Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Counselors and Therapists are caring professionals who help people navigate their feelings and challenges. They listen to individuals talk about their problems, whether feeling sad, dealing with stress, or handling tough situations at home or school. Counseling is generally more goal-oriented and practical, focusing on coping strategies and problem-solving. Therapy delves deeper into emotional and psychological issues, aiming for long-term change and personal growth. Using their skills, they guide people to understand their emotions and find healthy ways to cope. Important traits include being good listeners, empathetic, and patient. They also need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make others feel comfortable and supported. This profession enjoys helping others and are interested in understanding how people think and feel.
Salary Range
- $81,000 – $110,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Sociology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution Duration: ~2-3 years
- Gain Experience: Complete a supervised internship or practicum in a mental health clinic, counseling center, or healthcare organization to gain specialized training and experience in mental health counseling. Stay current with counseling techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research. Obtain licensure from the appropriate state licensing board to enhance qualifications and career prospects.
Scholarships Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNR and UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What Is A Mental Health Counselor? – Forbes Health
- Psychologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Psychologist: What They Do, Specialties & Training Cleveland Clinic
- Sociologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways