How Long To Become A School Counselor

Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Oluwajuwon Alvina

What does a School Counselor do?

School counseling professionals provide direct and indirect services to students. They also develop and implement comprehensive counseling programs that focus on student outcomes. Through direct student services, school counseling programs and their counselors provide:

• Core School Counseling Curriculum: Lessons that are designed to help students achieve competencies, knowledge, attitudes, and skills appropriate to their level of development
• Individual Student Planning: Activities designed to assist students in establishing goals and developing their future plans.
• Responsive Services: Meeting the immediate needs and concerns of students in both individual and small-group settings or crisis counseling.

Indirect services for students involve any activity that is completed on behalf of students. These include referrals, consultation, and collaboration with stakeholders such as administrators, teachers, parents, and community organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, school counseling professionals are also involved in student evaluation of abilities, the identification of issues that impact school participation, and prepare and present workshops on certain topics such as bullying and drug abuse.

How to Become a School Counselor

For those seeking information on how to become a school counselor, the first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Some topics that will help prospective counselors gain the skills needed to enter the profession are child psychology and communication. All states require a master’s degree in school counseling to become fully licensed as a school counselor. The program you select should be approved by your state’s board of education and may need to include specific courses and/or hold specific accreditations – be sure to check with your state’s board for detailed requirements. All master’s in school counseling programs also include a period of fieldwork, allowing students to gain real-life experience in the field. The typical steps to become a school counselor are:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related subject.
2. Earn a master’s degree in school counseling or a closely related subject with adequate coursework in school counseling to fulfill state requirements.
3. Complete a school counseling internship or other qualifying clinical experience as part of your program, depending on your state’s requirements.
4. Pass your state’s required exams for school counselors.
5. Apply for your school counselor’s license.
6. Begin applying for open school counselor jobs.

How long does it take to become a school counselor?

The amount of time it takes to become a school counselor may vary by state. All school counselors must hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, which takes four years to complete. School counselors must also earn a master’s degree, which may take up to two years to complete. Your state may or may not require examination for certification and you should use your own discretion to take the necessary time to pass the exam.