Workers in these occupations promote wellness to help people cope with or overcome challenges.
Overall employment in community and social service occupations is projected to grow 10 percent over the next ten years, faster than the average for all occupations; this increase is expected to result in about 294,600 new jobs over the decade. In addition to new jobs from growth, opportunities arise from the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently. About 318,400 openings each year, on average, are projected to come from growth and replacement needs.
The median annual wage for community and social service occupations is $48,410, which is higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $45,760.
Emergency management directors prepare plans and procedures for responding to natural disasters or other emergencies. They also help lead the response during and after emergencies, often in coordination with public safety officials, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.
Health education specialists teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. They develop strategies to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Community health workers advocate for residents’ needs with healthcare providers and social service organizations. They implement wellness strategies by collecting data and discussing health concerns with members of specific populations.
Marriage and family therapists help people manage problems with their family and other relationships.
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists provide social services to assist in rehabilitation of law offenders in custody or on probation or parole.
Rehabilitation counselors help people with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities live independently. They work with clients to overcome or manage the personal, social, or psychological effects of disabilities on employment or independent living.
School counselors help students develop academic and social skills and plans for after graduation. Career counselors and advisors help students and other clients develop skills, explore an occupation, or choose an educational program that will lead to a career.
Social and community service managers coordinate and supervise social service programs and community organizations. They manage workers who provide social services to the public.
Social and human service assistants provide client services, including support for families, in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation, and social work. They assist other workers, such as social workers, and they help clients find benefits or community services.
Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their everyday lives. Clinical social workers also diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues.
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders, mental health issues, or other mental or behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help clients recover from addiction or modify problem behaviors.
Clergy conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faiths or denominations.
All counselors not listed separately.
All community and social service specialists not listed separately.
Directors of Religious Activities and Education plan, direct, or coordinate programs designed to promote the religious education or activities of a denominational group.
All religious workers not listed separately.
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