The job market has changed over the last few years, with more freelance and contract positions available than ever. There are some key differences between contract vs. freelance work that you should know before you begin your job search. Do you want to be completely independent and make your own schedule or work for a company for a few months to see if it is a good fit before becoming a permanent employee? Whichever job type is best for you, visit the Behavioral Health Jobs website to see the available contract jobs near you.
Behavioral Health Jobs is a website for people looking for a rewarding career in the behavioral health industry. We have thousands of full-time, part-time, contract, and freelance positions from all of the top employers in your area and around the country for those looking for remote work. Many people are choosing contract or freelance work for flexibility and a better work-life balance. Check out all available contract and freelance jobs in your area on the Behavioral Health Jobs website today.
Understanding the Difference Between Contract vs. Freelance Work
Job seekers interested in a more flexible work life should be aware of some of the differences between contract vs. freelance work. Both types of work offer more flexibility and freedom to choose who you work for, and you can find jobs that last for a couple of weeks, months, or even years.
Freelance Workers
Freelance workers work independently from any company and can take on projects from different clients. In the behavioral health field, therapists and counselors can work for multiple treatment centers and hospitals at the same time and meet with clients on-site or remotely. They set their own rates and are responsible for:
- Billing
- Scheduling
- Marketing
- Tax payments
Contract Workers
Contract workers are temporary employees under contract for a predetermined number of days. They can work independently or through an agency that finds work for them when their contract expires. The benefit of contract work is you can spend more time focusing on your job and not marketing yourself.
Types of Contract Jobs in Behavioral Health
If you are interested in finding a contract position in the behavioral health industry, here are some of the different types of work available for contract workers:
- Mental health counselor – This position helps children, teens, and adults from all walks of life with a variety of mental health conditions. You will work with patients in in-person and telehealth sessions in a clean and modern office and make your own schedule.
- Outpatient therapist – You will treat men and women 18 and over with substance use disorder or other mental health issues. You will perform domestic violence, anger management, parenting, and substance abuse group therapy sessions.
- Telehealth teen therapist – This position works with adolescents with depression, anxiety, and suicidal tendencies through a virtual intensive outpatient program. You will have a dedicated team working for you, leaving you to concentrate on helping patients.
- Licensed behavioral health therapist – You will provide in-person and telehealth therapy sessions using dialectical behavior therapy to help men and women struggling with PTSD, substance abuse, or other mental health issues. This position requires LMFT, LPC, or LCSW certifications.
- School counselor – This position works with K-12 students with emotional or intellectual disabilities and who are diagnosed with autism or other developmental disorders. You will meet with students in private and group sessions, give classroom presentations, and be available for crisis support.
The Benefits of Behavioral Health Contract Work
While traditional full-time jobs may seem more appealing to some, there are several benefits to choosing contract work in the field of behavioral health. Here are some of the top benefits that you can expect to experience as a contract worker in this industry:
- Flexibility – One of the biggest advantages of contract work is the flexibility it offers. As an independent contractor, you have more control over your schedule and workload. You can choose which projects to take on, when to work, and how much you want to work. This flexibility can be especially beneficial for those who have other commitments or responsibilities outside of work.
- Opportunity for diverse experiences –Contract work often involves working on different projects with various organizations, giving you the opportunity to gain a wide range of experience in the behavioral health field. This can help you develop new skills and expand your knowledge, making you more marketable and valuable to potential employers.
- Higher earning potential – Contract work typically pays more than traditional full-time jobs in the same field. As an independent contractor, you can negotiate your rates and take on multiple projects at once, potentially increasing your income. In addition, contract work often offers higher hourly pay rather than a fixed salary, giving you more control over your earnings.
- Freedom to choose the type of work you want – With contract work, you can choose the types of projects and organizations you want to work with. This can allow you to focus on areas that align with your interests and strengths, making your work more fulfilling and enjoyable.
- Improved work-life balance – Contract workers often have more control over their work schedule, allowing for a better work-life balance. You can choose when and how much you want to work, allowing you to prioritize your personal life without sacrificing your career.
- Potential for remote work – With the rise of telecommuting and virtual services, many behavioral health organizations offer contract positions that allow for remote work. This can eliminate the need for a daily commute and provide a more comfortable work environment.
- Networking opportunities – Contract work can expose you to a variety of organizations and professionals in the behavioral health field, providing valuable networking opportunities. This can help you build relationships, expand your professional network, and potentially lead to future job opportunities.
Contract work in behavioral health can offer a unique and rewarding career experience. It allows for flexibility, diverse experiences, higher earning potential, and the freedom to choose the type of work you want. Consider exploring contract work opportunities in this field to reap these benefits and enhance your career in behavioral health.
Browse Through Behavioral Health Jobs to Find a New Career in Behavioral Health
Behavioral Health Jobs offers a dedicated database of jobs in the behavioral health industry for job seekers interested in contract and freelance positions. Understanding the difference between contract vs. freelance will help narrow your job search to the ones that are best for your career goals. Click on the Behavioral Health Jobs website today to search through the available contract jobs near you.
