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| What is Mental Health Counseling? |
| The definition of
mental health counseling is: "....the provision of professional counseling services involving the application of principles of psycho-therapy, human development, learning theory, group dynamics, and the etiology of mental illness and dysfunctional behavior to individuals, couples, families and groups, for the purpose of treating psychopathology and promoting optimal mental health. The practice of mental health
counseling includes, but is not limited to, diagnosis and treatment
of mental and emotional disorders, psychoeducational techniques
aimed at prevention of such disorders, consultations to individuals,
couples, families, groups, organizations and communities, and clinical
research into more effective psychotherapeutic treatment modalities." |
| The Licensed Mental Health Counselor |
| The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
licenses Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) who have met the education
and training criteria set by the Allied Mental Health and Human Services
Board of the Division of Professional Licensure. Licensed Mental Health Counselors are prepared to assist clients to cope with a wide variety of problems and concerns. Mental Health Counselors specialize in many areas such as the emotional problems of anxiety, depression and phobias, child and spouse abuse, family conflict, drug and alcohol abuse, trauma recovery, crime victimization, bereavement, and job and career issues. |
| Continuing Education |
| Maintenance of this license requires that the LMHC adhere to the laws and regulations of the State Board of Allied Mental Health and Human Service Professions and provide evidence of ongoing professional study and development. LMHCs must obtain 30 hours of continuing education credits every two years. More about LMHC licensure renewal. |
| Standards of Practice |
Mental Health Counselors
practice according to nationally mandated Standards of Practice that
include:
For more information regarding licensure and standards contact: The
Division of Registration |
| © Copyright 1999-2009, Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association. All Rights Reserved. Web site maintained by Adventures Online. Last updated January 21, 2009 |