An overview of behavioral health careers
Behavioral health careers span a wide range of specialties that support the mental, emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and communities. Professionals in this field focus on how habits, environments and medication impact a person’s overall health. Some roles require advanced degrees and licensure through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Others require a certification through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB).
Below is an overview of several behavioral health professions.
Professions that require licensure
Psychiatrists are licensed physicians who complete medical school and at least four years of psychiatric residency training. Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental illness, provide therapy, prescribe medication, conduct research and offer short- and long-term care. This career requires 12 to 15 years of post-secondary education.
Psychologists hold a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and are independently licensed. They provide therapy, conduct psychological testing and assessments and may be involved in research.
Types of psychologists include:
- Clinical psychologists: Diagnose and treat mental, emotional and behavioral disorders ranging from temporary challenges to severe mental illness.
- Counseling psychologists: Assess and treat patients with social and emotional challenges, such as grief, work stress or relationship issues.
- School psychologists: Work in schools to assess, diagnose and treat behavioral or learning conditions. They implement treatment plans, evaluate progress and provide therapy to students and families.
Some psychologists pursue subspecialties, such as neuropsychology which focuses on advanced assessments related to brain function. Becoming a licensed psychologist typically requires 10 to 14 years of post-high school education.
Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)
PMHNPs are advanced practice nurses with a master’s degree in nursing and a specialization in psychiatric mental health care and have passed the PMHNP board certification exam. They provide clinical services, conduct assessments, diagnose conditions, develop treatment plans and prescribe medication. Most PMHNPs complete 6 to8 years of education after high school.
Licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT)
LMFTs hold a master’s degree in counseling or a related field. They are independently licensed to treat individuals within the context of their relationships and family systems. LMFTs help with issues such as low self-esteem, stress, addiction, family conflict and relationship difficulties. Becoming an LMFT typically takes 6 to 8 years of education after high school.
LSWs hold a master’s degree in social work. They provide social services to individuals, groups or communities in areas such as casework, group counseling, community organizing, administration or education. An LSW can only provide services under the supervision of a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).
Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW)
LCSWs also hold a master’s degree in social work, along with additional supervised clinical training. They hold independent licensure and are qualified to provide therapy and address behavioral health needs.
Licensed professional counselor (LPC)
LPCs hold a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and offer assessments, diagnoses, treatment planning and counseling to individuals, couples and groups. An LPC can only provide services under the supervision of a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC).
Licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC)
LCPCs also complete a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, and additional training to qualify for independent licensure. They treat emotional and mental health disorders, offer psychotherapy and help people manage behavioral and relationship concerns.
Professions that require certification
Certified recovery support specialist (CRSS)
CRSS professionals use their lived experience in mental health recovery, including co-occurring substance use disorders. They must have a high school diploma or GED, complete training and supervision and pass a state exam.
Certified alcohol and other drug counselor (CADC)
CADCs are peer professionals trained to support individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. They must have a high school diploma and complete specific training.
Behavioral health careers offer a variety of paths, each with different training requirements and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. No matter the role, these professionals help improve lives and support healthier communities.
Explore job openings: Behavioral Health Workforce Center Job Board
For more information:
- Behavioral Health or Mental Health? Which Is It?
- Illinois Certification Board – Credentialing
- IDFPR Professions List
Written by Taylor Blakeley, PhD, CRSS
Dr. Blakeley is an assistant professor in the Dept. of Psychiatry at SIU School of Medicine, project manager with the Illinois Behavioral Health Workforce Center, and adjunct professor at Purdue University Global. He holds a Ph.D. and Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Liberty University, graduating with highest honors, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Benedictine University. He is a Certified Recovery Support Specialist and former clinical supervisor in behavioral health and correctional institutions. Dr. Blakely teaches Mental Health First Aid to various populations and is an advocate for developmentally disabled individuals seeking employment.