In America, today’s school counselors do a lot more than their predecessors. It may be hard to tell from the outside looking in, but they help teachers and staff handle various issues, counsel parents, and sometimes play a crucial part in shaping education policy. They are a pivotal part of the student success equation, and they help schools create supportive and safe environments for students.
Want to become a school counselor in the United States, but want to know how? Don’t worry; the Edvocate has your back. Check out this guide that we created explaining how to become a school counselor in Virginia.
Academics: (Option 1) An earned master’s degree from a sanctioned counselor education program; or (Option 2) A master’s degree from a university and certification from a sanctioned counselor education program that the candidate has completed the requisite course work and clinical experience to acquire the competencies described.
Experience Requirements: (Option 1) A minimum of 100 clock hours of practicum experiences in a PreK-6 setting and 100 clock hours of practicum experiences in the grades 7-12 setting; (Option 2) 2 years of successful, full-time teaching experience or 2 years of successful, full-time experience in guidance and counseling. 2 years of successful, full-time experience in guidance and counseling under a provisional license may be accepted to meet this requirement.
Assessment: None
Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: No
Licensure: PreK-12
Licensure Reciprocity: Yes
Criminal Background Investigation: No
