Blog Objectives
This article will point out the seven key mistakes that individuals make when seeking behavioral health credentials. You will discover how to avoid these pitfalls, simplify the process of certification, and lay a strong foundation for your counseling career. We will discuss everything from selecting the proper program to knowing the requirements for credentials, so you can begin your career on the right path.
Behavioral Health
Pursuing a career in behavioral health counseling is one of the most rewarding career choices you can make. But many aspiring professionals get derailed in their certification process because of some common mistakes that can be easily avoided. Whether you are looking at mental health counselor certification or substance abuse professional certification, being aware of these mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration.
The process of claiming a behavioral health counselor certification requires proper planning and the right learning partner. At Laitinen Academy, we have assisted thousands of students in their certification process and are equipped with the best training programs to prepare you for the challenges of behavioral health counseling.
Mistake #1: Selecting Non-Accredited Training Options
Why is Accreditation Important?
New professionals can easily get caught up in the cheapest or quickest option for certification without checking for accreditation. This can ruin your entire career before it even begins. Non-accredited training options will not meet the requirements of the state licensing board, rendering your certificate useless when applying for jobs.
Recovery coach academy training options and peer coach academy courses must be properly accredited by reputable organizations. Make sure the training organization satisfies your state’s requirements for a behavioral health counselor certification.
Mistake #2: Failing to Consider State-Specific Requirements
Every state has its own set of requirements for behavioral health counselor certifications. A common misconception for new professionals is that certification requirements are the same for everyone, even if it is a substance abuse professional certification.
How to avoid this mistake:
- Thoroughly review your state licensing board website
- Directly contact the licensing board with questions
- Ensure your desired program meets state requirements
- Plan for potential future relocation opportunities when choosing your certification route
Mistake #3: Underestimating Practical Experience Requirements
How Much Experience Do You Actually Need?
Learning in the classroom won’t adequately prepare you for the real-world challenges of behavioral health counseling. Many certification courses, including recovery coach certification courses, involve supervised hours.
Most peer coach academy courses involve 500-1000 hours of supervised experience. Begin working towards these hours early by volunteering at treatment facilities, community organizations, or peer support groups. These hours not only meet training requirements but also help boost your confidence and resume.
Mistake #4: Failure to Take Advantage of Continuing Education Opportunities
Does Learning End After Certification?
Not at all, the world of behavioral health is always changing with new research, new techniques, and new best practices. Many new professionals see certification as the end of the learning process, not the beginning.
Mental health counselor certifications need to be maintained by completing continuing education units (CEUs) to remain active. At Laitinen Academy, we provide our students with continuing education opportunities that keep them on the cutting edge of behavioral health techniques.
Mistake #5: Not Developing a Professional Network
Isolation is the death of a career in behavioral health counseling. New professionals tend to concentrate solely on finishing their coursework without giving any attention to developing their professional network.
How to network effectively:
- Become a member of professional organizations for substance abuse professional certification
- Attend conferences and workshops regularly
- Engage with online communities and social networking sites
- Find a mentor in the field of counseling
- Volunteer for organizations in your area of specialization
Mistake #6: Haste Through the Certification Process
Should You Take the Fast Track?
Accelerated programs are available, but it is often a mistake to rush through the Laitinen Academy training process. You will miss important learning experiences, be unable to develop necessary skills, and perhaps find yourself in trouble when dealing with clients in a counseling capacity.
Take the time to learn and develop skills. Your clients should have a well-prepared counselor who has taken the time to fully learn the necessary skills.
Mistake #7: Failing to Consider Specialty Certifications
What Additional Credentials Should You Consider?
Many new professionals stop at basic certification without considering specialty certifications that can improve marketing. Specialty certifications in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, or populations can make you more valuable to potential employers.
Consider obtaining additional certifications in conjunction with your basic recovery coach certification or mental health counselor certifications. Specialty certifications show a commitment to excellence and can lead to higher-paying jobs.
Establishing Your Foundation for Success
By sidestepping these seven errors, you set yourself up for success in your career as a behavioral health counselor. This process of becoming certified is an investment in yourself and all the people whom you will go on to help throughout the course of your career. You must take the time to research and establish the skills necessary for long-term success.
Are you ready to begin your certification process? At Laitinen Academy, we offer accredited training programs for becoming a certified behavioral health counselor, peer coaching academy training, and more.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing an accredited program eliminates potential issues with future credentialing.
- Knowledge of state requirements saves time and money.
- Practical experience is critical for success on certification exams.
- Networking in the behavioral health field provides job opportunities.
- Continuing education keeps your credentials current and sharpens your skills.
FAQs:
Can I work while I am seeking my certification?
Yes, many students work part-time or full-time while seeking their certification. Online courses are available for working professionals.
What is the difference between certification and licensure?
Certification is proof that you have completed training in a specific area, while licensure is the legal right to practice independently in your state.
Do I need a college degree to become certified as a recovery coach?
This depends on the state and the program that you are seeking, as some recovery coach academies will allow students with a high school diploma, while others require college credits.
How much does continuing education cost per year?
The cost of CEUs is between $200 and $500 per year, depending on the type of certification that you hold and the training organizations that you choose.