Mental Health

Mental health is a critical issue in the U.S. and more mental health professionals are needed to provide compassionate counseling and treatment.

These are not jobs that just anyone can do. In most cases, mental health professionals need advanced degrees that combine theory and clinical experience before they can practice. The education does not finish upon graduation, either: careers in mental health often come with unique licensure requirements and continuing education hours—both of which ensure a mental health professional is qualified to deliver the best possible care. These professionals are also crucial in integrated behavioral health, a more holistic approach to treating illnesses, conditions, and injuries.

A career in mental health takes work, but it’s worth it. To learn more about the requirements and the rewards of the mental health professions, check out the degree programs and career pages below.

Addiction Specialist Addiction specialists help clients overcome addiction and mental health issues. Responsibilities can include assessing mental health and addiction problems, assigning diagnosis, and providing counseling.	Applied Behavior Analyst Applied behavior analysis is used to help treat and understand trauma, traumatic brain injury, compulsion, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and even addictive behaviors.
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Certified rehabilitation counselors (CRC) are allied health professionals with the skills to assist people with disabilities. They work hard to help individuals access employment and education, live independently, and access community services. By meeting with clients one on one and setting goals, they can assess skills and needs and make a treatment plan to help a client meet their objectives.	Certified Sex Addiction Therapist A sexual addiction diagnosis is complicated because sex is natural human behavior and it can be hard to discern the difference. That is why it is critical for anyone who may have this condition to receive care from a CSAT.
Child (Pediatric) Psychologist To help children improve their mental health, there are many behavioral health experts, including child or pediatric psychologists. These doctoral-level prepared mental health providers have received specialized training in caring for children and adolescents.	Child Life Specialist Child life specialists are healthcare professionals who help families and children navigate the process of injury, illness, trauma, hospitalization, or disability. Being an integral part of the healthcare team, these health professionals provide additional support to families and children.
Crisis Counselor Crisis counselors have received specialized training on how to assist clients who are in the midst of or have endured a traumatic event. This specialized care is centered around helping the client deal with their immediate problem.	Licensed Mental Health Counselor Mental health counselors work directly with individuals, couples, and groups to diagnose and treat mental health issues. Professionals in this field employ psychotherapy, problem solving, or other techniques to help their clients identify and overcome their struggles. Mental health counselors help treat eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, alcoholism, addiction, and abuse.
Marriage and Family Therapist Unlike traditional mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy approaches care from a relationship standpoint.	Neuropsychologist Neuropsychology is a field within the discipline of clinical psychology. Professionals in this specialty engage in work related to the human brain and cognition. They can work directly with patients assessing and treating disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, and learning disabilities.
Orientation & Mobility Specialist Orientation and mobility specialists are vital in empowering individuals with vision impairments to navigate their environments safely and confidently.	Psychiatric Technician (Aide) Entry-level professionals in the field of psychology work as psychiatric technicians or aides. They provide support and care to individuals with disabilities in mental health care facilities, correctional centers, psychiatric hospitals, and substance abuse centers.
Psychiatrist Psychiatrists investigate human behavior, diagnose mental illness, and treat patients with psychotherapy, pharmaceuticals, and other therapies.	Psychologist Psychologists are an important part of the mental health care landscape. They hold doctoral degrees and have completed extensive studies and clinical training that gives them the expertise to tackle even the most complex mental disorders. Most psychologists have a strong background in research which gives them the ability to think analytically within the clinical field. Job duties can include evaluating patients, working in schools, writing treatment plans, and conducting psychological research.
Registered Behavior Technician A registered behavior technician (RBT) is a paraprofessional who assists in delivering behavior analysis services and practices under the direct supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).	Social Worker Social workers are the ultimate problem-solvers. They work with people from every walk of life, including families, parents, kids, adults, and elderly citizens.