 |
|
|
|
|
|
Counselor Career Requirements
Counselors do much more than simply help clients talk through issues. They assist in drug rehabilitation, marriage therapy, and occupational challenges. That's why counselor career requirements include a unique fusion of thorough communication processes and advanced problem-solving methodologies.
Paving the Road
If you're considering counseling as a career, you'll be pleased to know that the industry is expected to grow much faster than the national average. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that overall employment of counselors is expected to increase by 21% in the coming decade. To ready yourself for the demands of the job, prospective counselors are encouraged to begin with a four-year degree in a counseling-related discipline. While requirements vary by state and specialty, training in psychology, education, ethics, and human growth and development form the core of any accredited program.
Going into Private Practice
Establishing your private practice means choosing a particular counseling specialty and concentrating on that particular niche. Common private practice specialties include gerontological counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and career counseling. Most counselors in private practice earn advanced degrees that include 48 to 60 hours of graduate work in the field. Those who choose a research-based position may earn a doctoral certification in counseling that demonstrates a commitment to best practices in investigation and reporting.
Counselors in Schools
One of the largest employers of certified counselors is the education industry. Counselors work in elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as colleges and universities. Choosing this path will require that you become familiar with the myriad of issues that kids and teenagers face on a daily basis. Emphasis is placed on continuing education and maintenance of your certified status. According to the National Board for Certified Counselors, maintaining certification requires at least 100 contact hours as well as successful completion of the National Counselors Examination.
Featured online career colleges:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
