In America, today’s school counselors do a lot more than their predecessors. It may be hard to tell from the outside looking in, but they help teachers and staff handle various issues, counsel parents, and sometimes play a crucial part in shaping education policy. They are a pivotal part of the student success equation, and they help schools create supportive and safe environments for students.

Want to become a school counselor in the United States, but want to know how? Don’t worry; the Edvocate has your back. Check out this guide that we created explaining how to become a school counselor in Georgia.

Academics: An candidate is eligible for standard professional licensure in the field of school counseling if they meet these requirements:

(A) Fulfilling one of the following options: (1) Completion of a state-sanctioned certification preparation program in school counseling at the master’s degree level, (2) completion of a master’s degree and submission of a valid National Certified School Counselor credential given by the National Board of Certified Counselors; (3) completion of a master’s degree in a counseling-related area and proof of a current state of Georgia professional counselor’s license provided by the Professional Licensing Board, OCGA Title 43, and

(B) Meeting the Special Georgia Requirements applicable to the discipline of school counseling: (1) knowledge assessment – pass the content knowledge assessment, (2) Special education; classwork in the identification and teaching of kids who have special educational needs.

Necessary Courses: Special education – Coursework in identifying and educating children who have special educational needs if not included in graduate coursework.

Experience Requirements: None

Assessment: Yes (see details)

Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: Yes, must recommend for certification

Licensure: K–12

Licensure Reciprocity: Yes

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes

Georgia Department of Education/school counseling