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The Value of an Associate Degree in Psychology

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January 31, 2024

The Value of an Associate Degree in Psychology

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In the dynamic world of mental health and human services, the role of education is vital. An associate degree in psychology is not just a stepping-stone but a key that opens a multitude of doors in this field. While often overlooked, this degree offers an in-depth introduction to psychology, setting the stage for a rewarding career in mental health care and other related areas.

As you continue your journey towards becoming a therapist or a mental health professional, keep Advanced Behavioral Health (ABH) in mind for enriching career opportunities in the future.

Exploring the Associate Degree in Psychology

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. An associate degree in psychology typically requires two years of full-time study, providing a broad understanding of psychological theories, practices, and research methods. This education is crucial for those who are exploring the field of psychology and considering a future career in this area.

Career Paths with an Associate Degree in Psychology

Despite common misconceptions, an associate degree in psychology can lead to various entry-level roles in the mental health sector. These positions include:

Psychiatric Technician: Offering care in mental health facilities, psychiatric technicians support individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.
Youth Counselor: These counselors guide young people facing behavioral, emotional, or mental health issues, often in educational or juvenile correction facilities.
Case Management Aide: Assisting in client services, these professionals aid case managers in organizing care and facilitating communication between service providers.
Rehabilitation Aide: Supporting individuals in recovery from mental health issues, addictions, or injuries, rehabilitation aides are vital in therapy sessions and recovery processes.
Social Service Assistant: Under the supervision of social workers or psychologists, these assistants help clients navigate and utilize community resources.

Advancing Education and Career Opportunities

An associate degree in psychology is often the first step towards further education and advanced career opportunities. Graduates frequently pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, leading to roles that require greater responsibility, such as licensed counselors or clinical psychologists.

Skills and Knowledge Gained

This degree equips students with essential skills applicable in various professional settings:

Understanding Human Behavior: Crucial for any career involving interpersonal interactions.
Communication Skills: The ability to effectively communicate, a vital professional skill.
Critical Thinking: The capability to analyze, evaluate, and solve problems.
Cultural Awareness: An appreciation for diverse perspectives, essential in today’s multicultural society.

Conclusion

The path of an associate degree in psychology is more than an educational journey; it’s a launchpad for a meaningful career in mental health and human services. This degree paves the way for diverse opportunities, laying a solid foundation of knowledge and skills crucial in various roles within the mental health field.

If you’re pursuing an associate degree in psychology and are interested in applying this knowledge in a practical setting, consider reaching out to Advanced Behavioral Health for potential internship opportunities. This experience could be a significant step in your professional development, providing practical insights and valuable on-the-job training.

Visit our current openings page to explore if we have clinical internship opportunities that align with your career goals. Your future in mental health services starts with the right education and the right opportunities. Advanced Behavioral Health is here to support you on this journey.

When you think of the well-being of a child, you first think of basic needs: food, water, and shelter. Once these needs are met, however, it’s crucial for a child to have emotional and social wellness as well. In this article, we will explore the impact social wellness has on the overall health of a child and great ways for children to garner social support in their lives.

It comes as no surprise that as human beings, we all need connection with others, no matter what stage of life we are in. In fact, having social support is a social determinant of health (SDOH) that significantly impacts the health of an individual. After spending the last few years in and out of isolation due to the Covid-19 outbreak, social support is more important now than ever before. Having social support means having family members and friends you can talk to and seek advice from when life feels challenging and overwhelming. Knowing you’re not alone in your life journey, especially as a child, creates a sense of belonging and empowerment throughout one’s life.

4 Types of Social Support

Emotional Support. This type of support lets you know that people care about you and have empathy for your experiences. Emotional support often looks like people checking in on you to let you know they’re thinking of you, and that they are there if you need anything. As a parent, make sure your child knows you can be a sounding board for them. If you have family members who can also show up for your children in this way, even better!

Practical Help. This type of support is when people give you something tangible or offer a service to help you out. This could be in the form of money, making food when you are sick, or helping to pack when moving. Having family and friends show up in this way shows your child what it looks like to be present for people you love.

Sharing Points of View. This type of support can often come in the form of affirmations and encouragement. For example, pointing out your child’s strengths to them and reminding them they can do anything they put their mind to. It can also look like sharing another perspective if they are being hard on themselves. For example, if they are angry with themselves after receiving a bad grade on a test, you can help them see it as a learning experience and a way for them to grow.

Sharing Information. This type of support is when someone shares what they’ve learned from their own life experiences. For example, if another parent has a child who struggles with socializing, they can share some tips and tricks they’ve learned to help their child find and create social support.

The Importance of Social Groups and Extended Support

Children who are connected to their family, friends, and people in their community have opportunities to learn how to speak, share, and get along with others. When your child feels connected to people in your neighborhood, it often allows them to feel physically safe which can alleviate stress and worry. Simply riding bikes, going on walks, and saying hello to neighbors with your kids can create this sense of security for them.

In addition to engaging with your neighbors, getting involved in local organizations can also create social support for your child. Signing up for a sports team, musical theater, art class or summer camp are all great ways to help your child meet new friends and learn important social skills that can carry them through their lives.

Tips for Helping Kids Make Community Connections:

Spend time outside in your neighborhood playing on the playground, going to a local farmer’s market, or scheduling a playdate with neighborhood kids.

Show your kids that connection is a two-way street. If your neighbors or friends go out of town, offer to get their mail, or water their plants and take your child with you when you go. This will show your child how you show up for people you care about.

Make sure you make time for socializing with friends as well. Your child looks to you first and foremost for how they should act and live their own life.

Encourage your child to step out of their comfort zone and do something they may be scared to do. As a parent, it’s your job to push them into something social for their own well-being at times.