Another question about a career in mental health?

Question

Ok this is my situation:

Since I graduated in my BSc honours psychology degree I have started a new job as a support worker for adults with learning disabilities. My long term goal is to become a clinical psychologist. I was told that in order to achieve this, working as a mental health support worker would be a good starting point. However, much to my horror I've realised that learning disabilities does n't quite fall into the category of mental health so I am wasting my time at the moment.

Now, to become a mental health support worker you need atleast a year's expereince which most people do voluntarily while they are still at uni but with having to pay off students debt I can't do voluntary work. My question is, will my current job as a support worker for adults with learning disabilities give me enough experience to be a mental health support worker if I apply in a years time?

Answer 1

You probably need to check with the licensing agency for your
State for mental health support worker to get the best answer. Better to see it in writing some where in their regulations.

Answer 2

I haven't a lot of expertise in this area, but as a mental health professional who has also worked with teens with learning disabilities, I would say that many ld kids also have mental health issues. At one time they may have been labeled as retarded, and they have dealt with immense frustration in school. From that perspective, I would say that a year there would put you on the road to the kind of job you eventually hope for. Good luck - it's a rewarding field!