Consider the support and history of the professional organizations you studied. Describe what you believe to be the most important contribution of professional organizations such as these to you, a future professional in the field.

Access to information, support, and guidance are the most valuable contributions that professional organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and National Alliance on Mental Illness can make to the future of the mental health field. The organizations offer a lot of useful information for people who want to work in mental health-related fields. NAMI provides trainings for mental health professionals. It also offers webinars, conferences and scholarship opportunities.

By joining one of these professional organizations, you can also gain access to a vast network of professionals that can provide you with advice and point you in the direction for additional opportunities. This can prove invaluable as you begin a career. Membership also helps keep you connected with national initiatives such as improving healthcare for individuals battling opioid use disorder or addressing special populations’ needs. Finally, knowing that you can rely on reliable information regarding state laws and regulations governing mental health care is comforting. Professional organizations such as NAMI and SAMHSA are essential for anyone who wants to have a positive influence in this field.