Mental health professionals in high demand
The importance of those in the mental health professions has never been more evident during 2020, and careers in this field are expected to grow.
Cayman Tirado, director and clinical coordinator of mental health services at San Jacinto College, said there are a variety of jobs within the mental health field, from mental health techs to licensed professional counselors to psychiatrists, as well as many options in between such as substance abuse counseling, social work, case management, and peer support specialists.
Training can range from certifications to an associate degree up to a doctor of medicine. It all depends on the level of care a person chooses to work in.
“To be a substance abuse counselor, you can work at the associate degree level,” said Tirado. “I encourage students who are interested in counseling to start as a substance abuse counselor. It allows you to start working with clients quickly and is a great way to find out if counseling is the path for you.”
Tirado said they offer training across the spectrum of mental health including an Associate of Applied Science in Clinical and Counseling Psychology degree, and four additional certificates.
“The AAS provides individuals with the necessary educational requirements to become eligible for testing as a
According to the
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 25% through 2029.
licensed chemical dependency counselor and allows students to obtain a certificate as a mental health tech as well. We offer two standalone certificates in substance abuse counseling that are perfect for students who already have a degree and just need to complete additional training to become an LCDC,” said Tirado.
The extra certifications include the occupational and level 2 certification, mental health occupational certificate, and prevention specialist occupational certificate. Each of San Jacinto College certificates can be completed within two to three semesters and are stackable leading to the AAS.
Cynthia Mulder, LCSW, director of education and
training and the social work fellowship at The Menninger Clinic, said there are numerous opportunities, especially with the impact of the pandemic and the aftermath that will continue through 2021 and beyond.
From telemedicine to virtual, outpatient, residential, and in-person services, mental health needs will be in demand, Mulder said.
“The mental health needs of our community are ever increasing. There
is a fundamental shift happening, and it’s impacted our lives. We need to continue to be there,” Mulder said.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder,
and mental health counselors is projected to grow 25% through 2029. The median annual wage reported in May 2019 for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $46,240.