A-CBT Diplomate Application Tips (CBT Certification)

Ready to begin your CBT Certification today? Here are some tips to get started.

 

Starting your path to CBT Certification is easy.

 

 

At A-CBT, we offer certification programs in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies for mental health professionals. Applicants should hold a terminal degree in their field and have a license for independent practice. If licensing isn't applicable, alternative credentials can be reviewed. A minimum of 40 hours of cognitive therapy education is required, with training available in various formats. Applicants need at least one year of clinical experience using cognitive therapy with a minimum of ten patients. Eligible terminal degrees include M.S.W, M.D., Psy.D., and others. Malpractice insurance may be necessary. CBT certification demonstrates competence and expertise, requiring specialized training and an examination. The application process involves submitting documentation and fees, as well as a case conceptualization and session audio evaluation. The certification process takes approximately 8-12 weeks.


Application Tips:

  1. Ensure you have a terminal degree in a mental health discipline and the required license for independent practice.
  2. If you don't meet licensing requirements, prepare alternative credentials for review.
  3. Complete at least 40 hours of cognitive therapy education in any format.
  4. Gain one year of clinical experience using cognitive therapy with a minimum of ten patients.
  5. Verify that your terminal degree is eligible for the CBT certification program.
  6. Consider obtaining malpractice insurance if necessary.
  7. Thoroughly review the application requirements and submit all necessary documentation and fees.
  8. Prepare a case conceptualization and session audio for evaluation.
  9. Expect the certification process to take around 8-12 weeks.
  10. Keep in mind that CBT certification can enhance your career, demonstrate your expertise, and provide credibility in the field of cognitive and behavioral therapy.

 

 

Have additional questions? Email us at info@academyofcbt.org for more information.


We look forward to receiving your application soon.

 

December 15, 2025
A Personal and Professional Journey  My initial encounter with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was simply an academic exploration of one therapeutic approach among many. However, this academic interest quickly evolved into a profound personal and professional calling, powerfully shaping my career and ultimately sparking a movement for psychotherapy education across the Arab world. During my second year of university, I was introduced to CBT. At the time, I was deeply drawn to Carl Rogers and the humanistic tradition, with its emphasis on empathy, relational depth, and the inherent potential for growth. Yet, Aaron Beck’s cognitive model, with its elegant and practical connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, resonated deeply within me. I recognized it not merely as a theory, but as a practical tool for living, something that could be applied, shared, and taught.
December 1, 2025
On November 20th, 2025 Dr. Lata McGinn was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies (A-CBT) at the Awards ceremony held at the ABCT annual conference in New Orleans, Louisiana.
November 17, 2025
Fall 2025