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Service Branches
Work Environment
Mental health caseworkers usually work in offices or clinics.
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Military Status
Enlisted
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Average Military Salary
$66,395
Overview
Mental health caseworkers assess, diagnose, and treat psychological conditions. They implement initial mental health assessment procedures including standardized psychological testing, clinical interviewing, and substance abuse evaluations. They monitor, record, and report on patient progress. Mental health caseworkers conduct and/or provide individual and group counseling, and they establish preventative measures related to patient injuries, including those sustained in combat. They supervise and support caring for individuals with acute and post-traumatic stress reactions.
Military Training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Mental health caseworkers develop skills in meeting the social and psychological needs of service members primarily through on-the-job learning in various healthcare environments. Training content may include:
- Orientation to counseling and social service programs
- Interviewing and counseling methods
- Treatments for drug and alcohol abuse
- Psychological testing techniques
- Psychiatry, psychology, and nursing principles
Helpful Attributes
- Interest in working with people
- Patience in dealing with problems that take time and effort to overcome
- Sensitivity to the needs of others
- Listening and communication skills
Related Civilian Careers
- Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
- Psychiatric Technicians
- Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
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