I'm applying for counseling in master's degree. Is school counseling or mental health counseling better?

Question

I want to study in counseling psychology for my master degree. I need to decide whether to study school counseling or mental health counseling, because most of the graduate schools are divided into these categories. I know that school counseling works in schools, and mental health works in the society. I've seen some school counselors say that there is so much paper work to do in their job that is not related to their profession. Is this true? I think I would prefer to work with children and family. I am quite confused on which to choose. I'd like to know the good and bad parts of being a mental health counselor and also school counselor. Also are there much job opportunities? Thank you very much !

Answer 1

Mental health will not get you more money, especially starting out. The running joke in most mental health programs is that we are "doing this for the money" because no one is.

School counselors make a bit more starting out than mental health counselors, but they have to deal with school administration and politics where as most mental health counselors have to deal with insurance company politics.

Several of the school counselors in my program do comment on how much time they spend doing everything but counseling. There is a lot of extra work that goes into being in a school system.

Mental health counselors typically are more independent many doing fee for service work. To make the most money and have the most flexibility in mental health you would need to get licensed. That opens up being able to see private insurance clients. Licensure differs by state but typically requires 60 graduate credits and approximately 2,800 - 3,600 direct client hours before you get licensure. Mental health counselors also typically find a niche from which they specialize. Many get certifications as a certified addictions counselor, marriage and family therapy, etc.

If you like to be on the go and constantly working on a new project, school counseling may be for you. A lot of time may be spent doing outreach and trying prevention methods. However, a lot of time is spent putting out fires and doing paperwork. Let me know if you have anymore questions. [e-mail]

Answer 2

I would highly suggest mental health counseling... the reason that I say this is because it will still enable you to work with children and families. Unfortunately, the pay within the school system is poor, granted that you don't work at a private school. There are more oppurtunities that are present if you were to consider mental health counseling. You could work at: schools, prisons, wards, clinics, hospitals, etc. Plus the pay would be higher if you decided to work nights which is also an option if you work at the previously mentioned facilities. I honestly feel that you have more of an opportunity to expand yourself more if you pursue something that has a variety of different feasible options.

Answer 3

Psychology PhD programs are very very competitive due to Psychology BS having essentially no job market and the popularity of Psychology as an undergraduate degree. I think you will find not only your school, but all schools are SUPER hard to get into. If you get good grades, you could definitely get in, but ANYTHING you can do to give yourself a chance to get a job with just your undergraduate degree would be a good idea.

Answer 4

I know my school counselour, didn't do anything related to mental health. He helped us plan our highschool studies.

I would say mental health, is better. I liked my therapist way better than my school counselor.

Answer 5

mental health counseling is better, if you want more money if you plan on living off your income i would go with mental health.it pays double what school counseling does.and their is more demand for mental health counselors`s.

Answer 6

Mental health will net you more $$$