Well-Mamas Counseling proudly employs master's-level associate psychotherapists, and here’s why!
At Well-Mamas Counseling, we believe in nurturing the next generation of compassionate, highly skilled therapists. Our master’s level associate psychotherapists bring fresh perspectives, up-to-date clinical training, and a deep passion for supporting clients through life’s challenges. Under the supervision of seasoned licensed clinicians, these associates provide high-quality, evidence-based care while continually developing their skills and expertise.
By investing in associate therapists, we not only expand access to affordable and empathetic mental health services but also help shape the future of the counseling profession — one authentic, healing relationship at a time.
Here's a simple breakdown of some of the titles, licenses, and what all those letters after our names mean.
🧠 Roadmap to Becoming a Psychotherapist (U.S. Version)
1. 🎓 Get a Bachelor's Degree (4 years)
Major in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
This is the foundation.
2. 🎓 Earn a Master’s Degree (2–3 years)
Common degrees:
MA / MS in Counseling or Psychology
MSW – Master of Social Work
MFT / MACP – Marriage & Family Therapy / Counseling Psychology
MHC – Mental Health Counseling
🧩 (e.g., clinical social worker, marriage & family therapist, etc.)
3. 🧪 Complete Supervised Clinical Hours (3,000+ hours)
Register with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) as an associate psychotherapist once they have received their Master’s degree. The BBS sets the professional standard for CA psychotherapists during their professional career through associate and licensed registrations.
Associates work under the supervision of licensed psychotherapists, gaining experience as they accrue a minimum of 3,000 hours and receive 104 weeks of clinical supervision.
Title: Associate Psychotherapist (e.g., AMFT, APCC, ASW)
4. 📝 Pass State Licensing Exams
Each license has its own test(s). There are typically 2 tests (Law & Ethics and Clinical Exam) for each license.
5. ✅ Get Licensed
Once the clinical exam is passed, the BBS will designate the mental health provider as a Licensed Therapist!
🔤 What the Letters After Names Mean
Here’s a cheat sheet for common credentials in California:
🔵 License Types (what kind of therapist)
LMFT = Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
LCSW = Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LPCC = Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Psychologist = Licensed Clinical Psychologist or Psychological Associate
Psychiatrist (MD) = Medical physicians who can prescribe medication
🟡 Associate Licenses
AMFT = Associate Marriage & Family Therapist
ASW = Associate Social Worker
APCC = Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
