable platforms:

  • BetterHelp: They have a screening process that includes verifying licenses.

  • Talkspace: Similar to BetterHelp, they vet their therapists and confirm their credentials.

  • Amwell: This platform connects you with licensed healthcare professionals, including mental health providers.

  • Cerebral: Offers therapy and psychiatry services and emphasizes using licensed professionals.

  • Why these platforms are helpful: These companies have a vested interest in ensuring their providers are legitimate. They often handle the initial credential verification. However, it's still a good idea to double-check their license number on the state board yourself.

5. Look for Professional Affiliations:

While not a direct verification of licensure, belonging to professional organizations can indicate a commitment to ethical practice and ongoing professional development. Some common ones include:

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
• American Counseling Association (ACA)
• American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)

In summary, the best way to ensure an online therapist is legit is to verify their license directly with their state's licensing board. Reputable platforms can be a good starting point, but your own due diligence is always recommended.