Our Guide on How to Become a Family Therapist

If you're passionate about making a difference in people's lives, becoming a family therapist might be the right path for you. 

Roles and Responsibilities of a Family Therapist

As a family therapist, your primary role is to work with families and couples to address and resolve conflicts, improve communication, and strengthen their relationships. This may include:

• Assessment and Diagnosis: Evaluating family dynamics and identifying issues.
• Therapeutic Intervention: Implementing evidence-based therapies such as systemic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), and narrative therapy.
• Conflict Resolution: Helping families resolve disputes and find healthier ways to manage disagreements.
• Communication Facilitation: Teaching effective communication techniques.
• Support and Guidance: Providing emotional support and practical advice to help families cope with challenges.
• Documentation and Reporting: Keeping detailed records of sessions and progress.

Essential Skills for Family Therapists

Successful family therapists possess a combination of personal attributes and professional skills, including:

• Excellent communication skills: Actively listening, clearly explaining concepts, and fostering open communication within families.
• Empathy and compassion: Understanding the challenges families face and showing genuine care.
• Strong observational skills: Picking up on nonverbal cues and family dynamics.
• Conflict resolution skills: Mediating disagreements and guiding families towards solutions.
• Cultural competency: Respecting diverse family backgrounds and experiences.

Qualifications Needed to Become a Family Therapist in the UK

To become a family therapist in the UK, you typically need to follow these steps:

• Undergraduate Degree: Obtain a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as psychology, social work, or counselling.
• Postgraduate Training: Complete a postgraduate diploma or master's degree in family therapy. Chrysalis Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Practice is a great place to start!
• Clinical Experience: Gain supervised clinical experience, often as part of your postgraduate training.
• Professional Registration: Register with a professional body such as the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
• Continued Professional Development (CPD): Engage in ongoing training to keep your skills and knowledge up to date. Here at Chrysalis we offer a variety of 4 and 7-hour CPD workshops.

Family Therapist Salary in the UK

Salaries for family therapists can vary depending on experience, location, and employer. According to Indeed, the average salary for a Family Therapist in the UK is £49,811.

Self-employed therapists may have variable income depending on the number of clients and hours worked.

Finding Family Therapist Jobs in the UK

Family therapists can find employment in various settings, including:

• NHS: Working in hospitals, clinics, or community health services.
• Private Practice: Offering services independently or within private clinics.
• Charities and Non-Profits: Supporting vulnerable families and communities.
• Educational Institutions: Providing counselling in schools or universities.
• Local Authorities: Working with social services to support families in need.

Is a Career in Family Therapy Right for You?

Becoming a family therapist in the UK is a journey that requires dedication, empathy, and a commitment to ongoing learning. By following the outlined steps gaining the necessary qualifications, developing essential skills, and seeking relevant job opportunities you can embark on a fulfilling career helping families navigate their challenges and build stronger relationships. If you're passionate about making a difference, now is the time to start your path towards becoming a family therapist.

If you are interested in becoming a family therapist or studying counselling with Chrysalis Courses check out our counselling courses or request a prospectus.