They help families work through conflicts by improving communication and relationships. They may help physically, emotionally, mentally, or socially impaired people become more self-sufficient. Mental health counselors work with clients who struggle with substance abuse, other addictions, family and marital problems, stress, and aging. They work together with other professionals to assist patients in their recoveries. Openings for counselors are expected to grow faster than the average of all occupations through the year 2005.
Counselors earn bachelor s degrees, usually in counseling, education, social work, or sociology.
A master s degree in psychology, counseling, or related area is usually required. These are usually two-year programs including supervised clinical work. Some areas of counseling require either a Ph.D. or both counseling and teaching certificates. Licensure, Certification, and Registration Georgia requires licensure through the Georgia Composite Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Certification is available through the National Board for Certified Counselors, the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, and the National Academy for Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselors.