Online Therapist Continuing Education
We went into this field because we care about people and we find them fascinating. Let’s be real: we’ve all had that moment where a client walks in and their story grips us so much that we’re fully immersed. That’s why so many of us become therapists in the first place. We’re here because we’re curious and endlessly interested in what makes people tick, and we have this deep-rooted drive to help. In this work, you can’t fake genuine interest; clients can feel it, and it makes all the difference in the connection you build. To be a great therapist, you need that curiosity and an authentic, human connection.
Now, here’s the disconnect: if therapy is so engaging, if people are so endlessly fascinating, why are so many of our continuing education courses the complete opposite? Why does continuing education for therapists so often lack that spark? We’ve all been there—sitting in a CE course that sounds promising on paper but, in practice, feels more like an exercise in staying awake than in learning.
So I started to think about why that is. Maybe it’s because many of the professionals presenting these courses are amazing clinicians but not necessarily amazing teachers. They may know their stuff inside and out, but explaining it in a way that keeps others engaged is a different skill altogether. And sure, they probably care a lot about their topic, but let’s face it, if the course is just slides and a monotone voice, that’s a recipe for tuning out. It’s not that they’re not smart or not passionate—they just haven’t been trained in making learning an experience.
Introducing Not Boring CEs
That’s where Not Boring CEs come in. I wanted to create a space where continuing education feels less like a chore and more like something you actually look forward to. I’ve been teaching therapists for over a decade now, and I know that when you combine passion with personality, learning becomes a whole different experience. It stops being passive and becomes something active, something that sticks. So, I reached out to colleagues who share this same vision—people I find not only brilliant but also engaging, dynamic, and fun. These are people who don’t just know their topic; they love it and want you to love it too.
Our approach is simple: rather than a lecture, we have a conversation. We dive into those “out of the box” topics that you won’t find in a typical CE lineup. We cover things that are taboo, overlooked, or just plain fascinating. I ask the questions I think you’d ask if you were sitting in the room with us because I want to learn alongside you. There’s something incredibly energizing about a learning environment where curiosity is encouraged and where the format is more about dialogue than monologue.
One of my goals with Not Boring CEs is to become your go-to hub for asynchronous continuing education. The beauty of asynchronous learning is that it fits into your life, not the other way around. You don’t need to block out a chunk of your day just to sit in front of a screen, staring at slides. With Not Boring CEs, you can listen while you’re driving, doing the dishes, or even taking a walk. Learning doesn’t have to be a full-stop activity; it can flow right into your day-to-day, making it a natural part of your life.

CEs Are More Than Just a Requirement for Therapists, Counselors & Social Workers
I don’t just want you to complete your CE requirements—I want you to be excited about them. When we’re passionate about what we’re learning, that energy carries over into our work, and our clients feel it. Every time we pick up a new skill or learn about a new modality, we’re not just adding tools to our toolkit; we’re giving our clients the best possible care. Not Boring CEs is about that kind of learning—the kind that keeps you engaged, curious, and inspired. I’m always on the lookout for the next big thing or the next under-the-radar topic that could shake up how we think about therapy. My commitment to you is to keep bringing you content that feels fresh, relevant, and meaningful.
I also want you to have a sustainable, fulfilling career. The demand for therapists is huge—there are more clients in need than we can currently serve. But the only way to meet that need effectively is by keeping ourselves engaged in this work for the long haul. If you’re working with the same niche, using the same modality, year after year without change, burnout is almost inevitable. But when you’re constantly learning, adapting, and finding new angles to explore, this field can remain just as intriguing 30 years in as it was on day one.
CEUs That Inspire Your Work as Mental Health Professionals
And let’s be honest, a lot of you are here because you’re looking for CEUs. Let’s clear up the terminology: CEU stands for Continuing Education Unit, but most of us actually earn CEs, or Continuing Education credits. We use the terms interchangeably, but here’s the thing—whether you call them CEUs or CEs, these credits are about more than just meeting a requirement. They’re a gateway to new insights, advanced techniques, and research that enhances our ability to support our clients in deeper, more effective ways.
For me personally, online CEs have been a game-changer. When I moved cross-country twice, I realized just how much clinical norms and practices vary by region. Relying solely on local in-person CE courses can create a kind of “regional bubble,” where you’re exposed only to the modalities and approaches popular in that area. Online CEs, though, give you access to a world of knowledge that you might not encounter otherwise. I’ve been able to dive into modalities and topics that I wouldn’t have found in my local CE offerings, and I’ve had the chance to learn from experts all over the country, if not the world.

Removing Barriers to Continuing Education
Online CEs also break down barriers in a way that traditional, in-person options just can’t. Not everyone can hop on a plane to attend a workshop in another state. Whether it’s cost, family responsibilities, or simply time constraints, traveling for continuing education just isn’t feasible for a lot of us. Online learning brings these opportunities directly to you, letting you explore areas of interest that might otherwise be inaccessible. And yes, online CEs are absolutely legitimate—they’re recognized by licensing boards just like any other approved CE option, but they offer so much more in terms of flexibility and breadth of content.
So, when I say Not Boring CEs, I mean it. I’ve put my heart into creating a space where your continuing education experience can be as engaging, meaningful, and impactful as your work with clients. Here, you’re not just checking off a box; you’re expanding your skills, growing your practice, and hopefully finding a renewed sense of inspiration that you can carry back into your work. Whether it’s a new therapeutic approach, an innovative technique, or a fresh perspective, Not Boring CEs aims to provide you with the resources you need to keep evolving.
What does CEs stand for in counseling?
CEs stand for Continuing Education, a cornerstone of staying effective in counseling. These credits allow therapists and counselors to keep their skills fresh, stay current on research, and learn about the latest techniques. CE courses give you the chance to continually refine your practice so you’re always ready to offer clients your best.
What are CEs?
CEs, or Continuing Education credits, are earned by mental health professionals to stay current with industry standards, techniques, and research. These credits aren’t just about meeting state requirements; they’re about building skills, exploring new areas of interest, and growing as a professional. Think of CEs as a way to keep your practice vibrant, responsive, and deeply informed by the latest developments in the field.
Are online CE credits legit?
Absolutely, online CE credits are 100% legitimate and recognized by most licensing boards. They also offer a unique chance for therapists and counselors to access courses you might not find locally, diving into niche topics and learning from experts across the globe. Online CEs provide flexibility, diversity, and depth that in-person options may not offer, making them a perfect fit for expanding your knowledge from anywhere.
Why is continuing education important?
Continuing education is essential because it keeps you engaged, inspired, and informed about the latest in mental health. It’s a commitment to growth that benefits both you and your clients. As new research, insights, and methods emerge, continuing education ensures you’re always equipped to provide the highest level of care. This journey of learning is what helps us, as therapists, continue to grow and evolve alongside our clients.
You Want to Learn More About Continuing Education...
What does CEU stand for?
I know a lot of you are looking for CEUs. Want a little knowledge you never asked for? CEU stands for Continuing Education Unit. Therapists don’t actually get CEUs. Psychologists, social workers, counselors, and mental health clinicians typically receive continuing education credits (CEs), but we often call them “CEUs” out of habit.
These credits are essential for keeping up with new insights, techniques, and research in the field, ensuring that our clients get the best, most informed care possible. So, if you’re a mental health pro looking to expand your skills, CEs are for you—keeping you on top of your game, year after year.
CEs are designed for mental health professionals—therapists, counselors, psychologists, social workers, and anyone who dedicates their career to supporting others’ wellbeing. These credits aren’t just a requirement to renew a license or meet state board standards; they’re a commitment to growth, development, and better care for our clients. CEs are for those of us who know that the field of mental health is ever-evolving, and that what we learned in school only scratches the surface. Each CE represents a step toward being a more effective, informed, and compassionate therapist, counselor or social worker.
In a way, CEs are like badges of curiosity and commitment. They say, “I’m here for the long haul, and I’m ready to keep learning so I can give my clients the best I have to offer.” So if you’re a mental health professional looking to expand your skills, CEs are exactly what you need to keep your knowledge and techniques up to date. This isn’t just about checking off a box—it’s about equipping ourselves to handle the real, human challenges that clients bring to us every day. It’s about staying sharp, open-minded, and prepared to support our clients in the best possible way, year after year.
What are the continuing education requirements for LCSWs in California?
If you’re a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California, you’re no stranger to the idea of ongoing learning. To keep your license active, you’ll need to complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years.
These aren’t just random hours, either. They’re thoughtfully structured to help you stay updated on the core areas of practice and the current issues affecting our work. Here’s the breakdown:
- Law and Ethics: Every renewal cycle, you’re required to complete six hours in Law and Ethics. Why? Because the legal landscape changes, and so do the ethical standards. Staying grounded in these topics helps us provide safe, responsible care.
- Specialized Courses: California has a few one-time requirements designed to help you tackle the unique challenges that may arise in your practice. These include a seven-hour course on HIV/AIDS, a six-hour course on Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention, and a three-hour course on Telehealth, which covers the ins and outs of virtual care, including the ethical and legal considerations.
Each of these requirements is about more than just meeting state regulations—they’re here to help you stay well-rounded, informed, and able to address the complex needs of your clients. Whether it’s understanding how to support clients struggling with suicidal ideation or staying ethical with telehealth, these CE requirements are designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to give your clients the very best care.
How often do you need to renew your LCSW in California?
In California, renewing your LCSW license isn’t just a procedural formality; it’s a built-in opportunity to assess and refresh your skills. You’ll need to renew every two years, and this isn’t just about sending in a fee. It’s a checkpoint that ensures you’re staying current with best practices in a field that’s constantly evolving.
Every two years, along with your renewal application, you’ll need to complete those 36 continuing education hours. Think of this process as a reminder to stay actively engaged in learning, to take a pulse on where the field is going, and to keep your practice aligned with the latest developments. Renewal is about much more than keeping a license—it’s about keeping yourself prepared, inspired, and in a position to give your best to your clients, year after year.
What are the continuing education requirements for LCSWs in NJ?
In New Jersey, the requirements for LCSWs reflect a dedication to staying clinically sharp and ethically sound. LCSWs here need to complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years. This is structured to make sure social workers are equipped to handle a range of issues that clients may bring to them.
Here’s how those hours break down:
- Clinical Practice: At least 20 hours must directly relate to clinical practice. This keeps you grounded in the core of your work, making sure that every two years, you’re picking up new clinical insights or deepening your understanding of tried-and-true techniques.
- Ethics: New Jersey requires five hours in ethics. This focus on ethics helps keep you rooted in the professional standards that guide our field, ensuring that clients receive responsible, respectful, and safe care.
- Cultural Competence: Three hours must cover social and cultural competence, which is vital in a world where our clients come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. This part of your CE is all about staying aware of the nuances that shape people’s lives and making sure our practice respects and honors those differences.
- Opioid Education: New Jersey also requires one hour on topics related to opioid use, which includes understanding the risks and recognizing the signs of addiction, abuse, and diversion.
These requirements reflect New Jersey’s commitment to creating well-rounded, informed clinicians who are equipped to navigate the complex landscape of mental health care.
How many CE credits do I need in Wisconsin as a therapist?
If you’re practicing in Wisconsin, the CE requirements differ based on your specific role in the mental health field. Let’s break it down by profession:
- Psychologists: You’ll need 40 hours of CE every two years. Out of these, at least six hours must focus on ethics, risk management, or jurisprudence—essential areas that help ensure you’re providing safe, ethical care.
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs): LCSWs need to complete 30 hours every two years. Within that, four hours should cover ethics and professional boundaries, and these must be in an interactive format to foster more engaged learning.
- Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs): You’re looking at 30 hours of CE every two years, with a focus on ethics as well. Four hours must cover ethics and professional boundaries, ensuring that every two years, you’re revisiting the guidelines that protect both you and your clients.
- Professional Counselors: Similar to MFTs, you’ll need 30 hours every two years, with four hours dedicated to ethics and professional boundaries.
Each profession has a unique focus, but the common thread is a commitment to ongoing learning and ethical care. These requirements are about more than just meeting a quota; they’re designed to ensure that every mental health professional is well-equipped to offer the highest standard of care to their clients.
What are the CEUs requirements for LPCs or LCSWs in Texas?
Texas has specific continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) that focus on maintaining high standards of care across the state. Here’s how it breaks down:
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs):
- Total Hours: 24 hours of CE every two years.
- Ethics: Six of those hours must cover ethics.
- Cultural Diversity: Three hours should focus on cultural diversity or competency.
- Jurisprudence Exam: LPCs need to complete the Texas Jurisprudence Exam every renewal period, which counts as one hour of ethics CE. This exam ensures you’re up to date on the laws and regulations governing your practice.
- Supervision: If you’re a supervisor, you’ll need an additional six hours in supervision training.
- Approved Providers: As of 2024, at least half of your CE hours must come from approved providers.
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs):
- Total Hours: 30 hours of CE every two years.
- Ethics: Six hours must be focused on professional ethics and social work values.
- Cultural Competency: Three hours in cultural competency are required to ensure inclusivity in practice.
- Supervision: Supervisors need an extra six hours in supervision training.
These requirements are about more than just keeping up with state rules—they’re designed to ensure that you’re staying prepared to offer the highest level of care in an ever-changing field.
How can I be a more effective therapist?
Being an effective therapist is about curiosity, connection, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Here are some strategies to keep evolving in your work:
- Embrace Lifelong Learning: Therapists who never stop learning are always adding new tools to their practice. Dive into continuing education courses that excite you, like Not Boring CEs, and stay updated on new therapies and techniques.
- Seek Supervision and Consultation: Fresh perspectives from supervision can help you grow, even if you’re experienced. Peer consultation is also invaluable in helping you think through challenging cases and find new ways to support your clients.
- Reflect on Your Own Responses: Self-awareness in sessions helps you fine-tune how you come across. Take time after sessions to consider how your responses may impact your clients, and make adjustments to stay authentic and attuned.
- Stay Empathetic and Curious: Every client has a unique story. When you approach each session with genuine curiosity, clients feel seen and supported.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Burnout is real, and staying effective means maintaining your own wellbeing. Balance your practice with activities that recharge you.
Being an effective therapist is an ongoing journey of learning, adapting, and staying connected to the work that first inspired you.
Ready to Dive into Online Continuing Education for Therapists?
Let’s be real—continuing education can be a powerful way to reignite your passion for therapy, counseling, or social work. It’s not just about maintaining licensure (though that’s important!), it’s about staying curious, engaged, and excited about the work you do. Whether you’re a psychologist looking to hone in on a specific treatment technique or a social worker searching for ways to deepen your understanding of cultural competency, therapist continuing education online offers a treasure trove of possibilities to keep you learning and growing.
The beauty of online continuing education is that it fits seamlessly into your already packed schedule. You don’t need to sacrifice an entire weekend, travel, or get stuck in irrelevant lectures. At Not Boring CEs, we pride ourselves on offering courses that are interesting and designed to make you think. Follow the steps below to learn more!
- Learn more about our instructors here.
- Discover the different plans and courses we offer.
- Reach your best potential with our interesting continuing education online courses!
