The schooling and training necessary for a counselor varies depending on the specialty. Training courses are specific to the interest of each counselor. Most states require a counselor to have a completed master’s degree while there are some who require the completion of some graduate course work.
The majority of states that hire individuals, as school counselors require them to have both counseling and teaching certificates. It may also be necessary for these counselors to have separate teaching experience. Upon completion of the required education, in order to become a counselor, individuals must also pass a state recognized exam, understanding and adherence to ethical codes and standards while maintaining a continued education annually.
Individuals who wish to pursue a career as a counselor but only have a bachelor’s degree may still find employment in the industry as a counseling aide, rehabilitation aide or a social service worker. Depending on the specific interest and agency, a bachelor’s degree may be enough to qualify. However, as mentioned before, the majority of states and agencies do prefer or require a master’s degree.
Most counseling courses offered at colleges and universities are found in education and psychology departments. There are a number of fields to specialize in and may include college student affairs, elementary or secondary Scholl counseling, education, erotological counseling, marriage and family counseling, substance abuse counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, career counseling and related fields. An accredited master’s degree program will require 48-60 hours per semester of graduate studies. It is also necessary to undergo a supervised session.
Graduate programs are accredited by the Council for Accredited Counseling and Related Education Programs. (CACREP). These areas of counseling are specific to career, community, mental health and marriage and family counseling. It is not requires to complete the CACREP program but it does make the process of meeting State requirements easier to fulfill. The Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) accredits graduates specific to rehabilitation counseling. Master’s degree programs such as these include approximately 2-years of full time study and 600 hours of a supervised clinical internship.
There is also a national certification board that grant graduated with certification of a general practice credential. This is a program that promotes counselors to the status of “National Certified Counselor.” In order to obtain this title a counselor must hold a master’s degree that emphasizes counseling; they must have completed a minimum of 2 years supervised field experience or an internship and they must have two professional endorsements. One of the endorsements must have come from the most recent supervisor. It is also mandatory for the counselor to have passed the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification.
