Career Paths for Mental Health Professionals

The stigma around mental health is persistent. However, the difference between 2019 and previous years is the ever-growing awareness of and openness around the topic. With more people seeking counseling services right now, clinical mental health counseling is an increasingly attractive career. The below infographic goes into detail:

 

 

The Need for Mental Health Services is Increasing

The need for mental health services is immense: nearly 1 in five US adults live with some kind of mental illness. As staggering as that statistic may be, the fact that less than half of those adults receive mental health services is even more shocking.

 

In 2017, nearly 20 million adults received mental health services. Since then, public knowledge about mental health issues has grown and continues to do so steadily. Among other things, this means that demand for trained mental health counselors is rapidly increasing.

 

Positive Career Outlook for Mental Health Professionals

As more people seek professional mental health and substance abuse assistance, careers in this arena will continue to grow. Over the ten years leading to 2026, job opportunities for mental health counselors are projected to increase by 23% - three times faster than the average for all occupations.

 

Where are these jobs located, for the most part? Mental health counseling offers a wide field of workplace options, including:

• Non-profit organizations
• Colleges and universities
• Hospitals and health centers
• Public and private practices
• Correctional facilities
• Residential care facilities

 

The roles available within these facilities can vary.

 

A Sample of Rewarding Career Opportunities

A wide variety of career opportunities are available in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. They include:

• Rehabilitation Counselor
• In-Home Therapist
• Licensed Mental Health Counselor
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Marriage and Family Therapist
• Higher Education Counselor

 

Each role listed above requires advanced education and training.

 

Why a Master of Science in Education – Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

If you are interested in pursuing a career in mental health services, a Master of Science in Education – Clinical Mental Health Counseling can help you launch a meaningful and satisfying career.