Leverage the SPARK

How to Leverage as a High School Student

High school students can use SPARK MFT as a launching pad to explore careers in mental health and therapy. By participating in SPARK events, students gain exposure to MFT professionals, learn about degree pathways, and discover scholarship and mentorship opportunities that can set them on a successful career trajectory in behavioral health. High school students can use the SPARK MFT, as a college application builder: 1) expand extracurricular activities, 2) Gain exposure to universities, 3) network for a stronger letter of recommendation, 4) build a stronger application essay through interactions with professionals.

How to Leverage as a Trade/Vo-Technical Student

For students in trade or vocational-technical programs, SPARK MFT offers opportunities to explore how mental health knowledge enhances careers in caregiving, human services, and community support. Whether pursuing a career in social services, counseling, or crisis intervention, SPARK provides resources to bridge the gap between hands-on training and therapeutic professions. Trade/Vo-Technical students can use the SPARK MFT, as a pathway to a new career: 1) identify transferrable skills that serve the field of mental health, 2) connect with mental health professionals, 3) learn about funding opportunities, 4) connect with professionals to help build a stronger application, 5) gain experience through a shadow experience.

How to Leverage as a College Student

College students interested in psychology, counseling, or related fields can use SPARK MFT to build connections, gain career guidance, and access professional development resources. The program helps students navigate graduate school options, licensure requirements, and hands-on training opportunities, making the transition to a career in MFT more seamless. College students can use the SPARK MFT, as a connection to graduate schools: 1) demonstrate a strong commitment to MFT, 2) gain mentors, 3) network for a stronger recommendation letter, 4) learn about scholarship opportunities.