What is the Role of a Mental Health Therapist?

The role of a counselor is largely variable depending on setting and specialty. Broadly defined, counselors assist individuals, groups, couples, and families in managing mental health related issues. Therapists may also provide guidance and support in social, academic, and personal domains. Other activities that counselors may assist clients with are processing trauma, setting boundaries, improving self-esteem, managing anxiety and depression and goal setting. Counselors with specific training may assist clients in reduction or cessation of drug or alcohol use. Other counselors specialize in crisis intervention such as when a client is experiencing suicidal ideations. On a global level, all counselors are involved in advocacy and empowering clients to take control of their lives. Other counselors work at a national or global level in advocacy-based roles to influence policy related to human rights and access to mental health to promote positive social change. Counseling provides a safe and neutral place for all individuals to discuss hard matters, improve communication skills, work on relationships, and find paths to achieve goals. Mental health counselors are not tasked with giving advice but rather encourage clients to make connection through the use of therapeutic techniques such as Socratic questioning. Mental health counseling can benefit anyone willing to actively participate in the process.