Career Paths You Might Pursue in Mental Health

By Maria Garcia Ingier

The mental health profession offers a broad range of careers for those who enjoy helping others to overcome psychological, emotional and behavior problems. If you like working with clients one-on-one, conducting research, or working in a clinical setting, there are a variety of fulfilling choices to consider. Some require higher degrees and special education, but others allow you to make a positive impact with a bachelor's degree and a certificate. Here are eight of the most notable mental health careers, including the requirements, responsibilities and potential working environments.

Licensed Professional Counselor

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) make an important contribution to mental health services by counseling and supporting individuals, couples and families with mental or emotional problems. To practice as an LPC, you typically need a master's level of education in counseling or a related field, clinical experience with a supervisor and state licensure. A large number of future counselors earn a masters counseling psychology online, which allows flexibility in the completion of the academic and clinical hours. LPCs practice in private practice, hospitals, mental health clinics and schools, helping clients manage stress, trauma, anxiety and other mental health concerns.

Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and personality disorders. A Ph.D. or Psy.D. level of education, along with extensive clinical practicum experience, is required for this profession. Hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice and research environments offer the most typical settings of employment for clinical psychologists. Evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy are applied by clinical psychologists to help the patient reach a healthier mental state.

Psychiatry

Psychiatrists are physicians specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness, typically with a combination of medication management and psychotherapy. They differ from psychologists and counselors in that they have to attend medical school and do a psychiatry residency. They also have the authority to prescribe medication, which is the reason they have a central position in the treatment of illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and severe depression. Psychiatrists practice in hospitals, private practice, psychiatric hospitals and academic institutions.

Social Work in Mental Health

Mental health social workers provide vital support to families and individuals with mental illness, substance abuse and social issues. They support clients by facilitating access to resources, counseling and advocacy to promote overall health. A mental health social work profession typically requires a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW), along with clinical practice licensure. Social workers practice in hospitals, community mental health clinics, schools and government agencies to promote the welfare of vulnerable groups.

Marriage and Family Therapy

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) provide counseling to couples and families with relationship problems, mental illness and life transitions. A master's level of education in marriage and family therapy or a related field, along with a license, is required for this occupation. MFTs use a systemic model of treatment, treating the way family dynamics influence behavior and mental health. They practice in private practice, mental health clinics and social service agencies, treating individuals and families to offer supportive guidance.

Drug Abuse Counseling

Substance abuse counselors work with individuals who have alcohol and drug addictions. They provide counseling, support groups and relapse-prevention strategies to aid in recovery. A bachelor's level and certification are sufficient for some positions, but a master's in social work or counseling is required for more professional roles. They work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, correctional facilities and outpatient programs. They have a critical role in assisting individuals to attain long-term recovery and improved mental health.

Mental Health Nursing

Mental health or psychiatric nurses provide treatment to individuals with mental illnesses, with clinical skill combined with therapeutic intervention. Psychiatric nurses work in hospitals, mental health clinics and community settings, assisting with medication management, therapy and crisis intervention. Mental health nurses require a BSN or an ADN nursing degree, as well as postgraduate psychiatric nurse education. Advanced practice positions, such as psychiatric nurse practitioners, require a master’s or a doctoral level of education and involve diagnosing and treating mental illness. 

School and Career Guidance

School and professional counselors have the primary role of helping students and working professionals with mental problems, professional choices and academic stress. School counselors help students to overcome emotional issues, while professional career counselors help individuals to follow a fulfilling profession. These roles usually require a master’s level of education in counseling, psychology, or education with state licensure or certification. Counselors work in schools, colleges, vocational schools and corporate health programs to guide people to achieve success by providing them with the support they need. 

Conclusion

The mental health profession offers a variety of highly fulfilling career paths with different responsibilities and educational requirements. If you want to practice direct therapy, diagnose mental illness, or offer support as a social worker or counselor, there are a variety of choices to make a positive difference. As the demand for mental health professionals continues to grow, a career in the field can be personally and professionally rewarding. With the right decision, you can contribute to the improvement of the mental health of people and communities.