Introduction
One out of every 17 adults suffer from some sort of mental disorder, making the mental health industry a very good industry to get into. There will always be a need for mental health specialists in this world. The responsibility of a mental health specialist is to assist the patient in transition to a healthy state of mind.
Educational Background
In order to be a mental health specialist, you'll need to the proper education. Most facilities will offer positions to those who have at least a bachelors degree, however, a masters degree and doctrine degree is preferred. In order to be a mental health specialist, you'll need to have educational background in the psychology field. In some facilities, you can get an entry level position with just a high school diploma or GED but you will be working in the office as a receptionist or secretary and will not be working with patients.
Primary Duties
When wanting to be a mental health specialist, you'll need to consider the daily duties expected of you. A mental health specialist has one main focus, to assist in making the patient have a healthy state of mind. Along with that, you'll need to assess patients medical conditions, perform interviews, review health records, assess the moods and behaviors of patients, observe patients and report any abnormalities. It is also important to have a non judgmental and non biased personality when being a mental health specialist. People will be going to you, to speak about their past, their present, their concerns and any type of mental ailments they may have. You need to make sure to keep things confidential and also have a great listening ear so that your patients feel comfortable confiding in you.
Job Prospects
Most entry level mental health specialists make about $22,000 annually. However, there is always room for advancement in the mental health field. The salary will increase depending on your education and experience. After gaining experience as a mental health specialist, you may want to advance to be a therapist, psychologist, nurse practitioner or even a psychiatrist. There are several options available when it comes to room for advancement.
Mental Health Specialists In The Army: The army commonly employs many mental health specialists. They may be employed in settings like a rehabilitation center, hospital, clinic, correctional facility and nursing home. In order to become a mental health specialist in the army, you'll need to have the proper education of at least a bachelors degree as well as 20 weeks of training which is considered Advanced Individual Training or AIT. You will need to have excellent verbal and written skills as well as a understanding of mental illnesses and diseases. You'll also need to know medical and psychological terminology, have training in CPR and first aid.
If you're looking to become a mental health specialist, then you will need to have the type of personality that enjoys helping others. It is a very rewarding career for those who are interested in the field and have the best genuine interest of their patients in mind.
