Top Jobs With a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling Online: Careers That Make a Difference
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In 2023, approximately 59.2 million U.S. adults received mental health services, provided by counselors, social workers and psychologists, reflecting growing awareness and reduced stigma for those seeking support. Mental health counseling helps treat symptoms of conditions like anxiety and depression, improving emotional well-being and enhancing daily functioning. Access to mental health care can foster resilience, reduce the risk of crisis and empower individuals to manage challenges, leading to stronger relationships, better productivity and an overall improved quality of life.
Professionals interested in a career as a mental health counselor can gain hands-on training and a pathway to dual licensure through the online MS in Mental Health Counseling program from Butler University. There is high demand for skilled practitioners in the mental health field which has a job growth outlook of 16% per year, much faster than the average rate in other fields.
What Is Mental Health Counseling?
A mental health counselor is a professional who uses a variety of therapeutic methods and techniques to help people experiencing psychological distress. This can include a mix of interventions including individual and group counseling, neurocounseling and other proven methods drawn from research into mental and social disorders, trauma and crisis prevention.
Mental health counselors work in a wide range of settings including mental health clinics, schools, hospitals, community health centers, correctional facilities, social service agencies, government agencies and private practice. Their work ranges from helping individuals address cognitive, behavioral and emotional issues to helping improve relationships within families, groups and communities.
Before treating patients with psychological distress, mental health counselors must first assess and diagnose the patient. Together, the counselor and patient set goals, develop a treatment plan and identify situations, behaviors and thoughts that interfere with wellness and recovery. They also examine social issues like peer pressure, bullying, substance use, work stress, prejudice, financial challenges and health issues.
Through sessions, the counselor helps the patient build coping skills so they can better deal with challenges they are facing. The goal is to help the patient become more resilient, practice healthy behaviors, have better relationships and feel an overall sense of enhanced well-being.
Mental Health Counseling Careers
Professional Counselor Roles
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPCs), Clinical Mental Health Counselors (CMHCs) and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) help people who are struggling with behavioral, emotional or psychological challenges, mental health issues and substance abuse. They assess patient needs and create tailored treatment plans using therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy to manage conditions such as anxiety and depression.
In most states, the title of “Mental Health Counselor” is a protected title that only those who have met certain state requirements may legally use. Most states require LPCs to have a master’s degree, supervised experience working with patients and a set number of hours in training or internship. In addition, they must pass an exam like the National Counselor Examination (NCE), as set by state regulations.
CMHCs typically require a master’s degree and an internship. LMHCs have a master’s degree but are not fully licensed. The average annual salary for an LPC is $80,453 while the median annual salary for a CMHC is $73,000. Graduates should note that higher end salaries often align with counselors in private practice or those with several years of experience.
Trauma Therapist
Individuals who have experienced traumatic events benefit from working with a trauma therapist who provides specialized support aimed at facilitating emotional and psychological healing. The trauma therapist assesses emotional, psychological and physical trauma to identify the patient’s specific needs then develops a tailored treatment plan.
Employing evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or Somatic Experiencing, the trauma therapist addresses symptoms and disorders. The job requirements typically require a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or social work with a focus on trauma-informed care. The median annual salary is $80,325.
Marriage and Family Therapist
The primary role of a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) is to help individuals, couples and family members work through interpersonal conflicts. This involves diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, maintaining detailed client records, creating treatment plans and conducting sessions with individuals, couples, families or groups.
This career requires a master’s degree in a relevant field, post-degree supervised clinical work and licensure by the state. The average annual salary is $98,450.
Prepare for In-Demand Roles in Mental Health
Most professional careers in mental health counseling require a master’s degree. The online Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program from Butler University offers a rigorous curriculum aligned with national and state standards.
The program prepares students for a range of rewarding positions in a high growth field. Students complete the ready to pursue careers in private practice, clinics, schools, addiction and recovery organizations and inpatient and outpatient hospitals.
Learn more about the online MS in Mental Health Counseling from Butler University.
