No matter how good you are at your job, without a persuasive mental health therapist resume, you won't be able to apply your skills or expertise to help others. That's why you need your resume to sing praises to your unique qualifications, experience, and passion for the field.

We've put together this guide to lead you through the writing process one step at a time. Inside, you'll discover real-life resume samples, practical examples, plenty of writing tips, and templates you can adjust to your liking — all the inspiration you need to make your resume stand out from the rest.

Behavioral Therapist at Excite Steps Resume Sample

Hired by: Excite Steps

Hired by: Excite Steps

Marriage and Family Therapist Resume Sample

Psychiatrist Resume Example

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Keep on reading to learn all about:

• Exploring valuable mental health therapist resume examples
• Choosing a resume format that works best for you
• Crafting an attention-grabbing mental health therapist resume summary or objective
• Writing a skills section that reflects all your strengths as a mental health therapist 
• Describing your mental health therapist work experience in detail
• Weaving powerful action words into your mental health therapist resume
• Properly listing your academic credentials in your mental health therapist resume 
• Picking the perfect optional sections for your mental health therapist resume
• Avoiding common mistakes in a mental health therapist resume
• Pairing your resume with a matching mental health therapist cover letter
• Average salary and job outlook for mental health therapists
• Accessing top resources for job-seeking mental health therapists

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Mental health counselor resume sample

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Why does this resume example work?

• Detailed relevant education section: The applicant’s degrees from Columbia University are clearly listed with dates, majors, and notable achievements like the Academic Excellence Award. The inclusion of specific details such as the high GPA and supervised clinical hours helps to highlight their dedication and academic excellence in the field.
• Work experience section shows relevant skills and methodologies: The work experience section really stands out. It shows a bunch of relevant skills and methods in action. The applicant talks about their hands-on therapeutic work, like using evidence-based techniques and working with different professionals. This not only shows they’ve got the experience but also how they put their skills to use in real-life situations. 

What could be improved?

• Including a resume summary: The resume would benefit from a well-crafted resume summary at the top. It's a great way to quickly convey who the applicant is, what they bring to the table, and what they are seeking in their next role. Without it, hiring managers might need to dig through the resume to piece together these key points, which can deter them from reading it.
• Adding quantifiable data: While the resume does a good job of detailing roles and responsibilities, it lacks quantifiable achievements. For instance, stating the number of clients served, specific improvements in client outcomes, or metrics related to workshop success would add weight to the applicant’s accomplishments.

Marriage and family therapist resume sample

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Why does this resume example work?

• Focused expertise: The applicant’s specialization in providing therapy to military service personnel and their families is clearly highlighted. This focus not only demonstrates their niche expertise but also shows they understand the unique challenges faced by this group, making them a strong candidate for roles in similar settings.
• Inclusion of volunteering: Mentioning volunteering experience adds a unique dimension to the resume. It shows a commitment to helping others and highlights adaptability and global awareness, which can be valuable traits in a mental health professional.

What could be improved?

• Lack of action verbs: This resume could benefit from more action verbs to make the achievements and responsibilities pop. Phrases like “led,” “developed,” or “implemented” can make the descriptions more dynamic and engaging, giving a clearer sense of the applicant’s proactive role in their achievements.

School psychologist resume sample

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Why does this resume example work?

• Emphasis on language proficiency: The applicant’s proficiency in multiple languages is a notable asset. In the field of psychology, being multilingual can be incredibly valuable for working with diverse populations and enhancing communication with clients and colleagues from different backgrounds.
• Mentioning recognition for performance: Being recognized as Employee of the Month three times is a standout achievement. This not only showcases the applicant’s exceptional performance but also indicates strong job performance and dedication. It’s a great way to show that their efforts have been consistently appreciated.

What could be improved?

• No need for high school information: The inclusion of high school details isn't necessary for a professional resume, especially when the focus should be on higher education and relevant work experience. Removing this information would streamline the resume and keep it focused on qualifications pertinent to the job.
• Exclusion of personal information: Including personal data such as a home address isn’t always a good idea. This detail can be omitted to protect privacy and keep the resume concise. Different countries usually have different resume standards — be sure to check them out before you start writing. 

1. Pick the right format for your mental health therapist resume 

Before you put the metaphorical pen to paper, you need to decide on what format your mental health therapist resume will take. Choosing the right resume format is more than just about how it looks — it’s about which information gets the spotlight and which details are subtly pushed to the background. 

Essentially, it's your experience level that should be the main factor in your decision making. Consider these three formats: 

• Reverse-chronological resume: This is the most traditional and widely used resume format. It emphasizes your work history, listing your most recent job first and working backward from there. This format is great for showcasing a solid career progression in mental health therapy, especially if you have consistent experience in the field. 
• Functional resume: This format is less about where and when you worked and more about the skills you’ve developed along the way. It focuses on your abilities, knowledge, and competencies, making it a great choice if you’re new to the mental health field, changing careers, or have gaps in your employment history. This format is perfect for anyone who wishes to emphasize their skills over work history.
• Hybrid (combination) resume: Finally, this resume format blends elements of both the reverse-chronological and functional formats. It typically starts with a skills section, highlighting your expertise in key areas, followed by a detailed work history that supports your skill set with practical experience. It allows you to highlight your abilities while still giving employers a clear picture of your career path. 

Whichever format you choose, remember to pick one that works in your favor. Putting together the perfect mental health therapist resume is all about presenting yourself in the best possible light. Think about what you want the employers to see first and how you can make your key strengths stand out.

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2. Hook the employer with your mental health therapist resume summary or objective

Besides the resume format, what is the first thing hiring managers see when they look at your resume? It's your resume summary or resume objective! 

Hiring managers are busy, sifting through countless resumes daily, so you need to capture their attention quickly. A well-crafted summary or objective acts as your personal elevator pitch, giving them a snapshot of who you are and why you’re the perfect fit for the role.

Despite the fact that both of them are relatively concise (only 3-5 sentences), they can say a lot about your qualifications. Let's break it down!

Writing a resume summary

A resume summary is ideal if you already have some solid experience in mental health therapy and want to highlight your accomplishments and strengths quickly. It’s great for showing how your past roles have prepared you for the position you’re applying for.

What should your mental health therapist resume summary include?

• Professional title: Clearly state your role, e.g., “Licensed Mental Health Therapist.”
• Years of professional experience: Highlight how long you’ve been working in the field.
• Specializations: Include any specific areas of expertise, such as adolescent therapy or trauma counseling.
• Key skills: You can also mention your core competencies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, crisis intervention, or client assessment.
• Significant achievements: For example, “Secured $50,000 grant for at-risk youth therapy program.”

What makes this example sound so weak? This summary doesn’t work because it’s way too vague and lacks any real substance. It tells us that you’re dedicated and have experience, but doesn’t specify what kind of experience or what skills you bring to the table. 

What exactly makes this example so effective? It’s specific and packed with relevant details about the candidate's specialization, skills, and achievements. Including a publication in a respected journal adds credibility and shows you’re engaged with current research. This kind of detailed, accomplishment-oriented summary grabs attention and makes it clear why you’d be a valuable addition to any team.

Crafting a resume objective

A resume objective is perfect if you’re just starting out as a mental health therapist or if you’re transitioning from another field. A well-written objective helps hiring managers understand your intentions and what you bring to the table. 

What should your resume objective include?

• Career goals: Clearly state your professional aspirations and what you aim to achieve in the role.
• Relevant skills or experience: Briefly note any relevant experience, background, or skills that align with the role.
• Focus on how you’ll add value: Explain how you plan to use your skills to benefit your potential employer.
• Passion for the field: Convey your enthusiasm and commitment to mental health therapy.

Why is this example not enough? This example tells us that the candidate wants to help people and advance their career, but it doesn’t explain what unique skills or qualifications they bring to the table. The lack of detail makes it hard for hiring managers to see how they’re different from other candidates. 

What makes this example work better? Right from the start, this example presents the candidate’s educational background with a notable achievement which highlights their research excellence and commitment to the field. Also, by focusing on relevant skills and expressing a clear interest in the company and role, the candidate shows both capability and enthusiasm. 

Whether you choose to start your CV with a summary or an objective, remember to enrich it with relevant keywords! Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific terms related to the job. If your resume doesn’t include these keywords, it might not even get past the initial electronic screening. 

3. Write a skills section that reflects your strengths as a mental health therapist 

Just like your clients are unique and need personalized treatment plans, your mental health therapist resume should be customized for each job you apply to. You wouldn’t use the same approach with every client, right? 

The same goes for your resume! When it comes to writing the skills section, it’s not about throwing in a random list of abilities that sound impressive. Instead, you need to be intentional, showcasing the specific skills that match what the employer is looking for.

How to choose the right skills?

Start by carefully reading the job description to identify the key skills the employer is looking for. Make a list of these desired skills and then think about your own experience. Which of your skills align with what they’re looking for? Those are the skills you should highlight!

To show that you're a well-rounded professional, you'll need to strike a balance between your hard and soft skills. 

• Hard skills: These are all the specific, teachable abilities that you’ve gained through education, training, and hands-on experience. Including these on your resume is crucial because they show that you have the technical know-how to provide high-quality therapy and handle various clinical situations. 
• Soft skills: On the flip side, soft skills are the personal attributes that enable you to interact effectively and harmoniously with clients and colleagues. As a mental health therapist, soft skills are just as important as hard skills. They help you build rapport and trust with clients, create a safe and supportive environment, and navigate the often delicate dynamics of therapeutic relationships. 

While hard skills demonstrate that you’re technically qualified and have the professional expertise needed to perform specific duties, soft skills showcase the personal qualities that make a great therapist. These include the ability to relate to clients, provide a safe space for them to express themselves, and guide them through their mental health journey.

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4. Describe your mental health therapist work experience in detail

Without a doubt, the work experience section is the heart and soul of your (chronological) resume. It's here the potential employers get to see the impact of your skills in a real-life context. 

The key to a truly standout work history is specificity — the more detail you provide the clearer the picture of your accomplishments will be.

Anyone can say they’ve “provided therapy to clients,” but that doesn’t tell the whole story. To stand out, you need to go beyond the basics. Describe the types of clients you worked with, the therapeutic approaches you used, and the results you achieved. 

For example, did you help a client overcome severe anxiety? Did you successfully implement a new therapy program that improved client outcomes? Be specific about your contributions and the impact they had.

Here's what shouldn't be missing from your work history section entry: 

• Start with your job title and the name of your employer. 
• Include the dates of employment, listed by month and year. 
• Briefly list your core responsibilities.
• Highlight your impact by mentioning your achievements. 
• Support your accomplishments with quantifiable data.
• Start your bullet points with action verbs (more on that later).

What makes this example so dry? The main problem with this example is its vagueness. It doesn’t give the reader any real insight into what you actually did or how you made an impact. "Provided therapy to clients" could mean anything, and there’s no mention of the specific types of therapy used or the kinds of clients you worked with. There are no achievements or outcomes highlighted, so it doesn’t show what makes you stand out as a therapist. 

Why does this example feel more impactful? This example works so well because it’s specific, detailed, and clearly tailored to the role. By including achievements, specific methodologies, and measurable results, this entry paints a clear picture of the therapist’s expertise and the positive impact they’ve had, making it easy for potential employers to see the value they would bring to a new role.

Tips for fresh graduates

But what if you've just graduated and have no formal work experience yet? Even without paid employment, you’ve likely gained valuable experience through internships, practicums, volunteer work, and coursework. All of these are perfectly valid!

Here’s how to tackle the work history section when you’re fresh out of school:

• Internships and practicums: If you completed an internship or practicum as part of your degree, this should be front and center. Treat these experiences like job roles — list where you worked, what you did, and any achievements or skills you developed.
• Relevant volunteer work: Volunteering is another great way to demonstrate your commitment and gain hands-on experience. 
• Coursework and projects: Did you work on any significant projects during your studies? For instance, if you developed a treatment plan for a mock client, or conducted research on adolescent mental health, include this as part of your experience. 
• Certifications and training: If you’ve earned any certifications or even specialized training in therapeutic techniques — make sure to highlight these. They add credibility and show you’re proactive about your professional development.

No matter where you are in your career, remember to be specific, highlight your achievements, and tailor your experience to the job you’re aiming for. With the right approach, your resume will tell a compelling story that resonates with employers and sets you up for success.

5. Weave powerful action verbs into your mental health therapist resume

Speaking of your achievements, if you want them to truly make an impression, we recommend paying attention to action verbs.

Action verbs are that little something that make your accomplishments look more impactful and your role in achieving them more dynamic and proactive. For example, saying you “developed” a new treatment protocol sounds more impressive than simply saying you “worked on” it.

To give you a better idea of how action verbs impact your resume, consider the following example: 

Besides making your work experience history more vivid and engaging, action verbs can also play a significant role in getting your resume past the ATS. Remember what we've told you about keywords? Action verbs may very well be one of them!

6. List your academic credentials in a mental health therapist resume 

Let’s start with a pretty fundamental question: can you really be a mental health therapist without the right education or license? The short answer is no. 

In this field, having the appropriate credentials isn’t just a formality — it’s essential. Your education and licensure are what validate your expertise and ensure that you’re qualified to provide professional care.

That's why the education section of your resume should be more than just a list of degrees and certifications. It shows that you have the foundational knowledge and specialized training needed for the role. 

Here’s what you can include under your degree to make the most of this section:

• Relevant coursework
• Projects and training
• Thesis or capstone projects
• Awards and honors
• Relevant extracurricular activities

And here's what it can look like on your resume:

However, if you want to fit your resume to one page or feel that you have other important information to include, you can keep your education section more concise. In such cases, it’s perfectly fine to streamline your details and focus on the basics. 

Your education section isn’t just a checkbox! Just like a solid treatment plan is critical for client success, a well-organized education section is key to showcasing your qualifications. It helps hiring managers quickly see that you’ve got the academic background and credentials they’re looking for. 

7. Add relevant optional sections for your mental health therapist resume

So far, we've been through all the sections that definitely shouldn't be missing from your resume. But your resume needs to work for you and the one-size-fits-all approach just doesn't cut it. 

Luckily, there's plenty of optional sections you can add to your resume! Just make sure that the sections you choose contribute to the overall appeal of your resume and don't overwhelm it. Each section should add value and reinforce your qualifications, not just fill space:

• Publications: If you’ve written articles, research papers, or any other publications related to mental health, this is a great place to show off. It tells employers that you’re engaged in ongoing learning and contributing to the broader conversation.
• Conferences: Attending or presenting at conferences is also a strong indicator of your commitment to professional development. It shows you’re keeping up with the latest research and trends in mental health therapy. 
• Licenses: While you might list your primary license in the education section, any additional certifications or specialized licenses are worth noting here. This can include advanced certifications or training in specific therapeutic techniques.
• References: If you have standout references from previous supervisors, colleagues, or clients who can vouch for your skills and effectiveness, consider including a brief mention of them. 
• Volunteering: Highlighting volunteer work related to mental health or community support shows that you’re passionate about helping others beyond your paid roles. It reflects well on your character and commitment to the field.
• Awards and Recognitions: Any awards or recognitions you’ve received in your professional or academic career can serve as a strong testament to your abilities and accomplishments. 

When you’re crafting your mental health therapist resume, it’s not just about listing your core qualifications. Adding optional sections can really make your resume pop and set you apart from the competition. These sections provide extra layers of information that can highlight your unique strengths and give potential employers a fuller picture of who you are.

8. Dodge common mistakes in a mental health therapist resume

Crafting your resume takes time and dedication. But even minor mistakes can significantly impact how it’s perceived. Glaring errors like typos are easy to spot, but more subtle issues, such as vague job descriptions or improper formatting, can undermine the overall impression of your qualifications. 

To help you avoid these pitfalls, here’s a rundown of common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overlooking typos and grammatical errors: These can make you appear careless and unprofessional — which is the last thing you'd want. While using spell check is also a good idea, don't rely on it alone.
• Vague job descriptions: Vague descriptions of your responsibilities and achievements can make it hard for hiring managers to understand your actual experience and skills. That's why you always need to use specific examples to illustrate your abilities. 
• Using an inconsistent format: A messy resume can bring you no victories. Keep the format consistent throughout your entire resume. Stick with what works the best: the same font, style, and layout for headings, bullet points, and sections.
• Favoring duties over achievements: Simply listing your job duties doesn’t tell employers how well you performed or what impact you had in your role. Instead, focus on highlighting specific achievements and the positive outcomes of your work. 
• Including irrelevant information: Padding your resume with unrelated job experience, hobbies, or personal stuff can clutter up your resume and take the focus away from what really makes you a strong candidate for a mental health therapist role.
• Lack of quantifiable achievements: Numbers help employers understand the scale and significance of your accomplishments. Wherever possible, include quantifiable data in your achievements. For instance, instead of stating, “Developed therapy programs,” say, “Developed therapy programs that increased client retention by 25%.”
• Providing outdated contact information: If your contact info is outdated or wrong, employers won’t be able to reach you, and you might miss out on job opportunities. Don't let your dream job slip through your fingers because of a misspelled email!
• Ignoring ATS optimization: Take a close look at the job description and industry terms, and sprinkle those keywords throughout your resume — especially in your summary, skills, and experience sections. This way, your resume is more likely to make it through the Applicant Tracking System and into the hands of a hiring manager.
• Failing to showcase your soft skills: Skills like empathy, communication, and active listening are critical in mental health therapy. If these aren’t highlighted, your resume might come across as lacking in the personal qualities that are vital for the role.

Remember that when it comes to resume writing, the mistakes you can make are many. The best thing you can do is take a little extra time to proofread — it’s your last line of defense against those sneaky errors that could cost you an interview. So, give it a good once-over (or even twice), and make sure it’s as strong as you are.

9. Pair your resume with a matching mental health therapist cover letter

When you’re putting together your job application for a mental health therapist position, your resume is only part of the story. The other key piece is your cover letter. 

But what exactly is a cover letter, and why does it matter?

While your resume is a structured list of your skills, experiences, and accomplishments, your cover letter allows you to dive deeper into specific aspects of your background and explain how they make you an excellent candidate for the job.

Basically, a great cover letter should provide answer for the following questions: 

• Who are you?
• Why are you interested in this position?
• Why do you want to work for us specifically? 
• How can you contribute to our success? 

The cover letter is where you can showcase your personality and enthusiasm. It also lets you address any potential gaps or unique situations that might need a little extra explanation — things that don’t fit neatly into the bullet points of your resume.

At first glance, it should be obvious that your resume and cover letter belong together. When your documents are visually in sync, it creates a polished and professional look, To make sure that they are consistent in design, you can use these handy tips as your checklist: 

• Stick to the same font and size: Choose one font and stick with it for both documents. For example, common professional fonts include Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri, and Helvetica.
• Color coordinate: If you’re using color in your resume (for headings or lines), make sure to use the same color scheme in your cover letter. This subtle touch adds a cohesive feel.
• Use a matching header: Use the same header design for your name and contact info at the top of both documents. This creates an immediate visual connection between the two.
• Keep your spacing consistent: Pay attention to line spacing and paragraph breaks, making sure they’re consistent across both documents to keep everything neat and tidy.
• Use templates to achieve a unified look: For example, each of Kickresume’s professionally designed resume templates is paired with a matching cover letter template. The only problem you'll face is the dilemma of choosing which design you like the most! 

Keeping your resume and cover letter visually in sync is a simple yet effective way to show off your attention to detail and professionalism. It ties everything together, making your application feel like a well-thought-out package rather than just a collection of documents. 

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10. Average salary and job outlook for mental health therapists

Mental health therapy is more than just a job — it’s a calling for many. People are drawn to this field for a variety of reasons. Some are passionate about helping others navigate their emotional and mental challenges, while others are motivated by the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. 

But it’s not just about the emotional rewards. 

According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2023, the average annual salary for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors reaches $53,710. Of course, your real salary may vary depending on several factors such as:

• Geographic location 
• Years of experience
• Specialization
• Private practice vs employment

There’s a solid career path here, with a decent salary and job stability. Plus, the work can be incredibly varied and engaging, with opportunities to specialize in areas like adolescent therapy, substance abuse, or family therapy.

Looking ahead, the job outlook for mental health therapists is very positive. With increasing awareness about mental health and the growing need for mental health services, the demand for qualified therapists continues to rise. Accordingly, the BLS estimates that this profession will grow by 19% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. 

So, if you’re considering a career in mental health therapy, know that you’re stepping into a field with not just personal rewards but also solid job prospects. It’s a profession where your skills can make a real difference in the world, and that’s something truly valuable.

11. Where to find resources for job-seeking mental health therapists

Now that you’ve got a solid grasp of what the job outlook looks like and why this profession is so rewarding, it’s time to dive into where you can find the resources to help you land that perfect position. Whether you're a fresh graduate or an experienced therapist looking for new opportunities, there’s a wealth of resources out there to guide you on your job search journey:

• General online job boards: Firstly, you can try sifting through job listings offered by trusted platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster.
• Industry-specific websites: If you'd prefer a more targeted approach, consider visiting websites like PsychologyJobs.com, iHireMentalHealth, Inclusive Therapists, or Mental Health Work. 
• Professional associations: Joining associations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) can provide networking opportunities, job boards, and access to exclusive resources.
• University career services: If you're a recent grad, your university's career services can be a goldmine. They often have job boards, resume workshops, and alumni networks that can help you get started.
• Local community resources: Check out local community centers, clinics, or non-profits. They often have job postings and may even be looking for therapists to join their teams.
• Continuous education platforms: Keep your skills sharp and your credentials up to date with courses from platforms like Coursera, Psychology CEUs, or APA's CE offerings. These can also be great for making you stand out in the job market.

With these resources at your fingertips, you’ve got the tools you need to dive into your job search with confidence. Remember, the path to landing your dream position might take some time, but every step you take brings you closer to that rewarding role where you can make a real difference.