Importance of Training in Mental Health

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By: Shelly Bohmert MA LADC LPCC

Training involves the process of teaching or cultivating skills, knowledge, or competencies through instruction, practice, or experience. Throughout our lives and careers, we engage in training in numerous ways and settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, and sports. Ultimately, training enhances our performance and helps us reach our goals.

Why is training especially vital in the field of Mental Health? This profession presents a wealth of training opportunities. Typically, before entering the field after completing a graduate program, individuals participate in at least two or three internships or practicum placements, not including those who also had internship experiences during their undergraduate studies. After earning a master’s degree, additional training hours are required, along with adapting to new job responsibilities. The Mental Health field is marked by constant and unpredictable changes, highlighting the necessity for ongoing training. A common misconception is that a therapist’s education concludes with licensure; in fact, training is an ongoing journey. Therapists are continuously involved in learning, whether it’s about updates in documentation, clinical changes, or new diagnostic methods. We are also required to accumulate a specific number of continuing education credits for license renewal every two years. The therapist community is populated by individuals eager to expand their knowledge, whether it pertains to new client care approaches, therapeutic modalities, or broader developments in the field. While staying current can be challenging, it underscores the critical importance of continuous training and a willingness to learn. Ongoing training in Mental Health is crucial for equipping professionals to deliver the highest quality of care to their clients. Given the complexities of mental health issues and the ever-evolving nature of therapeutic techniques and research, ongoing education ensures that therapists remain informed about the latest evidence-based practices. This commitment to continuous learning not only improves care quality but also deepens understanding of diverse client needs and cultural competencies. Furthermore, training enables practitioners to adapt to rapid changes in the field, including emerging mental health challenges and advancements in technology. Ultimately, prioritizing training in Mental Health helps cultivate a skilled workforce capable of effectively supporting individuals on their paths to well-being.

The benefits of ongoing training reach beyond therapists to their clients. For example, keeping abreast of the latest research and techniques enhances the quality of care a therapist can provide. Additionally, the collaborative nature of the field, where therapists share insights and strategies, promotes a supportive community of growth. Lastly, it’s crucial to acknowledge the role of supervision and peer support in the training process, as both are vital to demonstrating a commitment to professional development in Mental Health. By engaging in continuous training, therapists not only improve their own skills but also contribute to the overall advancement of the profession, ultimately leading to better outcomes for clients.

At Progress Valley Mental Health Clinic, we take great pride in our commitment to ongoing training. We regularly host numerous CEU-eligible training events throughout the year for our clinical staff, ensuring they remain current with industry standards and best practices. During our monthly team meetings, we review new developments and changes in the field, fostering an environment of continuous learning. We believe in the importance of learning from one another, as this collaboration enriches our collective knowledge and skills. By prioritizing our growth as clinicians, we not only enhance our individual capabilities but also enable our clinic to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of mental health care. Our dedication to training ultimately translates into better support and outcomes for our clients, reinforcing our mission to provide the highest quality of care.

In conclusion, training is not just a foundational aspect of professional development in Mental Health; it is an essential commitment that empowers therapists to provide the best possible care. As the field continues to evolve, ongoing education ensures that practitioners are equipped to address the diverse and complex needs of their clients. This continuous learning fosters a culture of collaboration, where sharing knowledge and experiences enhances the collective skill set of the therapeutic community. By prioritizing training, we not only elevate individual practices but also contribute to the overall growth of the Mental Health profession. Ultimately, this dedication to lifelong learning translates into improved outcomes for clients, reinforcing the importance of ongoing training as a cornerstone of effective mental health care.

We encourage you to get in touch to learn more, whether you’re a prospective client interested in our Mental Health services or a clinician curious about our team and what we provide.

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Founded in 1972, Progress Valley is a Minneapolis-St. Paul area-based nonprofit provider of services for people with emotional and mental health challenges and/or substance use issues related to drugs or alcohol. Community members can find therapy and mental health counseling at our Bloomington Mental Health Clinic. Clients from all over Minnesota and the nation can find help with substance use challenges with us as well.

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