Mental Health First Aid
Mental health recognition and response training; not a clinical license.
Starting point: Any background
Review issuer & requirements ↗Explore Careers
Explore career paths across mental health, wellness, community health, nursing, and human services. Choose a field, search by career title, or filter by a typical entry-level education pathway.
Build Your Career Pathway
Choose where you are today and a career you are interested in. See a starting roadmap with education, training and licensing research steps.
Plan your education and career path
Start with the career descriptions below, then compare training, credential requirements, schools, costs, and pay. Salaries vary by location, experience, and employer; use current occupation data rather than assuming a guaranteed salary.
Explore career pay & outlook ↗Find colleges & programs ↗Explore HBCUs & scholarships ↗Federal financial aid ↗Take career assessment
Verify admissions requirements, program accreditation, professional licensure rules, and scholarship eligibility directly with the school or credentialing body.
Explore Colleges & HBCUs
Compare degree programs, admissions requirements, costs and student support. HBCUs offer pathways in nursing, social work, psychology, STEM, education and more. Check each school’s current offerings and accreditation.
Find Credential Requirements in Any State
Licensing titles, eligibility, supervised hours, exams and scope of practice differ by state. Missouri’s MCB is one resource, not the national standard. Choose your profession and state through these directories, then confirm details with the official state board.
Search licenses by state ↗Addiction credentialing boards ↗Psychology licensing boards ↗Social work licensing ↗Nursing boards ↗Missouri MCB ↗
Some state-specific titles, such as Licensed Psychological Associate, may not exist in every state. Always check the official board before choosing a training program.
Build on Your Degree: Career & Credential Strategies
Your degree can open multiple pathways. Explore entry roles, graduate training, specialty credentials, clinical licensure, teaching, research and leadership. An additional certificate or degree does not automatically expand a professional scope of practice.
Psychology degrees: assessment, teaching, clinical practice & prescribing
Bachelor’s: research assistant, case management, behavioral technician, outreach and program support. Master’s: selected psychology associate or supervised roles where state law permits, research, adjunct teaching and other related positions. Doctorate: psychologist licensure pathway, clinical specialties, research and faculty roles.
Advanced option — prescribing psychologist (RxP): in certain jurisdictions, licensed doctoral-level psychologists can pursue additional clinical psychopharmacology graduate education, supervised medical training, the Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists and jurisdiction-specific approval. This is not available to all psychologists, and a psychology master’s alone does not grant prescribing rights. Laws and implementation dates differ by state.
ASPPB prescribing psychologist guidance ↗Counseling & social work: supervision, specialties & instruction
Graduate training can lead toward state-specific counseling or social work licensure. After qualifying experience, professionals may pursue approved clinical supervision, specialty practice, program leadership, college instruction or doctoral study. Licenses and specialty credentials have separate requirements.
Nursing & psychiatry: advanced practice options
Practical nursing, RN and graduate APRN pathways have different entry points. An RN may pursue advanced nursing education and certification for psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner practice; prescriptive authority depends on state APRN law. A psychiatrist follows medical school, residency and physician licensure.
Substance use & community health: stackable experience
Entry roles may include peer support, outreach, prevention and case management. Additional supervised experience, approved training and examinations may support state-specific addiction counselor credentials or supervisory roles. Requirements are not interchangeable across states.
Use the education, field and state tools below to plan your next step. State selection provides licensing research guidance; it does not certify that a role is authorized in that state.
Training & Certification Directory
Explore continuing education, specialty training and professional credentials that may complement your degree or experience. A course completion certificate is different from professional certification or state licensure.
25 opportunities
QPR Suicide Prevention
Gatekeeper training in recognizing and responding to suicide warning signs.
Starting point: Any background
Review issuer & requirements ↗ASIST Suicide Intervention
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training; training does not authorize independent clinical practice.
Starting point: Any background
Review issuer & requirements ↗Psychological First Aid
Foundational disaster and crisis support training.
Starting point: Any background
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Peer Specialist
State-specific peer support credential with training and experience requirements.
Starting point: Lived experience / state criteria
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Recovery Support Specialist
Recovery support credential; title and standards differ across jurisdictions.
Starting point: State-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗CADC / Addiction Counselor Credential
Addiction counseling credential; education, experience and supervision vary.
Starting point: State-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗CRADC / Advanced Addiction Counselor Credential
Missouri-specific credential; check MCB and compare equivalent pathways in other states.
Starting point: State-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Prevention Specialist
Substance use prevention credential requiring qualifying training and experience.
Starting point: State-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Clinical Supervisor
Clinical supervision credentials depend on professional license and state or board rules.
Starting point: Credential and experience prerequisites
Review issuer & requirements ↗Trauma-Focused CBT Training
Structured clinical treatment training; does not itself confer licensure.
Starting point: Typically licensed or supervised clinicians
Review issuer & requirements ↗EMDR Basic Training
EMDR training has professional eligibility and consultation requirements.
Starting point: Eligible mental health clinicians
Review issuer & requirements ↗Motivational Interviewing Training
Skill-building for collaborative behavior change conversations.
Starting point: Varies by course
Review issuer & requirements ↗DBT Skills Training
Dialectical behavior therapy skills education; comprehensive clinical practice requires appropriate credentials.
Starting point: Varies by course
Review issuer & requirements ↗Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Professional certification; separate state licensure may also apply.
Starting point: Graduate degree and supervised fieldwork
Review issuer & requirements ↗Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)
Paraprofessional behavior-analytic credential under ongoing supervision.
Starting point: Entry training and supervision
Review issuer & requirements ↗Psychometrist Certification (CSP)
Specialized credential for psychological test administration and scoring.
Starting point: Education and experience prerequisites
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
Health education credential with specific eligibility and examination criteria.
Starting point: Qualifying academic preparation
Review issuer & requirements ↗Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)
Advanced health education credential with experience or academic requirements.
Starting point: Advanced eligibility
Review issuer & requirements ↗Community Health Worker Certification
CHW training and certification differ by state; not universally required.
Starting point: State-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified in Public Health (CPH)
Public health certification for qualifying professionals.
Starting point: Education / experience prerequisites
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Case Manager (CCM)
Professional case management certification with eligibility criteria.
Starting point: Qualifying license / education / experience
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
Specialized rehabilitation counseling credential; state licensure may also apply.
Starting point: Qualifying graduate education / experience
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)
Healthcare quality improvement and performance credential.
Starting point: Exam eligibility varies
Review issuer & requirements ↗Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)
Continuing education certificate or credential; verify issuer and whether employers or boards recognize it.
Starting point: Provider-specific
Review issuer & requirements ↗Before paying, confirm prerequisites, accreditation, cost, continuing-education acceptance and recognition by the relevant state board or employer. Training alone does not expand a licensed scope of practice.
Internships, Externships & Fellowships
Build experience while exploring a career. The best opportunity depends on your education, interests and professional goals.
Internships
Often for current students, recent graduates or career changers. Explore psychology research, behavioral health programs, community outreach and social services.
Search opportunities ↗Externships & Job Shadowing
Short observational or structured learning experiences. Clinical observation may have privacy, school affiliation or eligibility restrictions.
Explore career experience ↗Fellowships
Specialized training, research or professional development, often for graduate students, recent graduates or early-career professionals.
Explore psychology funding ↗Practicum & Clinical Placement
Supervised field education required by certain counseling, psychology, nursing and social work programs. Your school and state board determine which placements qualify.
Check credential requirements ↗These links are search and information resources, not verified current openings. Always check eligibility, location, compensation, application deadlines and whether an experience counts toward required hours.
Education levels are general starting points, not eligibility guarantees. Some roles require additional credentials, licensure, supervised hours or advanced degrees; requirements vary by state and employer.
Choose a state to research its licensing rules. Career results are nationwide examples, not a list of licenses confirmed in that state. State licensing directory ↗
Substance Use Counselor
Missouri credential pathways, including CADC and CRADC.
Education & credentials: Entry varies by credential and state. Missouri CADC/CRADC routes involve qualifying education, supervised experience and credentialing requirements; verify current MCB rules.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Social Worker
Social services, community programs and clinical pathways.
Education & credentials: Bachelor of Social Work for many entry roles; clinical social work generally requires an MSW, supervised experience and state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Advanced practice nursing in psychiatric and mental health care.
Education & credentials: Become an RN, complete graduate APRN/PMHNP education, meet national certification and state licensure requirements.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Registered Nurse
Nursing education, licensure and practice settings.
Education & credentials: Complete an approved associate or bachelor nursing program, pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 2–3 years of full-time study, plus licensing where applicable (estimate, not a guarantee).
Community Health Worker
Community outreach, health navigation and prevention.
Education & credentials: Many entry roles accept a high school diploma or equivalent with employer training; CHW certification requirements vary by state.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Mental Health Counselor
Counseling education, clinical supervision and state licensure.
Education & credentials: Typically a relevant master’s degree, supervised clinical experience, examination and state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychiatrist
Medical training and specialization in psychiatry.
Education & credentials: Bachelor’s degree, medical school, physician licensure and psychiatry residency.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychologist
Research, assessment, therapy and psychology career paths.
Education & credentials: Clinical practice often requires a doctoral degree, supervised experience and state licensure; research roles vary.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Peer Support Specialist
Support people in recovery using lived experience; training and certification requirements vary by state.
Education & credentials: Typically relevant lived experience and approved peer-support training; certification requirements vary by state.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Health Educator
Develop community education programs; explore bachelor’s-level pathways and workplace settings.
Education & credentials: Often a bachelor’s degree in health education, public health or a related field; some positions prefer certification.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Marriage and Family Therapist
Graduate education, supervised practice and state licensure are typical.
Education & credentials: Typically a master’s degree, supervised clinical hours, examination and state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Occupational Therapist
Graduate occupational therapy education, fieldwork and licensure support this pathway.
Education & credentials: Accredited graduate occupational therapy education, fieldwork, national examination and state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
School Counselor
Support students with academic, social and career development; state school credential rules apply.
Education & credentials: Typically a master’s degree and state school counselor certification or licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Licensed Practical Nurse
Complete an approved practical nursing program and meet state licensing requirements.
Education & credentials: State-approved practical nursing program, NCLEX-PN and state licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: Several months to 2 years, depending on program (estimate, not a guarantee).
Licensed Psychological Associate
A psychology graduate-level role recognized in some states. Titles, permitted duties, supervision and independent practice rules differ substantially.
Education & credentials: Often a qualifying psychology master’s or specialist degree, supervised experience and state board requirements.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychological Assistant / Psychology Associate
May support psychological assessment or clinical services under supervision where state law recognizes the role.
Education & credentials: Education and supervised practice requirements vary by state; this title is not a universal license.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Behavior assessment and intervention in clinical, educational or community settings.
Education & credentials: Qualifying graduate education, supervised fieldwork, certification examination and state licensure where required.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Behavior Technician (RBT)
Provides behavior-analytic services under qualified supervision.
Education & credentials: Minimum education, training, competency assessment, examination and ongoing supervision per certification rules.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychiatric Technician
Supports mental health care teams with patient monitoring and daily care.
Education & credentials: Entry education varies from high school to certificate or associate programs depending on role and employer.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: Several months to 2 years, depending on program (estimate, not a guarantee).
Case Manager
Coordinates services and connects people with housing, health, behavioral health and community supports.
Education & credentials: Some roles accept relevant experience; many employers prefer a bachelor’s degree. Clinical case management may require licensure.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Responds to behavioral health crises and helps coordinate assessment, safety planning and referrals.
Education & credentials: Entry requirements vary by setting; some roles require clinical licensure or specialized crisis training.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Provides clinical assessment, psychotherapy and behavioral health treatment within state scope of practice.
Education & credentials: MSW, supervised clinical practice, examination and state clinical social work license.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Social and Human Service Assistant
Supports clients and community programs with services, referrals and practical assistance.
Education & credentials: Requirements vary; some jobs accept high school/GED, while others prefer an associate degree.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Rehabilitation Counselor
Supports people with disabilities in education, employment and independent living.
Education & credentials: Often a master’s degree; state licensure or certification may apply to clinical roles.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Art Therapist
Uses art-based therapeutic approaches as part of mental health treatment.
Education & credentials: Typically graduate-level art therapy education and supervised experience; credentialing and licensure vary by state.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Certified Nursing Assistant
Provides hands-on basic patient care under nursing supervision.
Education & credentials: State-approved training and competency evaluation, with state registry requirements where applicable.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: Several months to 2 years, depending on program (estimate, not a guarantee).
Public Health Program Coordinator
Organizes prevention, outreach and health education programs.
Education & credentials: Often a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related area; some entry roles accept equivalent experience.
Explore resource ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical assessment, psychotherapy and psychological testing; doctoral education and state licensure.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Counseling Psychologist
Counseling, assessment and research; doctoral training and licensure for independent practice.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
School Psychologist
School-based evaluation and student support; specialist or doctoral education and state credential.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Forensic Psychologist
Psychological assessment in legal settings; forensic specialty practice often requires psychologist licensure.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Neuropsychologist
Brain-behavior assessment; doctoral psychology training, licensure and specialty preparation.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist
Applies psychology to organizations; graduate education often expected, licensing depends on duties and state.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychometrist
Administers and scores psychological tests under qualified supervision; employers vary.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychology Research Assistant
Supports behavioral science studies, participant coordination and data collection.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Behavioral Research Coordinator
Coordinates study operations and participant recruitment; research training is helpful.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychology Professor
Teaches and researches at universities; doctorate commonly required for tenure-track roles.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychology Adjunct Instructor
Teaches college courses part-time; many institutions require a relevant graduate degree.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Community College Psychology Instructor
Teaches introductory psychology and related courses; institutional hiring standards vary.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Counselor Educator
Prepares future counselors in higher education; doctoral degree often preferred or required.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Social Work Professor
Teaches and researches social work; MSW plus doctorate often expected for faculty positions.
Education pathway: Doctoral / medical degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Clinical Supervisor
Supervises developing clinicians; independent licensure and experience usually required.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Behavioral Health Trainer
Develops and facilitates professional training; credentials vary with training topic.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Continuing Education Coordinator
Coordinates professional education events and compliance documentation.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Mental Health Program Director
Leads behavioral health services and teams; clinical programs may require professional licensure.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Behavioral Health Operations Manager
Manages workflows, staffing and program performance in care organizations.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Clinical Quality Improvement Specialist
Evaluates quality and outcomes of behavioral health services; clinical credentials may be preferred.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Patient Advocate
Helps clients navigate care, rights and service concerns; entry requirements vary.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Mental Health Policy Analyst
Studies policy and programs affecting behavioral health access and outcomes.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Public Health Analyst
Analyzes health trends and program data; advanced research roles may require graduate training.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Epidemiologist
Studies population health and risk factors; typically graduate-level public health education.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Health Equity Specialist
Supports equitable access to health services and community engagement.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Community Outreach Coordinator
Builds partnerships and connects communities with programs; relevant experience may substitute.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Recovery Coach
Provides nonclinical recovery support; training and certification requirements vary by state.
Education pathway: High school / GED (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Addiction Prevention Specialist
Designs and delivers prevention programs; some states offer prevention credentials.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Substance Use Clinical Supervisor
Oversees clinical addiction treatment teams; state-approved supervisor qualifications vary.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Addiction Counselor Educator
Teaches addiction counseling content and workforce training; hiring requirements vary.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Psychiatric Registered Nurse
Provides nursing care in psychiatric settings; RN licensure and specialty training required.
Education pathway: Associate degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 2–3 years of full-time study, plus licensing where applicable (estimate, not a guarantee).
Mental Health Nurse Educator
Trains nursing students or clinical staff; RN licensure and graduate education often required.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Family Nurse Practitioner
Provides advanced primary care; accredited graduate preparation, certification and state APRN authorization.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Licensed Professional Counselor
Provides counseling and psychotherapy; graduate education, supervised practice and state licensure.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Associate / Provisionally Licensed Counselor
Provides counseling under supervision where a state offers an associate or provisional credential.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate
Provides supervised relational therapy under a state-specific associate license.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Child Life Specialist
Supports children and families coping with healthcare experiences; certification has specific requirements.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Victim Advocate
Supports people affected by violence and trauma; many roles accept relevant experience.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
Probation Officer
Supports court supervision and community reintegration; government hiring requirements vary.
Education pathway: Bachelor’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 4 years of full-time study; some roles require additional training (estimate, not a guarantee).
School Social Worker
Supports students and families in schools; state school credential or social work licensure may apply.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Medical Social Worker
Helps patients navigate healthcare and psychosocial needs; licensing requirements vary.
Education pathway: Master’s degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 5–8+ years from high school, including graduate study; supervised licensure can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).
Housing Support Specialist
Connects clients to housing resources and stability supports; some roles accept GED plus experience.
Education pathway: High school / GED (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: 0–12 months for many entry roles; credentialed positions may take longer (estimate, not a guarantee).
Telehealth Care Coordinator
Supports scheduling, referrals and virtual care navigation; employer requirements vary.
Education pathway: Associate degree (typical starting point; verify state and employer requirements).
Research this occupation ↗Typical timeline: About 2–3 years of full-time study, plus licensing where applicable (estimate, not a guarantee).
Prescribing Psychologist (RxP)
A licensed doctoral-level psychologist with additional authorization to prescribe certain psychiatric medications in qualifying jurisdictions.
Additional training: clinical psychopharmacology graduate education, supervised clinical training, PEP examination and jurisdiction-specific approval. Enacted laws do not always mean an operational licensing pathway.
Review prescribing requirements ↗Typical timeline: About 8–14+ years from high school for many clinical pathways; residency or specialty training can add time (estimate, not a guarantee).