To become a therapist, you will need to complete several steps, which may vary depending on the specific licensure path you choose and the amount of education you pursue. Here are the general steps to become a licensed therapist:

1. Earn a bachelors degree: The first step is to earn a bachelors degree. Most therapist positions require at least a bachelors degree, and its recommended to major in psychology or a related field to gain foundational knowledge in the principles and practices of psychology.

2. Earn a masters degree: After obtaining a bachelors degree, you will need to pursue a masters degree in counseling or a related field. Its important to choose a masters program that aligns with the specific field of therapy you wish to enter. Most fields of therapy require certification before practicing, and many certificates require a masters degree before certification.

3. Obtain clinical experience: You will need to complete supervised clinical hours and gain internship experience while in school. Depending on your state and area of specialty, you will need to complete 2-4 years of post-graduate experience to become licensed as a therapist.

4. Obtain licensure: To become a licensed therapist, you will need to finish all of the requirements of the specific licensure path you wish to pursue. There are various licenses, each with its own requirements, which typically include at least a bachelors degree, clinical experience, and in many cases, a masters degree.

Overall, becoming a licensed therapist requires a significant amount of education, training, and dedication. The process can take around seven to fifteen years following graduation from high school, depending on the specific path you choose.