If you are interested in how to become a Counselor in Delaware, make sure that you meet all standards and requirements to work the job with success.
In the state of Delaware, licensed mental health counselors and school counselors usually must hold a Master’s degree.
Click here for more information on the difference between a Psychologist and a Counselor.
Future Counselor: For a High School Delaware Student or High School Graduate
Your First Step:
- Though there is no mandated specific major, gaining a degree in a subject such as Psychology or Social Work will obviously benefit you in terms of relevance for later pursuit of your Master’s degree.
- Individuals without a graduate degree are able to work in substance abuse counseling.
- For aspiring prospective school counselors, the experience requirements are not as stringent for those with substantial experience in teaching.
Your Second Step:
Seek out work or volunteer opportunities to provide you solid experience in the counseling field.
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:
Do your analysis of graduate programs in advance, and take your time with completing the process of the application.
Second:
One should usually enter a valid Master’s program that adheres to usual expected standards such as with
CACREP.
For pursuit of school counseling, it is wise to seek out programs that have NCATE-accreditation or state-approval.
Third:
While pursuing your Master’s degree in counseling, consider your career options such as going on for your doctoral degree.
Those who are interested in pursuing the credentialing needed for school counseling should consider that their Master’s program integrates a one year internship. For those with adequate teaching experience, this requirement may not be required.
Fourth:
Those enrolled in a program with CACREP-accreditation may apply for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) during their final semester. Once passing the exam, a candidate can be considered a counselor with national certification. Addiction specialists may additionally strive for the certifying exam via the NAADAC or the Delaware Certification Board.
Click here for more information on licensing requirements in Delaware.
Delaware Counseling Agencies
Licensed Professional Counselor Requirements in DE (Application Information and Links to Forms)
We wish you the best of success in your pursuit of becoming a counselor in Delaware.
