Health Career: Mental Health Counselor
Who are mental health counselors and what do they do?
These health professionals help people and their families cope with emotional and mental trauma. In individual or group counseling sessions, they help patients learn how to manage problems with family, depression, stress, addictions, substance abuse and more. They also recommend treatments and assistance programs. They work closely with other health professionals.
What are some other names for mental health counselors?
Mental health counselors are also often referred to as therapists, psychologists and analysts. Many mental health counselors may specialize in a certain area of counseling such as family and parent-child relationships, domestic violence or chemical dependency.
Clinical psychologists and clinical social workers are experienced mental health counselors who have at least a master's degree (or a PhD) and who work in a hospital-type setting. These professionals can also be called psychotherapists.
How do mental health counselors typically spend their workday?
As a mental health counselor, you will work in such settings as a hospital, business, health clinic, doctor's office or other health-related organization. You will work closely with patients and health professionals. You may divide your time between counseling patients, researching mental health issues and analyzing patient conditions. For example, you may counsel patients who have terminal illnesses or help teenagers who suffer from eating disorders. You will also help these patients find helpful resources or community programs.
What does it take to be a good mental health counselor?
If you are interested in helping others deal with personal problems or emotional issues and you like to interact with all types of people, you should consider becoming a mental health counselor. You should be a good communicator and have patience, compassion and a lot of energy.
What are some health-related jobs that are similar to that of a mental health counselor?
Health educator, medical social worker, speech-language pathologist.
Related links and helpful information:
- American Counseling Association
- The Mental Health Liaisons Group
- American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practices
- FLAHEC.org – Mental Health Profession Overview
