About Mental Health Counselors
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 group, for the purpose of threading psychopathology and promoting optimal mental health. The practice of mental health counseling includes, but is not limited to, techniques aimed a prevention of such disorders, consolations to individuals, couples, effective psychotherapeutic treatment modalities.”
The Licensed Mental Health Counselor
The commonwealth of Massachusetts licenses Mental Health Counselors (LMHC’s) 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 specialized in many areas such as the emotional problems of anxiety, depression and phobias, child and spouse abuse, family conflict, drug and alcohol abuse, family conflict, drug and alcohol abuse, trauma recovery, crime victimization, bereavement, and job, and career issues.
Standards of Practice
Mental Health Counselors practice according to nationally mandated Standards of Practice that include:
- A Code of Professional Ethics
- Standards for Education & Training
- Standards for Professional Conduct of Practice
- Standards for Licensure and Certification
