Mental Health Careers--All Degree Levels
Mental Health Careers that Require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Can I use my Psychology degree for a career as a Social Work Assistant?You can definitely pursue a career as a Social Work Assistant with your Psychology degree. Many social work assistants work in residential settings, especially in elder care. Social Work Assistants assist individuals with performing day to day activities. In this way, Social Work Assistants form relationships with clients that remain professional, while combining the functions of a friend and counselor. The care that a Social Work Assistant provides is supervised by a licensed Social Worker in accordance with an established plan of care for the client.
Salary InformationThe US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that social and human service assistants, with whom social work assistants are grouped, make a median of $33,000 per year.
Click here to learn more about Psychiatric Technicians. Click here to read important steps to Mental Health Careers with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
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Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
What is involved in being a Mental Health Technician with a Psychology degree?With your Psychology degree you can purse a career as a Mental Health Technician. This job may also be referred to as a Psychological Technician or a Psychiatric Technician. In this job you will assist health professionals (doctors, nurses, and psychologists) with treating individuals who have mental/behavioral problems (e.g., drug addiction). A Mental Health Technician may work in a hospital, shelter or mental health facility. Specific job duties include: helping to assess patients, documenting care, and assisting patients with their needs.
Salary InformationThe US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Mental Health (Psychiatric) Technicians and aides have a median salary of $29,500 per year.
Click here to see career salary information for ALL careers listed inexplorecareersinpsychology.org.
Click here to read important steps to Mental Health Careers with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Foster Care Case Manager
What is involved in being a Foster Case Manager with a Psychology degree?With your Psychology degree you can purse a career as a Foster Care Case Manager. This job involves being assigned children who come into the foster care system. When a child is assigned into your caseload, you become the child’s temporary legal guardian. If a child has already been taken from a family;'s care, you will work with a child's parent/s to solve whatever issue led to the children being taken from their care, hopefully to reunite the family. You might be assigned a case even before a child has been removed from a home, have to help law enforcement remove the child, and take the child to an emergency foster placement. You will have the responsibility of contacting emergency shelters and foster homes in order to find placement for a child when they are removed. Finally, you will attend all foster care court hearing with a child, write reports about a child's progress, and help supervise parental vists.
Salary Information
payscale.com reports that MFoster Care Case Managers have a median salary of $33,000 per year.
Click here to read important steps to Mental Health Careers with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers that Require a Master's Degree
Mental Health Careers--Master's Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Can I pursue a career with a Master's degree in Clinical or Counseling Psychology after earning my Psychology degree?The answer to this question is a definite "yes"! You have to decide, however, what direction you want to go as far as treating clients. Going the Clinical route is best suited for those with an interest in psychopathological populations and behavioral health--typically involves doing therapy. If you decide on Counseling, you can still do therapy, but the focus of your training will be on vocational and career processes, human diversity, and professional training. Your Master's Degree can lead to a job at a school, at a clinic, with a non-profit organization, or with the state or local government. You might even decide to go into private practice.
The time it will take you to earn a Master's degree in Clinical or Counseling Psychology is typically only 2 years--you will complete a master's thesis (research or other type of writing project). However, during your time in graduate school you will likely have to pay tuition. In addition, opportunities to earn money as a graduate student are limited (e.g., being paid to be a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant). Your Master's degree should offer you greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree, and also gives you the opportunity to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). Finally, you can always decide to use your Master's degree as a springboard to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). Just for clarity, if you have a Master's in Counseling Psychology, certain states will give you the opportunity to be licensed as a "Professional Licensed Counselor".
Salary InformationA Master's degree in Clinical Psychology will pay less than the amount apa.org lists for the average yearly income for a PhD of $80,000. In addition, a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology will pay less than the amount apa.org lists for the average yearly income for a PhD of $85,000.
lick here to see career salary information for ALL careers listed in explorecareersinpsychology.org.
Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
From Psychology degree to a career with a Master's degree as a Marriage & Family TherapistOnce you earn your Psychology degree you may decide to become a Marriage and Family Therapist. A Marriage and Family Therapist works with individuals to help them deal with problems (e.g., individual depression or anxiety) and rebuild relationships. For example, a Marriage and Family Therapists might work with a couple because they're trying to avoid divorce. In addition, families sometimes require help dealing with stressful life events, such as a death in the family or drug use by a family member. Marriage and Family Therapists typically have a Master's degree, but some move on and earn a degree as a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology).
How long will it take you to earn a degree in Marriage and Family therapy? The good news is that it usually requires 2 years of graduate school to complete a master's thesis (research or other type of writing project). The bad news is that during your time in graduate school you typically must pay tuition, and there are limited opportunities for any other types of financial support (e.g., being paid to be a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant). Still, in the end a Master's degree tends to offer greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree, and also allows you to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy).
Click here for more information about Marriage and Family therapists Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average yearly income for a Marriage and Family Counselor at $53,520.
Click here to read more about Marriage and Family Therapists. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Using a Psychology degree to be an Applied Behavior AnalystWith a Psychology degree you can pursue a Master's degree as an Applied Behavior Analyst. This type of analyst uses behavioral techniques (e.g., reinforcment) as a form of treatment intervention. You can work with any aged person who is having behavioral problems (i.e., unable to control their behavior), but an Applied Behavior Analyst often works with autistic children. In addition, you might work in a school, but there are other types of job locations, including inpatient facilities. Finally, you should be aware that an Applied Behavior Analyst works with parents, teachers, and other mental health professionals to implement intervention plans.
The time to earn a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis is typically 2 years. However, there are some programs that are shorter. Moreover, some programs offer an online degree. As always, remember that when you earn a Master's degree you typically must pay tuition. This tuition can be quite high if you are out of state--check out tuition by going to various school's websites. By earning a Master's degree you will generally have more job opportunities and earn more than just having a Bachelor’s degree.
Also, make sure you check if an Applied Behavior Analyst is licensed occupation in the state you hope to reside.
Click here for more information about Applied Behavior Analysis. Salary InformationGlassdoor.com lists the average yearly income for an Applied Behavior Analyst at $40,000.
Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Moving from a Psychology degree to a career as a Genetic CounselorYou can move from your Psychology degree to a career as a Genetic counselor. This may be a career that you have heard little about, but it is fascinating career choice. Also, it may be really appealing to someone who is interersted in physiology. A Genetic Counselor assesses the risk (at the individual or family level) for genetic disorders and birth defects. In addition a genetics counselor can offer information and support to those concerned with the risk of inherited conditions.
If you are thinking about becoming a Genetic Counselor, keep in mind that there are certain undergraduate experiences you should seek out. These include getting lab experience, seeking out an internship which involves working with others, and volunteering or interning in a medical or healthcare field. Also, in addition to your Psychology courses your application will be much stronger with courses in Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry. As for earning your Master's degree, it will likely take you 2 years. You will probably have to pay tuition and there will only be limited opportunities for financial support (e.g., working as a Research Assistant). In addition, be awarte that once you earn a Master's in Genetic Counseling, you will need to be certified. This certification iis offered by the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC) through an annual examination.
Click here to link to the National Society of Genetic Counselors website Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median yearly salary for a genetics counselor at $72,090.
Learn more about Genetic Counselors by clicking here. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology
What are my career options in Mental Health with a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology?With a Psychology degree, you can pursue a career in Forensic Psychology with a Master's Degree. Typically this degree will be in Clinical Psychology, but there are certain programs that are explictly designated as "Forensics" You should pursue this career if you have an interest in abnormal psychology and behavioral health. Moreover, if yu interests in forensics are tied to an interest in criminal profiling this path is for you. Click here to access a great document listing grad schools in Forensic Psychology.
You need to know that a Master's Degree typically requires requires 2 years of graduate school to complete. As a Master's degree student you must typically pay tuition, and your chances to get other financial support (e.g., a stipend to be a Teaching Assistant) will be needed. It is also important to know that with a Master's degree you will have greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree. In addition, your Master's degree will allow you to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). Click here to read more about what a Master's degree in psychology offers.
Salary Informationpayscale.com lists the yearly average income for a Master's in Forensics at $59,000.
Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Using your Psychology degree to earn a Master's degree as an Art TherapistTo those with artistic ability, you might consider using your Psychology degree to earn a Master's degree as an Art Therapist. An Art Therapist combines knowledge and understanding of human development and psychological theories with the visual arts and the creative process. This combination provides a unique approach for helping clients improve mental health, cognitive abilities, and sensory-motor functions. Art Therapists use art media, and often the verbal processing of produced imagery, to help people resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.
Moving forward to earn a Master's degree in Art Therapy is a bit more complicated than that of other Masster's degrees. This is because, you will need to have a degree in art in addition to your Psychology degree. Once you enter an Art Therapy graduate program, it will usually take about 2 years to earn your Master's degree. Your degree typically culminates with a master's thesis (research or other type of project). Keep in mind that during your time in graduate school you will likely have to pay tuition. Also, there may be few chances to receive financial support (e.g., as a Teaching Assistant--TA). With your Art Therapy degree you will need to be credentialed by the Art Therapy Credentials Board--there are 4 types of credentials.
In the end your Master's degree should offer you greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree, and also allows you to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). It is important to note, however, that only a few states have a specific licenses to practice Art Therapy, and there are a fews others that regulate Art Therapy under another professional license. Check the American Art Therapy Association website below for more information on licensing issues.
Click here to link to the American Art Therapy Association. Salary InformationThe American Art Therapy Association lists the average yearly income for an art therapist between $30,00 and $80,000.
Click here to read more about Art Therapy. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Can a Psychology degree recipient move to a career as a Pastoral Counselor?You can move from a Psychology degree to a career as a Pastoral Counselor. This type of counselor is a trained religious leader (e.g., minister, priest, rabbi, iman, etc.) who is also trained to provide therapy services. In this way, pastoral counselors integrate psychological thought and treatment with religious training (i.e. faith-based therapy). Pastoral Counselors integrate spiritual beliefs and practices with the therapeutic process. They work with individuals, couples, and families to help foster healing, renewal, reconciliation, and transformation.
Earning a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology typically takes only 2 years. Keep in mind, however, that you will likely have to pay tuition. Also, there are few opportunities to earn money as a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant. It is important to know that your Master's degree should offer you more job opportunities and a higher salary than a Bachelor’s degree. You wil likely also be afforded the opportunity to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). Finally, you can always decide to use your Master's degree as a springboard to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). Just for clarity, if you have a Master's in Counseling Psychology, certain states will give you the opportunity to be licensed as a "Professional Licensed Counselor". With all of this in mind, make sure you check specific state laws to determine the regulations (e.g., license or certification) needed to work as a Pastoral Counselor.
Click here to link to the website of the American Association of Pastoral Counselors.
Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics does not list the median yearly salary of a pastoral counselor per se, but does list that of a marriage and family therapist (which is a very similar type of counselor) at $48,040.
For more information about a career in Faith-Based Therapy click here. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Can I use my Psychology degree to move forward to a career as a Master of Social Work?You can definitely move from your Psychology degree to pursue a graduate degree as a Master of Social Work (MSW). Although not a Psychology degree, it is very related, and an MSW allows you (if you decide to be a Clinical Social Worker) to conduct therapy if you chose. In addition, those with an MSW offer direct services to elders by working with them to help solve everyday problems. Keep in mind that an MSW degree places greater emphasis on the practice of psychology and much less emphasis on research--this appeals to many Psychology majors.
Where do Social Workers get employed? You may decide to get a job with a state and local government agency/department (e.g., Department of Health),. In addition, you can be employed in a hospital, medical clinic, community mental health clinic, or a non-profit community health agency. Finally, you may want to be your own boss and decide to set up your own private practice.
To earn an MSW degree usually requires 2 years of graduate school. You need to check if the school you are interested in require a written project (thesis) or not. Also, it is likely that will pay pay tuition. Agaion, check will schools, because financial support may be avilable.
The good news is that an MSW offers greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree. Moreover, this degree allows you to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). Click here to learn more about an MSW degree.
Click here to link to the National Association of Social Workers website. Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average yearly income for an MSW at $48,000.
Click here to see career salary information for ALL careers listed in explorecareersinpsychology.org.
Click here to learn more about an MSW degree. Click here to read some important steps in earning an MSW. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--School Counselor
From Psychology degree to Master's degree in School CounselingAnother Master's degree you can earn with a Psychology degree is in School Counseling. A school counselor impacts school children in various ways and can help with academic, career and personal issues. In addition, school counselors work with parents, and teachers to facilitate a child's performance. They can help with communicating with school administrators as well as offer helpful resources. It is important to note that school counselors work with all children, not just those who are having difficulty in some aspect of their life.
To earn a Master's degree to be a School Counselor, you need to go to graduate school in a School Counselor or Counseling (Psychology or Education) program. It will typically take 2 years to earn a Master's degree. In most Master's degree programs you will pay full tuition and not receive a stipend (salary) to be a Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant. However, sometimes financial support is available--check with schools you are interested in. Keep in mind that once you receive your Master's degree the state you work in may have additional reqirements (e.g., certification).
In the end, your Master's degree should offer you greater job opportunities and greater salary than a Bachelor’s degree. In addition, you can always decide to use your Master's degree as a springboard to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) .
Click here to link to the website of the American School Counselors Association. Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median income for school counselors at $53,660.
Find out more about School Counseling by clicking on this link. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Moving toaward a Master's degree as a Substance Abuse Counselor after earning your Psychology degreeA Psychology degree is the starting point for earning a Master's degree and then focusing on Substance Abuse Counseling. Sadly, individuals suffer from drug addiction, alcoholism, or eating disorders. These individuals may choose to see a Substance Abuse Counselor to help with their recovery as well as assist in behavior modification.
To become focused on Substance AbuseCounseling you would first get a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. It typically takes 2 years to earn a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology--you will complete a master's thesis (research or other type of writing project). However, it is likely that during your time in graduate school you will have to pay tuition, and your opportunities to earn money as a graduate student with a Teaching Assistantship or Research Assistantship will be limited. Once you earn your Counseling degree, you will have to pass the requirement for a state license or certification.
Being a Substance Abuse Counselor can lead to a job at a clinic, with a non-profit organization, or with the state or local government. You might even decide to go into private practice.
Salary Information
payscale.com lists the average salary for a substance abuse counselor at $38,500.
Learn more about Substance Abuse Counselors by clicking here. Click here to read more about what a Master's Degree in Psychology offers. Click here to read about important steps for Mental Health Careers with a Graduate Degree. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers that Require a Doctoral or Professional Degree
Mental Health Careers--Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Moving from a Psychology degree to a Doctoral Degree in Psychology in Mental HealthWith your Psychology degree, you can move on to earn a Doctoral degree. A Doctoral degree will allow you to work in various areas of mental health--university, private clinic, a non-profit organization, or government. There is always the option of being in private practice.
Clinical (PhD or PsyD)--concerned with psychopathological (mental health disorders) populations and behavioral health (including forensics).
Counseling (PhD)--concerned with vocational and career processes, human diversity, and professional training. Click here for a great link from Dr. Jospeh Hammer about all issues related to Counseling Psychology.
School (PhD)--concerned with the science and practice of psychology with children and the schooling process--involves a large percentage of time assessing children for learning disabilities
Non-profit Organizations/Government Agencies (Phd or PsyD)--concerned with organization/agencies that are designed to further a specific purpose or mission
Program and Policy Consultants (PhD or PsyD)--offer expert advice to various organization, government agencies, etc.
If you choose to go into Clinical Psychology you can earn one of two degrees--a PhD (Doctor of Philosphy) or a PsyD (Doctor of Psychology). Generally speaking, getting accepted into a Clinical PhD program is much harder than getting accepted into a PsyD program. In the other career areas listed above you typically receive a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). One thing to note if you go for a PhD is that you must first complete a Master's (MA or MS) degree, either from the same school or another school. Also, a PhD will generally takes 4-6 years to complete your dissertation (research project). A PsyD takes a little less time to complete than a PhD, and it does not involve a research project. Finally, note that when you are working toward your PhD you do NOT pay tuition--you get a tuition waiver. In addition, you usually receive what is called a salary (called a "stipend" for working as a Research Assistant or Teaching Assistant). Those working toward a PsyD typically receive neither a tuition waiver nor a stipend.
Remember that both a PhD and a PsyD offer greater job opportunities and a greater salary than a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree. Also, both a PhD and a PsyD allow you to be licensed by a state to do certain activities (e.g., testing, therapy). Read about a comparison between Masters and PhD degrees in psychology here. Also, read about a comparison between a PhD and a PsyD here.
To learn more about applying to Psychology graduate school school check out the following:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the link below to read about another Mental Health carees that requires a Doctoral or Professional Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Mental Health Careers--Psychiatrist
Can a Psychology degree lead to a career as a Psychiatrist?Your Psychology degreecan definitely lead to a career as a Psychiatrist. Remember, although many people think otherwise, Psycjologist is the same as a Psychiatrist. Although both treat individuals with mental health problems, it is important to remember that only a Psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor (MD). Therefore, in almost all cases only a Psychiatrist can treat problems with drugs and other medical techniques.
The road to becoming a Psychiatrist starts with medical school. The time it will take you to finish your medical degree is 4 years to graduate (2 years classroom training in medicine and 2 years clinical training). Keep in mind that you will almost surely be paying for all of your medical school tuition. Upon finishing medical school, you must obtain licensure from a state Board of Medicine to practice as a Medical Doctor. With your medical degree, you will specialize in Psychiatry as part of a 3-7 year residency program before your training is finished. You can read more about becoming a psychiatrist here.
Salary InformationThe Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the yearly average income for a Psychiatrist at $195,000.
Click here to see career salary information for ALL careers listed in explorecareersinpsychology.org.
Click here to read Important Steps to Career as a Psychiatrist. Other links on explorecareersinpsychology.orgClick here to return to homepage of explorecareersinpsychology.org
Click here to return to the Careers by Category page.
Click here to return to the Mental Health Careers page.
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that only require a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology:
Mental Health Careers--Mental Health Technician
Mental Health Careers--Social Work Assistant
Mental Health Careers-Foster Care Case Manager
Click on the links below to read about other Mental Health careers that require a Master's Degree:
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Clinical/Counseling Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Genetic Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Marriage and Family Therapist
Mental Health Careers--Art Therapy
Mental Health Careers--Master of Social Work
Mental Health Careers--Pastoral Counseling
Mental Health Careers--School Counseling
Mental Health Careers--Substance Abuse Counselor
Mental Health Careers--Master's in Forensic Psychology
Mental Health Careers--Applied Behavior Analyst
Click on the link below to read about another Mental Health carees that requires a Doctoral or Professional Degree: