Masters in Counseling Degree Options and Career Paths

Master's in Counseling Degree Options and Career Paths Student Resources Print Masters in Counseling Degree Options and Career Paths Wha You Can Do With Your Degree By Kendra Cherry facebook twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial policy Kendra Cherry Updated on February 07, 2020 PeopleImages.com / Getty Images More in Student Resources APA Style and Writing Study Guides and Tips Careers After earning a bachelors degree in psychology, some students choose to go on to earn a masters in counseling. This degree can be a good alternative to a masters in psychology, in particular for those interested in working in academic or mental health settings. Types of Masters in Counseling Degrees Counseling is certainly not a one-size-fits-all option. If you are interested in entering this field, it is important to think about the kind of counseling that you want to perform. There are several different types of counseling degrees available. These degrees can vary in terms of academic requirements and specialty areas, so it is important to consider the differences as well as your career goals before deciding which degree is right for you. Do you want to deal with mental health issues? Then a masters degree in counseling, social work,?? or counseling psychology might be the best choice. Are you interested in working in an academic setting? Then a Master of Education in counseling would probably be a good choice. Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Masters degrees in counseling are often offered through a universitys school of education. These programs focus on therapies and behavioral modification techniques. Individuals with an M.A. or M.S. in counseling often work as school counselors or career counselors, but they may also be employed in private practices, mental health clinics?? or hospitals. If you are interested in opening your own counseling practice, you may find that many states and insurance companies have limited reimbursement options. A masters in counseling typically requires around 50 to 60 credits of graduate coursework. Master of Education (MEd) in Counseling Like the M.A. or M.S. in Counseling, the Master of Education in Counseling is offered through an institutions school of education. These programs take two years of graduate study to complete. Individuals with an M.Ed. may go on to work in academic settings as counselors, or they may choose to gain licensure to work in mental health counseling. Master of Social Work (MSW) While not specifically a degree in counseling, the Master of Social Work allows graduates to provide counseling services.?? The MSW degree is perhaps the most popular option because it is recognized in all 50 states, and insurance companies are willing to reimburse MSWs for services. This makes it a popular choice for students who are interested in putting their degree to use immediately after graduation. Other good news is that MSW graduates are generally in high demand in many different locations, particularly as the need for mental health services continues to grow. Master in Counseling Psychology Another option is a masters degree in counseling psychology. In some states, this degree allows graduates to gain limited licensure to practice psychology. Like the masters in clinical psychology, ?? however, most states require those with a masters in counseling psychology to practice under the direct supervision of a licensed doctorate-level psychologist. Job Options With a Masters in Counseling Licensed professional counselors can work in a variety of jobs including: School counselorsAcademic counselorsMarriage and family counselors??Career counselorsSubstance abuse counselorsMental health counselors Licensing requirements can vary by state, so be sure to check with your states department of labor to learn more about the specific educational, licensing, and certification requirements to work in particular professions.