Exploring Alternate Career Paths for Mental Health Professionals: Counseling, Psychology, Social Work

The Quick Version

Conclusion: A mental health degree offers diverse career paths beyond traditional therapy.

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The Thoughtful Version:

After a relatively extensive search, strangely enough we were not able to find clear answers to the questions, “What all can I do with a degree in the Mental Health field?” and “I am tired of therapy, what else can I do with my degree?” Students ask the first question all the time and we have heard more than a few Mental Health Professionals (MHPs) ask the second question on more than a few occasions.

 There is a great deal of employment overlap between the counseling, social work, and psychology fields, and so for our purposes we will simply answer these questions in reference to MHPs as a whole. What many do not realize is the broad employment options in the field. Especially with with a full or independent license experience as a therapist, you really do not have to sit in a chair all day. Below we will discuss an extensive (not exhaustive) list of employment opportunities for MHPs.

1. Therapy in Non-Traditional Settings

We regularly encourage our students (there are professors at Remnant) to get creative and to pursue treatment modalities outside of the average, beige, boring counseling room. Honestly, at times, a therapy room can feel like a hospital room. For example, one of our students, a fire-woman, CrossFit coach, and mother of three decided to pursue treating adjudicated youth with a combination of CrossFit exercises and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She borrowed some space at a friends gym and found the combination of movement and CBT to be very effective. Resistance and defensiveness in normally very tough kids significantly lessoned and her clients grew and emotionally matured tremendously. Before long she had contracts with a handful of counties and was so full she could not take any more clients. All this simply because she got creative and moved her services outside of the counseling room. Other students and colleagues have lead “fishing therapy”, “sports therapy”, “Skateboard Park Therapy”, “Canoe trip therapy”, and on and on and on. And so, if you do not like practicing in traditional therapy, get creative and move outside of the literal and figurative box. You might find your therapy will be more effective and your passion for your work will increase.

2. Consulting

MHPs can work as consultants, providing expertise to businesses, nonprofits, churches, ministries, and government agencies. Consulting may involve developing counseling practices for churches, advising on employee wellness, or helping organizations navigate crisis situations. Consultants might work with schools to improve student mental health initiatives, guide employers on creating supportive workplaces, or help create intervention strategies in public health sectors.

3. Supervision and Training

Experienced licensed professionals often take on supervisory roles, mentoring and overseeing the work of less-experienced clinicians. Providing supervision is an important aspect of the mental health profession, ensuring that new professionals adhere to ethical guidelines and receive the support they need to grow in their roles. Different states have differing guidelines so be sure to check your state’s requirements to make sure you are eligible or can become eligible to supervise.

4. Business Ownership

Many MHPs choose to start their own group practices. This entrepreneurial path provides the freedom to create a private counseling business, offer niche services, and work with specialized populations. Perhaps the biggest blessing of a group practice (and sometimes the worst) is the ability to hire other therapists, and as the business owner, take a percentage of their income to cover business costs and your time. You can practice less, or if the group practice is large, practice none at all, and run the business.

5. Retreat Centers

Another unique career path is opening or working at a retreat center. These centers often focus on mental health and spiritual wellness, offering therapy in a serene, nature-focused environment. Professionals might run weekend retreats or offer longer-term therapeutic experiences for individuals dealing with burnout, anxiety, grief, or addiction. The holistic nature of these retreats combines traditional therapy with physical and spiritual renewal.

6. Public Speaking and Seminars

MHPs can also engage in public speaking, sharing their knowledge at conferences, workshops, or seminars. They might be invited to speak on topics like mental health awareness, relationships, emotional resilience, or specific therapeutic techniques. Public speaking allows professionals to educate large groups, raise awareness about mental health, and influence public policy.

7. Testing Specialist

MHPs administer psychological tests and assessments to evaluate intelligence, personality, mental health conditions, and learning disabilities. These tests are often used in schools, hospitals, and by businesses for various purposes, from admissions to hiring practices.

There has been some debate over whether Counselors and Social Workers can administer testing as Psychologists do. There are some limitations, but by and large, and depending on the state, all MHPs can administer the vast majority of tests.

8. Church-Based Therapist

Licensed therapists with a background in theological or ministry studies may combine their therapeutic training with their spiritual calling to become church-based therapists. This role involves helping individuals work through mental health challenges while integrating spiritual guidance and support.

9. Researcher

For those with a keen interest in the science behind human behavior, research is a fulfilling career option. MHPs can work as researchers in universities, think tanks, or private research organizations. They may focus on areas such as therapeutic techniques, Christian experience, mental health treatment outcomes, or behavioral studies.

10. Professor

Have a Master’s degree? You will more than likely need another four years of school and a Ph.D., Ed.D., or Psy.D. to be eligible for a professorship. To many, a professorship is a prestigious career option for MHPs interested in teaching the next generation of mental health practitioners. Professors in counseling, social work, and psychology programs shape the curricula, engage in research, and mentor students pursuing their own licenses. Most programs allow their professors to continue to practice if they so desire.

11. Coaching

This role focuses on helping individuals set and achieve personal or professional goals, often within a specific area such as career development, life transitions, or executive leadership. Unlike traditional therapy, coaching is generally future-focused, helping clients maximize their potential and achieve tangible results. Coaches often work with individuals looking to improve their performance, build confidence, or navigate life changes like starting a new career or making major lifestyle shifts.

Because coaching is not considered to be in the category of traditional mental health therapy, outside organizations provide additional trainings and certification beyond a therapy license. The American Association for Christian Counselors, iPEC, Thriving Coach Academy, and Story Brand are just a few organizations that offer trainings and certifications.

Conclusion

The counseling, social work, and psychology fields are rich with diverse career paths that go beyond traditional therapy. Whether it’s running a private practice, leading a retreat, engaging in public speaking, or conducting research, licensed professionals have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in many areas. The flexibility and wide-ranging opportunities make these fields incredibly versatile, offering professionals the chance to specialize, innovate, and create unique pathways that align with their passions and expertise.