Coaching Jobs In The Psychology Field Are On The Rise In Baltimore
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Employment of psychologists is projected to grow 12 percent from 2012 to 2022." However, while psychologists are able to treat mental disorders, not all of life's issues are associated with mental illness. A growing profession within the psychology field revolves around dealing with every day issues that can be resolved by professional coaches.
Barbara Harman is certified in Positive Psychology and Coaching with a practice in Baltimore, helping people deal with various life issues. Harman offers some great advice on how to succeed in the coaching field, and what the potential employment opportunities are available.
Why do you think there is a need for this profession in today's market?
"There is a need for coaches today, and in the future, as our awareness of overall well-being as essential to our health continues to grow exponentially. More individuals are seeking help from a life coach to guide them through a situation, such as a change in career or a troublesome relationship. The 'baby boomer' generation is planning retirement and they need help with many issues (aside from their finances) that arise in the planning stage. Clients are also considering coaching as a high value item to increase their profit margins such as executive, corporate and career coaching. In addition, happiness levels are high on the list of needs among individuals, organizations, institutions and governments. In fact, government and private sector polls have been, and will continue to be, conducted to address the effect of well-being, or lack thereof, in our country and around the world. Coaches will be needed to contribute to that well-being."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to enter this field?
"Investigate the various types and methods of coaching. Do you want to specialize as a career coach, a leadership coach, an executive coach, a life coach, etc.? Seek out a school that prepares you for the type of coaching you choose, remembering that many coaches work independently and must build a business. Finally, build on other aspects you have for your coaching career."
Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a bachelor's in communication and is currently working on her master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.