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Degrees and Schools
Those who want to pursue a career as a mental health counselor should consider pursuing a master's degree in mental health counseling or other, closely related degree. These programs typically consist of 60 credits of coursework including significant internships. Programs can be found at many universities and colleges across the country as well as at some online schools. Some programs are designed for working professionals, with coursework offered on weekends or during the evening hours, while others follow a traditional full-time schedule. Many state licensing boards require that mental health counseling programs be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Coursework
Mental health counseling degree programs typically include courses such as those listed below:
- counseling theory
- counseling techniques
- psychopathology
- neuroscience for mental health professionals
- human growth and development
- addiction counseling
- behavioral medicine
- career and vocational counseling
- counseling ethics
- human sexuality
Online Classes and Programs
Although limited in number, online mental health counseling programs can be a good alternative for working students, especially if there are no conveniently located programs available. These programs can be found at various online schools as well as some traditional schools that offer online programs. These programs should be accredited by Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation is important for online programs that serve students across the country because it means the program meets the education requirements for most state licenses.
Employment Requirements
Many positions, especially those in private practice, require state licensing. Requirements vary depending on the state but typically include the completion of a master's degree in mental health counseling or similar degree, clinical experience and a passing grade on a national or state exam. Often, a license is not granted until after the candidate has completed additional supervised experience after graduation. Entry-level positions are available that do not require licensing and sometimes provide supervision that qualifies a person to become licensed in the future.
Some positions require a National Certified Counselor (NCC) certification which is granted by the National Board for Certified Counselors. They also grant Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) certifications which are valuable for individuals considering private practice.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
When choosing a mental health counselor program, the following questions should be considered:
- Accreditation - Is the program accredited by the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)?
- Internships - What types of internships are available? Do potential internships match student's career goals?
- Licensing - Does the program meet the requirements of the licensing board in the state where the student expects to work? If not, will the program help the student meet the additional course or internship requirements?
- Convenience - Is the program designed for working students? Does the program offer flexible scheduling? Are any or all classes available online?
- Job Placement - Does the program assist students in finding a job after graduation? What jobs have past graduates found?
Mental Health Counselor Job Description
As awareness and acceptance of mental illnesses has increased, more individuals than ever before are being diagnosed with mental health problems and are seeking help to overcome them. As a result, the need for qualified professionals to provide counseling for these individuals is expected to increase substantially over the next decade. Mental Health Counselors assess and treat mental and emotional disorders such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma and grief. They also help clients with life issues that are affected by their illness such as relationships and careers.
Mental Health Counselors may specialize in working with a certain population such as the elderly, adolescents, substance abusers or the mentally disabled. They may work in a wide variety of settings including private practice, mental health facilities, hospitals, schools, detention centers, residential homes for the mentally disabled, substance abuse treatment facilities and community service agencies.
Mental Health Counselors typically have some or all of the following responsibilities:
- conducting patient assessments
- providing individual and group psychotherapy
- conducting outreach activities
- case management
- consulting with other service providers
- creating treatment plans
- providing crisis intervention
Resources
American Mental Health Counselors Association - The AMHCA aims to enhance the profession of mental health counseling through advocacy, education and professional development.
American Counseling Association - The ACA represents all types of counselors working in various types of practice settings. The organization sponsors leadership training, continuing education, publications, and advocacy to support counselors in their professional development.
Mental Health America - This organization is dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthy lives. Along with over 300 affiliates, they deliver programs and services, advocate for policy changes and educate the public as to the importance of mental health.
US Government Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration - The SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental health illnesses. They administer government-funded programs that provide mental health and substance abuse services. They also collect and disseminate health data to assist lawmakers in making educated policy decisions about the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders and substance abuse.
National Alliance on Mental Illness - NAMI is an advocacy organization dedicated to helping improve the lives of people with mental illness. They offer awareness, education and advocacy programs including support groups, training programs and state mental health system report cards.
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