In-Demand Mental Health Careers for 2021 and Beyond

Millions of people are struggling with their mental health, especially since the pandemic started. In the past decade, mental health has finally started to become a priority in many communities’ overall wellness plans. If you are a compassionate person who wants a career that focuses on helping others improve their lives, a job in this field may be right for you. Here are some of the best options for workers in mental health in 2021 and the future.

Social Worker

A top job in the public sector for people focused on mental health is a social worker. Social workers are assigned to assist families, children, homeless people, seniors, and other members of vulnerable populations. In this line of work, they help solve issues related to housing, schooling, medical care, relationship problems, and other difficulties. They typically work in public agencies for a city, state, or organization.

Therapist

Another option for those who have strong interpersonal skills is to become a therapist. Talk therapy is one of the most popular types of mental health treatment. Individuals with an interest in improving mental health can focus on a career as a therapist and specialize in different aspects of therapy, such as working with children, helping married couples, focusing on families, or providing therapy to incarcerated people.

Guidance Counselor

In an educational setting, guidance counselors take on the role of therapist, social worker, and educational coach. They work in public and private schools across all grades. Guidance counselors also help high school students with college and career advice. A career as a guidance counselor is a good fit for someone who enjoys working with youth and can help serve as a liaison between the school and families. Learn more about the career possibilities in this field.

Psychologist

Psychology is another field to consider if you want to make a difference in the mental health field. Individuals in this role may work directly with clients by delivering talk therapy, or they may focus on studying different aspects of mental health and psychology in an academic setting. To work in the psychology field, it’s usually standard to obtain an advanced degree. This student spotlight shows how the field of applied psychology translates to other industries and offers benefits to students interested in a variety of subjects related to the mind.

Psychiatrist

The last hot career option for mental health is to study to be a psychiatrist. Psychiatrists are medical doctors and must attend medical school after completing an undergraduate college program. Unlike other mental health professionals, psychiatrists can prescribe medication to help people manage mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD. Psychiatrists are also able to assist patients with other types of treatment that don’t require medication, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, talk therapy, play therapy, exposure therapy, or interpersonal therapy.

There are many different paths and destinations in the career field of mental health. The world needs capable, caring people to help manage different mental health issues and diagnosed disorders. As treating mental health becomes more common, it will be easier for patients to seek care without feeling embarrassed.