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How can we advocate for better pay for mental health professionals?

There is a shortage of qualified clinicians, yet salaries are really low. In some agencies, the pay is so low that clinicians cannot make a living wage, let alone pay their living expenses or pay off their student loans. Higher salaries or fees will attract AND retain more professionals.

spring25 socialwork advocacy mental-health-care clinician
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Madeleine’s Answer

I worked as a peer advocate for three years, despite the low pay, because I cared deeply about my peers. However, I became frustrated with the "meet them where they're at" philosophy. I felt it didn't encourage clients to change their behavior, which limited their progress.

Advocates and clinicians have distinct roles. Clinicians handle prescriptions, but they depend on social workers for important background information. Unfortunately, funding often comes from underfunded Medicaid/Medicare programs. Until Congress increases resources, these programs will struggle to meet needs. Anyone choosing to work as an advocate, social worker, therapist, or clinician should have a strong sense of charity.

I had to leave this role due to personal circumstances, but my commitment to helping others remains strong.
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