Career Changes

Career Changes

For those who left the field of mental health and switched to a different field, what was the new field you chose?

I have been in social services and mental health for over 20 years. I love the field but I’m finding over and over again that administrators in the field are apathetic, toxic, and don’t care about their staff.

I recognize that this can occur anywhere, but it’s especially hard to work with knowing the negative impact this can have on the most vulnerable. I just don’t want to watch it happening anymore. I’m one who believes in “see something, say something,” but no one wants to make changes.

So it’s time to find a new field. Thank you for any ideas.

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5 Comments

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  1. Anonymous

    Maybe you could consider being a life coach. Helping others is a gift and maybe it's time you put your empathy in helping others in a different branch of society. Just a thought to transfer your skills to help others in a different way.

  2. Anonymous

    I like this idea. And it allows me to stay in my field. My only concern was how long it would take to create a good caseload. But I considered this.

    I have experience with financial wellness coaching. I could get my credentials for that. But I was hoping to have more holistic programming.

    It’s definitely something to consider.

  3. Anonymous

    Could you work on your life coach business as a side-gig while you continue with your current job? May be more work, but if you need the financial security before you "leap" may be a thought.

    Alternatively, you could use your "side-gig" time to get the training for the "financial wellness" certification and then work on building your clientele. Depends upon which way you want to go.

    My experience in changing careers is somewhat parallel to this and I found that "baby steps" add up. While doing your current job, see if you can figure out the first step - perhaps finding our more about each of your alternatives and what qualifications will help you succeed. Also, speaking with others doing those businesses may give you insight into what will work for you.

    Wishing you all the best in finding your niche!

  4. Amy Hanley

    An AEP? I was looking for a role with a particular organization (Vital WorkLife). They would love to a person well-versed in MH services.

  5. Anonymous

    Can you Cobra the Health Insurance and set up your own practice for 18 months while you clear your mind from the toxicity and develop a solid plan? (I did)

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