The Importance of Veterans Counselors
Professional counselors are skilled in working with various populations of clients. Among these populations of clients is a group in special need of assistance: our veterans. Veterans have specific needs. Many have returned from combat with significant injuries or stress-related illnesses. Some have developed Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other trauma-related disorders as a result of the harsh and tumultuous experiences during war. Many veterans have to deal with the added tragedy and challenge of losing close friends and colleagues. Often, veterans can experience guilt as a result of their war experience and long term feelings of being distraught. Veterans counselors are often the most important line of defense in protecting veterans from the horrific possibilities of severe depression and suicide.
Another area in which veterans counselors can help veterans is in the area of helping them to find civilian employment. Readjusting to “mainstream society” is a big challenge for our veterans. Veterans counselors are in the unique and highly qualified position of helping those who have helped us so much.
Some of the important areas in which veterans counselors can help our veterans:
- Vocational and rehabilitation counseling
- Readjustment counseling
- Treating mental illness such as conditions of PTSD
Veterans counselors are important advocates for veterans and their families. Imagine working with children of veterans. Veterans counselors often work with spouses who have had to deal with separation anxiety and other issues surrounding the spouse they love. Areas in which veterans counselors may work:
- Private clinics
- Government settings
- The Veterans Administration
- Universities
Education for Veterans Counselors
Counselors are encouraged to pursue at least a Master’s degree in order expand their employment options and gain the most professional clout possible. Often, the Mental Health Counseling emphasis and Rehabilitation Counseling emphasis are the best viable options for specializing in order to properly take one in the direction of the career. Talk to school administrators to ensure that you are on the right path.
The following are notable programs for veteran counselors:
Authorities in the profession have suggested that a mental health counseling program is the best choice for individuals who are interested in working with veterans who are suffering from PTSD or other serious psychiatric issues. For an individual to work as a Veterans Administration mental health counselor, he or she must attain graduation from a program that is accredited by CACREP(The Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs). For the latest and greatest news on occupational guidelines, keep an eye on the VA site.
Veterans counselors can also take continuing education courses though organizations such as the National Center for PTSD. This worthwhile organization offers many relevant topics to explore in depth on the website.
Licensing and Certification
Mental health counselors and rehabilitation counselors are usually licensed in all 50 states. In some of those states, both are eligible (with the right qualifications) for the Licensed Professional Counselor designation. The Certified Rehabilitation Counselor credential is another option that many consider highly desirable and sought out by employers. Remember, the more education you get, the better the potential for your long term career!
Career Potential
The U.S. government provides funds for services to assist returning veterans in need of special services (which are often in the realm of counseling). The salary range of a veterans counselor, based on data offered from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, is in the realm of $32,000 to $38,000 for those with the specialties of mental health counselors and rehabilitation counselors. As The United States continues to have a need to provide services for our returning veterans, there will be a growing need for Veterans Counselors. This is a highly rewarding sector of the counseling profession!
No comments:
Post a Comment