A mental health science career is not only intellectually stimulating but profoundly fulfilling
Almost half (44%) of all Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime, which is why a career in mental health science can make a big difference in the lives of others. Careers in this field are wide-ranging too, whether it be understa nding, treating or supporting individuals facing mental health challenges.
Whatever you choose you’ll be contributing to the wellbeing of all, and helping to foster a society where mental health is prioritised.
Here are just a few of the most in-demand gigs in mental health science you could consider.
#1 Clinical psychology
you’re interested in exploring the complexities of the human mind, then this could be the gig for you. Employing a combination of therapy, counselling and assessments, clinical psychologists help people cope with emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues. In this career, you can choose to work for yourself in a private practice, or in a hospital or community mental health centre.
#2 Psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner
These professionals specialise in prescribing medications and developing treatment plans for mental health disorders. In this career, your work bridges the gap between the biological and psychological aspects of mental health.
#3 Counsellor or social worker
If you want to provide help to a particular community of people then counseling or social work could be a truly rewarding path. School counselors, for instance, are there to guide students through academic and personal challenges.
#4 Research psychology
Not all gigs in mental health involve working directly with patients. In research psychology you could help discover the next breakthrough treatment or contribute to our always-evolving understanding of the brain and its relationship to mental health.
Science + Mental Health + Study
- Bachelor of Psychology, Edith Cowan University
- Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology), QUT
- Bachelor of Social Work, Edith Cowan University
- Bachelor of Health Science (Addiction Studies), Edith Cowan University
Science + Mental Health + Jobs
- Mental health counsellor $57K–$109K
- Psychiatrist $78K–$340K
- Psychologist $61K–$105K
- Research scientist $60K–$112K*
*Salaries according to payscale.com
A version of this article was originally published in Careers with STEM: Science.
