Mental health care in the United States is changing, seemingly every day. Awareness of the damaging effects of untreated mental illness in men, women and children is growing. So too are the treatments that can minimize or eliminate the harm caused by mental illness. That’s where clinical mental health counselors can help.
According to the American Mental Health Counselors Association, clinical mental health counselors “combine traditional psychotherapy with a practical, problem-solving approach that creates a dynamic and efficient path for change and problem resolution.” They help all kinds of people, from all walks of life. A master’s degree is often the minimum requirement to become a mental health counselor.
Consider the impact you want to make on the world. Is a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, like the one offered by Alma College, the right fit for you? Keep reading to learn about the benefits of furthering your education in this robust and interesting field of study.
- Alma College offers an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) that can be completed in as little as two years and will prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the National Counselor Examination. Learn more at edu/academics/programs/ma-in-clinical-mental-health-counseling.
Making a difference
Clinical mental health counselors focus on all sorts of topics that significantly impact the lives of our local communities; including trauma, substance abuse, grief, marriage and family life, and so much more. Mental health equity and social justice in society is increasingly becoming an industry focus. If you get a degree in clinical mental health counseling, you’re that much closer to positively impacting society.
Opportunities for growth
According to labor market analysis, substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors and mental health counselors — two positions you can qualify for with an MA in CMHC — are projected to become some of the fastest-growing occupations in Michigan over the next decade. This translates into a greater possibility of finding a job with a high-paying salary.
Flexibility
Speaking of counselors, there is a LOT that you can do with an MA in CMHC. Would you like to set up your own private practice, or work as a consultant? Would you like to work in a big hospital, or a smaller health care system? With so many open positions, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make your job your own.
Did you know? Alma College has expanded our vibrant student-centered educational programs to include graduate degrees. Learn more at alma.edu/academics/programs/graduate-programs.
