Health Care Tag (6-9 Months)

Advance your career with a certification as a Mental Health Support Professional

Be the Support That Communities Depend On

Mental health needs are rising nationwide. Trained Mental Health Support Professionals provide essential assistance to individuals and families by working alongside counselors, social workers, and healthcare teams. This program equips you with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional foundation to make a difference in behavioral health, crisis response, and community support roles.

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Program Highlights

Feature	Detail
Duration	~24–32 weeks (hybrid model)
Weekly Commitment	~15–20 hours
Format	Online coursework with in-person labs and practicum/externship experience
Certifications Offered	Eligibility for national credentials such as Mental Health Technician Certification (MHTC) or equivalent behavioral health support certifications
Practicum/Externship	Placement in approved behavioral health, social service, or community health organizations
Compliance	Meets state and national standards; requires background check, drug screen, and health clearances for practicum placement

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What You’ll Learn

• Foundations of psychology, counseling, and human development
• Recognizing signs of mental illness, trauma, and substance use disorders
• Crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
• Patient/client communication and therapeutic rapport
• Case management fundamentals and documentation practices
• Ethics, confidentiality, and HIPAA in mental health settings
• Culturally responsive and trauma-informed care

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Outcomes & Career Path

Graduates of this program are prepared to:

• Sit for recognized Mental Health Technician/Support certifications (national or state, depending on placement and requirements)
• Work in behavioral health clinics, psychiatric facilities, residential treatment centers, hospitals, and community-based organizations
• Support licensed professionals in patient care, recovery programs, crisis stabilization, and outreach initiatives
• Build a foundation for further education in psychology, social work, counseling, or nursing

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Financial Aid & Funding Options

Graduate America ensures career training is accessible through:

• WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants
• Federal and state financial aid (including Pell Grants, if eligible)
• MyCAA tuition assistance for military spouses
• Institutional scholarships and workforce development partnerships

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Exams & Certifications

• Primary Certification: Mental Health Technician Certification (MHTC) or equivalent recognized behavioral health credential
• Eligibility may require documented practicum hours and competency demonstration
• Certification exam fees may be included in funding or reimbursed if eligible

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Admission Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Background check, drug screening, and immunizations required for practicum placement
• Computer with reliable internet access for hybrid learning
• Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal skills recommended

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Career Outlook & Salary

• Job Growth: Behavioral health support roles are expanding rapidly due to increased demand for accessible mental health care
• Employers: Hospitals, psychiatric facilities, residential treatment centers, community health agencies, nonprofits, schools, and outpatient programs
• Estimated Earnings: Entry-level roles in Georgia typically start in the low- to mid-$30,000s, with growth potential through experience, advanced certifications, or continued education

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Enrollment

• Flexible enrollment dates available throughout the year
• Hybrid learning balances online study with hands-on practicum training
• Career services team supports graduates with placement and advancement pathways

 

Do I need a psychology degree to enter this program?

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