People looking to become counselors in that state of Wyoming will need to be exceptional to meet the standards set by the state. Those who are looking to become a licensed mental health counselor in Wyoming will receive their credentialing through the Mental Health Professions Board, while people who are interested in becoming a school counselor will obtain licensing through the Professional Teaching board, or in some cases the same MHP Board that credentials other counselors.
Every counselor in the state of Wyoming will be required to achieve a graduate education to practice.
Future Counselor: For Students in a Wyoming High School or Wyoming High School Graduates
First:
When studying as an undergraduate you can study in a variety of subjects as long as you are taking the prerequisite courses for graduate school. Most students looking to become counselors will major in subjects like human services or psychology. While in your undergraduate you will want to maintain a GPA that is above a 3.0 average. Check with potential graduate programs about any courses you will have to take to be admitted.
The state of Wyoming will allow those who have achieved an undergraduate degree to become Mental Health Workers, but the work experience put in to this practice will no go towards you practice requirements for counseling, they will transform you into a better graduate school prospect though.
Second:
If you are unable to find paid experience, look into volunteer work. Organizations such as Serve Wyoming will help prospective counselors find a position for them regardless of skill or experience.
College Graduates: Bachelor’s
First:
For people interested in pursuing a career in school counseling. They can attend a school that is nationally or regionally accredited.
Those looking to become professional counselors will need to attend a program that is CACREP or CORE accredited. Other options may be found suitable by the Board, as well.
Based on availability, try to enroll in a program that has both mental health and school counseling certification.
Second:
For mental health counselors you will be able to have provisional licensing right after graduation. At this point, you will not be able to practice privately. Private practice will come with the highest licensure. In order to achieve that, you will need to complete 3,000 hours of direct client contact with a board approved supervisor.
Third:
During the time you are working under a counselor, you will need to complete an examination. In Wyoming, you can take the NCE, NCMHCE, or another exam administered by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification.
Wyoming Licensing Agencies
Professional Teaching Standards Board – School Counselor
