To work as a mental health counselor, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a bachelor's degree or significant course work in psychology, sociology, or social work;
• complete a master's degree in mental health counseling or social work;
• complete an internship; and
• have a license.

Education after high school

You must have a master's degree in mental health counseling or social work to work in this field. Several colleges and universities offer graduate programs in these fields. For your bachelor's degree, you should take courses in social work, psychology, sociology, and statistics. Majoring in one of these fields, especially psychology, is a good idea.

In mental health counseling and some social work programs, you take courses in therapy techniques, human psychological development, social research methods, and statistics. You also learn how to counsel individuals and groups and how to identify specific mental disorders. Master's degree programs take two years to complete. These programs typically require a period of supervised experience, such as an internship.

Work experience

Part-time or volunteer work at a social service agency is good background for this occupation.

On-the-job training

Employers often provide training to new mental health counselors. You often work with an experienced counselor for a period of time before receiving your own caseload. You learn agency procedures, forms, and patient management. Training may last up to six months.

Military training

The military trains people to work as caseworkers and counselors. This training lasts from eight to ten weeks. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses.