Can I Work In Mental Health With a Sociology Degree?

A mental health worker is one of the career paths a person with a degree in sociology can consider. Sociologists can find jobs within human services and other related fields.

Those with a passion for helping people suffering from mental health disorders can utilize their sociology degree by choosing a career in mental health services. Although you may have a bachelor's degree, consider furthering your education and completing the appropriate certifications to achieve the requirements to work in the mental health field.

What Is a Sociology Degree?

Sociology students learn studies of human behavior and social interactions. A sociology major will also learn various aspects of life including human interactions, social life in group settings, and societal causes and consequences. With a sociology degree, a person ultimately understands society and relationships. Many courses required for a sociology degree overlap with a psychology degree.

Because of this, mental health is frequently discussed in coursework, allowing students to learn more about mental illness. Those considering a job in mental health will gain the knowledge necessary for this future career path.

How To Pursue a Mental Health Career With a Sociology Degree

If you've completed a sociology degree program at an accredited university and want to pursue a full-time mental health career, there are various ways to go about it. For instance, you must further your education, acquire specific certifications, and stay informed on mental health practices.

Further Your Education

To further your education, consider achieving a master's degree in a related field that aligns with your career path. There are also doctoral degree programs that offer hands-on experience as you participate in hours of supervised clinical sessions.

There will be education requirements you need to meet depending on the mental health job you're seeking. In addition to this, consider internships which can provide unique ways to experience the work environment. You also make connections in the workplace which can become references later in your career.

Acquire Licensure or Certification

There are certifications you must complete and credentials you must gain before obtaining a career in mental health. Even though you have the expertise and education, you must maintain licensure to become a licensed clinical social worker, psychologist, or a similar job.

Network With Mental Health Professionals

There are several mental health care professions such as:

• licensed clinical social worker
• market research analyst
• public relations consultant

To learn more about other roles in the mental health field and the work experience that goes along with it, consider networking with other mental health professionals. At work functions, get to know other professionals who work in a different field from you. Continued education comes in many forms, including learning from others around you.

Stay Informed on Mental Health Practices

Remaining up-to-date with current mental health practices is necessary for any role in the mental health field. Psychiatrists, psychologists, and other professionals must keep licensures current and process new mental health data as it becomes available from the latest scientific research.

Develop Soft Skills

Throughout your career, you will gain many skills including:

• critical thinking
• active listening
• problem-solving

These soft skills are crucial for those in the mental health care field. For example, listening to patients to better understand their mental health struggles is necessary for certain professions. Collaboration is also important, as you will work with not only patients but co-workers as well.

Mental Health Careers for Sociology Graduates

Sociology graduates searching for career opportunities in mental health care have numerous job options to consider. Many careers involve mental health assistance.

Research Assistant

There are a variety of entry-level positions available as well as higher career options. Research assistants support other researchers who collect important data. Additionally, research assistants may help compile surveys and lab studies. With thorough research, you will learn more about mental health disorders and information related to mental illness.

Case Manager

Another job opportunity is case management. Case managers in mental health help secure housing and prepare treatment for patients. Case managers also work in jobs involving child welfare and the criminal justice system. Ultimately, case managers work to improve the mental well-being of those struggling in many unique situations.

Program Coordinator

As a program coordinator, you will implement, coordinate, and plan the many aspects of mental health services. A program coordinator may be necessary for nonprofit organizations and those with a private practice.

Public Health Educator

Public health educators can assist elementary, high school, and college students. As a school counselor, you may help those suffering from mental health problems such as low self-esteem, loneliness, and depression. You also have the option to help those struggling with substance abuse find treatment options.

Social Services Specialist

One career option includes becoming a social services specialist. A social services specialist assists clients by providing information regarding childcare, food stamps, and more. Social services specialists also help clients find information regarding assistance programs and housing options.