Behavioral therapist and behavioral health counselor are related but not exactly the same:
Behavioral Therapist
A behavioral therapist typically provides structured, goal-oriented therapy focused on changing specific behaviors. This often includes approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or applied behavior analysis (ABA). These professionals commonly work with individuals who have mental health disorders, developmental disabilities, or behavioral challenges. Most behavioral therapists hold at least a Master’s Degree in Psychology, Counseling, Behavior Analysis, or a related field, and may also be licensed depending on the state and setting in which they work.
In Practice
A behavioral therapist might use ABA to support children with autism or apply CBT to help adults manage anxiety or phobias. For instance, a therapist may assist a client in overcoming a fear of flying by breaking the fear into small, manageable steps and teaching coping strategies. The focus is often on measurable behavior change within a defined treatment plan.
Behavioral Health Counselor
A behavioral health counselor is a broader term that refers to professionals who address a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral concerns. This role often includes work in mental health and substance use treatment and may integrate aspects of physical health as part of a whole-person approach. These counselors typically hold a Master’s Degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related behavioral health field, and are usually required to obtain licensure (such as LPC, LCSW, or LMHC) to practice. This role reflects the overall field of behavioral health, which integrates mental health, substance abuse, and sometimes physical health components.
In Practice
A behavioral health counselor might help a teenager manage anxiety, support someone recovering from substance use, or assist individuals dealing with trauma or relationship issues. These counselors take into account a client’s overall life context—including social, psychological, and behavioral factors—to guide personalized care.
Related Careers
Residential Real Estate Agent
Residential real estate agents are licensed professionals who help clients buy, sell, or rent homes or residential properties.
Commercial Real Estate Agent
Commercial real estate agents are licensed professionals who help businesses, investors, and developers buy, sell, lease, or manage properties used for business purposes, such as office buildings, retail spaces, hotels, warehouses, industrial facilities, and multi-family residential buildings like apartment complexes.
Luxury Real Estate Agent
A luxury real estate agent specializes in the buying, selling, and marketing of high-end properties, typically those valued in the top 10% of a given market.
New Construction Real Estate Agent
New construction real estate agents are specialized real estate professionals who work with builders and developers to market newly built or under-construction residential or commercial properties.
Buyer's Agent
Buyer's agents are realtors who represent homebuyers in the process of purchasing a property.
Real Estate Broker
Real estate brokers are licensed professionals who help facilitate the buying, selling, and renting of properties.
Relocation Real Estate Agent
Relocation real estate agents are specialists in helping clients who are moving from one location to another, often over long distances, such as between cities, states, or even countries.
Seller's Agent
Seller's agents, also known as listing agents, are realtors who represent the person or entity selling a property.
Seniors Real Estate Specialist
A seniors real estate specialist (SRES) is a real estate professional who has completed specific training to help people aged 50 and older with real estate transactions that focus on senior-friendly options.
Dual Agent
A dual agent is a real estate agent who works for both the buyer and the seller in the same deal.
Real Estate Investment Agent
A real estate investment agent is a specialized realtor who helps clients buy, sell, or manage properties with the goal of generating income or long-term returns.
Vacation and Second Home Agent
Vacation and second home agents are realtors who specialize in helping clients buy, sell, and manage properties intended for vacation use or as second residences.
Real Estate Auctioneer
A real estate auctioneer manages and conducts the sale of properties through an auction format.
Military Relocation Professional
Military relocation professionals (MRPs) are real estate agents who have received specialized training to support military service members, veterans, and their families in buying, selling, or renting homes.
Construction Manager
A construction manager oversees and coordinates construction projects.
Green Real Estate Agent
A green real estate agent is a realtor who specializes in sustainable and eco-friendly properties, which not only minimize environmental impact but also provide long-term savings on utility bills.
Real Estate Agent
A real estate agent represents buyers or sellers in real estate transactions.
