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Roles & related school programs

Planning Your Path

You don’t need to have everything figured out to get started in behavioral health. Whether you’re exploring careers for the first time, changing directions, or building on your own experiences, there are many paths that can help you move forward.

Some careers can begin with short-term training or certification programs that start throughout the year, while college and graduate programs often begin in the fall or spring. Many schools open applications 6-12 months before classes start, so giving yourself time to explore programs, financial aid, and requirements can help you plan your next steps with more confidence.

There’s no single path into a behavioral health career. Some people begin through certificate or training programs, others start at a community college or four-year school, and some continue on to graduate or doctoral programs over time. Whether you’re interested in peer support, community health, counseling, social work, psychology, or psychiatry, there are flexible ways to build a career where you’re empowered to help others feel supported, understood, and connected to care.

Start where you are, take it one step at a time, and know that every step forward counts. 

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Peer Support Specialist

You use your lived experience with mental health or recovery to support others through encouragement, advocacy, and connection to resources.

Training: High school diploma or equivalent plus state-approved peer support training/certification.
Time to start: A few months to 1 year.
Next steps: Explore certification programs, connect with local peer organizations, and apply for entry-level support roles.

Community Health Worker

You help individuals and families connect to health, behavioral health, and social services while providing education and community support.

Training: High school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer additional training or certification.
Time to start: A few months to 1 year.
Next steps: Research community health worker training programs and look for roles at community organizations or health centers.

Mental Health Counselor

You provide therapy and support to individuals, families, or groups experiencing mental health challenges.

Training: Bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s degree in counseling and supervised clinical experience.
Time to start: About 6–8 years.
Next steps: Explore counseling degree programs and learn about Massachusetts licensure requirements.

Social Worker

You support individuals and families with mental health, healthcare, housing, and other social service needs. In some roles, you may also provide therapy.

Training: Bachelor’s degree for some roles; clinical positions require a master’s degree in social work and licensure.
Time to start: About 4–7 years depending on role.
Next steps: Learn about social work career paths and identify accredited social work programs.

Psychiatrist or Psychologist

You assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions through therapy, psychological testing, research, and/or medication management, depending on your role and level of training.

Training: Psychologists complete a doctoral degree and supervised training, whereas psychiatrists complete medical school and residency.
Time to start: About 8–12+ years.
Next steps: Explore psychology or pre-med education paths and review graduate or medical school requirements.

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