Mental health counseling for military personnel can be an important part of helping soldiers and families during their transition back into civilian life. With over 2.5 million combat veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, there are a variety of psychological issues that active duty service members may face. This can include family issues, substance abuse, and coping with deployment. Fortunately, many of these services are free to active duty service members. However, some positions require specialized experience, so it's important to keep this in mind when applying. You are urged to browse this website to learn more about mental health counseling.

 

Whether you're interested in helping active-duty service members or are simply seeking professional guidance, there are a number of ways to get started in the field. For example, you can pursue a master's degree in psychology and work in a VA clinic. Alternatively, you can work in an independent practice. There are also government sponsored programs that can provide assistance to those in need. The Department of Defense Safe Helpline offers anonymous, live counseling for sexual assault survivors. Other organizations that can provide support to active-duty personnel and their families include the Army Substance Abuse Program, the Military Crisis Line, and the Family Advocacy Program.

 

Several CACREP-accredited universities offer accredited degree programs that focus on preparing students for a career in mental health counseling for the military. Some programs also include additional certification for this specific population. Depending on the state, these counselors must meet certain licensing and certification requirements. You can check with your state's website to find out more.

 

While a bachelor's degree is enough to start a career in counseling, a master's degree is necessary for a professional license. Counseling master's programs can be found at some of the nation's top universities, including Pepperdine University and Northwestern University. Many programs require a number of hours of internship in a VA clinic. These experiences can help students gain confidence and prepare for future jobs.

 

After obtaining a master's degree, you will need to pass the National Counselor Examination. Some states allow you to take a more specialized exam, such as the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. Taking a graduate-level certification in military counseling will prepare you for this profession and ensure you're able to offer a higher level of services to servicemen and their families. Continue reading more about washington counseling clinic here.

 

Those with a master's degree are able to work with clients in a number of settings, including group and couples sessions. During these sessions, you'll be able to hear personal stories of great pain.

 

To get the most out of your training, it's best to pursue internships with your local VA clinics. This can help you build your confidence as a counselor. Moreover, it can give you an idea of how the larger military apparatus works.

 

Another way to become a military counselor is to pursue a master's degree in counseling. Many schools offer add-on certification for this profession. In addition to working with military and veterans, some counselors also work in private practices. As a result, the salary for this position can vary based on the job outlook. Those who specialize in this area can expect to earn up to $48,520 per year. Check out this related post: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mental_health_counselor, to get more enlightened on the topic.