Career Options for Students Interested in Counseling
4 Career Options for Students Interested in Counseling
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of substance abuse and mental health counselors is expected to grow 23% between now and 2026. That is substantially faster than the national average for all occupations. This growth is credited to the increasing opioid epidemic and the improved awareness and acceptance of mental health issues. With less stigma, more people are seeking out counseling. If you’re interested in pursuing this career field, here’s a look at how to get started and the four top career options.
Getting Started
To begin, you’ll need to get a bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services or if your school offers it, counseling. From there you'll need to go on to graduate school and get a master's degree. While there are some entry-level positions available in counseling that only require an undergraduate degree, to become a fully licensed and certified counselor you'll need a graduate degree.
You'll also need the field experience that is part of the master's degree program. Finally, you'll need to get licensed. Exact requirements vary by state, but they all include an exam and some also include continuing education requirements. And last but not least, to get your dream job, you’ll have to everything in your power to present the perfect resume.
Now let’s take a look at the top 4 career paths in counseling.
Substance Abuse Counselor
As a substance abuse counselor you will work with individuals and groups, helping them to identify and deal with their addictions, and once they get clean and sober, you’ll be able to offer support to keep them on the right track. Substance abuse counselors work in hospitals, treatment facilities and in private practice.
School Counselor
School counselors work in all levels of education. You’ll work one on one with students and also in tandem with special ed teachers and other professionals when needed. Primary areas of treatment include peer pressure, academic performance, and family issues. You may also assist students with decisions surrounding career choices. School counselors are also needed after traumatic events when students may need support and grief counseling.
Marriage and Family Counselor
As a marriage and family counselor, you'll work with couples and families rather than individuals. Aside from assisting couples with marriage problems you may also counsel blended families and help with parenting issues, and other interpersonal relationships. Marriage and family counselors are certified through the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards.
Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counselors are the most common type of counselor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics nursing homes and residential care facilities employ the most mental health counselors. As a mental health counselor, you'll treat individuals and groups dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. You may also work with people in crisis who feel suicidal.
No matter which path you choose, you are sure to find satisfaction in helping people feel better, escape addiction and lead happier lives. It is a challenging yet rewarding profession! Check with your local college to see what programs are available and to get more information on careers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of substance abuse and mental health counselors is expected to grow 23% between now and 2026. That is substantially faster than the national average for all occupations. This growth is credited to the increasing opioid epidemic and the improved awareness and acceptance of mental health issues. With less stigma, more people are seeking out counseling. If you’re interested in pursuing this career field, here’s a look at how to get started and the four top career options.
Getting Started
To begin, you’ll need to get a bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services or if your school offers it, counseling. From there you'll need to go on to graduate school and get a master's degree. While there are some entry-level positions available in counseling that only require an undergraduate degree, to become a fully licensed and certified counselor you'll need a graduate degree.
You'll also need the field experience that is part of the master's degree program. Finally, you'll need to get licensed. Exact requirements vary by state, but they all include an exam and some also include continuing education requirements. And last but not least, to get your dream job, you’ll have to everything in your power to present the perfect resume.
Now let’s take a look at the top 4 career paths in counseling.
Substance Abuse Counselor
As a substance abuse counselor you will work with individuals and groups, helping them to identify and deal with their addictions, and once they get clean and sober, you’ll be able to offer support to keep them on the right track. Substance abuse counselors work in hospitals, treatment facilities and in private practice.
School Counselor
School counselors work in all levels of education. You’ll work one on one with students and also in tandem with special ed teachers and other professionals when needed. Primary areas of treatment include peer pressure, academic performance, and family issues. You may also assist students with decisions surrounding career choices. School counselors are also needed after traumatic events when students may need support and grief counseling.
Marriage and Family Counselor
As a marriage and family counselor, you'll work with couples and families rather than individuals. Aside from assisting couples with marriage problems you may also counsel blended families and help with parenting issues, and other interpersonal relationships. Marriage and family counselors are certified through the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards.
Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counselors are the most common type of counselor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics nursing homes and residential care facilities employ the most mental health counselors. As a mental health counselor, you'll treat individuals and groups dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. You may also work with people in crisis who feel suicidal.
No matter which path you choose, you are sure to find satisfaction in helping people feel better, escape addiction and lead happier lives. It is a challenging yet rewarding profession! Check with your local college to see what programs are available and to get more information on careers.
