School Counselor – Career, Salary & State Licensure

How to Become a School Counselor

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Obtain a GED (Four Years)

Completing high school or obtaining a GED is the first step towards becoming a school counselor. Students who wish to pursue this career should focus on psychology, child development, leadership, English, and social science classes. 

If there are opportunities to volunteer in school counseling centers, students should take advantage of them to gain valuable insight into this career. 

Step 2: Complete a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

Earning a bachelor’s degree is the next step to becoming a school counselor. Typical majors for prospective school counselors include education, counseling, psychology, social work, and sociology. Many states require students to complete approved or accredited programs, so students should research their state standards early on to make sure their program meets the requirements. 

Step 3: Obtain a Graduate Credits or an Advanced Degree (One to Three years)

Most states require prospective school counselors to complete a master’s degree or obtain some graduate-level credits. It is typical for states to require students to complete approved school counselor programs to obtain certification or licensure, so students should check that their program meets the requirements. 

Often a practicum or internship is included as part of a program, which gives students valuable work experience. Students should ensure the program they attend is at least regionally accredited, as that is a requirement in most states. 

Step 4: Pass Required Examinations (Timeline Varies)

Passing an exam for a school counselor certification or licenses is common in most states. The most common exam required is the Praxis II School Counseling and Guidance. Each state has its own cut-off score for the exam Some states require applicants to pass basic knowledge exams, state-issued subject matter exams, or a jurisprudence exam, as well. 

Step 5: Apply for a Certification or License (Timeline Varies)

Once testing and education requirements are met, prospective school counselors can apply for a license or certification from their state board of education. Typically there are extensive documentation requirements, including official transcripts, notarized applications, letters of recommendation, and official test scores. Many states charge application, licensing, or certification fees. It can take several weeks to a month or more to process an application, so prospective counselors should plan accordingly when it comes to seeking employment. 

Step 6: Maintain (or Advance) Professional Certification or License (Ongoing)

Most school counselor licenses or certifications issued are initial, interim, or provisional. Some of these licenses may be renewed, although there are many that require school counselors to advance to a professional or permanent credential prior to expiration. Advancing a certification or license often requires proof of work experience. Sometimes advancement requires testing or obtaining a national certification. There are continuing education requirements for license and certificate renewal in most states. 

The steps toward becoming a school counselor vary by state. All state school counselor license and certification requirements are listed below.

What Do School Counselors Do?

School counselors work predominantly in public or private schools and are employed at all grade levels. Some school counselors are self-employed and act as consultants to families and schools. Others might work at government agencies or in district offices. 

While job duties vary based on place of employment, typical day to day responsibilities include:

• Providing lessons, guidance, and counseling to help students develop socio-emotional skills 
• Offering workshops to teachers, administrators, and students about bullying, planning for college, substance abuse, choosing a career, or other topics
• Assembling resources for students, including social services, scholarships, vocational training, and more
• Teaching skills such as study habits, organization, and time management
• Developing a comprehensive school-wide program that addresses the unique school’s population needs
• Evaluating issues that affect student’s school performance and developing plans to help students succeed such as improving attendance or providing access to basic necessities such as food, laundry, and showers
• Helping students set college or career goals
• Acting as a mandatory reporter 
• Referring students to outside resources if they need additional support
• Maintaining student records

School Counselor Professional Associations & Resources

• American School Counselor Association (ASCA)
• The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
• National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
• National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)
• The College Board
• International School Counselor Association (ISCA)
• School Counselor Connection from the American Counseling Association (ACA)
• Center for School Counseling Outcome Research & Evaluation (CSCORE)