If you would like to use a clipping mask, this can be easy. All you have to do is to create a new layer that you will edit so that it can be added above the text layer. A clipping mask is normally used not only for layers but also for groups.
As long as the mask will be added on top of the layer then you can already use it to do its magic. To create a clipping mask, go to the button that says object. Choose clipping mask and click on make. The clipping mask will only work if you have an image underneath.