If you are interested in how to become a Counselor in Connecticut, make sure that you adhere to the proper standards for education and training.
Counselors in Connecticut usually must have at least a Master’s degree. As an aspiring counselor, it’s good to start thinking about what kind of counselor you would like to be. Do your very best academically while in your undergraduate years, as getting into a strong graduate school can be quite competitive.
For more information on a Master’s degree in Counseling, please click here.
Future Counselor: For Connecticut High School Student or High School Graduate
Your First Step:
Though it is certainly not required to choose a specific undergraduate program, we encourage you to choose a major that is highly relevant, such as Psychology or Social Work. You should try your best to excel as an undergraduate in order to get the best grades possible.
Your Second Step:
Paid and volunteer experiences in the field can greatly bolster your application file, so consider taking an applicable position in counseling for an appropriate agency or clinic.
Bachelor’s Degree College Graduates
(
CACREP– The Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs). Rehabilitation counseling programs are usually accredited by
CORE (The Council on Rehabilitation Education).
First:
Analyze various school programs and make sure that you are as competitive as possible as a candidate.
Second:
Becoming a counselor in schools usually involves the need for a Master’s degree program of a minimum of thirty semester hours. One must accrue a minimum of 36 clock hours of training in special education, including information on gifted learners and those needing the services of special education.
To gain credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor, you will need a Master’s program in counseling or something else that is relevant. 60 minimum hours of graduate coursework are required from institutions that have regional accreditation.
Third:
3,000 hours of supervised practice is required for establishing credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor.
With regards to licensure as a substance abuse counselor, you must have a total of three years of proper employment and unpaid internship (with your Master’s degree counting for one year).
Click here for more information on licensing requirements in Connecticut.
Connecticut Counseling-related Agencies
Connecticut Department of Public Health Alcohol and Drug Counselor Requirements
Connecticut State Department of Education Special Services Endorsements
Connecticut Department of Public Health Counseling Requirements
We wish you the best of success in your pursuit of becoming a counselor in Connecticut.
