Will this jeopardize my chances of getting into a LMHC program or getting my license?

Question

I was hospitalized for depression nearly 2 years ago. I had a major depressive episode, voluntarily went to the hospital, and stayed for a week (which several nurses told me was a short stay). I followed up with visits with a psychiatrist, plus the antidepressant Celexa.
Because of my experiences with depression, I am thinking about being a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I believe I can get the loans and letters of recommendation to go, but my concern is they'll find out what happened to me and not allow me into the program, or worse, I'll get in, have done all that work and be denied my license.
On my own, I decided to stop seeing my psychiatrist and taking Celexa. I have taught myself to treat myself with kindness and respect, and that I can be happy, I just have to work harder at it than most. I want to help others who have suffered as I have, and teach them mental illness does not make you a bad person, and you can come back from this.
P.S--I live in the NY state.

Answer 1

Hi,

Your records are confidential.

I know socially many mental health professionals . they are all called "helpers"
They become helpers for a reason.
everyone has issues in their life. Past and present.
Your hosptiization has no reason to interfere with your goals to be a mental health professional.
You will find that most mental health professionals are in therapy themselves.
There is nothing wrong with having issues past or present as long as you are aware of them and are indulging in self care.

Good luck

Bongo

Answer 2

After working 30 years in the field of mental health, I met several professionals who had personally needed the supports of counselor and/or psychtropic medication.

I would not recommend stopping the time with the psychiatrist or the medication because that could be the major reason why you are stable. A good psychiatrist would help you make the decision if this is the most appropriate career choice or just an emotional response to feeling better.

Answer 3

Hi,
Like everybody else here said, your records are confidential. Often you are asked if you have experience with mental health issues. If you are still suffering from depression (which I am taking you do, judging from your story), you need to make sure it's all in hand. You are going to work with people who are vulnerable, you know that more then anybody. However, you as the therapist/counsellor need to make sure that you are healthy enough to deal with other people's issues. You can't be a good therapist if you are not dealing with your own issues and let them take over your working life. You need to keep this in mind as well. You need to be responsible.

Good luck with your studies!

Answer 4

Theoretically your health record are confidential, and as far as I know that includes mental health. Nobody has to know about your hospital stay, and as long as you're healthy now it shouldn't matter - but we know that isn't always true. I know a lot of mental health professionals get into the field because they've had some personal experience.

Answer 5

If anything, I would think that it would increase your chances. You have been there and gone thru it so it gives you the, shall we say edge, on someone who hasnt. Besides, it would be noted in your records that you admitted yourself. That right there would increase your chances as well becuz you were able to recognize the need for help. Good luck to you and I wish you the best...dont give up on it, sounds like you would be one hell of an awesome counselor.