Moving to Charleston? (North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Summerville: fit in, affordable apartments, how much)

[Chadly]

I am looking to relocate to the Charleston area within the year. I am, however, concerned about the job market in my chosen field. I was a psychology major in college; my previous job was working with a nonprofit organization working with at-risk youth, many with behavioral disorders. Are there very many opportunities for similar work in the Charleston area or nearby areas?

Also, does anybody have any tips on long-distance jobhunting? I am currently in IL, so I'm not sure how to go about looking for jobs from this far away and how scheduling interviews might work, and I don't have a set moving date yet because I don't want to make the moving plans official until I know there would be a job waiting for me there.

Also, what are some of the safer, most affordable areas of Charleston to live in? I'm 24, and will probably be moving in with a friend who is also moving to Charleston from another city.

[scjj]

Oh lord yes, we need someone like you. I'm unsure about how to direct you in finding a job in your field but hopefully someone else can. Maybe start with Social Services? The areas to live in around here depend on how much $$$ you can afford. When someone says the Charleston area it is pretty broad and can mean anywhere from Mount Pleasant to West Ashley to Summerville. I hope you find something and good luck!

[SCBeaches]

I have 2 suggestions: MUSC Hospital of Psychiatry and Juvenile Justice Arbitration program which is through the 9th Judicial Circuit Solicitors Office - both in downtown Charleston.

MUSC (Med. Univ. of S.C.) has many programs for behavioral and substance abuse problems and the Juv. Justice Arb. program offers counseling to troubled youth and gives them a 2nd chance after being arrested for something minor. I volunteer with this program and the Director's name is Noah Moore. They have paid positions too.

Let me know if you need more info....I am a teacher but also voluntarily counsel pre teens and teens who are at risk. I can provide you with phone numbers and addresses if you are really interested.

James Island would be your best bet for being close to downtown in a safe area, near the beach and downtown, and with affordable apartments.

[Rggr]

You could also try calling Charleston/Dorchester Community Mental Health. They have a lot of programs that might fit in the CAF (Children Adolescents and Families) department. I used to work for them. I would also check with Carolina Youth Development Center who has a lot of programs. There are also places like Windwood Farm Home for Children and Behavioral Health Services.

[Jerry Bevington]

I am starting a new job in charleston at the middle of august and need to find affordable housing for my wife and son, two shepards and a cat. they are all very well cared for and trained, I'm talking about the pets. Would anyone have suggestions.

[Rggr]

For safe affordable options in Charleston, I would suggest taking a look at West Ashley and James Island.

[DJShymansky]

I'd second the recommendation of West Ashley/James Island. There are also plenty of opportunities in smaller neighborhoods of Mount Pleasant and North Charleston.

[Chadly]

To update, I checked with the Charleston/Dorchester Community Mental Health Department, and they generally require a Master's. I currently only have my Bachelors.

I really could use all the help I could get. Thank you all for your help thus far!