What is it really like working in mental health?
In this episode of the Time We Discuss podcast, we take a deep dive into the world of inpatient mental health care and explore what it is like to work as an inpatient mental health counselor.
If you are interested in mental health careers, psychology, or behavioral health jobs, this episode gives you a real behind the scenes look at the day to day responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of working directly with patients in crisis.
You will learn how inpatient mental health treatment works, what counselors actually do during their shifts, and the skills needed to succeed in this emotionally demanding but meaningful career.
From leading group therapy sessions to handling crisis situations, inpatient mental health counselors play a critical role in helping individuals navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
In this episode, we discuss:
- What an inpatient mental health counselor does
- A day in the life working in mental health care
- The realities of mental health treatment and patient care
- Skills needed to work in behavioral health
- Challenges of working in mental health
- How to become a mental health counselor
Mental health is more important than ever, and this episode highlights why careers in this field continue to grow and make a real impact.
Whether you are exploring a future in mental health or just want to better understand how the system works, this conversation offers valuable insight into the human side of mental health care.
Listen now and discover what it is really like working in mental health.
Subscribe for more career deep dives:
The Time We Discuss podcast explores real jobs with real people so you can discover career paths you may have never considered.
Have questions about working in mental health?
Drop them in the comments and we may answer them in a future episode.
=================================================================
Timestamp:
0:00 - Intro
0:48 - Difference between inpatient and outpatient care
1:12 - What is a typical caseload like for a mental health counselor?
2:09 - Typical day for an inpatient mental health counselor
2:58 - Let's talk about crisis teams and interdisciplinary teams
4:22 - Different clients, working holistically
5:49 - Choosing a different specialty
7:10 - Important transferable skills
8:17 - Typical hours and after-hours needs
9:08 - The importance of self-care.
9:47 - Education requirements for a mental health counselor
11:07 - Sneak peak at Eric's books
12:08 - Where martial arts and mental health intersect
13:05 - Activities that could help with mental health
14:23 - Comment on dream therapy
14:59 - Information for introverts that are mental health counselors
16:48 - Learning from each other
18:08 - Common PTO practices
19:06 - Thank you to Mickey Mikkelson
19:29 - Talent has the floor
20:36 - Outro
=================================================================
Guest Information:
Eric Fisher
Also Mentioned Directly or Indirectly in This Episode:
=================================================================
Time We Discuss Links:
Official Website: Time We Discuss Website
Original Music: Original Music furnished by Dan Swift
YouTube: Time We Discuss on YouTube
Spotify: Time We Discuss on Spotify
Apple Podcasts: Time We Discuss on Apple Podcasts
More Podcast Platforms: Time We Discuss Podcast on Other Platforms
Twitter/X: Time We Discuss on Twitter/X
Bluesky: Time We Discuss on Bluesky
Instagram: Time We Discuss on Instagram
Threads: Time We Discuss on Threads
