Mental health counselor vs. social worker roles explained

Both mental health counselors and social workers address mental health issues. However, the scope and duties of each job differs by a significant margin. If you're considering a career shift into either of these fields, it's important to first understand the responsibilities assigned to each role.

At a broad level, mental health counselors focus much more on providing support for those suffering from mental health problems and crises. These counselors use evidence-based methods to address the underlying issues at play. In contrast, social workers operate more holistically. For a social worker, mental health issues are just one piece of a much larger puzzle.

Read on to learn more about the differences between counseling and social work.

Quick comparison snapshot

Both mental health counselors and social workers offer psychotherapy. However, counselors focus primarily on clinical treatment with a concentration on treating mental health disorders through evidence-based therapeutic interventions. As a mental health counselor, you'll work within clinical frameworks to diagnose and treat specific conditions.

Social workers have a wider mandate with responsibilities spanning case management and advocacy. Those pursuing a career in social work will need to integrate community resource coordination with therapy services. Moreover, as a social worker, you'll have the opportunity to address some of the social determinants of health, such as housing and employment.

Role and scope of practice

Mental health counselors diagnose mental and behavioral disorders using multiple standardized assessment tools. After the diagnosis process, you'll have the opportunity to engage in evidence-based therapy methods, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care. You may work at the individual or group level depending on your role and patient population. Other primary objectives for a mental health counselor include a tight focus on symptom reduction and psychological healing through therapeutic relationships.

On the other hand, social workers take a deep look at the social determinants of health. These include factors like housing instability and family conflicts. As a social worker, you'll coordinate community resources, provide case management, and deliver therapy (assuming you have a clinical license). Social workers also engage in policy advocacy and systems change initiatives to address problems at a higher level.

Education and licensure

To become a mental health counselor, you'll need a master's degree in counseling in addition to 2,000 to 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. You can choose to pursue a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) designation or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credentials that will allow you to practice independently and bill insurance companies directly.¹

Social workers can start working with just a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. However, it's important to remember that advanced clinical roles require a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.² To become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and engage in psychotherapy and clinical assessments, you'll need to complete 3,000 supervised hours.

Typical work settings

Mental health counselors can work in a variety of settings, including the following:

• Private practice
• Outpatient clinics
• Schools
• Telehealth platforms
• Employee assistance programs
• Substance abuse centers
• Specialized therapy practices

The settings that social workers practice in overlap somewhat with counselors. For example, both social workers and mental health counselors may be present in hospitals and schools. Social workers also work in child welfare agencies, community health centers, government programs, nonprofit organizations, and jails and prisons.

Salary and job growth outlook

Mental health counselors earn a median salary of $59,190 per year³ compared to $61,330⁴ for clinical social workers. It's important to note that factors like your level of education, level of experience, geographic location, and place of employment will all influence your salary.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of mental health counselor jobs in the United States is projected to grow by 19% in the coming decade³ (7% for social workers⁴).

Key professional skills

As a mental health counselor, you'll need to gain skills in the following areas:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Trauma-focused treatments
• Clinical assessments
• Crisis intervention
• Documentation requirements 

Social workers must focus on cultivating a broader set of soft skills, including case management, advocacy techniques, and navigating complex systems.

Pros, cons, and career fit

Mental health counseling involves intense one-on-one relationships with a focus on psychological healing and helping clients build coping strategies. If you enjoy focused therapeutic work and want to build meaningful relationships with your clients, you may be suited for the mental health counseling field. However, you may find that you have limited opportunities to make changes when it comes to broader social, financial, or systemic challenges, as counselors focus primarily on mental and emotional health. While directly working with clients can be rewording, working during a crisis or trauma can be draining and requires strong self-care.

Social workers are able to take a broader view of the world since much of their work occurs at the system level, such as housing, financial assistance, or access to community resources. Job opportunities are available in schools, hospitals, child welfare, nonprofits, policy, and advocacy, offering wide-ranging career flexibility. However, social workers often manage heavy caseloads and work long hours that can carry the risk of burning out. Also, exposure to clients’ trauma, poverty, and systemic barriers can take a personal toll.

How to choose your path

When choosing the best career pathway, consider your personal preferences, personality, and long-term goals. Those who want to have a deeper and more personal impact may be better suited for a career in mental health counseling. On the other hand, if advocacy and systemic change matters to you, you should consider a career in social work.

Launch your mental health career through advanced education

Oklahoma City University’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) can help propel you into a successful career in the field of mental health counseling. Prepare for licensure and specialized practice through the program's comprehensive curriculum.

Get in touch with an admissions outreach advisor today to learn more about how you can take your career to the next level.