Counsel and advise individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health, with an emphasis on prevention. May help individuals deal with a broad range of mental health issues, such as those associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; or aging.
SOC: 21-1014.00
Common Job Titles
Clinician
Counselor
Mental Health Specialist
Mental Health Therapist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
MindsetIntegrate client emotional needs with evidence-based therapeutic interventions when addressing complex mental health issues such as addiction, trauma, and family conflict.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate client mental health status and treatment progress using psychological assessment tools and standardized protocols to determine compliance with therapeutic goals.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate individualized treatment plans addressing substance abuse, stress management, and family dynamics based on comprehensive psychosocial assessments and client-centered goals.
Advanced
MindsetModel ethical counseling practices and professional values in adherence to legal standards, confidentiality requirements, and cultural competency principles.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign psychoeducational programs and preventive mental health interventions tailored to community needs and evidence-based best practices.
Advanced
MindsetAdvocate for client well-being and therapeutic needs when coordinating care with interdisciplinary teams and external service providers.
Proficient
MindsetBalance empathy with professional boundaries while establishing and maintaining long-term therapeutic relationships with diverse client populations.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze behavioral patterns, cognitive distortions, and environmental stressors to identify underlying causes of mental health symptoms in individual and group counseling settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply crisis intervention techniques and conflict resolution strategies when managing acute mental health crises and facilitating mediation between clients and family members.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize clinical observations, diagnostic criteria, and client self-reports to document comprehensive case notes in electronic medical record systems.
Proficient
MindsetEngage clients in collaborative goal-setting and self-directed recovery processes using motivational interviewing and strengths-based counseling approaches.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret psychological test results and clinical assessment data to communicate diagnostic impressions and treatment recommendations to clients and referral sources.
Proficient
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Psychology4.9/5
Therapy and Counseling4.7/5
Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
English Language4.1/5
Education and Training3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation