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Can I become a counselor with only a Bachelor's degree?

While I do plan on going for a Master's since I'm hearing that's almost the minimum required level for counselling occupations, I was wondering if it's possible to get a job as a counselor with a Bachelor's? #psychology #counselor #counseling #counselling

psychology counseling counselor counselling
Thank you comment icon I’m confused at where the ppl who answered live bc for NY, (and most states I’ve looked into) At least, there’s no way to be a counselor without a masters. It’s a state requirement and not only that but you’re required to have a license or certification (which you get after passing an exam at the end of your grad program) in order to be a counselor, without any exceptions. The only thing I could see the other comments referring to is jobs that aren’t actually considered a counseling job bc they would 100% not be in a school setting due to legal purposes but possibly at some private facility or community center where they have permission to hire their version of “teachers and counselors” with less technical of a job and none of the legal requirements. Samah
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Scott D.’s Answer

You can probably get a job with the title counselor but it will be more like a camp counselor than what you probably are looking for. Almost all the true counseling jobs require a masters degree. Some will require a license and I do not know of any state that will license someone as a professional counselor without a masters degree plus post graduate internships of one to two years and passing an exam.

Thank you comment icon Yes! One year practicum/internship. State licensing required to work unsupervised. Mike Carrillo, M.S. MPC
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Gil’s Answer

Yes, it is possible to get a counseling job with only a BA or BS degree but your options and compensation will be limited. You may be able to work in something like caseworker aide or some type of assistance position in which you work as a paraprofessional with counselors who are fully credentialed. Some professional counseling practices may also need staff to work in office administration. There are possibilities also at social and community organizations, such as counseling centers, youth clubs, and YMCAs. Check also at retirement homes. Some state agencies hire in their various health and welfare departments. So go to your state employment agency and inquire about those. You probably won't be doing any counseling in these positions but they offer you the chance to work with people, gain experience, and observe how professional counselors work. These positions will also look good on your resume later on. Good luck.

Thank you comment icon Yes, but the opportunities are very limited. It also depends on what type of counseling. Rehabilitation counselors usually make less and are mostly non-profits and government agencies. Clinical counselors (Therapists, Social workers and Marriage and Family therapists) make more but require a Masters degree and eventually full licensure from your state. Academic counselors at a college also require a Masters degree, while a Guidance or attendance counselor at a middle or high school require a Masters and a PPS credential.Hope this helps! Mike Carrillo, M.S. MPC
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Jyoti’s Answer

There are some options where you can start a career in counseling with a Graduate degree. Assisting someone, creating case studies and similar job profile would be good.
Counseling is a profession where we help and guide a person who comes to us with faith/ trust/ need help. To give proper guidance comes with more of reading , helping and experience. So Go ahead and start searching job to start now.. but do not stop studies , ... go for your PG in counseling while working and goining experience.
All the best!

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Cerice’s Answer

Yes, you can become a counselor with a bachelor degree. Choose the setting and population that interest you. Get research experience, attend training/workshops, find a mentor who could teach and guide you and begin to look at theories that interest you.


I would suggest you continue with your studies and pursue your Masters then PhD or PsyD. YOU CAN DO IT! :-)
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