What does a Mental Health Counselor do?

A Mental Health Counselor works with clients who have mental health needs. Often, they provide these services in the context of a larger treatment program, working individually with patients to help them develop the skills they need to work toward discharge and a healthier lifestyle. They might also work one-on-one with clients or provide services as part of outpatient programs or individual practices. In all these cases, these professionals are essential to supporting clients’ mental health.

Mental Health Counselor skills and qualifications

Successful candidates for Mental Health Counselor positions tend to have some specific skills. You should always include the specific counseling and clinical skills you require on your job descriptions, and you may also want to consider candidates that demonstrate soft skills such as:

• Strong knowledge of mental health disorders, as well as psychology, therapy and counseling approaches
• Strong analytical skills to assess a patient’s situation and build treatment plans
• Excellent listening skills to best understand a patient’s issues and concerns
• Excellent communication skills to effectively guide patients and establish trust
• Crisis intervention skills to respond to patients in acute distress

Mental Health Counselor experience requirements

When hiring Mental Health Counselors, you may want to consider candidates with a certain amount of experience working with clients and providing counseling services. This doesn’t always mean hiring Mental Health Counselors with years in such positions. Entry-level candidates may be appropriate for your position if they have the requisite degrees and have experience volunteering in counseling roles or with community organizations.

Mental Health Counselor education and training requirements

Depending on the type of counseling required for a job and your preferences as an employer, Mental Health Counselor candidates need a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Each state also has requirements for licensed mental health professionals, so the minimum qualifications you list in your job description for Mental Health Counselors depends on your location and what type of services you want to provide to patients.

Job description samples for similar positions

From coordinators to case managers, many professionals contribute to mental healthcare. If you’re looking for something other than Mental Health Counselor job description information, consider our database of job descriptions, including:

• Mental Health Technician
• Therapist
• Counselor
• Psychologist

Mental Health Counselor job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Mental Health Counselor and a Therapist?

While some organizations use these terms interchangeably, Mental Health Counselor tends to be a more specific role. Therapist can refer to a larger pool of professionals that includes Counselors of various types. Mental Health Counselors tend to work in environments that call for short-term assistance, while other types of therapy professionals may provide longer-term support.

What qualities make a good Mental Health Counselor?

Good Mental Health Counselor candidates have compassion for clients while maintaining boundaries that help them avoid burnout and inappropriate relationships. Other qualities to look for when hiring a Mental Health Counselor include excellent communication, conflict resolution and time management skills.

Who does a Mental Health Counselor report to?

Depending on the structure of your organization, Mental Health Counselors may report to Clinical Directors or Managers. They may also work under the supervision of Psychiatrists or Facility Administrators.