Find your calling
Counselors and psychologists play crucial roles in their clients’ success. They provide much needed support and guidance for facing emotional, behavioral and mental challenges. Individuals who embark on one of these rewarding careers must be active listeners who are patient and empathic with a strong desire to help others.
School psychologist
School psychologists assist students with emotional, social and behavioral problems. They collaborate with teachers to determine strategies for students to overcome learning differences and coordinate with service providers outside of the school so students and their families can thrive.
School counselor
School counselors have a variety of responsibilities within a school. They not only provide individual and small group counseling but also conduct prevention and large group programs on topics such as bullying, substance use, communication skills, self esteem and conflict resolution. School counselors are advocates for students and collaborate and consult with teachers and other members of students’ support systems to develop ways to meet students’ needs.
Clinical mental health counselor
Clinical mental health counselors work with clients individually and in group settings who are experiencing a range of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders and addictions. Other duties include assisting couples and families experiencing difficulties, counseling clients who want to achieve personal goals and conducting psychoeducation and prevention programs. Counselors who specialize in dance/movement therapy apply their dance artistry, knowledge, creativity and skills to their counseling techniques.
Behavior analyst
Behavior analysts work in a variety of settings to help individuals with behavioral challenges—particularly children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as individuals with other developmental or intellectual disabilities, brain injuries, addiction and other conditions that impact health. Their methods include evaluating behaviors in order to create treatment plans with the goal of improving communication and behavioral skills over time.