Mental Health Counseling Degrees and Career Profile
(found programs from 222 schools)

Introduction to Mental Health Counseling Careers

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 26.2 percent of Americans over the age of 18 – that’s about 57.7 million people – suffer from a diagnosable mental condition every year. From depression to low self-esteem, mental health counselors help patients deal with a wide range of debilitating issues that can seriously threaten their emotional and mental health.

Useful Resources

• National Board for Certified Counselors
• American Mental Health Counselors Association

Mental Health Counseling Job Description

Mental health counselors most frequently work out of private offices or in health care organizations like hospitals and social aid facilities. They spend their time meeting with individuals or groups to treat a variety of disorders including trauma, stress, addiction, grief and more. In some instances, a mental health counselor may refer a patient to a specialist, for example in cases where continuing substance abuse is an issue.

Some people still adhere to the severely misguided notion that mental health counselors are only necessary in extreme cases, but counselors can be just as valuable in helping patients learn how to cope with the stress of everyday incidents, such as relationship issues and career changes.

Mental Health Counseling Requirements

Mental health counselors are required to have a minimum of a master’s degree, preferably in mental health or a similar field, and must also gain experience through a supervised training program as an intern or resident. In most states it is also necessary to become licensed by passing a state exam. Many mental health counselors choose to gain further education in the form of a doctoral degree or to gain certification on the national level from the National Board for Certified Counselors.

In addition to meeting strict education and certification requirements, a good mental health counselor also possesses a variety of unique interpersonal skills. A non-judgmental attitude, good social perceptiveness and excellent listening skills are all essential.

Mental Health Counseling Career Outlook

Employment opportunities for mental health counselors are expected to be excellent in the coming decade. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 24 percent growth in the field from 2008 to 2018, a much faster rate of growth than the national average. The median annual salary for mental health counselors is approximately $38,010.

Mental Health Counseling Trends

The increase in mental health counseling career opportunities is largely due to the decrease in stigma surrounding mental health issues. Changing views regarding both psychological illness and the importance of maintaining day-to-day mental health means that more people are willing to seek help than before. In addition, the new health care bill passed by the Obama administration makes provisions for mental health care, allowing mental health services to become more readily available and increasing opportunity in the field.

Mental Health Counseling Degree Programs

Welcome to the most complete directory on the Web of Mental Health Counseling programs. It contains all the nationally accredited programs, from 222 schools across the country.

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In addition to the campus based programs, there are numerous online programs available for many of the common Psychology degree types (Associate, Bachelors, Masters, PhD) and specialties. Please feel free to use the links on the left-hand side of this page to explore some of the online degree programs available. Thanks for visiting!