Best Remote Careers for Behavioral Therapists: A Comprehensive Guide

Digital Doctors

Sun, 08 Jun 2025

Introduction

The rise of telehealth and digital therapy services has made it possible for behavioral therapists to work from home. Whether you specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy, applied behavior analysis, or mental health counseling, remote roles provide flexibility, work-life balance, and the opportunity to reach clients worldwide. This guide will explore the best work-from-home careers for behavioral therapists, the skills and certifications required, where to get licensed, job boards, agencies hiring, and tips for success. Additionally, we will provide insights into income potential, best practices for managing a remote therapy business, and strategies for professional growth in the field.

Remote Roles for Behavioral Therapists

1. Telehealth Therapist

Description: Work with clients via video calls, phone sessions, and chat platforms to provide therapy services. You may work independently or as part of an online therapy network. Skills Needed:

• Strong communication and empathy
• Familiarity with telehealth platforms (Zoom, Doxy.me, SimplePractice)
• Ability to manage remote sessions effectively
• Understanding of data security and HIPAA compliance Typical Certifications:
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Where to Get Certified:
• American Counseling Association
• National Association of Social Workers Job Boards & Platforms Hiring:
• BetterHelp
• Talkspace
• MDLIVE
• Amwell

2. Remote Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapist

Description: Work with children and adults with autism or developmental disabilities to improve social and communication skills. Conduct virtual behavioral assessments and therapy sessions. Skills Needed:

• Understanding of ABA principles
• Experience with behavior intervention plans
• Virtual teaching skills
• Data collection and reporting Typical Certifications:
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
• Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) Where to Get Certified:
• Behavior Analyst Certification Board
• Institute for Applied Behavioral Analysis Job Boards & Platforms Hiring:
• Elemy
• Centria Healthcare
• Hopebridge
• The Stepping Stones Group

3. Online Mental Health Coach

Description: Provide guidance, coping strategies, and support for individuals experiencing stress and mental health challenges. Unlike licensed therapists, mental health coaches focus on personal development and wellness rather than diagnosing conditions. Skills Needed:

• Motivational interviewing
• Crisis intervention
• Digital counseling skills
• Client accountability management Typical Certifications:
• Certified Life Coach (ICF Accreditation)
• Mental Health First Aid Certification
• Positive Psychology Certification Where to Get Certified:
• International Coach Federation
• Mental Health First Aid USA Job Boards & Platforms Hiring:
• Coach.me
• Noom
• Lyra Health
• Headspace

4. Virtual Behavioral Health Consultant

Description: Work with organizations, schools, and businesses to create mental health programs and policies. Assess workplace wellness initiatives and provide recommendations for improvements. Skills Needed:

• Program development and policy creation
• Workplace mental health strategies
• Data analysis and reporting
• Knowledge of diversity and inclusion practices Typical Certifications:
• Certified Health Coach (CHC)
• Workplace Mental Health Leadership Certification
• Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP) Where to Get Certified:
• National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching
• Mental Health Commission of Canada Job Boards & Platforms Hiring:
• Thrive Global
• Spring Health
• Calm
• Ginger

5. Remote University Faculty for Psychology & Counseling

Description: Teach online courses in psychology, therapy, or behavioral science at accredited universities and online education platforms. Skills Needed:

• Online teaching methodologies
• Research and curriculum development
• Experience with learning management systems (LMS)
• Public speaking and presentation skills Typical Certifications:
• Ph.D. in Psychology or Counseling
• Teaching Certification (Online Education) Where to Get Certified:
• Coursera Teaching Online Certification
• University of Phoenix Online Teaching Program Job Boards & Platforms Hiring:
• Western Governors University
• Southern New Hampshire University
• University of Phoenix
• Capella University

Additional Resources for Growth and Career Success

• Teletherapy Business Tips: American Telemedicine Association
• Best Online Counseling Degrees: Online Counseling Programs
• Continuing Education Courses: CE4Less

Conclusion

With the right certifications, skills, and networking strategies, behavioral therapists can build a successful remote career. Whether working as a telehealth therapist, ABA provider, or online instructor, opportunities in the digital space are expanding rapidly. Additionally, therapists can maximize income by diversifying their services, such as offering workshops, writing educational materials, or launching online mental health courses. Use this guide as a roadmap to explore and secure the best work-from-home opportunities in behavioral therapy.