What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a High School Counselor?

I'm thinking about becoming a high school counselor, and I need to know what qualifications are required. What kind of education or certification should I prepare for if I want to pursue this career?

To become a high school counselor, you need a certain level of education, licensing, and often some relevant experience.

Firstly, you'll need a Bachelor's degree, often in fields related to psychology, sociology, education, or a related field. This will give you a strong foundational knowledge to enter the counseling field.

Then, you'll typically need a Master's degree in school counseling or a related field. Some programs require a prerequisite of teaching experience, but this varies by program. These graduate programs provide an in-depth understanding of counseling theories, practices, and strategies tailored specifically towards the educational setting.

Once you've completed your Master's degree, you'll typically need to get certified or licensed by your state to practice. Each state has different requirements for licensure. Generally, you may need to complete a certain number of supervised internship or practicum hours during your Master's program, and/or pass a state-issued examination.

After gaining licensure, some states require high school counselors to complete continuing education courses annually or every few years to maintain their license.

Finally, although not always required, having experience in a relevant area can be helpful for this career. This could be working with adolescents in another capacity, such as teaching, coaching, or volunteering with youth programs.

Remember, the specific requirements can vary depending on the state or school district you are planning to work in. It's always a good idea to review your specific state's requirements or consult with an advisor at your chosen educational institution to ensure you're on the right track.