The behavioral health industry is seeing a significant increase in the number of new jobs, and this trend will continue for several years. Some studies suggest more than 20% growth by 2030. Becoming a certified counselor takes several years of education and can be very challenging, but it is one of the most rewarding careers you will ever do. You will directly impact countless lives by improving their health and well-being. Check out the many certified behavioral health counselor jobs available on the Behavioral Health Jobs website today.
Behavioral Health Jobs is an online database of jobs in the behavioral health industry. We have job listings for certified counselors and other positions at all experience levels across the country. If you are interested in becoming a certified counselor, continue reading to learn the education requirements and then browse through the available jobs at Behavioral Health Jobs.
Common Certifications You will Need for Mental Health Counselor Jobs
To qualify as a certified counselor, you must complete several years of education, hands-on experience, and certifications in a specific behavioral health field. Certifications teach students treatment and practices in particular areas, such as education, family therapy, and addiction treatment. Once students finish with their master’s degree, they can begin working in an entry-level position to gain experience while working toward their certifications.
There are several types of certifications that you can earn depending on which specialty you are interested in:
- LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
- LSW – Licensed Social Worker
- LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- LEP – Licensed Educational Psychologist
- LPCC – Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
- LCP – Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Several mental health counselor jobs require these certifications or others as a minimum requirement. If you are interested in a specific area in mental health, check out the specific job requirements and necessary certificates.
How to Become a Certified Counselor
A student who wishes to become a certified counselor will need to complete several years of education and first-hand work experience. Many companies can help young professionals reach their career goals while working in an entry-level position. They can help point you in the right direction while providing valuable work experience.
The following education and certifications can help you to become a certified counselor:
- Obtaining a master’s degree in counseling from an accredited university, including a minimum of credit hours in counseling, family/marriage therapy, or other mental health fields. Some states require the program of study to have recognition by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP).
- Completing a minimum of 3,000 hours or two years of full-time work in a clinical setting supervised by a certified counselor.
- Passing a background check to include fingerprinting and proof of identification. Some states require additional references.
- Passing a state-administered counselor exam. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) has two exams that you can take; the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE). Today, most states require both exams. In addition, those who want to work with patients with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities will need the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRC).
- Continuing education throughout your career to stay up-to-date with new techniques and strategies for helping patients.
Browse Through the Available Certified Counselor Jobs at Behavioral Health Jobs
If you are interested in a rewarding career as a certified counselor, start your job hunt by browsing hundreds of available mental health counselor jobs across the country at the Behavioral Health Jobs website. There are several entry-level positions you can apply for to start working while earning your certifications. To help pay for your education, some companies will offer tuition assistance and promotions for completing your certifications.
Check out the available job listings at Behavioral Health Jobs today to begin an exciting career as a certified counselor.
