Top 5 Human Services Careers That Make a Real Difference

If you're looking for a career that allows you to make a real difference in people's lives, Human Services may be the perfect field for you. From social work to counselling, there are a variety of careers within the Human Services sector that offer the chance to positively impact individuals and communities.

But with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

We've compiled a list of the top 5 Human Services careers that make a real difference. Whether you're passionate about helping children, supporting individuals with disabilities, or advocating for social justice, there's a career on this list for you.

What is Human Services?

Human Services is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of professions, all dedicated to helping individuals and communities achieve their full potential. Human Services professionals work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, community centres, and government agencies.

At its core, Human Services is about promoting well-being and social justice. This can take many different forms, from providing counselling, to individual and family services, to advocating for policies that support the needs of marginalised communities.

Human Services professionals are committed to making a positive impact on the world, and they do so by working directly with people to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

The importance of a Human Services Career

Human Services careers are essential to the functioning of our society. They provide critical support to individuals and communities in need, and they play a vital role in promoting social justice and equality.

Despite the challenges they face, Human Services professionals continue to be passionate about their work. They are driven by a desire to make a difference in the world, and they are committed to working tirelessly to achieve their goals of improving the lives of others.

What Are the Top 5 Human Services Jobs?

Now, let's take a closer look at the top 5 Human Services careers that make a real difference.

Social Worker

Social workers are dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome challenges and achieve their goals. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and government agencies, and they provide a wide range of services, from counselling and case management to advocacy and community services.

Social workers play a vital role in promoting social justice and equality. They work with marginalised communities to help them access the resources and support they need to thrive. Whether they are working with children in foster care, supporting individuals with disabilities, or advocating for policies that promote social justice.

Mental Health Counsellor

Mental health counsellors provide critical support to individuals struggling with mental health conditions. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community mental health centres, and private practices, and they provide a wide range of services, from counselling and therapy to medication management and crisis intervention.

Mental health counsellors play a vital role in promoting well-being and reducing stigma around mental health. They work closely with clients to help them overcome challenges and achieve their goals, and they provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings.

School Counsellor

School counsellors work in primary and secondary high schools, providing critical support to young people as they navigate the challenges of growing up. They provide a wide range of services, from academic and career counseling to social and emotional support.

School counsellors play a vital role in promoting academic success and well-being among students. They work closely with teachers, parents, and administrators to provide a comprehensive support system for students, and they help students develop the skills and tools they
need to succeed in school and beyond.

Substance Abuse Counsellor

Substance abuse counselors provide critical support to individuals struggling with addiction. They play a vital role in promoting recovery and well-being among individuals struggling with addiction. They work closely with clients to help them overcome the challenges of addiction and develop the skills and tools they need to achieve long-term recovery.

Community Health Worker

Community health workers play a vital role in promoting health and well-being in communities across the country. They provide a wide range of services, from health education and outreach to case management and advocacy.

Community health workers play a vital role in promoting health equity and reducing health disparities. They work closely with individuals and families to help them access the resources and support they need to achieve optimal health.

How To Work in Human Services

The educational requirements for Human Services careers vary depending on the specific profession.

Social workers, for example, typically need a Bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, while mental health counsellors typically need a Master's degree in counselling or a related field.

School counsellors typically need a Master's degree in school counselling, and substance abuse counsellors typically need a Bachelor's degree in a related field and certification.

Human services careers offer a unique opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. By pursuing a career in Human Services, you can help make the world a better place, one person at a time.

Melbourne Polytechnic's Human Services courses are industry-accredited, and you’ll be taught by experienced instructors with industry experience. Our courses also require work placement as part of your study, so you’ll enter the industry with experience and capability.