How Community Mental Health Benefits Our Community
Community mental health centers are an essential part of the overall mental health support available to the public. Sadly, they are often overlooked or given a negative perception based on their work alongside clients serving probation or their relationship with the Department of Child Services. Community health centers work hard to serve these populations well, but these organizations offer many other community benefits:
A Wide Range of Services – Community mental health centers offer various services. They are a place where you can access physician services, receive medical prescriptions, attend group therapy, participate in skills services, or see a mental health therapist. Other services may also be available. All these resources are housed at one location and available to those who hold private insurance and Medicaid/Medicare. These attributes make community mental health centers the ideal organization to meet our community’s mental health needs.
Serving Our Public Schools – Schools will work with community mental health centers to have extra assistance in the classroom for identified students. They will station therapists in schools, offer group sessions, and work on overall social skills. This safe environment allows students to join in with others experiencing similar struggles. After-school groups are also offered as a space for students who need a place to be. Parents can engage with workers if they require extra assistance with their children.
A Robust Mental Health Setting – Community mental health centers offer their employees a wide range of experiences. For those who are passionate and called to mental health, community mental health centers will provide them with well-rounded skills. They are also a great place for future therapists to gain experience and connections. Many community mental health centers love to grow their therapists from within. They will train you and offer you internship placement opportunities. Once you have graduated with your master’s degree, you are equipped with a variety of skills to begin your career.
Take some time to explore opportunities in your area to provide or receive services from one of these valuable community resources!
Ready to pursue your own career as a counselor? Learn more about Huntington University’s clinical mental health counseling program at huntington.edu/Counseling.
