O*NET Career Intelligence

Mental Health Counselors

SOC 21-1014.00

Counsel with emphasis on prevention. Work with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. May help individuals deal with issues associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; and aging.

Zone 5 Community and Social Service

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Green

Top Skills 8

Active Listening

4.9

Social Perceptiveness

4.8

Speaking

4.1

Service Orientation

4.1

Writing

3.9

Critical Thinking

3.9

Monitoring

3.9

Judgment and Decision Making

3.9

Knowledge Areas 8

Psychology

5.0

Therapy and Counseling

4.9

Customer and Personal Service

4.5

Sociology and Anthropology

4.3

English Language

4.3

Education and Training

4.2

Clerical

3.5

Philosophy and Theology

3.3

Key Tasks

1Maintain confidentiality of records relating to clients' treatment.

2Encourage clients to express their feelings and discuss what is happening in their lives, helping them to develop insight into themselves or their relationships.

3Collect information about clients through interviews, observation, or tests.

4Assess patients for risk of suicide attempts.

5Fill out and maintain client-related paperwork, including federal- and state-mandated forms, client diagnostic records, and progress notes.

Also Known As

Behavior Analyst Behavior Support Specialist (BSS) Behavioral Health Counselor Behavioral Health Therapist Bereavement Counselor Case Manager Child Care Counselor Clinical Counselor Clinical Mental Health Counselor Clinician