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 Louisiana.

Academics: Hold a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from a regionally college or university or a master’s degree with the requisite hours and courses in school counseling.

Necessary Courses: The graduate training must include a cumulative of 24 semester hours in:
(1) Administration of School Counseling Programs; (2) Career Development; (3) Individual Appraisal; (4) Counseling Theory; (5) Group Processes; (6) Human Development; (7) Social Foundations in Counseling.

Experience Requirements: (1) Must possess or be eligible to possess a valid LA teaching certificate except for counselor certification and (2) Must have 3 credits in a supervised practicum in a school setting.

Assessment: (1) NTE Core Battery (Communication: 645, General Knowledge: 644, and Professional Knowledge: 645); AND (2) NTE Specialty Area Exam in school counseling.

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

Licensure: K-12

Licensure Reciprocity: No

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes, at point of hire

Louisiana Department of Administration