Become a Certified CBT Therapist

At A-CBT, we are committed to excellence in Cognitive and Behavioral therapies. We believe that through our certification programs, we can help improve the lives of individuals with mental health disorders and make a positive impact in our communities. Ready to get Certified? Follow the link below to apply today.


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Are You Eligible?

Application Criteria for CBT Certification

Terminal Degree with Licensure

Applicants must have completed the terminal degree in their respective field and be licensed for independent practice. If licensing is not available or required by law, the applicant may present alternative credentials for review by the Academy.



40 Hours Minimum CBT Training

A minimum of forty hours of specific education in cognitive therapy.

The training can be of any format (lecture, didactic, online, or clinical supervision). Training must have focused on cognitive interventions and cognitions.



One Year Clinical Experience

Applicants must have at least one year of clinical experience using cognitive therapy in a clinical setting. This experience must be conducted with a minimum of ten individual patients in a CBT related treatment area of focus.



What degrees are eligible for CBT Certification?

Terminal degrees that meet eligibility requirements for the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies CBT Certification Program include but are not limited to the following: M.S.W, M.Sc. (Clinical Counseling), M.D., M.A. (Marriage and Family Therapy), M.S.N. (Psychiatric Nursing), Psy.D. (Clinical Psychology), and Ph.D (Clinical Psychology). Applicants must also hold up-to-date malpractice insurance where necessary and applicable.

Common Questions

See some common questions and answers below, or email us at info@academyofcbt.org 

  • What is CBT certification?

    CBT certification is a credential that demonstrates a mental health professional's competence and expertise in the practice of cognitive and behavioral therapy. Certification requires completion of specialized training and an examination that evaluates knowledge and skills in CBT.

  • Who can apply for CBT certification?

    Mental health professionals who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for CBT certification. Eligibility requirements include a graduate degree in a mental health discipline, a license to practice independently, and specialized training in CBT.

  • What is the process for applying for CBT certification?

    The process for applying for CBT certification involves completing an application form, submitting required documentation (such as transcripts and proof of licensure), and paying a certification fee. Applicants must also submit a case conceptualization and session audio that will be evaluated by A-CBT Trainer Consultants using the Beck Rating Scale.

  • How is the CBT certification examination administered?

    The CBT certification application is administered through an online application process. 

  • How long is the CBT certification process?

    The CBT certification process is approximately 6-12 weeks to complete, depending on your ability to submit your case-write up and audio submission(s) in a timely and efficient manner.

  • What are the benefits of CBT certification?

    CBT certification enhances mental health professional's career opportunities, demonstrates expertise and proficiency in CBT, and provides credibility and assurance to clients and employers. Additionally, certification helps mental health professionals stay current with the latest developments and best practices in CBT.

A-CBT Certification: How To Apply

Mental health professionals and students who are pursing a degree in behavioral health are encouraged to apply for CBT Certification through the A-CBT.


At A-CBT, we seek to promote CBT as an effective form of treatment while also disseminating information from A-CBT certified clinicians in the field to enhance collaborative relationships among individuals who utilize CBT. Our organization is about more than Certification - it's about Community and Collaboration amongst Cognitive and Behavioral Therapists throughout the world.


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Step by Step: Our Application Process

Part I - Apply

In Part I of the A-CBT Application Process, you'll be asked to submit your demographic information, verify training and related degree(s), provide proof of practice, and update relative information. In addition, you'll be asked to fill out the following: Required Reading List, Professional Liability Detail Sheet, CBT Training Detail Sheet, and Clinical Experience in CBT Detail Sheet. The cost to apply is $450, and your items for Part I will be reviewed and approved within 2-4 weeks.

Part II - Submit Documents

Once your items from Part I have been approved, you will submit your Audio File and Case Write-Up for rating and review. For your reference, a copy of the current CTRS Rating Scale may be found here and a copy of the CRRS Rating Scale may be found here.

Part III - Wait & Receive Scores

Expect to hear back within 4-8 weeks regarding the review and rating of your submission materials. Once approved, you are now a Certified Member of the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (A-CBT). You can renew your membership annually for a fee of $125 per year. Congratulations!

Ready To Apply?

Expanding your career with CBT Certification can help expand your therapy practice both personally and professionally. Academy of CBT Certified (CBT) Therapists are continuously discovering the possibilities for professional development through their Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies Certification (CBT certification). At the Academy, we pride ourselves on our robust certification process that ensures a high level of fidelity to the CBT certification standards worldwide. Wait are you waiting for? Expand your CBT career today.