What is a Child Counselor?
Thinking about pursuing a child counseling degree in Wisconsin? Wisconsin offers several well-regarded programs specializing in child and adolescent mental health counseling. These programs provide evidence-based training that emphasizes trauma-informed care and cultural humility, ensuring that you're well-prepared to support young clients.
Various colleges and universities in Wisconsin offer child counseling programs focused on interprofessional team-based approaches. These institutions also offer specialized master’s programs in clinical mental health counseling; students may complete their degrees in two to three years.
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Online Child Counseling Programs
A child counseling degree in Wisconsin equips you with specialized skills to support children's mental health in different settings. These programs focus on training you to understand and address the unique challenges faced by children and adolescents. They may also offer specializations in child and adolescent counseling- preparing you to work in schools, clinics, and other environments where you can apply your skills to help young clients.
These programs usually include coursework in developmental psychology, counseling techniques, and child psychopathology. You will also participate in supervised virtual clinical practice, gaining real-world experience. By completing one of these degrees, you will be prepared to address behavioral issues, trauma, and family dynamics that affect children's mental health.
When thinking about getting a child counseling degree in Wisconsin, you need to decide whether to study online or on-campus. Each option has its own advantages and challenges, affecting your learning experience, costs, and schedule.
Online vs. On-campus Programs
- Flexibility and Convenience:
Online programs offer flexibility. You can study from anywhere, making them ideal if you have a job or family commitments. Courses are usually available 24/7, so you can manage your time more effectively. - Cost Comparison:
Online degrees can be more affordable. Tuition is often the same for in-state and out-of-state students. You can also save on commuting, lodging, and other campus-related expenses. - Interaction and Networking:
On-campus programs provide face-to-face interaction with professors and peers, fostering a strong support system. Online programs use forums, video calls, and chats to ensure you still get ample interaction. - Resource Access:
Both formats offer access to excellent resources. Online programs typically provide digital libraries and virtual labs, whereas on-campus programs might offer more hands-on opportunities.
Considering both options can help you choose the best path for your child counseling degree in Wisconsin.
Online Educational Pathways for a Child Counseling Degree in Wisconsin
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in counseling or psychology is often the first step. They cover basic principles of mental health, child development, and introductory counseling techniques. These programs typically take two years and provide a foundation for further studies.
National rankings for online AS in counselingOnline Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor’s degree in child counseling dives deeper into psychology, focusing more on child-specific issues. You will study advanced topics like child psychopathology, family therapy, human development, and ethical issues in counseling. Programs take about four years to complete and often include internships for those planning to work as professional school counselors or other licensed professional counselors.
National rankings for online BS in counselingOnline Masters (MS)
A master’s degree in child counseling is crucial for becoming a licensed counselor. These programs provide advanced training in clinical techniques and therapeutic strategies for children. It usually takes two to three years and includes both coursework and practical experience. At this level, graduate students can choose to specialize in career counseling or career development, individual and group counseling, trauma counseling, clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, or in comprehensive school counseling programs. With a Master of Science in any of these, they can work as a licensed professional counselor in private practice, a hospital or clinic, or a school counseling practice.
National rankings for online MS in counselingOnline Doctorates (PHD)
Pursuing a PhD in child counseling is ideal if you're interested in research or academic roles. These advanced degrees focus on original research, psychological theory, and the development of new counseling techniques. A PhD program can take four to six years and often involves a dissertation.
Online Certifications
Certifications complement your degree and specialize your skills. Options include the National Certified Counselor (NCC) or the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), which emphasize clinical skills and ethical practice. Completing these certifications often requires additional coursework and passing a certification exam.
By following these educational pathways, you can build a strong foundation and advance in the field of child counseling in Wisconsin.
Financial Considerations
When looking to become a child counselor in Wisconsin, understanding the financial commitments involved is crucial. Here, we'll break down tuition costs, fees, and available financial aid options.
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Tuition Cost and Fees
The cost of tuition for a child counseling degree in Wisconsin varies by institution. For schools within the Wisconsin educational system, the cost per credit ranges from $500 to $600.
However, this rate may only apply to both in-state students if you are attending a public institution. Private colleges and universities are often more expensive no matter what type of degree you choose to earn. On top of tuition, you might encounter other fees such as an application fee, a technology fee, etc. Most programs also have additional costs, such as the price of books and supplies, or proctored exams.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid can help make your pursuit of an online degree more affordable. Federal student aid, including grants and loans, is available to qualifying students. Completing the FAFSA is the first step in determining eligibility for this assistance.
Additionally, scholarships specifically for counseling students may be available. Institutions often offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Be sure to apply for all relevant scholarships and explore options such as employer tuition assistance programs or state-funded grants. Understanding these costs and available financial aid options will help you plan effectively for your education in child counseling.
Get our resources and scholarships guide for counseling Get our paying for college guideAccreditation and Licensure Requirements
To become a child counselor in Wisconsin, you need to ensure your education is from an accredited institution and meet the state's licensure requirements.
Accrediting Bodies and Organizations
Your counseling degree should come from an institution accredited by recognized bodies like the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). To ensure high-quality education, CACREP accredits graduate-level degree programs in counseling. Other notable accrediting bodies include the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).
Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards and adequately prepares you for a career in counseling. Always check if your online program is accredited by one of these organizations to ensure it will be recognized for licensure in Wisconsin.
Potential Careers and Salaries for Graduates
Graduating with a child counseling degree in Wisconsin opens the door to several career paths. These roles vary in responsibilities, environments, and pay levels but share a common goal: supporting children's mental health and well-being. Here are just some of the roles that you might have access to with a degree in this or a related field.
Child, Family, and School Social Worker:
Job description: Child, family, and school social workers play a vital role in supporting families and children in need. They address issues such as abuse, neglect, and behavioral problems. You may find yourself working in schools, hospitals, or government agencies.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree
- Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children
- Interview clients individually, in families, or in groups, assessing their situations, capabilities, and problems to determine what services are required to meet their needs
- Counsel individuals, groups, families, or communities regarding issues including mental health, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, physical abuse, rehabilitation, social adjustment, child care, or medical care
- Maintain case history records and prepare reports
Median Salary: $59,190
Special Education Teacher (Middle School):
Job description: As a special education teacher for middle school students, you will work with children who have various disabilities. You design individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapt the curriculum to meet each student’s needs.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree
- 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 moreBehavioral Disorder Counselor:
Job description: Behavioral disorder counselors focus on helping children with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, and emotional disorders. You may work in private practices, schools, or healthcare settings.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree, Growth Potential 18% (Much faster than average)
- Evaluate clients’ mental and physical health, addiction, or problematic behavior and assess their readiness for treatment
- Develop, recommend, and review treatment goals and plans with clients and their families
- Assist clients in developing skills and behaviors necessary to recover from their addiction or modify their behavior
- Work with clients to identify behaviors or situations that interfere with their recovery
Median Salary: $60,080
Psychiatrist:
Job description: As a psychiatrist specializing in children, you diagnose and treat severe mental health disorders. This role involves prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy.
Requirements:
- PhD, Growth Potential 6% (Faster than average)
- Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders
- Order or perform a variety of medical and/or psychological tests
- Perform individualized treatment plans, which can include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication and other medical treatments
- Assemble and keep up patient records and information, either directly from the patient or from medical professionals, relatives, or others who may have this information
Median Salary: $256,930
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to become a licensed child counselor in Wisconsin?
To become a licensed child counselor in Wisconsin, you need a 60-credit graduate degree in counseling. The program should meet specific coursework outlined by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. An internship and practical experience are also required.
Are there accredited child counseling degree programs in Wisconsin?
Yes, there are various accredited programs in Wisconsin offering specialized training in child counseling. Universities such as the University of Wisconsin - River Falls and Marquette University offer programs tailored for future child counselors.
How much does it typically cost to obtain a degree in child counseling ?
The cost of a degree varies by institution. On average, tuition for a graduate counseling program can range from $15,000 to $30,000. It's important to check specific school websites for detailed tuition information and financial aid options.
Do I need to obtain certifications to enhance a career in child counseling?
While not always required, certifications can enhance your career in child counseling. Certifications in specific areas, like child trauma or play therapy, can provide additional skills and make you more marketable to employers.
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