The Best Kept Secrets About Landing Jobs That Aren't Therapy for Therapists
As a mental health clinician, you possess a unique skill set that can be incredibly valuable in a variety of fields beyond traditional clinical practice. If you find yourself yearning for a change or seeking new professional opportunities, transitioning into other fields can be an exciting and rewarding path to explore. As with most career transitions there are likely to be challenges. We’ll explore the possibilities and strategies for transitioning into other career spaces.
The possibilities are endless!
Read through any job description and you will likely find skills that you have used in your work. Roles that have similar skill sets to therapists are
Manager
Customer Success Manager
Project Manager
Training & Development
Human Resources
Research & Policy Development
Nonprofit Leader
Advocate
Here are some examples of role descriptions and desired qualifications from the job titles listed above:
People Operations
Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
Maintains a calm, tactful demeanor when dealing with difficult situations.
Experience building relationships and communicating with C level and executive stakeholders
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Change Management
Implementing and managing changes and interventions to ensure project goals are met
Identify, gather, and share customer feedback & feature requests with Product to drive interactive development process
Responsible for training and developing teams.
Project Management
Thrives in a multitasking environment
Responsible over a P&L, inventory management, budget, and sales targets.
Solution-focused, identifying problem areas and then creating plans to find resolutions
Experience managing projects with differing levels of complexity, budgets, time constraints, internal and external staffing solutions, and within multiple software systems from initiation through completion
Problem-solving
Proactive mindset with excellent organizational and time management skills
Ability to think critically and problem solve in fast changing environments
Therapists consistently demonstrate a range of skills. When moving outside of the therapy room, we need to help employers see how our skills transfer using their language, which is pretty much what therapy is (the using the language of the client not talking about ourselves).
You likely will not have all the skills employers are seeking. It is rare for any applicant to meet 100% of the desired qualifications. So, look for positions where you have most or many of the skills. The way that you communicate your skills may not be the same verbiage used in the job description, so use the employer’s language and show how you have demonstrated success.
If you’re ready to start exploring different opportunities here are 6 steps to get you started.
Identify Your Transferable Skills
You have lots of skills! Reflect on your experiences and consider the transferable skills you possess. Look at job descriptions to help you phrase them in ways that match the industry. These skills may include:
Communication and active listening skills
Critical thinking and problem-solving
Emotional intelligence and empathy
Multicultural competency
Take Risks
Apply for that job you’ve been dreaming about. The worst they can say is, “no,” but if you don’t try you will 100% not get the role.
Be Prepared to Explain How Your Skill Set Transfers
Write down examples of how you’ve used the skills the employer is asking for. Highlight experiences and outcomes in your resume and cover letter.
Build Additional Skills and Credentials
While your existing skills provide a strong foundation, it's important to identify any additional skills or credentials required to excel in your chosen field. Consider pursuing additional training, certifications, or higher education to bridge any gaps and increase your marketability.
Leverage Networks
As you transition into a new field, your professional network can play a crucial role. Reach out to colleagues, mentors, and industry professionals who can offer guidance, recommendations, or even potential job opportunities. Attend conferences, workshops, and events related to your target field to expand your network further.
Embrace the Transition
Transitioning to a new field can be both challenging and rewarding. Embrace the learning curve and approach this transition with an open mind. Seek mentorship or guidance from professionals who have successfully made similar transitions. Emphasize your transferable skills and highlight the unique perspective you bring as a mental health clinician. Psychotherapists have so much to offer to companies with their deep understanding of people and behavior. Remember you are awesome and this is the time to share that knowledge with others!
In Summary
Transitioning from the clinical world to a new field opens up exciting possibilities for personal and professional growth. By recognizing your transferable skills, exploring diverse fields, acquiring additional credentials, leveraging networks, and embracing the transition, you can embark on a fulfilling new career journey. Remember, your expertise as a mental health clinician is invaluable and can make a positive impact beyond the boundaries of clinical practice. Embrace the opportunities and explore the vast possibilities that lie ahead.
Good luck on your transition, and may your journey be filled with growth, fulfillment, and continued dedication to improving lives in new and inspiring ways!