Are you passionate about mental health and making a difference in people’s wellbeing? There are numerous career paths one can pursue in the diverse field of mental health. The following are a few of the many meaningful occupations related to mental health that one can consider researching:
Mental Health Counsellor: mental health counsellors are trained and licensed professionals that work with individuals who are dealing with mental illnesses like depression and addiction. Counsellors are trained in specific techniques that they use to support those struggling with mental or emotional strain involving relationships and life challenges (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”). Professional counsellors can work for organizations in a broad range of areas, as well as community health centers and facilities (“Mental Health Overview”).
Psychologist: Psychologists study and research the human mind’s activity and function through behavioural, emotional, and cognitive lenses. (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”). Psychologists can work with people of a wide range of age groups, including children, families, and seniors (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”). Psychotherapy is a key component of their work, as they also work directly with individuals and groups to cope with mental illnesses (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”).
Psychiatrist: One of the main differences between a psychologist and psychiatrist is that psychiatrists are physicians that go through medical school and specific training including an internship and/or a residency (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”). Psychologists, on the other hand, undergo graduate studies to obtain their doctoral degree.
Psychiatrists, like psychologists, also utilize the psychotherapy in their practice, but use other methods that help to improve the chemical variations in certain mental illnesses. Psychiatrists are the only professionals in the field that are able to provide medication prescriptions. (“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?”).
Social Worker: Social workers support the functioning of people individually, in groups, and in community settings (“Mental Health Overview”). Social workers assist these individuals and groups in dealing with challenges such as addiction and substance abuse, disabilities, mental disorders, poor family dynamics and other struggles that may contribute to stresses in their lives financially, socially, and personally.
Having a career as a mental health worker or professional can leave a positive impact on the lives of others. These professionals are often resources for people that seek diagnosis and treatment of their mental health conditions, and help with their growth in improving their mental health state. The above are just a few of the occupations one can look into when considering future career pursuits in mental health related fields.
Written by Michelle Huynh
Sources:
“Mental Health Overview.” ExploreHealthCareers.Org. American Dental Education Association, n.d. Web. 17 March 2016.
“What are Popular Careers in the Mental Health Field?” Learn.org. Learn.org, n.d. Web. 17 March 2016.