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What is School Counseling?
You might be wondering if Maine can provide you with a career if you aim to work as a school counselor. With over 180,000 students attending school in the state in 2020, there is no doubt that educational institutions will need the help of school counselors, though your options will be limited to openings in existing schools. However, you can also work in similar counseling fields with a license in counseling, and Maine’s fishermen, businesspeople, and other workers throughout the state economy are also likely to need help in dealing with stressors, addiction, and more. As for a counselor education program, there are plenty of options across the state.
School counselors are professionals who work with students, parents, and teachers to promote academic success, social-emotional development, and career readiness. They provide guidance and support in various areas such as academic planning, college and career exploration, mental health support, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention. School counselors play a vital role in helping students navigate the challenges of adolescence by providing individualized counseling sessions or group activities that aim to improve their overall wellbeing.
To become a counselor in schools in Maine, individuals must obtain a master's degree in school-focused counseling from an accredited institution. There are several colleges and universities that offer degree programs specifically tailored to meet the state's licensure requirements for school counselors. These programs typically involve coursework in human development, counseling theories and techniques, ethics and legal issues in counseling, assessment methods for student needs identification, as well as supervised clinical experiences where students can practice their skills under the guidance of experienced practitioners.
School counselors are essential members of every educational community whose primary goal is to help students succeed academically while also promoting their emotional wellbeing. Aspiring school counselors interested in pursuing this rewarding profession should consider enrolling in one of Maine's quality college or university degree programs designed specifically for future professionals seeking licensure as school counselors.
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Online School Counseling Education in Maine
Maine is home to several colleges and universities that offer degree programs in school counseling. The University of Southern Maine, for example, provides a master's degree program in school counseling that focuses on both clinical and educational aspects of the field. This program prepares students to work with children and adolescents from diverse backgrounds in various educational settings.
Another option is Husson University, which offers a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis on school counseling. Students enrolled in this program learn about ethical practices, assessment strategies, and intervention techniques for helping individuals who are experiencing mental health issues related to academic achievement.
In addition, the University of New England offers a Master’s Degree Program in School Counseling that aims at preparing students for licensing as Professional School Counselors. It includes theoretical foundations necessary for effective practice as well as practical experience through internship opportunities across different school levels ranging from elementary schools to high schools.
Overall, these institutions help provide highly trained professionals who can make significant contributions within their communities by addressing student academic achievement and overall mental health concerns effectively.
Online Associate Degree in School Counseling (AS)
Maine is home to several colleges that offer an associate degree in counseling, though it will likely be difficult to find school-focused options. These degree programs give you foundational information in the counseling field and aim to prepare students to work as counselors in K-12 schools under the supervision of licensed professional counselors. Students who pursue these degrees learn how to provide individual and group counseling services, develop educational plans for students, and collaborate with teachers and families to support student success.
One of the benefits of pursuing an associate degree in counseling is that it can be a steppingstone toward higher education. Many students choose to continue their education by earning a bachelor's and master's degree, which allows licensure as a professional school counselor. Additionally, graduates with an associate degree may also be eligible for entry-level positions in counseling or related fields, such as social work or youth advocacy.
Overall, obtaining an associate degree in counseling or psychology can provide opportunities for individuals who are passionate about helping young people succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. With the right combination of education and experience, graduates can make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and families within their communities.
Online Bachelors Degree in School Counseling (BS)
School counselors play a significant role in students' academic and personal growth. They work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and administrators to provide support services that enhance students' overall well-being. To become a school counselor, you will want to start with a bachelor's degree in counseling, psycholgoy, or social work from an accredited institution.
Several colleges offer counseling programs at the undergraduate level that prepares students for careers as school counselors. The curriculum covers various topics such as human development, educational psychology, counseling theories, group dynamics, and crisis intervention. Additionally, many programs require field experiences or internships where students can apply their skills in real-world settings.
Upon completion of a bachelor's degree program in counseling, graduates must pursue further education by enrolling in a master's degree program. Earning a master's degree and obtaining state licensure is the only way to access career opportunities as professional counselors within schools or in private practice settings.
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Online Masters Degree in School Counseling (MA or MC)
The field of counseling focused on schoolchildren is an exciting and rewarding one, filled with opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of students. Completing graduate counseling programs in school-focused counseling or clinical mental health counseling is the first step toward becoming a licensed professional counselor in this field. Many universities offer programs specifically designed for aspiring school counselors, with coursework that covers topics such as child and adolescent development, counseling techniques, and crisis intervention.
When considering schools and degree programs for your master's in school counseling, it's important to do your research. Look for accredited programs that have a strong reputation within the industry, as well as those that offer hands-on experience through internships or practicums, which will be required for licensure. Additionally, consider whether you want to pursue a traditional on-campus program or an online program that offers more flexibility. However, you should be aware that most of these programs cannot be completed entirely online because of the hands-on components.
Ultimately, the goal of earning a master's degree in school-focused counseling is to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to help students succeed both academically and personally. With dedication and hard work throughout your academic journey, you can become an effective advocate for student success in this fulfilling career path.
Check out the Top 50 School Counseling Graduate ProgramsOnline PhD Degree in School Counseling (PhD)
School counseling is a critical field that focuses on providing students with support, guidance, and resources to help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. A PhD in counseling or clinical mental health counseling is an advanced degree program mostly designed for individuals who want to pursue research or academic positions in the field of school-focused counseling and who already have experience in the field as clinical professional counselors in clinical mental health. This degree program prepares graduates to take on leadership roles in schools and other educational organizations.
There are a number of options for colleges and universities that offer PhD programs in school-focused counseling. These programs typically require students to complete coursework in areas such as human development, diversity issues, counseling theories and techniques, research methods, statistics, and ethics similar to your master’s program. In addition to coursework, students must also complete a dissertation or other research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
Upon completion of a PhD in counseling degree, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the improvement of school-focused counseling practices. It will prepare counselors to work as researchers exploring new trends or techniques within their field or as educators training future generations of counselors. Ultimately earning this degree helps one stand out from others while making significant contributions that impact both students' lives as well as society at large by helping shape the future leaders of tomorrow.
Online School Counseling Certifications
Counseling certifications are becoming increasingly important for those seeking to pursue a career in any type of counseling. Many schools require or prefer counselors who have obtained certification from a recognized organization such as the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) or the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). These certifications not only demonstrate a counselor's expertise and commitment to their profession but also ensure that they adhere to ethical standards and best practices.
To obtain these certifications, individuals must typically complete graduate-level coursework in areas such as counseling theory, human development, and social justice. They may also need to complete supervised internship hours and pass an exam. Some programs offer specialized training in areas such as college admissions counseling, substance abuse prevention, or trauma-informed care. Pursuing certification can be an important step for those seeking to advance their careers in counseling.
There are many colleges and degree programs that offer the necessary coursework and training needed for school-focused counseling certification. These programs may be offered online or on-campus and can range from traditional master's degrees in counseling to specialized certificate programs. It’s important for prospective students to research different options carefully before choosing a program that meets their needs and aligns with their career goals.
Become a School Counselor in Maine
Are you passionate about helping students navigate through the challenges of life in school? Becoming a counselor in schools in Maine could be a rewarding career path for you. Here are some steps to follow to become a licensed counselor in Maine.
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Step 1: Earn a Relevant Bachelor's Degree
The first step to becoming a counselor in Maine is earning a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as psychology, education, social work, or counseling. The program should prepare you for master's level study for licensure as a school counselor in Maine.
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Step 2: Complete a Master's Degree in School Counseling
To become a licensed counselor in Maine, you must complete a master’s degree from a state-approved school counseling program. Some of the state-approved programs in Maine include the University of Southern Maine, the University of Maine, and the University of New England. The program should involve classroom coursework and clinical experience in a school setting.
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Step 3: Complete an Internship and Pass a Background Check
To be eligible for licensure as a counselor in Maine, you must complete an approved internship and pass a criminal background check. The internship experience should provide you with the opportunity to work with licensed school counselors in a school setting and the chance to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment.
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Step 4: Obtain a Maine School Counseling License
To become a licensed counselor in Maine, you must submit an application to the Maine Department of Education along with transcripts from your counselor education in the form of counseling degrees and training, a background check report, and the necessary fees. You must also pass the PRAXIS Subject Assessments in School Counseling.
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What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in School Counseling?
A bachelor's degree in school counseling equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with students of all ages, backgrounds and needs. Many graduates go on to pursue careers as guidance counselors, educational consultants, or social workers. In addition to traditional counseling jobs, a bachelor's degree in school counseling can also lead to employment opportunities in related fields such as education administration or child welfare services.
One potential career path for those with a bachelor's degree in school counseling is as a guidance counselor. These professionals work directly with students to provide emotional support, academic advice and career development assistance. They may also be involved in identifying learning disabilities or behavioral issues that might require further intervention from other professionals.
Another option for those with this degree is working as an educational consultant. Educational consultants offer expertise on a variety of topics related to education such as curriculum design, student assessment and teacher training. Consultants may work independently or for consulting firms that specialize in education-related services. Overall, the versatility of a bachelor's degree in school counseling provides many exciting career options for graduates interested in helping young people succeed both academically and personally.
Potential Careers for School Counseling Graduates
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Substance Abuse Counselor:
The Substance Abuse Counselor provides direct counseling and support to individuals, families, and groups affected by substance abuse.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field
- Licensed/certified in substance abuse counseling or eligible for licensure/certification
- Knowledge of addiction theory, assessment techniques, treatment modalities, and crisis intervention strategies
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Maine is $62,910
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Guidance Counselor:
A guidance counselor provides guidance, advice, and support to students in regard to educational, social, and personal issues.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work or related field
- Master’s degree in counseling preferred
- Knowledge of state laws related to educational guidance and counseling
- Experience working with diverse populations of students
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Maine is $56,980
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Academic Advisor:
An academic advisor is there to guide and advise students with academic planning, degree requirements, and any educational issues that arise. They offer guidance regarding university policies and procedures, as well as helping them develop their educational plans and register for classes.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree or higher in related field Previous experience in academic advising or teaching preferred
- Excellent communication skills Knowledge of university policies
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Maine is $56,980
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Juvenile Justice Counselor:
A juvenile justice counselor's primary aim is to assist juvenile offenders in making positive changes and reduce recidivism.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology or related field is preferred (preferably Social Work/Psychology/Therapy)
- Previous experience working with juvenile offenders preferred
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Maine is $62,910
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School Counselor:
A school counselor's primary responsibility is providing guidance to students regarding academic, career, and personal/social development.
Necessary Requirements:
- Knowledge of educational theories, principles, and practices
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations from multiple educational settings
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for school and career counselors and advisors in the US in 2021 was $60,510
- The mean annual wage for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Maine is $56,980
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Social and Community Services Manager:
A social and community services manager oversees the design, implementation, and delivery of programs addressing social and community needs across a variety of target groups. They must plan, coordinate, and deliver services according to target group priorities.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Policy or related field
- At least 5 years' experience working in social services or community development
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for social and community service managers in the US in 2021 was $74,000
- The mean annual wage for social and community service managers in Maine is $69,260
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Outpatient Therapist:
An outpatient therapist provides mental health services to individuals or groups in an outpatient setting. The therapist will assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans for clients that provide evidence-based interventions and support.
Necessary Requirements:
- A Master’s degree in social work, psychology or related field
- Licensure from the state where the position is based
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Knowledge of evidence-based treatments and techniques
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in the US in 2021 was $48,520. Rehabilitation counselors earned $39,990
- The mean annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Maine is $62,910. Rehabilitation counselors earn $68,090
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Marriage and Family Therapist:
Marriage and family therapists provide therapeutic services to couples, families, and individuals. Their job involves helping clients manage relationships better by improving communication channels and resolving conflicts more easily.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master of Marriage and Family Therapy or related field (required)
- Licensed by state boards (if necessary)
- Knowledge of psychotherapy techniques and theories
- Ability to protect client confidentiality as well as keeping confidentiality agreements strictly in force
- Exhibited empathy and understanding towards clients
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for marriage and family therapists in the US in 2021 was $49,880
- The mean annual wage for counselors, all other in Maine is $41,930