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Finding the Best Mental Health Professional Job For You!
by Phyl Good

When you start job-hunting as a mental health professional, you may begin by dropping off resumes at hospitals or mental health institutions or offices. But remember that many of these institutions have preferences about how they are approached. Jobs in mental health are sometimes posted on the institutions’ websites, in journals, or on standard job boards, and some places only accept resumes applied toward an advertised job. Others prefer that you direct an unsolicited resume to a department head or other staff person, or make an appointment.

So when you approach an institution for possible mental health employment, call the department you’re interested in first, to learn the best way to approach them. However, while you’re on the phone, why not pursue a different avenue that could bear fruit more quickly? Many healthcare jobs are not advertised, so although you could be perfect for one of them, how would you ever know? The answer is to get a network helping you search. Any mental health professional you know and trust could potentially discover that one open door you need.

How will a network function, and won’t people feel used if you enlist them to try to help you find psychology jobs? Probably not, because you are not asking them for an actual job. Instead, call to notify them that you’re in the job market and would appreciate any assistance or recommendations they have. If they agree, ask if you can send a resume. And if you haven’t heard back after three weeks, call and ask if they have suggestions for you. A mental health professional already operating in a working environment has access to information you don’t, and may find themselves thinking, “I know who would be just right for that marriage counselor job that’s opening up.”

Getting a network helping in your search for mental health employment doesn’t take you off the hook, of course. Looking for mental health jobs is almost a full-time job in itself. You should still apply for positions you hear about from other sources, and try to contact the right people. Research each hospital or institution thoroughly, to present a knowledgeable face and also to know how you yourself might fit into their mission. You are a trained mental health professional, so present yourself with a professional resume and demeanor. Eventually, through your efforts and the help of your network, the right job will present itself.