What is School Counseling?
School counselors are licensed professionals who collaborate with students, teachers, and parents to provide counseling, guidance, and support services. Their job includes helping with academic challenges, mental health concerns, personal problems, and career planning, among many other issues.
One of the primary roles of school counselors is to help their students achieve academically. They work with them on developing study skills, setting academic goals, and finding resources to assist with improving grades. Furthermore, school counselors provide advice regarding course selection for those who are planning for their career paths.
School counselors also play an essential role in supporting the personal and social development of their students. They provide a safe space where children can express themselves safely about emotions while developing effective coping mechanisms to cope with stress, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Furthermore, school counselors work to develop interpersonal skills among pupils such as communication, conflict resolution, and bullying prevention.
An integral component of school counseling's role is advocating on students' behalf. School counselors work closely with both parents and teachers to identify those students who may be having difficulty and devise plans to support both academic growth and personal wellbeing. They may also represent these children against forms of discrimination or injustice. Overall, school counselors play an invaluable role in education systems. They provide guidance, support, and advocacy for student, helping them to excel both academically and personally.
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Online School Counseling Education in Minnesota
School counseling is an integral career field that offers guidance and support to students in schools. Minnesota is seeing an increased demand for school counselors as more students need assistance in managing both their academic lives and personal lives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Minnesota had approximately 2,290 school counselors employed as of May 2020, and this figure is expected to grow over time as more students require counseling services and the demand for mental health support grows.
Job prospects in Minnesota for school counselors according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics are positive; employment of school counselors is projected to increase by 5.6% between 2019-2029, which is higher than the national average growth rate for this occupation, providing new job opportunities for those interested in becoming school counselors in Minnesota.
Minnesota school counselors may find employment outside traditional school settings as well including in community counseling centers, mental health clinics and healthcare facilities. Furthermore, they may choose to work with specific populations, such as students with disabilities or those from low-income families. Overall, school counseling is an invigorating field that demands empathy, communication skills, and the desire to help others. With an ever-increasing demand for these services in Minnesota alone, individuals looking to enter this profession will have numerous opportunities available them in making an impactful difference in students' lives.
Students interested in higher education options that aim to prepare individuals for counseling or research will have plenty of options from all over the state. These options include Minnesota State University Mankato, Winona State University, St. Cloud State University, Minnesota State University Moorhead, etc. These include a broad program designed to help graduates move into further education for the counseling profession and focused graduate programs in family counseling, school or addiction counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and related educational programs or counseling programs that can allow them to work as licensed professional clinical counselors, professional clinical counselors, in professional school counseling, counselor education, and more.
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in school counseling is a two-year program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the field of school counseling. It provides students with foundational knowledge and skills necessary to work as a school counselor, though it does not fully prepare them for licensure. Some coursework may include topics such as developmental psychology, counseling theories and techniques, human growth and development, diversity, and ethics.
There are few colleges and universities across the country that offer specific associate degrees in school counseling. However, those interested in the field may choose to earn degrees in counseling, psychology, social work, and a few other related majors. These programs can provide students with the education necessary to move into further programs that will allow them to assist children and adolescents in navigating academic, social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. Graduates of these programs can pursue entry-level positions as mental health technicians, carers for children, etc. or they can transfer into bachelor's degree programs in counseling or related fields.
In addition to coursework, some associate degree programs also offer students access to fieldwork or internships where they can gain practical experience working with children and adolescents under the supervision of licensed professionals. This hands-on experience is essential for developing the skills needed to work effectively as a school counselor after graduation, but may be more commonly found in a bachelor’s or master’s program.
Online Bachelors (BS)
School counseling is a field that requires specialized education and training. To become a licensed school counselor, students must complete at least a master’s in school-focused counseling from an accredited college or university. However, first they will need to complete a bachelor’s in school counseling, counseling, psychology, education, or another related field. These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with children and adolescents in educational settings.
Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in relevant majors, such as counseling or psychology. These programs typically require four years of full-time study and cover topics such as child development, counseling techniques, group therapy, crisis intervention, career planning, and diversity issues. In addition to coursework, students may be required to complete supervised clinical experiences in schools or other educational settings.
Graduates of bachelor's degree programs in school counseling are still not fully prepared for careers as school counselors in K-12 schools, but they may work as mental health technicians, addiction counseling, and other important roles. They may also pursue further education at the graduate level to become licensed professional counselors or school psychologists. With the increasing demand for mental health services for children and adolescents, graduates of these programs are well-positioned for rewarding careers helping young people achieve their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
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Online Masters (MA)
A master's in school-focused counseling or mental health counseling is a graduate-level program that prepares graduate students to work as licensed professional school counselors. These degree programs focus on the knowledge and skills necessary to help students achieve academic success, career readiness, and emotional well-being. Graduate students who complete this program are prepared to work in a variety of educational settings in their counseling career, including public and private schools.
School counseling colleges offer several different types of programs, including online courses or traditional classroom-based instruction. These programs typically take two years to complete and involve coursework in areas such as human development, counseling theories and techniques, group counseling, ethics and legal issues in counseling, assessment methods for children and adolescents, and more. Additionally, many schools require practicums or internships where students gain hands-on experience working with students under the supervision of licensed professionals. Graduates with a master's in school-focused counseling can find employment opportunities in K-12 schools or other educational settings such as community colleges or vocational schools.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
School counseling is a vital profession that helps students in various ways including academic achievement, career development, and personal/social growth. For those interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in school counseling, there are several colleges and universities offering comprehensive programs designed to prepare enrolled students for successful careers as advanced practitioners, teachers, and leaders in the field.
PhD programs in school counseling typically cover topics such as human growth and development, counseling theories and techniques, ethics and legal issues in counseling, research methods and statistics, program evaluation, and consultation and collaboration with families and community agencies. Programs may also include specialized courses on particular areas of interest or need within the field of education or mental health.
Graduates of PhD programs in school counseling have many opportunities for employment across a variety of settings including public schools, private schools, colleges/universities, community agencies, or private practice. They may work as counselors themselves or assume administrative roles, such as department chairs or program directors. In addition to traditional employment opportunities, these individuals are often sought after to conduct research studies that inform policies on student behavior management strategies at both state level government organizations and non-profit entities.
Online Certifications
School counseling certifications are becoming increasingly necessary for those seeking to work as a school counselor. These certifications provide specific training and knowledge needed to work with students in an academic setting. Many colleges and universities offer programs specifically designed for individuals who wish to become certified school counselors.
These may require professional training programs or be supported by full degree programs, depending on your level of education and the role you are hoping to hold. Programs typically require a combination of coursework, practical experience, and passing a certification exam. Coursework may include subjects such as child development, counseling techniques, assessment methods, and legal/ethical issues in education. Practical experience is often obtained through internships or supervised field experiences in schools.
Completing a school counseling program and obtaining a specialized certification can lead to an expansion of your career opportunities within the education system. School counselors play important roles in helping students reach their academic potential, addressing behavioral or emotional concerns, and providing guidance on post-secondary options. As such, earning a certification can be an excellent investment for those interested in making a difference in the lives of young people.
Become a School Counselor in Minnesota
Becoming a school counselor can be a rewarding career choice. This role involves helping students navigate academic and personal challenges, including mental health concerns. If you're passionate about helping others and want to pursue a career in school counseling, here are the steps to becoming a school counselor in Minnesota.
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Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree
The initial step to becoming a school counselor in Minnesota is completing a bachelor's program in counseling, psychology, family therapy education, or a related field. A comprehensive program should cover human development courses as well as counseling techniques and interpersonal communication courses.
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Step 2: Complete a Master's Degree in School Counseling
Step two should involve earning a master's in school-focused counseling through an approved Minnesota Board of School Administrators program, in which you will take coursework such as counseling theories, ethics, multicultural counseling, and crisis intervention.
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Step 3: Gain Practical Experience
In Minnesota, in order to become a licensed school counselor, completing a supervised internship or practicum is mandatory as part of graduate program requirements. A specified number of hours of counseling experience in school settings are necessary in this process.
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Step 4: Obtain Licensure
After completing your education and practical experience, you'll need to obtain licensure from the Minnesota Department of Education. This involves passing a licensure exam and meeting other requirements, such as passing a criminal background check.
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Step 5: Maintain Continuing Education
As soon as you become licensed as a school counselor in Minnesota, it will be essential that you complete a series of continuing education credits every year in order to maintain it. A certain number of hours must be dedicated towards professional development each year in order for your license to remain current.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in School Counseling?
A bachelor's is an excellent degree for anyone who wants to support their future career. However, these degrees in counseling or psychology offer fewer roles in their respective fields than a degree in business or human resources might. In most cases, you need to earn a master’s in order to gain licensure in any kind of counseling. The only exception is that some states will license you for addiction counseling with associate or bachelor’s degrees. However, that doesn’t mean that you have no options. Individuals who earn a bachelor’s have a lot more options when it comes to finding work in any field than those who don’t. Whether it’s in human resources, sales, marketing, editing, or publishing, there are roles out there for those who complete a bachelor’s in psychology or counseling and don’t move on to finish their master’s degrees.
However, graduates of a master's in school-focused counseling can find employment in various settings such as elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, private schools, and non-profit organizations. They can choose to work as school counselors. School counselors are responsible for providing individual and group counseling services to students struggling with personal issues or academic problems. They also serve as advocates for students by helping them navigate the educational system and ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and resources.
Potential Careers for School Counseling Graduates
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Social Worker:
As a social worker, your primary responsibility will be helping people cope with difficult circumstances and improve their lives. You will work directly with individuals, families, and communities providing guidance, advocacy, and assistance as needed.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's in social work or related field (Master's preferred)
- State licensure or certification as a Social Worker (depending on the state)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental attitude
- Knowledge of social work ethics and principles
- Familiarity with community resources and services
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for child, family, and school social workers in the US in 2021 was $56,680
- The mean annual wage for child, family, and school social workers in Minnesota is $64,490
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Mental Health Counselor:
As a mental health counselor, your role will be essential in aiding individuals deal with their mental health issues. You’ll work closely with clients to understand their personal struggles and offer support and guidance as they create coping mechanisms - all with one goal in mind: improving mental wellbeing and improving quality of life for all involved.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master's degree in counseling or related field
- Relevant licensure or certification
- Experience working in the mental health field
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to empathize with clients and establish trust
- Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to mental health counseling
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 Minnesota is $52,850
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School Psychologist:
A school psychologist is an educational professional specialized in improving students' mental and academic wellbeing in educational environments. They offer advice and assistance to pupils, parents, teachers, administrators, and allies to ensure students can obtain all necessary help for academic success.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master's or Doctoral degree in School Psychology or related field
- State certification or licensure as a School Psychologist
- Knowledge of psychological principles, assessment techniques, and intervention strategies
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals and stakeholders in the school community
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for school psychologists in the US in 2021 was $87,550
- The mean annual wage for school psychologists in Minnesota is $83,090
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College Counselor:
A college counselor is responsible for providing guidance and support to students who are planning to attend college. They help students identify their strengths and interests, research and select appropriate colleges, and navigate the application process.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's in counseling, education, or related field
- Experience working with high school students and knowledge of the college application process
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Familiarity with college admissions criteria and financial aid options
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 Minnesota is $62,780
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Caseworker:
A caseworker's primary role is to assist individuals or families who require support including assessing their needs, creating plans of action, and linking them with resources.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's in social work, psychology, or a related field
- Experience working with individuals or families in need
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and resources
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for social workers in the US in 2021 was $50,390
- The mean annual wage for social workers, all other in Minnesota is $67,960
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Social and Community Service Manager:
A social and community service manager is accountable for overseeing and coordinating social service programs and community outreach initiatives and working alongside staff members, community leaders, and volunteers to ensure clients get the assistance they require.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's in social work, public administration, or a related field
- At least 5 years of experience in social services or community outreach
- Strong leadership skills and ability to manage staff members and volunteers effectively
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with others
- Knowledge of local community resources and social service programs
- Experience managing budgets and fundraising efforts
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 Minnesota is $79,020
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Juvenile Justice Counselor:
Juvenile justice counselors are charged with helping young offenders make positive changes and avoid future criminal behavior, providing counseling, support, and guidance services to juveniles involved in the justice system.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field
- Experience working with youth, preferably in a counseling or therapeutic setting
- Knowledge of juvenile justice system and related laws and regulations
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed
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 Minnesota is $52,850
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