Does Mentoring Matter in the Mental Health Field?

Abstract

This study explores the presence of mentoring relationships among a sample of 56 mental health professionals in a large county mental health agency. Participants completed the Alleman Mentoring Scales Questionnaire in an online survey. Individuals involved in mentoring relationships experienced more career and psychological enhancing functions in the work place than those who were not in mentoring relationships. Mentoring relationships predicted career and personal development of mental health professionals. Recommendations include incorporating mentoring programs in mental health agencies in order to increase social workers' competence in their jobs.