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Compare Popular Online Child Counseling Programs
What is a Child Counselor?
Searching for a way to make a difference in the lives of children and their families? Pursuing an online or in-person child counseling degree in Texas could be the ideal path for you. This rewarding field allows you to work closely with children - helping them navigate their emotions, behavior, and mental health challenges. Texas offers several accredited programs that can guide you through the necessary coursework and field experiences, preparing you for a fulfilling career.
Earning a child counseling degree in Texas often involves completing core courses in psychology, human development, and specific child counseling techniques. Many programs also provide flexible online options. An online master’s degree in child counseling or development can equip you with the skills needed for certification and allows you to balance your studies with other commitments. This flexibility can be crucial for many students who need to juggle work, family, or other responsibilities alongside obtaining their degree.
Understanding the steps to become a certified child counselor is also essential in this field, including meeting specific educational requirements and obtaining licensure. With the right credentials, you open the door to many potential career opportunities in schools, hospitals, and private practices. A degree from a recognized Texas institution ensures that you have the expertise required to make a meaningful impact right from the start of your career.
Overview of the Child Counseling Field in Texas
Child counseling programs in Texas prepare you to handle children's behavioral health issues and can eventually equip you to work as a licensed professional in various settings.
Role of a Child Counselor
Professional counselors can focus on helping children and adolescents deal with emotional, social, and behavioral issues. You will learn to assess and address problems such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral disorders. The work of these specialists is vital in schools, private practices, and hospitals. However, you must complete a master's degree in counseling and become licensed to practice in any of these settings. Those who work in specialist positions, such as a school counselor role, will have certain responsibilities that others will not, such as helping to prepare individualized education program information and understanding educational psychology. Most specializations require graduate programs, such as a school counseling master degree. A degree at this level prepares students for their licensing exam and full certification in their field.
Child Behavioral Therapy
Child behavioral therapists use techniques to help children change negative behaviors. Techniques may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and family counseling. Training programs in Texas often combine classroom learning with supervised clinical hours, ensuring you are well-prepared for certification and practice.
Online Child Counseling Degrees
Studying child counseling online in Texas offers flexibility and accessibility. However, you need to compare the benefits of online programs with traditional on-campus education to make an informed decision.
Comparing Online and On-campus Education
- Flexibility:
- Cost:
- Accreditation:
- Interaction:
- Resources:
Online programs allow you to balance your studies with work or family obligations. You can access course materials and lectures at any time, which is crucial if you have a busy schedule.
Online degrees can be more affordable, though this is not necessarily always the case. You could save on commuting and housing expenses. However, it's essential to review tuition fees and additional costs like technology or lab fees that might be associated with online learning.
Ensure any program you consider is accredited. This guarantees the quality of education and is vital for pursuing Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) certification in Texas. Accredited programs meet the state’s requirements, like a master's degree in counseling and 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work.
Online courses often use forums, video chats, and emails to facilitate student-teacher and student-student interaction. Some students find these methods less personal than face-to-face meetings. Assess how comfortable you are with digital communication before signing up for an online program.
Many online programs provide access to extensive digital libraries, counseling tools, and other educational resources. Make sure your program also offers any other necessary support services like academic advising, tech support, and career counseling.
When choosing between an online or on-campus program, consider your personal needs and professional goals. Look into program specifics, including their support for LPC certification and practical training opportunities.
Online Educational Pathways for a Child Counseling Degree in Texas
Online Associate Degree in Counseling or Psychology (AS)
An associate degree in counseling or psychology is a good first step if you’re interested in this field but not 100% certain you want to gain licensure in child counseling specifically. These programs typically take two years to complete and you can find them at community colleges and online institutions. They cover basic psychology, human development, and introductory counseling strategies. Though this degree won't qualify you to practice as a licensed counselor, it lays the groundwork for further education and help you decide if this field is right for you.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Child Counseling (BS)
A bachelor’s degree in child counseling usually spans four years, and these are the most commonly earned undergraduate programs in psychology and counseling as you'll likely have to finish a bachelor's to move into a graduate program. It offers more detailed coursework in child psychology, developmental psychology, and counseling techniques. Schools may offer online or hybrid programs to fit your schedule. This degree does not meet the requirements for licensure, but it qualifies you for entry-level positions in mental health support settings. It also prepares you for advanced studies, such as a master's degree.
University HQ National Online Rankings for Bachelors in CounselingOnline Master’s Degree in Child Counseling (MS)
A master’s degree is crucial for becoming a licensed counselor in Texas. Programs like a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling can allow you to specialize in child and adolescent counseling. These programs include advanced coursework in counseling theories, child development, and mental health assessment. Required internships and practicums provide practical experience. Schools in Texas offer beneficial online formats for completing your master’s program. With this degree, you'll also be prepared for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) exam. Students at this level can also specialize in certain fields that may or may not prepare them to work with children such as school counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, etc. Clinical training is only accessible in a graduate programs.
University HQ National Online Rankings for Masters in CounselingOnline PhD in Child Counseling (PhD)
If you aim for a leadership or academic role, you might want to consider a PhD in child counseling, school counseling, psychology, etc. These doctoral programs are research-intensive and often take four to six years to finish. Topics often include advanced child psychology, clinical practices, and research methods. Online options are available but often require some on-campus work or residencies. A PhD enhances your understanding of the field and opens doors for teaching, conducting research, and working in advanced clinical settings.
Read more about counseling resources and scholarships Read our financial aid and FAFSA guideOnline Child Counseling Certifications
Certifications are important for staying updated in this evolving field. Texas requires 24 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain licensure. Short-term courses and certifications can focus on specific areas like play therapy or cognitive-behavioral techniques for children. Earning certifications can improve your skills and enhance your resume, keeping you competitive and well-prepared in your practice.
Learn more about counseling certificationsFinancing Your Degree
Financing your child counseling degree can seem daunting, but understanding the costs and knowing your financial aid options can make it manageable.
Find Online Child Counseling Schools
Tuition Cost and Fees
The cost of tuition for a master’s degree in child counseling varies by school. On average, you can expect to pay between $15,000 and $30,000 for the entire program. Institutions in Texas offer programs with a variety of specializations. Your specialization may affect the cost of your degree, but, in general, the cost per credit hour increases as you earn higher and higher-level degrees. Additionally, it's crucial to factor in fees for application, technology, and other student services. Always review the current tuition rates on each university's website to get accurate estimates.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Many universities also provide financial aid options to support students. Federal aid, such as loans and grants, can help offset tuition costs. Completing the FAFSA form is a required step to determine your eligibility for these options.
Scholarships specifically for counseling students, students with financial need, and many others may be available. University programs sometimes offer scholarships based on merit or need. Explore different universities' financial aid pages to find more opportunities tailored to your qualifications and needs.
Accreditation and Licensure
To become a child counselor in Texas, it's essential to understand both accreditation and licensure requirements. Proper accreditation ensures that your degree meets high standards, while licensure confirms your qualifications to practice.
Accrediting Bodies and Organizations
Accreditation is crucial for any counseling degree. In Texas, programs offering counseling degrees must be accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) to prepare you for licensure. CACREP ensures that your education meets rigorous standards and prepares you for professional excellence.
Another accrediting body to consider is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This organization provides regional accreditation for higher education institutions in Texas. Accreditation from SACSCOC ensures that the school meets quality standards in terms of faculty, resources, and overall educational effectiveness.
Accreditation increases your chances of licensure and employment opportunities within schools and other child-focused organizations. Always verify that your degree program has proper accreditation before enrolling.
Potential Careers and Salaries for Child Counseling Graduates
Graduates with an online degree in child counseling in Texas have various career options to consider. Each role comes with different responsibilities and salary expectations; Below you can explore just a few roles that you might have access to throughout your career, along with average salaries.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors:
Job Description: These counselors work with students to help them with academic and career planning. You'll likely work in schools or colleges providing one-on-one guidance. Your job may involve helping students develop study plans, choose courses, and set career goals. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential and this career is rewarding as you directly impact students' futures.
Requirements:
- Master's Degree, Growth Potential 5% (Faster than average)
- Advise and assist students and provide educational and vocational guidance services
- Provide crisis intervention to students when difficult situations occur at schools
- Confer with parents or guardians, teachers, administrators, and other professionals to discuss children's progress, resolve behavioral, academic, and other problems, and to determine priorities for students and their resource needs
- Identify cases of domestic abuse or other family problems and encourage students or parents to seek additional assistance from mental health professionals
Median Salary: $66,990
Learn moreSpecial Education Teacher:
Job Description: Special education teachers support students with various learning needs. In this role, you'll create and implement individualized educational plans (IEPs). You will work closely with other teachers and parents to ensure that students receive the necessary support. Patience and strong problem-solving skills are important in this role. This position is ideal if you are passionate about making a difference in students' lives.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in special education
- Teach academic, social, and life skills to secondary school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities
- Establish and enforce rules for behavior and policies and procedures to maintain order among students
- Modify the general education curriculum for students with disabilities, based upon a variety of instructional techniques and instructional technology
- Maintain accurate and complete student records, and prepare reports on children and activities, as required by laws, district policies, and administrative regulations
Median Salary: $73,630
Learn moreClinical and Counseling Psychologist:
Job Description: These professionals diagnose and treat mental health issues in children and adolescents. In this position, you will provide therapy, conduct assessments, and develop treatment plans. Strong analytical and empathetic skills are crucial. You'll often work in private practices, hospitals, or educational settings. This role requires extensive training and licensure.
Requirements:
- PhD
- Assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests
- Interact with clients to assist them in gaining insight, defining goals, and planning action to achieve effective personal, social, educational, or vocational development and adjustment
- Conduct assessments of patients' risk for harm to self or others
- Counsel individuals, groups, or families to help them understand problems, deal with crisis situations, define goals, and develop realistic action plans
Median Salary: $106,600
Learn moreMarriage and Family Therapist:
Job Description: Marriage and family therapists focus on the dynamics within families that affect children's mental health. You will offer counseling to children and their families, helping them navigate relational issues. Skills in mediation and communication are key. This can be a very fulfilling career as you help families improve their relationships and well-being.
Requirements:
- Master's degree, Growth Potential 15% (Much faster than average)
- Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems
- Assess clients to identify their emotional, behavioral, and psychological needs
- Ask questions that encourage clients to discuss their emotions and experiences
- Help clients process their reactions and adjust to difficult changes that relate to marriage and family dynamics, such as divorce
Median Salary: $68,730
learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to pursue a master’s child counseling degree?
To pursue a master’s child counseling degree, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. Courses in child development, psychology, and counseling are also important. Graduating from one of these programs may allow you to obtain certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Are there colleges that offer accredited child counseling degrees in Texas?
Yes, several Texas universities offer accredited child counseling degrees. These institutions provide comprehensive programs that includes foundational and specialized courses. Make sure to choose an accredited institution to ensure your degree is recognized.
Can I obtain a child counseling degree online in Texas?
Online options for obtaining a child counseling degree are available in Texas. Some universities offer hybrid programs, combining online coursework with in-person practicums. Ensure the online program is accredited and meets state requirements for licensure. Options include Texas A&Ms International University and Lamar University.
Is it necessary to obtain certifications for a career in child counseling in Texas?
Yes, obtaining certifications such as the LPC is necessary for a career in child counseling in Texas. These certifications ensure you meet state standards for practice. Additional certifications in specialized areas of child counseling can enhance your qualifications and job prospects.