Mental health emergencies are on the rise. One in five adults in the United States experiences a mental health disorder each year, and half of all Americans will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lifetime. Because of this, there is a greater demand for mental health services. Behavioral health jobs are expected to grow by 22% from 2014 to 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s nearly double the average growth rate for all occupations.
Behavioral Health Jobs has a robust job board with the top mental health jobs, no matter your location in the U.S. You can also find career information to stay on top of industry trends. Find a new job today.
The Need for Mental Health Jobs
If you or someone close to you has a mental illness, you know how important it is to get treatment from a qualified professional. Unfortunately, not everyone who needs mental health services receives them. Only 41% of adults in the United States with a mental illness receive treatment.
This lack of access to mental health services can have serious consequences. Untreated mental illness can lead to substance abuse, homelessness, job loss, and even suicide.
Fastest Growing Mental Health Jobs
With mental health emergencies on the rise, there is a greater demand for mental health services. There is no better time to get into the mental healthcare industry than now by finding a successful, enriching career. Here are some of the fastest-growing mental health jobs:
1. Clinical Psychologists
Clinical psychologists provide psychological services to individuals, families, and groups. They conduct psychological assessments and develop treatment plans. Clinical psychologists also provide counseling and psychotherapy.
2. Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They prescribe medication and provide other forms of treatment, such as psychotherapy.
3. Mental Health Counselors
Mental health counselors provide counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, families, and groups. They often work in private practice, but they may also work in hospitals, clinics, or community mental health centers.
4. Marriage and Family Therapists
Marriage and family therapists provide counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. They often work in private practice, but they may also work in hospitals, clinics, or community mental health centers.
5. Clinical Social Workers
Clinical social workers provide counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, families, and groups. They often work in private practice, but they may also work in hospitals, clinics, or community mental health centers.
What to Know About Starting a New Career in Mental Health
Starting a new career in mental health can be both exciting and challenging. Before embarking on this journey, there are many things to consider, including education, experience, and specialized skills. Whether you are considering becoming a psychologist, counselor, or therapist, it is important to be aware of the following key factors.
- Education – One of the first things to know about starting a new career in mental health is the education requirements. Depending on your chosen profession, you may need to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a related field. From there, you may also need to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree to become licensed. It is important to research the specific education requirements for your desired profession and make sure that you are prepared to commit to the necessary education.
- Experience – Along with education, experience is also an important factor in starting a new career in mental health. Many mental health professions require supervised clinical hours before becoming licensed. You will need to gain hands-on experience through internships or other supervised roles. Additionally, having volunteer or work experience related to mental health can also be beneficial in building your skills and knowledge.
- Specialized skills – While education and experience are essential, having specialized skills can also set you apart in the mental health field. This may include being knowledgeable about specific therapeutic techniques or having expertise in a certain population or area of mental health. It is important to continuously develop and improve upon these specialized skills throughout your career.
- Licensing and certifications – In order to practice in most mental health professions, you will need to obtain a license from the state in which you plan to work. This typically involves passing an exam and completing the required hours of supervised experience. Some specialties may also require additional certifications or specialized training.
- Self-care – Working in the mental health field can be emotionally and mentally taxing, so it is important to prioritize self-care. This may include setting boundaries with clients, taking breaks when needed, and seeking support from colleagues or a therapist yourself. Taking care of your well-being is crucial to effectively help others.
- Continuing education – The mental health field is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest research and techniques through continuing education. This may include attending workshops and conferences or taking additional courses to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Starting a new career in mental health can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it is important to be aware of the factors mentioned above. By staying informed and continuously learning, you can ensure that you are on the right path towards becoming an effective and compassionate mental health professional.
Find Behavioral Health Jobs Today
Mental illness is a serious problem, but mental health professionals can treat it. If you’re interested in helping people who have a mental illness, consider a career in mental health. With the proper education and training, you can make a difference in the lives of others.
Browse our job board to find behavioral health jobs in your area so you can start making a difference in your community.
