Building a Successful Career in Counseling and Psychotherapy
There are many misconceptions about counseling and psychotherapy in popular culture—and that’s not even considering the business side of the work. Because our field is so vast and only vaguely understood, those entering it need to know the real deal. This informative video gives emerging therapists just that, as six seasoned clinicians offer their perspectives on what it’s really like to work—and live—as a psychotherapist. With a series of interviews and research presented on key career topics, this video will help beginning therapists feel both grounded and empowered as they embark upon this unique and deeply rewarding career.
Here, a panel of six therapists of varying clinical backgrounds and cultural demographics each describe their educational path, current job, benefits and pitfalls of the work, and what keeps them motivated. You’ll find valuable nuggets of advice from MSWs, LPCs, an African-American woman who entered the field in her 40s, a woman with an MBA, and a man who transitioned into the field after an early musical career. The video also features a business-savvy counselor who offers insights into her success with a range of marketing strategies and diversified income streams, including through employee assistance programs.
You’ll hear about working in hospitals and agencies, private practice, and teaching, as well as research on the importance of leveraging your social networks. You’ll find much that resonates here, both positive and cautionary (the work is rewarding, yet the realities of “keeping the lights on” cannot be ignored), adding up to a needed reality check on how to position yourself for a career that supports your lifestyle and protects against burnout.
Whether you’re contemplating a career in mental health or a developing therapist seeking practice-building tips from thriving clinicians, you’ll want to check out this resource today.
