Exploring a Fervor for Neurodiversity? Contemplate These 4 Vocational Routes
Ready for a career pivot? Plenty of professionals find themselves in careers they no longer enjoy, and fortunately, they're not alone. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American tries a whopping twelve different jobs before they turn 55. If you're contemplating a career change, this article's got you covered.
Before diving into a new profession, list your skills. Are you an effective communicator? Do you have a knack for working with kids? Do you love discussing neurodiversity? Passionate about neurodiversity? Here's a list of potential careers that align with that interest.
Art Therapist
Art therapy is a powerful tool for healing from trauma, improving self-esteem, and managing distress. It's used in substance use disorder and mental health treatment centers. Sounds thrilling, right? Be advised, it does require additional schooling beyond a bachelor's degree, typically a master's degree in art therapy. If you're drawn to helping people and love art, an art therapist's job might interest you. Keep in mind that the job isn't always easy. Working with people who have suffered traumatic experiences, such as those with PTSD and anxiety disorders, requires empathy, training, and mentorship.
ADHD Coach
Becoming an ADHD coach doesn't require as much formal education as some other jobs on the list. Although certification is necessary, a master's degree is not. To become an ADHD coach, investigate the proper credentials and training programs. Remember that having ADHD yourself won't suffice – online programs can help you prepare for assisting professionals with ADHD. Being patient and empathetic are key to helping people with ADHD manage their challenges effectively.
Psychiatrist
Being a psychiatrist requires the most training of all the jobs on this list – four years of medical school, followed by residency, which can last up to another four years. Psychiatry is an intense field due to working with a diverse range of mental health challenges, such as social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, and depression. If you're easily overwhelmed, psychiatry may not be the right fit. However, being a psychiatrist is incredibly rewarding. Prescribing life-saving medication for people with mental health issues makes a meaningful impact on their lives.
Reading Specialist
Becoming a reading specialist usually requires a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. Some reading specialists opt for a master’s degree. Employers often prefer reading specialists with a master's degree. To boost your chances of being hired as a reading specialist, consider gaining a master’s degree, teaching experience, and a reading specialist certification. Reading can be a serious challenge for individuals with dyslexia, and being a reading specialist can help them improve their self-esteem and literacy skills. Research reveals that 1 in 5 people have dyslexia, making the work of reading specialists crucial.
Changing careers requires a leap, but your passion for neurodiversity can make the world a better place. Dive into these potential careers and choose one that aligns with your skills and interests!
- If you're passionate about neurodiversity and considering a career change, you might find interest in becoming a reading specialist, as they help individuals with dyslexia improve their literacy skills.
- For those seeking a career that doesn't require extensive education but aligns with neurodiversity, becoming an ADHD coach might be an excellent choice, as it doesn't necessitate a master's degree, though proper credentials and training are required.
- If you're drawn to working with art as a means to heal trauma and manage distress, and you don't mind pursuing additional schooling, an art therapist could be a rewarding career, focusing on helping a diverse range of individuals, including those with PTSD and anxiety disorders.
