What is Mental Health Counseling?
Mental health counseling is an important field in the healthcare industry, and those looking to become mental health counselors will find a variety of degree programs at colleges and universities across the country. Students can choose from several types of degrees including associate’s, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral level programs. Each type of program offers a unique set of skills that are essential for working as a mental health counselor.
When considering which college or university to attend for a mental health counseling degree program, it’s important to research what each school offers. Different schools may have different requirements for admission, such as prerequisites or GPA requirements. Additionally, some schools may offer specialized certifications or internships that can give students extra experience in the field before they enter the workforce.
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Online Mental Health Counseling Education in Colorado
A mental health counselor can help people deal with a variety of emotional, social, and behavioral problems. They may also advise clients on how to cope with stress, improve relationships, and improve self-esteem. They can make use of a number of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy.
Mental health counselors work in a wide range of settings, from hospitals to schools. They can provide services to individuals or groups and can help a person find a healthier life. The scope of practice for mental health professionals varies widely by state. A mental health counselor will have to be licensed no matter what state they work in. Licensing requirements vary by state, but most require that a practitioner obtain a graduate degree, supervised clinical experience, and an exam.
The scope of practice of each counselor can be different, depending on their interests and training, but the main goals of counseling are to help people overcome challenges, develop healthier lifestyles, and function well. Mental health counselors can specialize in a specific area such as child development, addiction treatment, or family counseling but all counselors should have a thorough understanding of human development, psychopathology, and progress measurement assessment methodology.
Online Associates (AS)
An Associate Degree in Mental Health Counseling provides individuals with a basic understanding of the principles and practices that are used by mental health counselors and an overview of the traumas or issues they might encounter. This degree program will equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat individuals who suffer from mental health issues. Students enrolled in this program will learn about the importance of developing therapeutic relationships with clients and psychological theories that can be applied to improve the mental state of clients or patients.
An Associate Degree in Mental Health Counseling is an excellent opportunity for students who want to gain a basic understanding of human behavior and a foundation focused on counseling techniques. This degree program typically features courses on psychology, counseling methods, research methods, group dynamics, crisis intervention strategies, diagnostic reasoning skills, and ethical considerations. Unfortunately, while you can gain a great overview from this type of degree, it will not help you gain access to many roles in counseling. You could find yourself a role as a psychiatric technician or a secretary in a mental health facility, but in order to work as a mental health counselor you will need a master’s degree.
Online Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's degree in mental health counseling is a specialized field of study that can lead to a career as a counselor. This type of degree program provides students with an understanding of psychology and counseling techniques, as well as the knowledge and skills needed to help individuals who are struggling with mental health issues. With this degree, graduates can aim to gain the master’s degree that they must have to work as a counselor in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, universities, or even private practice. Graduates may be able to work as substance abuse counselors with a bachelor’s degree, but they will need to obtain licensure and certification.
Mental health counseling colleges offer courses which provide students with an opportunity to gain knowledge and develop skills that are essential for working in the field of mental health counseling. These courses include topics such as interpersonal communication, clinical diagnosis, psychotherapy theory and practices, multicultural counseling, ethics, and professional development.
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Online Masters (MS)
A master's degree in mental health counseling can help students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to work as counselors in a variety of settings. This degree is what you need to earn licensure in the field and this type of degree program typically combines theoretical coursework with hands-on, practical experience in the field. This field experience may even help you move toward licensure since you need practical experience before you can be fully licensed. Students will explore research methods and psychological theories as well as learn about diagnoses, treatments, and interventions for mental health issues. With a master’s degree, graduates are qualified to become licensed mental health counselors who provide services such as psychotherapy, crisis management, and individual or group counseling.
Mental health counseling masters programs prepare students to effectively assess and treat individuals facing mental illness or emotional trauma. Courses cover topics such as abnormal psychology, family therapy techniques, professional ethics in counseling, substance abuse treatment strategies, cross-cultural awareness in clinical practice, lifespan development theories, and more.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
A PhD in Mental Health Counseling prepares individuals to be effective leaders and practitioners in the mental health field. This is a terminal degree that enables graduates to become experts in their chosen area of counseling, such as clinical psychology or school psychology. With this degree, counselors will be able to provide evidence-based treatment and interventions for a wide variety of mental health conditions.
The curriculum for a PhD program typically includes core courses such as abnormal psychology, cognitive assessment, psychotherapy theory, and research methods, though they are taught at a higher level and more in-depth than they are at lower degree levels. Elective courses could focus on areas like family therapy, addictions counseling, or crisis intervention. A dissertation component is also included in these programs, which requires that students demonstrate their knowledge and research skills through an original project.
Online Certifications
Mental health counseling is a rewarding and challenging field. It requires dedication, training, and education to become certified in the mental health counseling profession. For those looking to specialize in this area, there are a variety of colleges and degree programs available that can help you get started on the path toward certifications. These certifications can help you focus on specific types of addiction, can help you better work with groups when providing therapy to multiple people at one time, can provide you insight in working within a family structure, and more.
Become a Mental Health Counselor in Colorado
Mental health counseling is an important and rewarding profession, dedicated to helping people cope with psychological distress. If you are interested in becoming a mental health counselor, these steps can help you get started on the path towards this meaningful career.
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Step 1: Complete formal education related to mental health counseling
Mental health counseling is a growing field of study, and there are numerous colleges and universities offering degree programs related to mental health counseling. Students who are interested in becoming certified mental health counselors will benefit from completing a full formal education in the field. Depending on the type of program chosen, learners can earn certificates, diplomas, or degrees at different levels to gain the knowledge they need to become certified counselors. Certificates offer an overview of key concepts while diplomas provide a more comprehensive understanding of fundamental practices and principles. Degree programs offer even deeper insight into this specialized field, including clinical approaches to addressing behavioral issues and strategies for building therapeutic relationships with clients. You may focus on psychology or counseling in general rather than a mental health counseling degree at lower levels and not specialize until you are earning a master’s.
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Step 2: Obtain licensure or certification requirement
Mental health counselors provide guidance, support, and counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups. To pursue a career in mental health counseling, it’s important to understand the licensure or certification requirements for this field. Obtaining the appropriate credentials is essential for practicing as a mental health counselor in any given state. Licensure and certification vary by state; however, there are some commonalities across states that need to be met by aspiring mental health counselors. Generally speaking, most states require applicants to have at least a master's degree from an accredited counselor preparation program, related supervised experience hours, and passing scores on both oral and written examinations administered by the state’s licensing board. You’ll likely also need to meet additional requirements, such as completion of courses focusing on ethics or law topics relevant to mental health counseling practice. In Colorado, you can earn your degree in counseling, human services, mental health and wellness, or a similar degree program that's accredited by CACREP.
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Step 3: Gain experience in the field
Mental health counseling is a rewarding career path for those who are passionate about helping others. You can begin to gain experience in this field by completing an internship or shadowing experience during your school career. Otherwise, all necessary experience will need to be gained after you’ve graduated, which can push back your completion of licensure requirements and delay the true start of your career.
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Step 4: Join a professional organization
Mental health counseling is an important field dedicated to helping people manage mental illness and improve their overall psychological well-being. For those looking to pursue a career in this field, joining a professional organization can be very beneficial. Professional organizations are designed to help mental health counselors stay on top of the latest developments in the field, network with peers, and understand new trends in the industry. Joining professional organizations also offers access to unique resources like journals, newsletters, continuing education opportunities, and workshops all geared toward helping members advance their skillsets. The American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) is one such organization that provides members with certifications like Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health (LPC-MH), as well as various online courses and webinars to assist counselors in staying current with best practices for treating clients.
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What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Mental Health Counseling?
A bachelor's degree in mental health counseling can open the door to a variety of different career paths, but it will not allow you to work as a mental health counselor. With this degree, you'll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to work in social work or substance abuse counseling, but you will require more education to become licensed to help people manage their mental health issues.
However, there are also plenty of options outside the counseling arena where you could put your degree to use. With all the writing you will do in this degree, you might be well prepared to work as a writer or editor. You might work in human resources or marketing, where your knowledge of human behavior could come in handy. A bachelor’s degree of any kind can help you make your way into nearly any field, so the sky is the limit even if you choose not to continue into a master’s program.
Potential Careers for Mental Health Counseling Graduates
- Adult or Geriatric Counselor:
An adult or geriatric counselor provides counseling services to adults and geriatrics to help them manage their mental health, improve their quality of life, and develop better coping skills. This age group has specific needs that can best be met by someone with special knowledge.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work or related field
- Licensed or eligible for licensure as an Adult or Geriatric Counselor
- Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations governing mental health treatment
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for rehabilitation counselors in the US in 2021 was $38,560 and counselors (all other) earn $45,160
- The mean annual wage for rehabilitation counselors in Colorado is $48,060 and counselors (all other) earn $59,590
- Career Counselor:
A career counselor is responsible for providing guidance and advice to individuals in making career decisions such as selecting a college major, exploring job options, and developing a career plan.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work or related field
- Experience as a counselor or working in a related field
- Knowledge of career development theories and processes
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Colorado is $59,010
- Residential Counselor:
A residential counselor provides support to individuals in a residential facility by providing counseling and guidance, facilitating activities, and monitoring behavior.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or related field
- Previous experience working with individuals in a residential setting
- Previous experience working with individuals in a residential setting
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $57,900
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Colorado is $53,490
- Mental Health Technician:
A mental health technician provides direct patient care in a mental health setting. This individual will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure that patient's goals and needs are met.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work or related field
- Previous experience working in a mental health setting preferred
- Knowledge of mental health treatment modalities and therapeutic approaches
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for psychiatric technicians and aides in the US in 2021 was $36,230.
- The mean annual wage for psychiatric technicians in Colorado is $41,820
- Direct Support Professional:
Direct support professionals provide direct support services to individuals with disabilities, helping them to lead meaningful lives in their communities.
Necessary Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to pass background check and obtain clearance from state agencies
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Knowledge of community resources and services available to individuals with disabilities
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for home health and personal care aides in the US in 2021 was $29,430
- The mean annual wage for home health and personal care aides in Colorado is $32,080
- School Counselor:
School counselors provide emotional and academic support to students in grades K–12. They help identify and assess students’ academic, career, and social/emotional needs, and help teachers develop individualized plans for their success.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s degree in school counseling or related field
- Valid state teaching license
- Knowledge of school counseling practices and procedures
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work with diverse students from varying backgrounds
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Colorado is $59,010
- Marriage and Family Therapist:
A marriage and family therapist is a mental health professional who provides psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. They help people identify and manage emotional and behavioral issues by exploring the underlying dynamics of relationships in order to promote healthier communication, understanding, and problem-solving skills.
Necessary Requirements:
- A Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy or a related field
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) certification
- Experience working with diverse populations
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Patience and empathy when working with clients
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for marriage and family therapists in the US in 2021 was $49,880
- The mean annual wage for marriage and family therapists in Colorado is $73,040
- Child, Family, and School Social Worker:
A child, family, and school social worker works with children, families, and school personnel to identify and address social and emotional needs. They can also provide counseling and intervention services to promote healthy development and well-being.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s Degree in Social Work or related field
- Licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- Knowledge of child development principles and best practices in social work
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for child, family, and school social workers in the US in 2021 was $54,880
- The mean annual wage for child, family, and school social workers in Colorado is $59,790
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