Mental Health and Applied Behavior Analysis by shanel

Mental Health and Applied Behavior Analysis by shanel - April 2013 Scholarship Essay

I developed a passion for mental health and applied behavior analysis. The knowledge and insights gained from these studies helped to shape my career path in mental health. It demonstrated the many complex ways of assessing the human mind and behavior. Mental health for children is a critical issue facing the nation and sadly, we as a nation have not invested enough in the state of our children’s mental health. If left untreated, these issues can lead to horrific tragedies, as evident in recent incidents, highlighted in the media. The study of psychology is such a wide and complex subject. After breaking down each selection and seeing many ways that I can help people I have fell in love with the mind and the behavior of humans. When I think about all the events taking place in our world, especially with our youth it opens my heart to want to help the younger generation. The event such as, the recent shooting incident in Newtown, Connecticut on December 14, 2012 is a great example of why we need careers within mental health. We should be able to recognize early warning signs, diagnose and provide treatment in a timely manner. The field also has many options such as Assessment and diagnosis, Psychotherapy, Treatment planning and utilization review, Brief and solution-focused therapy, Alcoholism and substance abuse treatment, Psychoeducational and prevention programs, Crisis management and etc. To be able to obtain my Master degree in the mental health counseling program will enrich me, both personally and professionally. Participation in the Mental Health Program will enable me to attain a higher level of knowledge, training, and keep abreast of current trends. Additionally, graduate studies will provide me with the necessary skill-sets to help our troubled children so that they become responsible citizens and to reduce the shortage of much needed mental health providers.