What Does a Clinical Mental Health Counselor Do?

With the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reporting that 1 in 5 adults grapple yearly with mental illness, the need for professional care is clear.

Enter clinical mental health counselors, equipped with the expertise to create a safe haven for clients using therapeutic, evidence-based techniques. And just as importantly, the potential to reshape society's perception of what it means to be well in both body and mind.

Intrigued by the possibilities of this life-changing profession? Read on to explore whether it could be the right fit for you.

What is Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Why is it Important?

Clinical mental health counseling is a therapy-based process. It's intended to grow emotional reslience and coping skills as well as generally prepare individuals for challenges they might encounter, according to Dr. Roseina Britton, LPC (IL), NCC, a clinical faculty member at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

It also serves to promote well-being and facilitate personal growth through talk therapy, assessment and the development of effective management strategies.

"I believe in meeting people where they are — acting as both a lifeguard for those drowning in distress and a lighthouse for those seeking direction," Britton said. With 10 years of experience in clinical practice, Britton is a clinical director at a human services organization and owns her own counseling and consulting center.

In addition to its individual importance, Britton emphasized the role mental wellness and emotional intelligence (EQ) plays on others, too. "Mental health counseling strengthens the fabric of our society by building resilience in individuals, families and entire communities," she said. "As we advance technologically, particularly with artificial intelligence, we must ensure that emotional awareness keeps pace."

Britton is particularly interesting in making mental health care more accessible — and she's not the only one.

Take Jareb Kinney '16 '20G, a licensed professional clinical counselor and educator, for instance. As a graduate of SNHU's clinical mental health counseling program, he mindfully fosters inclusive environments that respect and nurture culturally diverse populations. (Note: SNHU's clinical mental health counseling program is not currently enrolling new students.)

"By working collaboratively with other healthcare providers, community leaders and organizations, clinical mental health counselors can promote awareness and enhance access to inclusive services, bridging gaps in communities that experience a lack of healthcare," said Kinney.

The demand for experts in the field reflects its importance. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is projected to grow 19% through 2033 — nearly five times faster than the average for all occupations.*

The BLS noted this rigorous rate is anticipated, in part, as a result of people continuing to seek addiction and mental health counseling services and an increase in jurisdictions requiring counseling for offenders experiencing a substance abuse disorder.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Clinical Mental Health Counselor?

The American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) defines clinical mental health counselors as "highly-skilled professionals who provide flexible, consumer-oriented therapy" and "combine traditional psychotherapy with a practical problem-solving approach" to create a path for change.

"Mental health counseling beautifully weaves together scientific understanding with genuine human connection," Britton said. "We're not just treating symptoms — we're helping people write new chapters in their life stories."

The National Career Development Association (NCDA) noted the day-to-day responsibilities of a clinical mental health counselor tend to vary based on their clients, work environment and specialty.

For instance, Britton said her focuses include:

• Foster care advocacy
• HIV and sexual health education
• School-based mental health interventions
• Substance abuse treatment
• Trauma-informed care

Her day may look a little different from mental health counselors who specialize in other areas or with different populations.

Kinney echoed this sentiment. "The day in the life of a clinical mental health counselor (particularly in my experience) varies tremendously, mirroring the diversity and complexity of the roles we assume," he said.

Outside of scheduled appointment times, explained the AMHCA, some clinical mental health counselors may be on call for crisis situations. This could include helping a client manage acute distress or making them a referral to emergency services.

Since every client session needs to be carefully chronicled, the American Counseling Association (ACA) highlights documentation as another important element of a clinical mental health counselor's day (ACA PDF Source). Paperwork generally includes assessments, progress notes, treatment plans and the like.

According to Britton, mental health counselors also set aside time to hone and expand their skills and understanding of the human experience. "Additional certifications, advanced training and staying informed on evolving best practices are essential for effective counseling," she said.

As the role of a clinical mental health counselor can be particularly demanding, the importance of daily self-care should not be overlooked.

"As counselors, we carry the weight of others' trauma, grief and healing, which is both a privilege and a responsibility," Britton said. "Our effectiveness depends on our ability to remain emotionally attuned and resilient, making self-care not just a personal practice but an ethical obligation."

Counselors, according to Britton, should heed the advice they give their clients: compassion for oneself is key.

Where Do Clinical Mental Health Counselors Work?

Clinical mental health counselors work in a variety of settings. The BLS specifies the largest employers of substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors in 2023 were as follows:

• Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
• Individual and family services
• Offices of other health care practitioners
• Hospitals — state, local and private
• Residential mental health and substance abuse facilities

Other settings may include prisons, probation or parole agencies and juvenile detention facilities. Clinical mental health counselors may also choose to establish their own private practice and work for themselves.

In terms of time commitment, the BLS noted that "most substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors work full time, although part-time work is common. In some settings, such as inpatient or residential facilities, they may need to work evenings, nights or weekends."

How Much Do Clinical Mental Health Counselors Make?

The BLS reports the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $53,710 in 2023, with the highest 10% earning more than $89,920.*

Of the top industries in which substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors work, hospitals (state, local and private) paid the highest median annual wage in 2023 at $59,090, followed by the offices of other health care practitioners at $55,410, according to BLS.*

How Do You Become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor?

According to Britton, becoming a mental health counselor is a rigorous process.

"Just as you wouldn't want a surgeon operating without proper training, mental health care requires extensive preparation and demonstrated competence," she said. "Our educational and licensure requirements ensure that every counselor has not only the academic foundation but also supervised clinical experience in applying evidence-based approaches."

Here are 7 steps that can help you become a clinical mental health counselor.

Gain Foundational Experience

While not a required starting point, this entry into the field can help you build important EQ muscles, according to Britton.

You can do this by immsersing yourself in the field, she said, in roles such as:

• Community advocate
• Crisis hotline volunteer
• Support group facilitator

"(These experiences) help develop the essential qualities of empathy, active listening and cultural competence that form the foundation of effective counseling," Britton said.

Earn a Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's in psychology or another related field will help you gain a strong understanding of human behavior and psychological principles.

According to Dr. William La Valle, a licensed psychologist and instructor of psychology programs at SNHU, majoring in psychology can help prime you for a career as a counselor by teaching you about the human mind and behavior.

"Studying psychology allows you to learn about what makes humans 'tick,' allowing you to gain a better understanding of how the brain works," La Valle said.

He noted that SNHU's bachelor's in psychology with a concentration in mental health could be an especially good fit for an aspiring mental health counselor.

"You will explore mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as what treatment looks like for each disorder," he said.

Continue on to a Master's Degree

In addition to your bachelor's degree, you'll need to pursue a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field (Note: SNHU's master's in clinical mental health counseling is not currently enrolling students).

Gain Supervised Clinical Experience

Most candidates earn their state-required hours through an internship or practicum placement while pursuing their master's degree. Depending on state requirements, additional post-graduate clinical hours may be required.

Pass Licensing Exams

All states within the U.S. require candidates to pass one or more exams developed by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). You may also need to pass state-specific exams.

Apply for Licensure

Once you've completed all of your state's licensure requirements, you can apply for your official license to practice.

"Licensure requirements uphold professional standards, protect clients and reinforce public trust in mental health services," Britton said.

Depending on the state in which you practice, your official title may differ. The AMHCA lists the following as some of the most common:

• CMHC: Clinical Mental Health Counselor
• LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor
• LMHC: Licensed Mental Health Counselor
• LPCC: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
• LCPC: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
• NCC: National Certified Counselor

After officially obtaining your license, you're free to begin taking on clients in a professional capacity.

Engage in Continuing Education and Specialization

Professional development is important to engage in reguarly once you're licensed. "Our field is constantly evolving, and so must we," Britton said.

And it's not just encouraged. Some states require continued education (CE) for license renewal. Be sure to familiarize yourself with how many CE hours you'll need to complete to maintain licensure in your state — and how often.

Learning opportunities can be found through professional organizations and conferences, for instance, as well as through certifications, according to Britton.

"Each new learning opportunity enhances our ability to serve our clients effectively," she said.

What’s the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Clinical Counselor?

Though psychologists and clinical mental health counselors are both mental health professionals who work to help others with emotional, psychological and behavioral challenges, there are a couple key distinctions between the two professions.

According to Britton, those distinctions include education and areas of focus.

While psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree, clinical mental health counselors often hold a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field.

In terms of responsibilities, psychologists are trained to conduct comprehensive psychological assessments and research, according to Britton. Sometimes they manage medications, too. Conversely, clinical mental health counselors are trained in therapeutic interventions and client-centered approaches to support day-to-day life, Britton said.

These professional differences create collaborative opportunities for psychologists and clinical mental health counselors, as they may refer clients to one another to ensure they receive the most comprehensive care.

Why Become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor?

When it comes to pursuing a career in clinical mental health counseling, many feel the reward is worth the effort.

"There's nothing quite like seeing someone discover their inner strength, find hope in darkness or reclaim their sense of self," Britton said. "When I see the ripple effects of our work spreading through families and communities, it reaffirms why I chose this path."

And Kinney very much agrees. "This journey is rich with opportunities for connection, empowerment and healing, and it is one that I am honored to walk alongside my clients, students and colleagues," he said.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Kelly Hamilton’s obsession with words started in elementary school when she’d borrow library books almost as big as her. After earning her bachelor’s in communication and cinema studies from the University of New Hampshire, she worked in Boston as an in-house, agency and freelance copywriter/content curator for several years. These days, Kelly serves as a copywriter for Southern New Hampshire University and spends her free time bragging about how cute her niece is. Connect with her on LinkedIn.