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What are the most effective strategies for seeking a position in this? field?
Mental Health Counselor?
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Noah’s Answer
Hey Aniya, I'm currently in the process of working towards becoming a mental health counselor/therapist and have done loads of research on the topic so I feel well equipped to help you. First off, unfortunately in the U.S. every state requires you to have either a Master's degree or a Doctorate in order to be a licensed mental health counselor. If all you want to do is help patients and you aren't too interested in the research side of psychology, I recommend looking into the Master's side of things as it's almost always less expensive and takes less time to complete the degree (3 years on average + Bachelor's time). There's several master's concentrations that can let you get licensed but some of the most common ones are M.A. in Social Work, M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The important requirement for all of them is making sure you find a program that is CACREP accredited. Otherwise becoming licensed is going to be a whole lot longer, arduous and potentially cost you more time and money. CACREP basically ensures the program you choose will have a pathway to licensure.
Now, for your Bachelor's unlike what most people think you don't actually have to major in psychology in order to enter into a graduate psychology program and become licensed (although it doesn't hurt). For instance, i'm majoring in Financial Planning for my B.S. but still going into a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after. It's good to combine interdisciplinary subjects, especially if you want to specialize and provide a specific type of service or treat a specific demographic. But if you aren't sure what else you're interested in, a undergrad in psych should serve you just fine.
Now, for your Bachelor's unlike what most people think you don't actually have to major in psychology in order to enter into a graduate psychology program and become licensed (although it doesn't hurt). For instance, i'm majoring in Financial Planning for my B.S. but still going into a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after. It's good to combine interdisciplinary subjects, especially if you want to specialize and provide a specific type of service or treat a specific demographic. But if you aren't sure what else you're interested in, a undergrad in psych should serve you just fine.
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Dr. James T.’s Answer
You need to get a degree in the Mental Health field. That could be MFT, psychologist, counselor, or Autism, (no degree require). Companies are afraid to hire if you are not license by some organization. There have to be a desire to work in this field for the exam require a lot of work to pass the tests.
Look at what college you would like to go to. and can afford to go to.
Dr. James T. recommends the following next steps: