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Step Into a Career That Matters: The Rising Need for Mental Health Counselors

Friday, August 23, 2024 | 8:00 AM

young lady counseling customer

2.2 million—That’s how many jobs the mental health industry accounts for, with the number of openings growing every year.

Mental health is a complex field centered around our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It isn’t always easy to navigate, but with the right knowledge and expertise, you can help others manage their mental health and lead healthier lives.

In the wake of COVID-19, mental health awareness has surged. The pandemic forced people into isolation, and the resulting loneliness affected many, not just physically but mentally as well. The isolation amplified their worries and insecurities, leading to a noticeable decline in mental health for many individuals.

As more people recognized the importance of mental health, the demand for professional help increased, leading to a significant rise in mental health counseling jobs.

A career in mental health counseling is not only fulfilling but also offers the opportunity to work with diverse communities and in various environments.

The Demand

The rise in mental health awareness has led to a growing demand for mental health counselors. People are increasingly acknowledging that mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being and that those struggling deserve access to professional help. This help often comes in the form of therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors.

With more people seeking treatment, the need for mental health professionals continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for mental health counselors is expected to increase by 10.6% between 2022 and 2032.

Choosing a career as a mental health counselor not only allows you to make a positive impact but also provides job security in a rapidly expanding field.

Job Opportunities

One of the advantages of a career in mental health counseling is the widespread need for professionals in this field. Whether in schools, hospitals, private practices, online platforms, or state agencies, opportunities are abundant. This flexibility allows you to choose the work environment that best suits your preferences and career goals.

Moreover, the growing demand for mental health services has led to competitive salaries in the field. According to Indeed.com, the annual median salary in Texas for a Licensed Professional Counselor is $66,329, with potential for growth.

The variety of settings in which you can work also means there are multiple career paths you can pursue, such as:

  • Mental Health Counselor
  • Licensed Professional Counselor
  • Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselor

Make a Difference

Mental health counseling is essential at every stage of life. From early childhood to late adulthood, individuals who struggle with mental health issues often need support. As a counselor, you have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on their lives.

According to school counselor.org, 20% of students need mental health services, yet only one in five receives the help they need. By becoming a mental health counselor, you can be that crucial support system for students, helping them overcome challenges and succeed both mentally and academically.

When individuals seek your help, they are already taking a significant step toward improving their mental health. They trust you to guide them through their struggles, and you play a vital role in helping them become the best version of themselves.

Education and Certification

An MED in Counseling with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UTRGV equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand the mental health needs of diverse populations. Courses such as Treatment Planning and Crisis Intervention, Counseling Theories, Methods & Techniques, and others prepare you to become a well-rounded professional in the mental health field.

UTRGV’s program is accredited through the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), which means you’ll not only gain the expertise needed for the job from a high quality accredited program but also complete the required requirements to apply for state of Texas licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

Now Available at UTRGV in Laredo – Starting Spring 2025!

Beginning in Spring 2025, UTRGV will offer courses in Laredo to complete an M.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Classes will be held at the UT Center, with options for online and evening courses, providing flexibility for students. Prepare to become a professional in understanding the mental health needs of a multicultural community, all while managing your schedule.

Make a difference today with UTRGV! Apply now!




Source:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm

https://eab.com/insights/blogs/adult-learner/most-in-demand-skills-graduates/?

https://thisisstatistics.org/in-2022-data-scientist-and-statistician-are-top-jobs/

https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/slideshows/best-jobs-in-finance


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