How to Become a School Counselor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Russell Sage College recently published a blog regarding becoming a school counselor in New York. While their post is focused on New York state counselors their advice will be of interest to anyone considering pursuing this as a career.

Why Become a School Counselor? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), school counselors “help students develop academic and social skills and plans for after graduation.” School counselors may work at the elementary, middle, or high school level in either public or private schools.  Becoming a school counselor not only means entering an in-demand profession but also being able to contribute to the development and success of thousands of students.

Becoming a School Counselor: Educational Requirements 

School counselors must earn a minimum of a master’s degree in a relevant field before becoming eligible for licensure, which also means completing the prerequisites for a graduate program.  

Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree 

Before becoming eligible for a master’s in school counseling, aspiring counselors must earn an undergraduate degree. Some of the most relevant degree programs that can help undergraduates complete their prerequisites include psychology, sociology, education, and social work. Most people can complete an undergraduate degree in four years if attending full time.  

Earn a Master’s Degree in School Counseling 

The next step toward meeting the educational school counselor requirements in New York is earning a master’s in school counseling or a related field. A master’s degree can typically be completed in two years, and many programs offer part-time options for working professionals.  

Becoming a School Counselor: Complete Required Field Experience 

Practical experience is essential for both learning the ropes and for meeting requirements for school counselor certification in New York. Practical experience allows aspiring counselors to engage in their new professions in a controlled and supervised environment. 

Impact of School Counselors on Student Development 

One study from the journal Professional School Counseling indicated that “Students who have greater access to school counselors and comprehensive school counseling programs are more likely to succeed academically and behaviorally in school.“ School counselors not only help students cope with and thrive in their current educational environment, but they have also been shown to be critical in helping students move on to collegiate postsecondary success. Low-income students and students of color have indicated that their school counselors were the most important support in pursuing college. Becoming a school counselor means devoting your career to helping kids succeed.  

See the entire blog post here from Russell Sage College which also includes information about Certification and licensing, degree requirements and typical salary ranges for Counselors here: https://www.sage.edu/blog/how-to-become-a-school-counselor-in-new-york/