If you are interested in how to become an LPC in Georgia, we have compiled some helpful information for you.
A graduate degree is needed in order to work effectively as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. A Master’s degree is required to gain certification.
Though Georgia allows a candidate to work within substance abuse counseling without a Master’s degree, a Master’s degree will provide the candidate more opportunities for career advancement and higher potential for long-term credentialing.
For more information on Education Programs for Counseling, please click here.
Future LPC: For Georgia High School Student or High School Graduate
Your First Step:
Gain some solid experience in the counseling field. Whether it be paid work or volunteering, experience is crucial to making it as a counselor.
Your Second Step:
It is wise to major as an undergraduate in something very relevant such as sociology, social work, or psychology.
Make sure that your grades are strong. Gaining admission to reputable programs is going to be competitive.
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 some research and make an intelligent selection for your graduate program; choose the one that is right for you. Allow yourself the time and focus to complete the application materials fully. You are likely going to need to submit a well-written essay that details your goals and important experiences in life. Aspiring school counselors are often required to succeed at the
GACE Basic Skills Assessment prior to admission.
Second:
- When deciding what route to take, think carefully about whether you want to go for a Master’s program or a Doctoral program. A doctoral degree will require less supervised practice later to gain full professional licensure. Some students begin as Master’s students, then progress to the level of doctoral degree in counseling or counseling psychology.
- When pursuing school counseling, gain admission to a graduate program that adheres to appropriate CACREP standards. After success with all requirements, your school can safely recommend you for appropriate certification.
Third:
Consider developing future professional references while you are working on your degree. When you apply for licensing as an associate professional counselor, references usually must be submitted on your behalf from teachers/supervisors.
Get involved in relevant organizations/associations and work on establishing professional networking.
Fourth:
Those in professional counseling programs with CACREP-accreditation are able to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) prior to graduation. The NCE test is implemented through the NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors).
Aspiring school counselors should take the applicable GACE content exam.
Click here for more helpful information on licensing requirements in Georgia.
Georgia Counseling Agencies
Licensed Professional Counselor Requirements in GA (Application Information and Links to Forms)
Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists
We wish you the best of success in your pursuit of becoming a counselor in Georgia.
