Capella University : Counseling & Therapy (CACREP Accreditation. Master's and PhD options available. ) Capella University : PsyD in School Psychology (CAEP accredited; Capella University is HLC accredited)
Pepperdine University : Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor) (No GRE required)
National University : Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Accredited. No GRE. Scholarships Available)What Is Counseling Psychology?
At its core, counseling psychology is a field that combines psychological principles with practical support. It’s designed to help individuals navigate their emotions, thoughts, and life challenges. Counseling psychologists create a secure environment where people can cope, learn, and adapt.
Counseling psychology can be traced back to the early 20th century with the establishment of counseling centers in educational institutions as vocational guidance and mental well-being grew in popularity. Over the years, counseling psychology has evolved into a dynamic discipline that plays a pivotal role in promoting mental health, personal development, and resilience.
Essentially, counseling psychology uses empathy, active listening, and evidence-based interventions to empower individuals on their journey toward mental and emotional wellness. This field embraces a range of therapeutic approaches to accommodate different situations. Whether it involves assisting someone through a crisis or guiding them in self-discovery, counseling psychology is a meaningful endeavor that has a positive impact on countless lives.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Capella University
Counseling & Therapy
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required |
Offering master’s degree programs in clinical mental health counseling and school counseling. Doctoral degree program available in counselor education & supervision. No GRE required. Learn More |
| Capella University
PsyD in School Psychology
|
✔ Online
No GRE or GMAT. Master's and minimum 3.0 GPA |
Deepen your understanding of human behavior and advance your skills to help others with a degree in clinical psychology. Capella offers PsyD programs to help you develop leadership skills for your career. No GRE required. Learn More |
| Pepperdine University
Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)
|
✔ Online
No GRE Required Bachelor's Degree Required |
Bachelor's holders can prepare to become a licensed professional counselor online. With no GRE scores required to apply, the 24 month online MA in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine allows you to advance your career and be a catalyst of change. Learn More |
| National University
Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
Earn a degree in Counseling Psychology, Gerontology, or Substance-Related and Addictive Disorder Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
What Does a Counseling Psychologist Do?
Counseling psychologists take on a multifaceted role, actively guiding individuals through life’s intricate challenges while nurturing their emotional well-being and facilitating personal growth.
In one-on-one sessions, counseling psychologists employ therapeutic methods to help clients effectively address and navigate their emotional concerns, encouraging the development of adaptive coping mechanisms and progress toward their desired goals.
With specialized expertise — often honed in areas such as family therapy, substance abuse counseling, or trauma support — these professionals work alongside healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive and holistic care for their clients.
Counseling Psychologists Job Duties
The following are typical day-to-day and ongoing responsibilities of counseling psychologists:
- Conducting one-on-one therapy sessions with clients
- Assessing clients’ emotional and mental health
- Ensuring ethical and culturally sensitive practice in all interactions
- Developing personalized treatment plans based on individual needs
- Employing various therapeutic techniques to address clients’ concerns
- Teaching coping strategies and emotional regulation techniques
- Monitoring clients’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive care
- Maintaining accurate and confidential client records
- Staying updated on the latest research and therapeutic approaches
- Attending professional development workshops and conferences
- Offering crisis intervention and support when needed
The Impact of Counseling Psychologists
The impact of a counseling psychologist reaches beyond the therapy room. They contribute substantively to research endeavors aimed at advancing the understanding and application of effective therapeutic techniques, enhancing the field’s reach and efficacy.
Additionally, the efforts of counseling psychologists extend into the realm of mental health advocacy, where they actively champion awareness, understanding, and acceptance. Designing and implementing preventive initiatives, they play a proactive role in addressing mental health concerns before they escalate.
Through their concerted endeavors, counseling psychologists make a significant and lasting contribution to the well-being of individuals and entire communities, enriching the overall psychological landscape.
How to Become a Counseling Psychologist
Becoming a counseling psychologist is a structured process that involves several essential steps and requirements including earning a counseling psychology degree. Here’s an overview of the path you might take to pursue this fulfilling career:
Step #1: Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree
To embark on the journey of becoming a counseling psychologist, you’ll need to start with a strong educational foundation. This typically means earning a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field. Undergraduate courses equip students with a well-rounded foundation in psychological principles and prepare them for further specialization in their chosen career path.
Discover the right bachelor's degree for you:
- Online Bachelor's of Counseling
- Accredited Online Bachelor's Degree in Psychology
- Fast Track Social Work Degree Online
Step #2: Earn a Master’s Degree
Following a bachelor’s degree, many prospective counseling psychologists will earn a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related discipline. Earning a master’s degree enhances an individual’s knowledge, skills, and expertise — enabling them to offer more specialized and effective support to clients while expanding their career opportunities.
Learn more about graduate degrees needed to become a counseling psychologist:
- Online Master's in Counseling Psychology
- Online Master's Degree Programs in Counseling
- Online Master's in Psychology No GRE
- Master's in Psychology vs Counseling
Step #3: Gain Licensure
Licensure is a critical aspect of becoming a practicing counseling psychologist. It involves meeting specific criteria set by the licensing board in the state or country where you plan to work. Generally, this involves completing a postgraduate supervised experience, which can range from 2,000 to 4,000 hours.
Additionally, you’ll need to successfully pass the licensing examination, which could be the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) or a state-specific exam.
Step #4: Achieve Board Certification
While it is not always mandatory, pursuing board certification can be a valuable step to further enhance your professional standing and expertise as a counseling psychologist. Organizations like the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) offer board certification opportunities in various specialty areas.
Achieving board certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence and can open doors to advanced career opportunities. It can also help you potentially increase your annual salary — which we will discuss more in-depth later on.
Step #5: Gain Experience
Before fully entering the field, gaining practical experience is crucial. This can be accomplished through internships or practicum placements during your educational journey. Seeking out volunteer opportunities or part-time work in mental health settings provides valuable hands-on experience in interacting with clients and honing your counseling skills. This pre-professional experience lays a strong foundation for your future career.
Additionally, after gaining experience, you can apply for an entry-level job as a Mental Health Counselor or Therapist Associate, where you’ll provide counseling and support under the supervision of a licensed psychologist or counselor.
Step #6: Start Practicing
The number of years of experience required for counseling psychologists to become fully practicing professionals can vary based on factors such as their educational background, the jurisdiction they’re practicing in, and the specific licensure requirements.
Generally, it often takes around 2 to 4 years of supervised postgraduate experience to meet the necessary criteria and become a fully licensed and practicing counseling psychologist. However, everyone’s situation is different and your experience might not be the same as someone else’s.
Capella University - Counseling & Therapy (CACREP Accredited)
Capella University - PsyD in School Psychology (Capella University is HLC Accredited)
Pepperdine University - Master’s Clinical Psychology (Licensed Professional Counselor)
National University - Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (COAMFTE Accredited)
Counseling Psychologist Salary and Job Outlook
As you delve into the realm of counseling psychology as a potential career, it’s important to understand the complexities of the profession as well as learn about its financial aspects and career opportunities.
Salaries for counseling psychologists vary based on their experience, specialization, and geographical location. Understanding your earning potential within this field is important if you’re considering your career options.
Here’s an in-depth examination of the salary spectrum as well as the job outlook for the role:
Starting Salary for Counseling Psychologists
Those beginning their careers can anticipate a median starting salary ranging from $45,000 to $55,000 annually, according to Payscale. This figure can vary based on factors such as location, type of employer, the specific population being served, and the level of demand for counseling services in that particular area.
Highest-Paying Salaries for Counseling Psychologists
As individuals accumulate experience and deepen their specializations, their earnings can increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical and counseling psychologists earned an annual median salary of approximately $82,500, as of September 2022.
Additionally, the median annual salary for psychologists at the same time was $81,000, and specialized roles — such as industrial-organizational psychologists — earned salaries of about $105,300.
Ways to Improve Salary Potential as a Counseling Psychologist
Enhancing your earning potential as a counseling psychologist involves strategic steps that leverage your expertise and credentials. By making strategic decisions, you can improve your salary potential as a counseling psychologist, making the most of your expertise while contributing to your financial well-being.
A counseling psychologist can consider increase their salary potential in the following ways:
Open a Private Practice
Running a successful private practice allows you to set your rates and manage your client load, potentially leading to increased earnings. Additionally, offering consultation services to organizations, schools, or businesses can be a lucrative supplement to your income. The earning potential here varies based on factors like location, client base, and reputation.
Pursue Specialization Advance Your Education
Pursuing an advanced degree, such as a Ph.D., not only deepens your knowledge but also opens the door to higher-paying positions. Specializing in high-demand areas — such as health psychology, neuropsychology, or child psychology — can set you apart and make you a sought-after expert.
Effectively negotiating your salary and benefits during job offers is crucial. Researching market trends and understanding the demand for counseling psychologists in your region can empower you to negotiate a more competitive compensation package.
Obtain Board Certification
Achieving board certification through organizations like the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) showcases your proficiency and dedication. Board-certified counseling psychologists often command higher salaries due to their recognized expertise.
Conduct Research and Network
Engaging in research and publishing articles in reputable journals establishes you as a thought leader in the field. Such recognition can lead to speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, and higher-paying roles.
Building a strong professional network can uncover hidden opportunities and collaborations. Attending conferences, workshops, and seminars not only enhances your knowledge but also increases your visibility in the field.
Job Outlook
The demand for counseling psychologists is projected to grow in response to heightened mental health awareness. The BLS forecasts a 10% growth rate — for clinical and counseling psychologists specifically — between 2021 and 2031.
As organizations and communities prioritize mental health, counseling psychologists will play a pivotal role in providing essential support and guidance to individuals of all ages. This positive job outlook not only signifies the value of counseling psychologists at this time but also underscores the potential for rewarding and sustainable careers in the future.
Related Career: How to Become a Psychologist
Additional Employment Opportunities for Counseling Psychology Degree Holders
Earning a degree in counseling or psychology can lead to a diverse range of career paths beyond traditional clinical practice. Whether supporting mental health, human services, education, or research, counseling psychology professionals make a lasting impact by improving lives and fostering positive societal changes.
Here’s a closer look at various sectors where counseling psychology degree holders can thrive, leveraging their skills and expertise:
Mental Health
Counseling psychology graduates find substantial opportunities within the mental health sector. These professionals often work in community mental health centers, outpatient clinics, or crisis intervention programs. They offer valuable support to individuals dealing with a wide spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges.
Job duties include: conducting assessments, providing therapy, and devising treatment plans to address diverse needs. With growing awareness of mental health issues, these professionals are instrumental in improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
Human Services
A counseling psychology background also aligns well with roles in human services. This sector involves working with vulnerable populations — such as children, families, or individuals facing social and economic hardships.
Counseling psychology graduates can find rewarding positions in child welfare agencies, domestic violence shelters, or organizations supporting refugees and immigrants. Their expertise in addressing psychological concerns complements the holistic approach required to navigate complex social issues effectively.
Education
Counseling psychology degree holders can make a significant impact within educational settings. School counselors play a pivotal role in supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional development. These professionals work closely with students, parents, and teachers to create a nurturing environment conducive to learning.
Additionally, counseling psychologists can contribute to higher education institutions by providing career guidance, mental health support, and conducting research that informs effective educational practices.
Research
Research is a good option for those inclined toward academia who want to contribute to the advancement of psychological knowledge. Counseling psychology graduates can engage in research that informs evidence-based interventions, influences public policies, and shapes the future of mental health care.
These professionals usually work in research institutions, universities, or think tanks. They contribute to the evolving field of psychology by generating insights that drive positive change in therapeutic approaches and mental health awareness.
Tips for Improving Job Opportunities as a Counseling Psychologist
Securing fulfilling job opportunities in the field of counseling psychology requires a proactive approach and continuous self-improvement. Here are key strategies to enhance your employability so you can stand out in a competitive landscape.
Update Your CV
Regularly updating your curriculum vitae (CV) with new accomplishments, certifications, and relevant experience is essential. Tailor your CV to reflect your expertise, areas of specialization, and any additional training you’ve undertaken.
A well-crafted CV ensures that potential employers get a comprehensive overview of your skills, qualifications, and contributions — increasing your chances of being shortlisted for positions that align with your aspirations.
Actively Publish Your Work
Engaging in research and publishing scholarly articles or papers showcases your expertise and commitment to the field. Contributions to reputable journals highlight your understanding of evolving psychological theories and your ability to apply them to real-world scenarios. This can boost your credibility and open doors to academic positions, consultation opportunities, and collaborations with fellow professionals.
Expand Your Education
In an ever-evolving field, staying current is paramount. Pursuing education through workshops, seminars, and online courses keeps you updated on the latest therapeutic techniques, emerging trends, and ethical considerations. Being a lifelong learner enhances your adaptability and positions you as a dynamic professional prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving industry.
Acquiring additional certifications, specialized training, or even advanced degrees can significantly enhance your job prospects. Specializations such as trauma therapy, substance abuse counseling, or child psychology cater to specific needs within the field. These credentials highlight your dedication to mastering niche areas and can make you an attractive candidate for roles that require specialized expertise.
Attend Conferences
Attending counseling psychology conferences not only provides exposure to cutting-edge research and best practices but also facilitates networking opportunities. Engaging with fellow professionals, researchers, and educators fosters connections that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and potential job referrals.
Participation in conferences demonstrates your dedication to professional growth and your active role within the broader counseling psychology community.
Key Skills & Qualities Employers Look For
When seeking employment as a counseling psychologist, possessing the right blend of skills and qualities is essential. The following are key attributes that employers often value in candidates for counseling psychology roles:
- Empathy and active listening
- Strong communication skills
- Assessment and diagnostic abilities
- Ethical practice
- Resilience and self-care
- Problem-solving aptitude
- Cultural competence
Having a well-rounded combination of these skills and qualities enhances your attractiveness to potential employers, positioning you as a capable and compassionate counseling psychologist who can effectively support clients’ well-being and growth. Let’s explore each of these skills more in-depth:
Empathy and Active Listening
Empathy is the cornerstone of effective counseling. Employers seek professionals who can genuinely understand and connect with clients’ emotions, fostering trust and rapport. Active listening complements empathy by ensuring that clients feel heard and validated.
Strong Communication Skills
Clear and concise communication is vital in conveying complex psychological concepts and treatment plans to clients. Additionally, counseling psychologists must effectively collaborate with colleagues, share insights during consultations, and produce accurate documentation.
Assessment and Diagnostic Abilities
Effective treatment relies on accurate assessment and diagnosis. Employers look for candidates who can conduct thorough assessments, identify underlying issues, and formulate precise diagnoses to inform tailored interventions.
Ethical Practice
Adhering to ethical guidelines is essential. Employers value candidates who exhibit strong ethical judgment, safeguard client confidentiality, and maintain professional boundaries.
Resilience and Self-Care
Counseling can be emotionally demanding. Employers appreciate professionals who prioritize self-care and possess the resilience to manage the emotional challenges of the profession.
Problem-Solving Aptitude
Counseling psychologists are often presented with complex challenges. Being able to analyze situations, explore various solutions, and develop appropriate treatment strategies demonstrates your capacity to guide clients towards positive outcomes.
Cultural Competence
Cultural competence is crucial in any role, and especially in counseling. The ability to understand and respect clients’ cultural backgrounds ensures that interventions are sensitive and effective across different populations.
FAQs About Counseling Psychology
Find answers to common questions about counseling psychology in this FAQ section. From career prospects and educational requirements to differences between counseling and clinical psychology, these insights will help you gain a better understanding of this field.
Is Counseling Psychology a Good Career?
Yes, counseling psychology offers a fulfilling career for those who are passionate about helping others. It provides opportunities to make a positive impact on the mental health industry and contribute to the personal growth of many people.
Where Does a Counseling Psychologist Work?
Counseling psychologists work in various settings depending on their specific role. The most common work environments include: private practices, clinics, hospitals, schools, universities, government agencies, and community organizations.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychology Counselor?
The time it takes to become a counseling psychologist varies based on your education and experience. A bachelor’s degree usually takes around 4 years, while a master’s requires 2-3 additional years. Those who earn doctoral degrees may need an additional 5-7 years.
How Much Do Counseling Psychologists Make?
Counseling psychologists’ salaries can vary widely based on factors such as location, experience, specialization, and work setting. On average, they earn competitive incomes. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn an annual median salary of approximately $82,500, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Clinical Psychology vs Counseling Psychology: What’s the Difference?
While both fields focus on mental health, clinical psychology often deals with severe mental disorders, while counseling psychology emphasizes emotional well-being and personal growth.
Do I Need a Master’s Degree to Be a Counseling Psychologist?
Yes, a master’s degree is usually the minimum requirement for becoming a licensed counseling psychologist. Some roles may require a doctorate for specialized practice.
Can Counseling Psychologists Prescribe Medication?
Generally, counseling psychologists do not have prescription privileges. However, in some states or countries, they may have limited prescription authority for specific cases. They may also collaborate with psychiatrists and doctors, who can prescribe medication.
