One or two years of graduate study, including a period of supervised experience in counseling, are usually required for a master's degree. Forty-eight programs are currently accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs. Twenty-five States require that counselors in private practice have a State license. Requirements for these vary from State to State. To be certified by NBCC, a counselor must hold master's degree in counseling, have at least 2 years of professional counseling experience, and pass a national written examination.
Most States require public school counselors to have both counseling and teaching certificates.
Depending on the State, a master's degree in counseling and 2 to 5 years of teaching experience may be required for a counseling certificate. State departments of education can provide specific information. Vocational and related rehabilitation agencies generally require a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, counseling and guidance, or counseling psychology for rehabilitation counselor jobs. Some, however, may accept applicants with a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation services, counseling, psychology, or related fields. Experience in employment counseling, job development, psychology, education, or social work may be helpful.