A master’s degree in mental health counseling can lead to a variety of job opportunities, and the outlook is positive for job growth in the field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Take a look at a few job titles to get a view of some of the most widely accepted careers that are possible with a master’s degree in mental health counseling.
Mental Health Counselor
Mental health counselors are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, family service agencies, psychiatric institutions, residential treatment centers, nursing homes and hospices. A mental health counselor helps people to manage their emotions and to cope with mental disorders or problems with friends and family members. Counselors also help clients to understand their feelings and how to cope with them. That includes offering strategies for managing their emotions.
Government Worker
Individuals with a master’s degree in mental health counseling can seek employment at local, state and federal government facilities, which may include child protective services, prison or other institutions of behavioral correction. Job titles include vocational rehabilitation specialist, drug and alcohol specialist, parole officer and social service manager.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Many states will allow a person with a master’s degree in mental health counseling to apply for licensure as a marriage and family therapist. A marriage and family therapist helps couples, children, blended families and traditional familes to overcome problems, identify feelings and emotions and create action plans to improve lives.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance abuse counselors help addicts to identify larger problems that lead an individual to abuse drugs or alcohol. They create plans to overcome their addiction while improving their client's lives. While many organizations may not require a master’s degree in mental health counseling to obtain a position as a substance abuse counselor, the qualification is an asset that can lead to management positions in these programs.