How to Become a Family Therapist with Online Study

Are you interested in a career that helps families navigate their challenges and improve their relationships? Becoming a family therapist might be the ideal path for you. While formal education in psychology or counselling is necessary to become a licensed family therapist, taking an online course in mental health & counselling can give you the foundational knowledge and confidence you need to pursue this fulfilling career. Let’s explore what it takes to become a family therapist and how online courses can help you get started.

What Does a Family Therapist Do?

A family therapist works with families to address and resolve conflicts, improve communication, and strengthen relationships. They provide guidance, support, and strategies to help families navigate various issues, such as parenting challenges, marital conflicts, and mental health concerns. Family therapists aim to create a healthier, more balanced family dynamic.

Day in the Life of a Family Therapist

Conduct individual, couple, and family therapy sessions to discuss issues and set goals.
Evaluate family dynamics and diagnose underlying issues affecting relationships.
Develop personalised treatment plans tailored to each family’s unique needs.
Apply various therapeutic techniques to help families resolve conflicts and improve communication.
Track the progress of each family and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Provide families with resources and strategies to support their ongoing growth and development.
Work with other professionals, such as teachers, doctors, and social workers, to provide comprehensive support.

Family Therapist Skills

Is becoming a family therapist your calling? You’ll need a blend of soft skills (skills you naturally possess) and hard skills (learned skills) to ensure you’re the best family therapist you can be.

Family Therapist Soft Skills

Active listening
Empathy and understanding
Problem-solving and conflict resolution
Communication skills
Patience and professionalism

Hard Skills for Family Therapists

By undertaking a mental health course, you’ll equip yourself with the relevant practical skills to kick-start your family therapist career.

Family Systems Theory: Understanding the dynamics of family relationships and how they influence individual behaviour.
Therapeutic Techniques: Learning various therapeutic methods, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and family systems therapy.
Conflict Resolution: Techniques for helping families resolve disputes and improve communication.
Parenting Strategies: Skills to support parents in managing behaviour and fostering healthy child development.
Mental Health Fundamentals: Understanding common mental health issues and their impact on family dynamics.

Family Therapist Salary Australia (2024)

According to data from Labour Market Insights, counsellors— a profession closely related to family therapists— can expect to earn an average annual salary of roughly $86,000.

Keep in mind, your earnings can fluctuate widely depending on your particular area of expertise, your level of experience, and your skill set.

Taking additional courses, such as those focusing on relationship counselling, can increase your income prospects.

Family Therapist Employment Outlook

The demand for family therapists in Australia is steady, with opportunities in private practice, community mental health services, non-profit organisations, or even your own business. With increasing awareness of mental health and relationship issues, this field offers meaningful career prospects.

Jobs & Skills Australia data shows employment opportunities in this field are set to see big growth, with the workforce likely expanding to approximately 27,800 professionals by the year 2026.

How to Become a Family Therapist

If you're considering a fulfilling career as a family therapist in Australia, there are various educational pathways to set you on the right course.

Online Courses: Online Courses Australia offers comprehensive courses in mental health. These courses cover essential topics such as family systems theory, conflict resolution, and parenting strategies, providing the skills you need to succeed.
Micro-Credentials: These short, focused courses help you develop specific skills in family therapy, enhancing your expertise. Whether you're keen on enhancing your communication skills through a counselling micro-credential or diving into specialised topics like supporting children at risk of harm, micro-credentials offer a concentrated and speedy way to specialise in your chosen area.
Formal Education: To become a licensed family therapist, you’ll need to pursue formal education in psychology or counselling and meet the necessary registration requirements. An online course can be a valuable stepping stone.

Start Your Family Therapist Journey Today

Ready to make a positive impact on families and build a fulfilling career? Enrol in a mental health course with Online Courses Australia. Gain the foundational knowledge and skills needed to become a successful family therapist.

Develop Practical Skills

Our courses cover key areas such as family systems theory, conflict resolution, and parenting strategies.

Flexible Learning Options

Study at your own pace, fitting your education around your current commitments. Learn from anywhere, anytime.

Begin Your Journey

Take the first step towards becoming a family therapist today. Join Online Courses Australia and start building a rewarding career helping families achieve healthier, happier relationships.

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