20 Top Counseling Degrees Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Counseling Degree?

A counseling degree is an academic degree that prepares individuals for a career in counseling. There are several different types of counseling degrees available, including a bachelor's degree in counseling, a master's degree in counseling, and a doctoral degree in counseling.

A bachelor's degree in counseling typically takes four years to complete and provides students with a foundation in the field of counseling. Coursework may include topics such as human development, abnormal psychology, and counseling theories and techniques. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in counseling may be eligible for entry-level positions in the field, such as working as a case manager or a mental health technician.

A master's degree in counseling is a graduate-level degree that typically takes two years to complete. This degree is often required for professional counseling positions, such as those in schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics. Coursework for a master's degree in counseling may include advanced counseling theories and techniques, as well as supervised fieldwork or an internship.

A doctoral degree in counseling, such as a PhD or a PsyD, is the highest level of education in the field of counseling. It typically takes four to six years to complete and is intended for individuals who wish to become counseling educators or researchers, or for those who wish to work in high-level administrative or supervisory positions in counseling. Coursework for a doctoral degree in counseling may include advanced research methods, as well as specialized training in areas such as child and adolescent counseling or forensic counseling.

Overall, a counseling degree is designed to prepare individuals to work in a variety of settings and with a diverse range of clients. Graduates with a counseling degree may work in schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, government agencies, and private practice, among other settings. They may also specialize in working with specific populations such as children, veterans, or survivors of trauma.

What are the Different Types of Counseling Degrees?

There are several different types of counseling degrees available, each with a specific focus and level of education. Some of the most common types of counseling degrees include:

Bachelor's degree in counseling: This degree typically takes four years to complete and provides students with a foundation in the field of counseling. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in counseling may be eligible for entry-level positions in the field, such as working as a case manager or a mental health technician.
Master's degree in counseling: This is a graduate-level degree that typically takes two years to complete. This degree is often required for professional counseling positions, such as those in schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics.
Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling: This degree is a specialized master's degree focusing on providing counseling services for individuals, families, and groups in mental health settings.
Master's degree in school counseling: This degree is a specialized master's degree focusing on providing counseling services in educational settings, such as schools, colleges, and universities.
Doctoral degree in counseling: This is the highest level of education in the field of counseling, such as a PhD or a PsyD. It typically takes four to six years to complete and is intended for individuals who wish to become counseling educators or researchers, or for those who wish to work in high-level administrative or supervisory positions in counseling.
Doctoral degree in clinical psychology: This degree is a specialized doctoral degree focusing on providing psychological assessment and treatment services for individuals, families, and groups in mental health settings.
Doctoral degree in counseling psychology: This degree is a specialized doctoral degree focusing on the integration of psychological theories and counseling techniques for individuals, families, and groups in various settings.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Counseling Degree?

The length of time it takes to get a counseling degree can vary depending on the type of degree and the specific program you choose. Generally, counseling degrees can range from a few years for a certificate program to several years for a doctoral degree. Here are some approximate time frames for different types of counseling degrees:

Certificate in counseling: These programs are usually short-term, often taking less than a year to complete.
Bachelor's degree in counseling: This degree typically takes four years to complete.
Master's degree in counseling: This is a graduate-level degree that typically takes two years to complete.
Doctoral degree in counseling (PhD or PsyD): It typically takes four to six years to complete.

It is important to note that these time frames are approximate, and the actual time it takes to complete a counseling degree can vary depending on factors such as the specific program you choose, whether you attend school full-time or part-time, and whether you have any previous college credits that can be transferred. Additionally, some programs may offer accelerated or part-time options that can help you finish your degree more quickly.

What are the Requirements For a Counseling Degree?

The requirements for a counseling degree can vary depending on the type of degree and the specific program you choose. However, there are some general requirements that are common to most counseling degree programs.

Educational requirements: Most counseling degree programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may also require applicants to have a certain number of college credits or a related degree.
Prerequisite courses: Some counseling degree programs require applicants to have completed specific prerequisite courses in areas such as psychology, sociology, or human development.
GPA requirement: Most counseling degree programs have a minimum GPA requirement for applicants. This requirement can vary depending on the program, but it is usually around 2.5 or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Standardized test scores: Some counseling degree programs require applicants to take standardized tests such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT)
Fieldwork or Practicum: Many counseling degree programs require students to complete supervised fieldwork or practicum hours to gain hands-on experience in the field.
Background check and fingerprinting: Many counseling degree programs and the states where they are located require students to complete a background check and fingerprinting as part of their training, as well as for licensure requirements.
Licensure Exam: Some counseling degree programs may require students to take a licensure exam such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) in order to become a licensed professional counselor.

These are general requirements and the specific requirements for a counseling degree may vary depending on the type of degree and the specific program you choose.

What is the Difference Between a Counseling Degree and a Psychology Degree?

A counseling degree and a psychology degree are both related to the study of human behavior and mental health, but they have some key differences.

A counseling degree is an academic degree that prepares individuals for a career in counseling. This degree focuses on the application of counseling theories and techniques to help individuals, families, and groups cope with and overcome personal, social, and emotional problems. The degree program focuses on the development of counseling skills and ethics, and students typically complete supervised fieldwork or an internship as part of their training.

A psychology degree, on the other hand, is an academic degree that prepares individuals for a career in psychology. This degree focuses on the scientific study of the mind and behavior, including topics such as perception, cognition, emotion, and motivation. The degree program focuses on the development of research skills and the application of psychological theories and techniques to understand, predict and influence human behavior.

While a counseling degree focuses on direct service provision, psychology degree focuses on research, theory and assessment. Graduates with a counseling degree are trained to provide counseling and therapy services, whereas graduates with a psychology degree are trained to conduct research, assess and diagnose mental disorders, and provide therapy under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

It is important to note that there are some overlaps between the two fields, and some individuals with a counseling degree or a psychology degree may work in similar settings and with similar populations. However, in general, a counseling degree is more focused on direct service provision, while a psychology degree is more focused on research and the scientific study of behavior.

What Can I Do With a Counseling Degree?

There are many career options available to individuals with a counseling degree, depending on their level of education, interests, and experience. Some of the most common careers for individuals with a counseling degree include:

Professional counselor: Individuals with a master's degree in counseling can work as professional counselors in settings such as schools, mental health clinics, hospitals, and private practice. They work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to help them cope with and overcome personal, social, and emotional problems.
School counselor: Individuals with a master's degree in school counseling can work as school counselors in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, helping students with academic, personal, and career concerns.
Rehabilitation counselor: Individuals with a master's degree in counseling can work as rehabilitation counselors helping people with disabilities or injuries to overcome barriers and achieve their goals.
Mental health counselor: Individuals with a master's degree in counseling can work as mental health counselors in inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities, providing therapy and support to individuals and groups.
Substance abuse counselor: Individuals with a master's degree in counseling can work as substance abuse counselors, helping individuals overcome addiction and maintain recovery.
Marriage and family therapist: Individuals with a master's degree in counseling can work as Marriage and Family Therapists, helping couples and families work through issues and improve their relationships.
College or University professor: Individuals with a counseling degree can work as counselor or professor in colleges or universities providing counseling and guidance to students, as well as teaching counseling related courses.
Research or Supervisory roles: Individuals with a doctoral degree in counseling can work in research or supervisory roles, such as counseling program directors, or counseling psychology researchers and professors.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Counseling Degree?

The cost of getting a counseling degree can vary widely depending on a number of factors such as the type of degree, the specific program, and the institution you choose. Here are some general estimates for the cost of different types of counseling degrees:

Certificate in counseling: These programs can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the specific program and institution.
Bachelor's degree in counseling: The cost of a bachelor's degree in counseling can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the specific program and institution.
Master's degree in counseling: The cost of a master's degree in counseling can range from $20,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on the specific program and institution.
Doctoral degree in counseling: The cost of a doctoral degree in counseling can range from $40,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the specific program and institution.

It is important to note that these are general estimates and the actual cost of a counseling degree can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Some institutions may offer in-state tuition rates which are generally lower than out-of-state tuition rates.

Additionally, some institutions may offer scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial aid to help offset the cost of tuition. It is a good idea to research the specific cost for the counseling degree program you are interested in and to reach out to the institution's financial aid office for more information on funding options.

What are the Best Counseling Degree Programs?

There are many excellent counseling degree programs available, and the best program for you will depend on your specific interests, goals, and circumstances. However, here are some factors to consider when looking for the best counseling degree program for you:

Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). These accreditations are important for licensure and employment opportunities.
Faculty: Look for a program with experienced and well-respected faculty who have a strong background in the field of counseling.
Curriculum: Look for a program that offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both coursework and supervised fieldwork or an internship.
Specialization: If you are interested in a specific area of counseling, look for a program that offers a specialization in that area.
Location: Consider the location of the program and whether it is convenient for you.
Cost: Consider the cost of the program and whether it is affordable for you.
Graduation and Licensure Pass rate: Look for a program that has a high graduation and licensure pass rate.

It is also a good idea to reach out to current students or graduates of the programs you are interested in to get their perspective on the program and to speak with the program directors to get more information on the program's structure, curriculum and goals.

It is important to note that there are many great counseling programs out there, and the best program for you will depend on your specific interests, goals, and circumstances. It is a good idea to research various programs, visit them if possible, and talk with current students and alumni before making a final decision.

What are the Job Prospects For Someone With a Counseling Degree?

The job prospects for someone with a counseling degree can vary depending on the type of degree, the specific program, and the individual's level of experience and qualifications. Generally, the job outlook for individuals with a counseling degree is positive, with many opportunities available in a variety of settings.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of counselors will grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2031. The demand for counseling services is expected to increase as people continue to seek help for a variety of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, and relationship problems. The BLS also reports that counselors working in schools, colleges, and universities, and in the healthcare and social assistance industries are projected to have the most job opportunities.

Additionally, the demand for counseling services is expected to grow as a result of the increased awareness of mental health issues, and the Affordable Care Act, which has made mental health services more accessible to a larger number of people.

It is important to note that competition for jobs may be greater in certain areas, such as urban areas, and that licensure requirements vary by state, so it is a good idea to research the specific job prospects and licensure requirements for the type of counseling career you're interested in and in the state where you plan to work.

Overall, with a counseling degree, individuals can find employment opportunities in a variety of settings including schools, mental health clinics, hospitals, government agencies, private practice, and more. While competition for jobs may be greater in certain areas, the overall job outlook for individuals with a counseling degree is positive and expected to grow in the future.

Can You Get a Counseling Degree Online?

online counseling degree programs at various levels, including certificates, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees.

Online counseling degree programs typically follow the same curriculum as on-campus programs and are taught by the same faculty. They often use a combination of online coursework, live virtual class sessions, and clinical practicums, which allow students to gain hands-on experience in the field.

It is important to note that while many counseling degree programs are now offered online, it is important to ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC), as accreditation is important for licensure and employment opportunities.

What is the Difference Between a Counseling Degree and a Social Work Degree?

A counseling degree and a social work degree are both related to the field of human services, but they have some key differences.

A social work degree, on the other hand, is an academic degree that prepares individuals for a career in social work. This degree focuses on the application of social work theories, principles, and techniques to help individuals, families, and communities cope with and overcome social and economic problems. The degree program focuses on the development of social work skills and ethics, and students typically complete supervised fieldwork or an internship as part of their training.

While both counseling and social work degree programs focus on helping people, they have different areas of focus. Counseling is more focused on the individual, while social work is more focused on addressing the social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to an individual's problems. Counseling is more clinically focused, while social work is more community-centered and geared towards advocacy, policy change and program development.

It is important to note that there are some overlaps between the two fields, and some individuals with a counseling degree or a social work degree may work in similar settings and with similar populations.

What are the Accreditation Requirements For a Counseling Degree?

Accreditation is the process by which a program or institution is evaluated against a set of standards established by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation is important for a number of reasons, including ensuring that the program or institution meets certain educational and professional standards, and that the degree earned will be recognized by other institutions and employers.

For counseling degree programs, the most important accreditation is the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP is a specialized accrediting body that accredits counseling programs at the master's and doctoral levels. To be accredited by CACREP, a program must meet certain standards related to curriculum, faculty, and resources, and must demonstrate that it is providing high-quality education to its students.

CACREP's accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S. Department of Education, which means that programs that are accredited by CACREP are considered to be of high quality.

Additionally, some states may also have their own accreditation requirements for counseling degree programs. It is a good idea to research the specific accreditation requirements for the state where you plan to work and to make sure that the program you are considering is accredited by both CACREP and the relevant state board.

It is important to note that while CACREP accreditation is the most widely recognized and respected accreditation in the counseling field, it is not the only accreditation recognized by states. Some states have their own accrediting bodies, such as the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) or the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and their respective state boards.

How Do I Choose a Counseling Degree Program?

Choosing a counseling degree program can be a difficult decision, as there are many factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a counseling degree program:

Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) as it is important for licensure and employment opportunities.
Curriculum: Look for a program that offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both coursework and supervised fieldwork or an internship.
Specialization: If you are interested in a specific area of counseling, look for a program that offers a specialization in that area.
Faculty: Look for a program with experienced and well-respected faculty who have a strong background in the field of counseling.
Location: Consider the location of the program and whether it is convenient for you.
Cost: Consider the cost of the program and whether it is affordable for you.
Graduation and Licensure Pass rate: Look for a program that has a high graduation and licensure pass rate.
Flexibility: If you have other commitments such as a job or family, look for a program that offers flexible scheduling options, such as online or evening classes.
Support Services: Look for a program that provides support services such as career counseling, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

What are the Clinical Hours Required For a Counseling Degree?

The clinical hours required for a counseling degree can vary depending on the specific program and the level of degree. Here are some general estimates for the clinical hours required for different types of counseling degrees:

Certificate in counseling: These programs typically require a minimum of 100-150 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Bachelor's degree in counseling: Bachelor's degree programs typically require a minimum of 500 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Master's degree in counseling: Master's degree programs typically require a minimum of 600-1000 hours of supervised clinical experience.
Doctoral degree in counseling: Doctoral degree programs typically require a minimum of 1000-2000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

Can a Counseling Degree Lead to a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Status?

Yes, a counseling degree can lead to a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) status, but it depends on the specific degree program and the state where you plan to work.

To become an LPC, individuals must typically have a master's degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or by a state-approved program. They must also complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours and pass a national examination.

It is important to note that the requirements for licensure as an LPC vary by state, so it is a good idea to research the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work. Some states may accept a counseling degree from a non-CACREP accredited program, but the requirements for supervised clinical hours and examination may be different. Additionally, some states may have different licensure requirements for different specializations within the counseling field.

It is also important to note that even if a counseling degree program is accredited by CACREP, the program may not meet the specific requirements for licensure in some states. It is a good idea to check with the relevant state board for licensure requirements before enrolling in a counseling degree program to ensure that it meets the requirements for licensure as an LPC in the state where you plan to work.

What are the Different Specializations Within a Counseling Degree?

There are many different specializations within a counseling degree, each with its own unique focus and set of skills. Some common specializations include:

Clinical mental health counseling: This specialization focuses on helping individuals, couples, families, and groups cope with and overcome personal, social, and emotional problems. It includes training in psychotherapy and the use of evidence-based practices to treat mental health disorders.
School counseling: This specialization focuses on helping students with academic, personal, and career concerns. School counselors work in K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, helping students to develop the skills they need to succeed academically and personally.
Rehabilitation counseling: This specialization focuses on helping people with disabilities or injuries to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. Rehabilitation counselors work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community agencies.
Substance abuse counseling: This specialization focuses on helping individuals overcome addiction and maintain recovery. Substance abuse counselors work in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, hospitals, and community agencies.
Marriage and Family counseling: This specialization focuses on helping couples and families work through issues and improve their relationships. Marriage and Family counselors work in a variety of settings, including private practice, community agencies and hospitals.
Career counseling: This specialization focuses on helping individuals make decisions about their career paths, and on developing the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field. Career counselors work in a variety of settings, including schools, colleges, and universities, as well as in private practice.
Gerontological counseling: This specialization focuses on working with older adults and the elderly, addressing the unique needs and concerns of this population

Is a Counseling Degree the Same as a Mental Health Degree?

A counseling degree and a mental health degree are both related to the field of human services, but they have some key differences.

A mental health degree, on the other hand, is a more general term that can refer to a variety of degree programs related to mental health such as:

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Psychology which is a broad-based degree that encompasses the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes.
A degree in psychiatric nursing which is a specialized field of nursing that focuses on the care of individuals with mental health conditions.
A degree in social work which is a broad-based degree that encompasses the application of social work theories, principles, and techniques to help individuals, families, and communities cope with and overcome social and economic problems.

While both counseling and mental health degrees focus on helping people, they have different areas of focus. Counseling is more clinically focused, while mental health degrees tend to be broader and encompass a wide range of topics and issues related to human behavior and mental health.

It is important to note that there are many different types of mental health degrees, and they vary widely in terms of focus, curriculum, and career outcomes. It is a good idea to research the specific focus, curriculum, and career outcomes of different mental health degrees and compare them to counseling degrees to determine which one is the best fit for you.

How Do I Become a Licensed Counselor With a Counseling Degree?

The process of becoming a licensed counselor with a counseling degree can vary depending on the state where you plan to work. However, here are some general steps that are typically involved in becoming a licensed counselor:

Earn a master's degree in counseling or a related field from a program that is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or by a state-approved program.
Complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours. This can vary depending on the state, but it is typically between 600-1000 hours.
Pass a national examination. The National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) are the most common exams.
Meet any other requirements set by the state such as ethics coursework, continuing education, and background checks.
Apply for licensure with the state board of licensure for professional counselors.

It is important to note that licensure requirements vary by state, so it is a good idea to research the specific requirements for the state where you plan to work and to check with the relevant state board for licensure requirements.

What are the Prerequisites For a Counseling Degree?

The prerequisites for a counseling degree can vary depending on the specific program and the level of degree. However, here are some general prerequisites that are typically required for different types of counseling degrees:

Certificate in counseling: Some programs may not have any prerequisites, but some might require a high school diploma or GED.
Bachelor's degree in counseling: A high school diploma or GED is typically required, as well as some basic coursework in psychology, sociology, and human development.
Master's degree in counseling: A bachelor's degree in counseling or a related field, such as psychology, sociology, or social work, is typically required.
Doctoral degree in counseling: A master's degree in counseling or a related field is typically required, and some programs may also require a certain number of years of work experience in the field.

It is important to note that these are general prerequisites and the actual prerequisites for a counseling degree can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Some programs may have more rigorous prerequisites than others, and some may have different prerequisites for different specializations within the counseling field. It is a good idea to research the specific prerequisites for the counseling degree program you are interested in, and to check with the relevant institution before applying.

Are there Any Counseling Degree Programs That Offer Internships or Supervised Practice?

Many counseling degree programs include internships or supervised practice as part of the curriculum. These opportunities provide students with the chance to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting while working under the supervision of a licensed counselor. This type of experience is considered to be an essential part of the education and training process for aspiring counselors, as it allows them to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Internships or supervised practice can be completed in a variety of settings such as schools, mental health clinics, hospitals, or community organizations. This allows students to gain experience working with different populations and to explore the different areas of counseling that interest them. For example, a student interested in working with children may complete an internship in a school setting, while a student interested in working with veterans may complete an internship at a veterans’ hospital.

During an internship or supervised practice, students typically work alongside a licensed counselor, who acts as a mentor and supervisor. This allows students to learn from experienced professionals and to receive feedback on their performance. Additionally, students may be required to keep a log of their hours and to participate in regular meetings with their supervisor to discuss their progress and to receive additional guidance and support.

Overall, internships or supervised practice are an important part of a counseling degree program. This type of experience allows students to gain practical skills and knowledge, as well as to develop their professional identity as a counselor. This can help them to be more prepared and confident when they enter the workforce as a licensed counselor.