Kathy Said:

should i get a masters in Mental health counseling?

We Answered:

I would think it would be worth it - counseling is a growth industry...(why is that?)...more and more people need/want to speak to someone objective for a variety of reasons.
You have very good income potential. I have seen private counseling session priced in the $80-$115 per hour range with masters degree counselors. There are also group sessions which can be quite lucrative.
The important thing really is do you like this work and do you have a passion for it. That is the only reason to do this. It is tough work..sad many times and grueling mentally for yourself. You will need to find clietns and to both appeal to them and make them see the 'light' at the same time.
Good luck!

Don Said:

I would like to change career path from Mental Health Field?

We Answered:

You'd have to be crazy to want to work outside the mental health field!

Sorry, couldn't help myself. Seriously though, I know a couple of people who have done this. If you're willing to stay in the health care field then consider health administration. If you have a head for business then this might be a way to go. You would want to consider a masters in health administration (2-3 year program) or some programs also offer a graduate certificate program that you can knock out in less time.

Depending on where you live you could consider becoming a Licensed Social Worker. This might or might not require you to get a masters in social work, though I think if you have a masters in counseling/psychology you might not need it. With an LSW/LCSW you could work in hospital case management and the pay is slightly better than for other social work jobs. You might not even need an LSW depending on the hospital/healthcare agency.

Carl Said:

What can I do with an M.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling?

We Answered:

Do whatever it takes to complete the licensure track - even if you MUST transfer or drive to a less convenient campus. You don't want to limit yourself this early in your career, and an unstable economy. WITH the license, you've got some options. Without it - your options are quite narrow.

It's ALL about the license with managed care companies. If you want to work with ED folks in the future - you're going to be working with the largest managed care company there is (i.e., the US government). Medicine will be socialized in this country within the next several years - you'll have no choice but to be licensed if you want to be employed. If you really want to work in the field, it is VITAL that you get your license.

Best of luck with your decision,
~Dr. B.~

Francisco Said:

what can I do for a career with my masters' degree in mental health counseling?

We Answered:

You have trained for a very specific profession. Now you decide you don't like it! Either try to become a cop, join the FBI or go to work at Starbucks. See if the nearest VA facility needs more PTSD counselors.