Similar to most states, Vermont requires all LPC’s to have a graduate education and complete work experience in order to become a counselor. When it comes to thinking about your education and developing your resume, it is never too early to start. Some counselors in Vermont go on do be dual-licensed in subjects like school and mental health counseling.
Future LPC: For Students in a Virginia High School or Virginia High School Graduates
First:
All students looking to become counselors should maintain a 3.0 in their undergraduate majors. Those looking to become school counselors can major in arts and sciences, while those looking to become mental health and other professional counselors should look to major in areas like psychology or social work.
Second:
Schools love to see work experience as early as possible. For this reason, you should look to start working or volunteering in your field as quickly as possible. Organizations like the United Way, Vermont Reading Partners, and Central Vermont Adult Basic Education will help get you the experience you need to succeed on your path to becoming a counselor.
College Graduates: Bachelor’s
First:
Start your preparation for anything you might be required to do for graduate school. In some cases you may have to complete the GRE or for school counselors, a pre-professional examination.
You will also need to have school and professional references, as well.
Second:
It is important that you find a graduate program that includes 60 hours of coursework and include classes in diagnosis, assessment, and treatment, although a list of the full requirements will be listed at the Vermont Board of Allied Mental Health’s website.
Third:
Like always, experience is important and required. School counselors will need to complete 600 hours of course work with experience from early childhood education through high school.
Those looking to become mental health counselors should expect to complete 1,000 hours of overseen practice during their degree that is required by the Board. In some cases, 600 hours can be used towards your post graduation requirement if you attended a CACREP accredited school.
Fourth:
Post-graduation those looking to be mental health counselors will need to complete 3,000 hours of work experience. Your counselor must be board approved as they are going to be filling out your documents and communicating with the Board regarding your experience.
Fifth:
Professional counselors in the state will need to complete the NCE or NCMHCE in order to receive full licensing.
Vermont Counseling Organizations
Board of Allied Mental Health
Vermont Department of Education
