Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited, five specializations to choose from) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from) Walden University : MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University : MSW: Social Work (100% online, 8-week courses) Liberty University : MED: School Counseling (Online with required intensives) Liberty University : MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (Online with required intensives) Liberty University : MA: Pastoral Counseling (100% online, 8-week courses) Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)The Value of a Master's in Counseling
Earning a master's degree in counseling holds significant value, providing benefits that are both deeply meaningful and difficult to quantify. Its true worth lies in personal and professional growth, transcending conventional measures of value.
The Big Picture
Pursuing a master's degree represents a profound commitment to fostering human connection, understanding, and empathy. This advanced degree embarks individuals on a transformative journey, not only professionally but personally, encouraging a deep self-reflection and a greater understanding of the human condition. It cultivates an invaluable set of skills that are applicable beyond the confines of professional practice, enhancing one's ability to communicate, empathize, and offer support in every aspect of life. This holistic development nurtures a counselor’s ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, grounded in compassion and a genuine desire to facilitate healing and growth.
Professional Options
There are, of course, significant professional implications associated with advanced training in counseling. A master’s degree in counseling does more than just fulfill the educational requirements for licensure in most states; it lays the foundation for a versatile career path that can adapt to changing societal needs and personal growth objectives. This advanced degree prepares graduates for a range of professional roles, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary to address a wide spectrum of mental health issues, educational challenges, and family dynamics.
The scope of practice for individuals holding a master’s degree in counseling is broad and diverse, offering the flexibility to work in various environments and specialize in areas aligned with one’s passion and interests.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
The counseling field is in need of qualified, compassionate professionals like you to meet the demand for services. In Walden's clinical mental health counseling and school counseling dual degree program, you’ll gain the insights and hands-on training to positively impact the lives of children, adults, and families. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Liberty University
MSW: Social Work
SACSCOC |
✔ Online
100% online, 8-week courses |
This program offers a general cognate and an individual and family clinical cognate. No matter which option you choose, you’ll receive advanced generalist training in social policy, research, and practice — as well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in your field. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MED: School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Liberty University’s CACREP-accredited Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling can help equip you to work as a school counselor in Christian, public, and private schools. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Marriage and Family Therapy
SACSCOC |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
A Liberty University marriage and family therapy master’s program online can prepare you to help individuals, couples, and families find healing through counseling. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Pastoral Counseling
SACSCOC |
✔ Online
100% online, 8-week courses |
If you want to help people work through life’s challenges, Liberty University’s non licensure pastoral counseling degree is a great option. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors play a crucial role in providing support and counseling to individuals dealing with addictions, mental health issues, and behavioral disorders. They work in a variety of settings, including mental health centers, community health centers, hospitals, and private practice. The work involves evaluating clients' mental and physical health, developing treatment plans, assisting in behavior modification, and providing crisis intervention when necessary.
Salary and Job Outlook
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $49,710 as of May 2022. This profession is expected to grow by 18% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is indicative of an increasing demand for mental health services and the ongoing need for professionals skilled in addressing substance abuse and behavioral disorders. The projected growth suggests about 42,000 job openings each year over the decade, many of which will be to replace workers transitioning to different occupations or retiring.
Marriage and Family Therapists
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) specialize in treating mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems. They work in private practices, mental health centers, and hospitals, providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families to help them improve their relationships and solve interpersonal problems.
Salary and Job Outlook
Marriage and Family Therapists have a projected employment growth of 15% from 2022 to 2032, indicating much faster growth than the average for all occupations, according to the BLS. The median annual wage for this profession was $56,570 as of May 2022. These therapists work in various settings, including individual and family services, and most work full-time, with some offering evening and weekend hours to accommodate clients.
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MSW: Social Work (SACSCOC Accredited)
Liberty University - MED: School Counseling (CACREP and NCATE through CAEP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (SACSCOC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Pastoral Counseling (SACSCOC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
School Counselors
School Counselors support students’ academic, career, social, and emotional development in K-12 educational settings. They play a critical role in assessing students’ abilities, interests, and personality characteristics to help them develop realistic academic and career goals. School counselors may work in public and private schools, and their responsibilities often extend to collaboration with teachers, parents, and administrators to create a supportive learning environment.
Salary and Job Outlook
School and Career Counselors and Advisors have a median annual wage of $60,140 as of May 2022, with a job outlook projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032, indicating a faster than average growth, according to the BLS. This profession requires a master’s degree for entry and offers about 26,600 job openings each year on average over the decade.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists assess and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Clinical psychologists often focus on more severe psychological disorders, while counseling psychologists might concentrate on helping individuals with situational challenges. They work in various settings, including private practices, hospitals, mental health clinics, and academic settings. Among the highest paying counseling jobs, psychologist roles have particularly stringent educational requirements, and typically require a PhD in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree.
Salary and Job Outlook
Clinical and counseling psychologists have a median annual wage of $85,330 as of May 2022. The field is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is indicative of an increasing demand for psychological services across various settings. For more details, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
For the most accurate, up-to-date information on these professions, including detailed salary data and job outlook projections, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and explore the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Employment Trends in Mental Health Services
The demand for mental health services spans various settings, from outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers to private doctors’ offices specializing in mental health. Employment in these areas has been growing steadily, with offices of mental health practitioners (except physicians) and outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers experiencing particularly strong growth. This trend is expected to continue, highlighting the ongoing need for qualified counselors in the field.
For professionals entering this field, the landscape is promising, with opportunities for meaningful work in supporting individuals’ mental health and well-being across diverse environments. The robust job outlook and competitive salaries make this career path both viable and rewarding for those with a passion for helping others.
For more detailed insights into the roles, settings, and economic outlook for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, visit the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook and the Career Outlook article on mental health services. These resources provide valuable information for anyone considering a career in counseling, from educational requirements to future job prospects.
Specializations within Counseling
One of the most compelling aspects of a master’s degree in counseling is the opportunity to specialize in a field that matches one’s interests and career aspirations. Specialization allows counselors to focus their skills and knowledge on particular populations or issues, enhancing their effectiveness and job satisfaction. Here are some of the most popular specializations for those with a master’s in counseling:
- Addiction Counseling: Focuses on helping individuals overcome substance abuse and related behaviors.
- Career Counseling: Assists clients in exploring career options and overcoming employment-related challenges.
- School Counseling: Aims to support students’ academic, career, social, and emotional needs within educational settings.
- Family and Marriage Therapy: Concentrates on helping couples and families navigate relationship issues.
Each specialization requires a unique set of courses and practical experiences that are designed to prepare graduates for the specific challenges and opportunities of that field.
Selecting the Right Program
Choosing the right master’s program in counseling is a critical step towards achieving your career goals. Factors such as accreditation, program fit, and specialty offerings play significant roles in this decision-making process.
Accreditation and Program Fit
Accreditation is crucial as it ensures the program meets the high standards required for professional practice and licensure. Prospective students should prioritize programs accredited by recognized bodies such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Equally important is finding a program that aligns with your career aspirations, offers the specialties you’re interested in, and matches your learning style—whether that be in-person, online, or hybrid formats.
For those considering the flexibility of digital education, exploring online master’s in counseling programs can be a valuable step in finding a program that fits your life and goals.
Specialties and Career Paths
When selecting a specialty, consider your personal strengths and the type of impact you want to have through your work. Each specialty offers different paths for career advancement and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of specific populations.
Personal Interests and Strengths Matching Counseling Roles
A career in counseling is not only about possessing the right qualifications but also aligning your personal interests and strengths with your professional role. Counselors often share common traits such as empathy, patience, and strong communication skills, which are essential across all specialties. Reflecting on your personal qualities can guide you towards a specialization that not only capitalizes on your strengths but also fulfills your desire to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others.
Tips for Pursuing a Career in Counseling
Embarking on a career in counseling is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and dedication. Here are some detailed tips for prospective students and aspiring counselors to navigate the paths toward various counseling careers.
1. Gain Relevant Experience Early On
- Volunteer Work: Engage in volunteer opportunities in settings such as schools, hospitals, and mental health clinics. This provides a firsthand look at the counseling profession and helps in building practical skills.
- Internships: Seek internships while still in school. Many counseling programs incorporate internships, but additional experiences can further enhance your resume and provide valuable networking opportunities.
2. Network with Professionals
- Join Professional Associations: Organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) offer resources, conferences, and networking opportunities that can be invaluable for growth and learning.
- Find a Mentor: A mentor already working in the field can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your education and early career.
3. Prepare for Licensure
- Understand State Requirements: Licensure requirements vary by state, so it’s crucial to research and understand the specific requirements of the state where you plan to practice.
- Exam Preparation: Start preparing for licensure exams well in advance. Utilize study guides, practice exams, and preparatory courses to increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
4. Stay Informed About the Field
- Continuing Education: The field of counseling is always evolving. Stay informed about new theories, techniques, and best practices by engaging in continuing education opportunities.
- Subscribe to Journals and Publications: Keep up to date with the latest research and developments in your area of interest by subscribing to relevant journals and publications.
5. Be Open to Starting in Different Roles
- Broaden Your Job Search: While you may have a specific role in mind, be open to starting in related positions that can provide valuable experience and lead to opportunities in your desired area.
- Consider Diverse Settings: Counseling roles exist in a variety of settings, including schools, private practices, hospitals, and community organizations. Working in different environments can help you find your niche and develop a broad skill set.
6. Emphasize Personal Development
- Self-Care: The work of a counselor can be emotionally demanding. Developing a robust self-care routine is crucial for personal well-being and professional longevity.
- Reflective Practice: Regularly reflect on your experiences, challenges, and successes. This reflective practice can foster personal growth and improve your effectiveness as a counselor.
By following these tips, aspiring counselors can navigate the educational requirements, licensure process, and early career challenges more effectively. Pursuing a career in counseling requires not just academic achievement but also a commitment to personal growth, ethical practice, and ongoing learning. With the right preparation and mindset, you can build a fulfilling career that makes a significant impact on the lives of those you serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aspiring counselors often have a myriad of questions as they consider and embark on their educational journey toward a career in counseling. Here, we address some of the most common queries that can help clarify the path ahead.
Can I specialize in more than one area of counseling?
Yes, it is possible to specialize in more than one area of counseling. Many professionals choose to pursue dual specializations to broaden their skill set and increase their versatility in the job market. Achieving this typically involves additional coursework and practical experience, tailored to each specialization’s requirements. It’s essential to plan your education and career path accordingly, considering the time and financial investment needed to specialize in multiple areas.
How important is accreditation for my master’s program in counseling?
Accreditation is crucial for master’s programs in counseling for several reasons. First, it ensures that the program meets specific quality standards and adequately prepares students for a career in counseling. Second, graduating from an accredited program is often a prerequisite for licensure in many states. Programs accredited by recognized bodies, such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP), are highly recommended. This not only facilitates licensure but also enhances your employability and professional credibility.
What should I look for in a counseling internship?
A quality counseling internship should offer a balance of observation, direct client interaction, and supervision by experienced professionals. Look for opportunities that align with your specialty area of interest and provide exposure to a diverse client population. An internship should challenge you and foster growth while offering the support needed to develop your counseling skills confidently. Additionally, consider internships that contribute to your required hours for licensure and offer networking opportunities within the professional community.
How do I stay current in the field after becoming licensed?
Staying current in the counseling field involves a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. This can be achieved through:
- Continuing Education: Engage in workshops, seminars, and courses that offer continuing education units (CEUs). Many licensure boards require a certain number of CEUs for license renewal.
- Professional Associations: Maintain memberships in professional organizations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA). These associations provide resources, news, and opportunities for professional development.
- Research and Publications: Regularly read scholarly articles, research studies, and professional publications related to your areas of interest and practice.
- Peer Consultation and Supervision: Participate in peer consultation groups or seek supervision/mentoring even after licensure to gain insights and feedback on your practice.
Is it possible to transition into counseling from a different career?
Transitioning into counseling from a different career is entirely possible and even common. Many individuals come to counseling as a second career, drawn by a desire to help others and make a meaningful impact. Transitioning typically requires completing a master’s degree in counseling, fulfilling any prerequisite courses, and obtaining the necessary supervised clinical hours for licensure. Your previous career experience can enrich your counseling practice, offering unique perspectives and skills that enhance your ability to connect with and support your clients.
Addressing these FAQs can provide clarity and direction for those considering a career in counseling, helping them navigate the initial steps toward this rewarding professional path.
Embarking on a Career in Counseling: Your Path Forward
Choosing to pursue a master’s in counseling is the first step on a path to a fulfilling career dedicated to supporting and empowering others. This advanced degree opens up a world of opportunities, allowing you to specialize in areas that match your interests and strengths, from mental health counseling to family therapy, substance abuse, and beyond.
As you consider this journey, remember the importance of selecting an accredited program that fits your career aspirations, gaining hands-on experience through internships, and connecting with professionals in the field through networking and mentorship. Preparing for licensure is a critical step, requiring dedication to meet your state’s requirements and a commitment to ongoing professional development.
The counseling profession offers the unique privilege of making a significant, positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities. It demands a combination of academic knowledge, practical skills, and personal qualities such as empathy, patience, and resilience. Yet, the rewards of helping clients navigate life’s challenges, grow, and achieve their personal goals are immeasurable.
As you move forward on this career path, stay informed about the latest developments in the field, engage in continuous learning, and take care of your well-being to serve others effectively. The journey to becoming a counselor is both a professional and personal journey of growth, learning, and profound fulfillment.
Whether you are transitioning from another career or advancing your education in psychology or social work, a master’s in counseling can be your gateway to a deeply rewarding profession. With the right preparation, you can embark on this journey with confidence, ready to make a lasting difference in the world one client at a time.
Your path forward in counseling is not just about building a career—it’s about creating a meaningful life dedicated to healing, growth, and connection. Welcome to your journey in the world of counseling.
List of Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
Capella University 🗹 Online
Capella University 🗹 Online
Capella University 🗹 Online Masters
