How to Build a Professional Portfolio Essay

Professional Portfolio -Copies of all certificates and degrees -Copies of your resumes -Course Completion transcripts or certificates -Evidence of a Clinical Practicum -Awards and Recognition Developing your professional portfolio isn’t an easy task, but once its complete you can update it periodically and relatively easily. The portfolio will allow you to be organized when you start to complete applications. You can develop an online portfolio but you should probably start it using a 3 ring binder in effort to keep all of your copies. What Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors Do Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors advise people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders, or other behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help the client recover from addiction or modify problem behaviors. Work Environment Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors work in a wide variety of settings, such as mental health centers, community health centers, prisons, and private practice. Most work full time. How to Become a Substance Abuse or Behavioral Disorder Counselor Educational requirements range from a high school diploma to a master’s degree, depending on the setting, type of work, state regulations, and level of responsibility. Pay The median annual wage for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors was $38,520 in May 2012. Job Outlook Employment of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors is projected  to grow 31 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth is expected as addiction and mental health counseling services are increasingly covered by insurance policies. Similar Occupations Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors with similar occupations. More Information, Including Links to O*NET Learn more about substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.