Mental health is a critical issue in the U.S. and more mental health professionals are needed to provide compassionate counseling and treatment.
These are not jobs that just anyone can do. In most cases, mental health professionals need advanced degrees that combine theory and clinical experience before they can practice. The education does not finish upon graduation, either: careers in mental health often come with unique licensure requirements and continuing education hours—both of which ensure a mental health professional is qualified to deliver the best possible care. These professionals are also crucial in integrated behavioral health, a more holistic approach to treating illnesses, conditions, and injuries.
A career in mental health takes work, but it’s worth it. To learn more about the requirements and the rewards of the mental health professions, check out the degree programs and career pages below.
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Applied behavior analysis is used to help treat and understand trauma, traumatic brain injury, compulsion, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and even addictive behaviors. Professionals in this role usually hold a master’s degree in applied behavioral science or psychology.
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Certified rehabilitation counselors (CRC) are allied health professionals with the skills to assist people with disabilities. They work hard to help individuals gain access to employment, education, live independently, and access community services. By meeting with clients one on one and setting goals, they are able to assess skills and needs, setting a treatment plan to help a client meet their objectives.
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Mental health counselors work directly with individuals, couples, and groups to diagnose and treat mental health issues. Professionals in this field employ psychotherapy, problem solving, or other techniques to help their clients identify and overcome their struggles. Mental health counselors help treat eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, alcoholism, addiction, and abuse.
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Neuropsychology is a field within the discipline of clinical psychology. Professionals in this specialty engage in work related to the human brain and cognition. They can work directly with patients assessing and treating disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, and learning disabilities.
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Psychiatrists investigate human behavior, diagnose mental illness, and treat patients with psychotherapy, pharmaceuticals, and other therapies. They have received extensive specialized training during their years of residency and are licensed as either a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathy. Additionally, in order to practice, they must be board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN).
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Psychologists are an important part of the mental health care landscape. They hold doctoral degrees and have completed extensive studies and clinical training that gives them the expertise to tackle even the most complex mental disorders. Most psychologists have a strong background in research which gives them the ability to think analytically within the clinical field. Job duties can include evaluating patients, working in schools, writing treatment plans, and conducting psychological research.
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