Counselors can work in many different settings helping to counsel, rehabilitate, and support their patients. Counselors often work with individuals needing help in a variety of areas. They may also not only counsel one individual but their family or primary caregivers or guardians. Behavorial counselors also often work with other mental health specialists including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, school counselors, and psychiatric nurses.
Behavioral Health Counseling Programs Available at Colleges Today
Colleges are offering some excellent behavioral health counseling programs. These programs include bachelor's degrees that lead directly into master's degree programs that allow graduates to complete a degree in the counseling field. A master's degree will generally take 2 years of full-time study beyond a 4 year bachelor's degree. Some programs are even offered in the evenings and on the internet for student convenience. Find out about the amazing career field of behavioral health counseling today.
Salary Expectations for Behavioral Health Counselors
The field of behavioral health counseling offers solid paying salaries. The Occupational Outlook Handbook found that the middle 50 percent of mental health and behavioral health counselors in 2008 made average salaries between $29,000 and $47,000 annually. The licensing and educational requirements to work as counselors vary greatly by state. However, most states require counselors to have at least a master's degree in a counseling field before obtaining a state license to practice in the counseling field. The top ten percent of behavioral and mental counselors made over $70,000 annually in 2008.
Strong Job Outlook for Behavioral Health Counseling
The job outlook for those in the mental health and behavioral health counseling field is expected to be very positive. According to theUnited States Department of Labor Statistics, employment of mental health counselors is expected to see an increase of job growth of over 24 percent through 2018. This growth will be spurred by an increase in insurance companies providing reimbursement to counselors for mental health counseling, as opposed to psychiatrists and psychologists that are much more expensive. Job openings in rural areas are expected to be very positive.
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