On the Path": Resources for African Americans Pursuing a Career in Mental Health Counseling
Welcome to "On the Path," a comprehensive guide for African Americans who want to become mental health counselors or marriage and family therapists. Here, you'll find information on organizations you can join, HBCU universities with the correct programs, and the requirements for becoming a licensed mental health counselor or marriage and family therapist in every US state and territory.
**Organizations for African American Mental Health Professionals**
Joining a professional organization can provide you with networking opportunities, access to resources and training, and advocacy for your profession. Consider these organizations:
- Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi): The ABPsi aims to promote the professional development and mental health of Black people. They offer conferences, training, and publications for their members.
- Black Mental Health Alliance (BMHA): The BMHA provides education and training on mental health and wellness for African Americans. They also advocate for policy changes to improve the mental health of Black people.
**HBCUs with Mental Health Counseling Programs**
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offer a variety of programs in mental health counseling. Here are a few:
- Howard University: Howard University in Washington, DC, offers a Master's in Clinical Psychology and Counseling Services program.
- North Carolina Central University: North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC, offers a Master's in Mental Health Counseling program.
**State and Territory Licensing Requirements for Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists**
Each US state and territory has its own requirements for becoming a licensed mental health counselor or marriage and family therapist. Here are a few resources to help you navigate the process:
- The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) provides a state-by-state guide to licensure requirements for mental health counselors.
- The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a state-by-state guide to mental health resources and services, including licensing requirements.