Last Updated on December 15, 2022
Counseling psychology focuses on teaching patients of all ages how to cope with emotional, physical, and mental health issues. some people find that helping others is what they need to do in their careers. This determination for altruism can be expressed through many different domains, some of which require higher education.
The program is designed to prepare psychologists to function effectively as researchers, college and university instructors, and professional research psychologists. Read more about masters in counseling psychology salary, Masters In Counseling Psychology online, ucla clinical psychology admission requirements, ucla psychology department counseling, and ucla psychology graduate program acceptance rate.
masters in counseling psychology salary
| Career and School Counselors | $57,865.49 |
|---|---|
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $52,926.60 |
| All | $52,305.78 |
| Child and Family Social Workers | $49,448.04 |
| Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counselors | $49,022.94 |
If you are passionate about helping people and have an interest in mental health, a career in counseling might be a good fit for you. The American Counseling Association defines counselors External link as mental health professionals who are trained to work with individuals, groups and families to treat emotional, behavioral and mental health problems and disorders.
Is Online masters in counseling psychology worth it?
Yes, a masters in mental health counseling is worth it for many students. … In most cases, a master’s degree is required for jobs in mental health counseling. Helping others through a career in counseling can give you the satisfaction of knowing that you’re making a positive difference in the world.
Psychology fosters the understanding and treatment of various mental, emotional, and behavioral issues affecting individuals and relationships. Earning a master’s degree in this versatile discipline can support various career paths in public and private sectors. Graduates with a master’s degree in psychology apply psychological principles effectively in healthcare, criminal justice, human services, and education.
Is an online Phd in psychology worth it?
For many people, earning an online master’s degree in psychology might be a means to qualify for a better job, earn more money, or prepare for further graduate study. … Graduates from online psychology master’s programs often find work in fields such as government, mental health services, and business.
Can you do a Phd in psychology online?
An online master’s in psychology degree offers a great path for individuals who want to use their skills and interests to help others. … Concentrations vary by program, but common options include counseling psychology, clinical psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, and sports psychology.
Phd In Psychology Online
Some psychology master’s graduates choose to pursue doctoral degrees and careers as licensed psychologists. Psychologists earn a median annual salary of $80,370, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs for psychologists are projected to grow as fast as average for all occupations between 2019 and 2029, based on BLS projections. However, the BLS projects jobs in high-demand fields such as school psychology to grow faster than average.
Master’s programs usually require two years to complete. However, students can finish sooner by enrolling in accelerated programs or transferring credits. Most programs only consider applicants with 2.5-3.0 minimum GPAs and bachelor’s degrees from accredited schools. Read further for more information on online psychology master’s programs, requirements, careers, and resources.
Is a Phd in psychology worth it?
There are multiple reasons why getting a master’s degree in psychology is worth it. Not only can you grow your knowledge on the subject matter and hone your skills in your practice area, there is also the opportunity for personal growth and learning more about yourself.
Top 10 Online Master’s in Psychology Programs
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona State University Online | Scottsdale, AZ |
| 2 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo, FL |
| 3 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA |
| 4 | Lynn University | Boca Raton, FL |
| 5 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
| 6 | Indiana Institute of Technology | Fort Wayne, IN |
| 7 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH |
| 8 | Fort Hays State University | Hays, KS |
| 9 | Pepperdine University | Malibu, CA |
| 10 | Nova Southeastern University | Fort Lauderdale, FL |
What Can I Do With a Psychology Degree?
Earning a master’s degree in psychology online can help professionals qualify for higher salaries, promotions, career transitions, or doctoral programs. To obtain counseling or psychologist licensure, candidates typically need a master’s or doctoral degree that includes clinical hours. However, nonclinical online master’s in psychology programs often serve as precursors to clinical psychology or counseling master’s or doctoral programs.
Psychology programs cultivate strong skills in communication, research, analysis, and interpersonal dynamics. These core skills prove useful in various career paths, including teacher, consultant, marketing professional, and manager. Psychology graduates work in diverse contexts such as nonprofit organizations, mental health facilities, schools, and corporations.
Some master’s degree in psychology programs offer corresponding curriculum specializations in areas such as school psychology or industrial-organizational psychology. These specializations can make candidates more competitive for related doctoral programs or jobs.
What Are the Requirements for a Psychology Program?
To enter psychology master’s programs at regionally accredited institutions, applicants need a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 minimum GPA from an accredited school, and psychology-related prerequisite courses. Required application materials usually include official transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and sometimes curriculum vitae and GRE/GMAT scores.
Master’s degree in psychology online programs typically entail 30-36 credits. The curriculum usually includes several core courses in general psychology plus electives or concentration-related courses. Most programs include a capstone thesis or project that requires 3-6 credits.
Ucla Masters In Counseling Psychology
Rigorous scientific training is the foundation of the UCLA Psychology Ph.D. program. As part of this training, the Department encourages student participation in the activities of a number of related departments, schools, or organized research units of the University. For instance, the Brain Research Institute, the interdisciplinary Neuroscience and Cognitive programs, the Institute for Social Science Research, and the Neuropsychiatric Institute provide extensive research facilities for interested students. The Fernald Child Study Center, moreover, bolsters the department’s long-standing commitment to training in childhood learning and behavioral disorders. Other departmental resources include the Psychology Clinic. Our close working relations with local hospitals (the Veterans Administration), clinics, and institutes provide a unique opportunity for year-round training and research. UCLA’s exceptionally strong library system (the University Research, Biomedical and Research libraries, among others) perfectly complements the Department’s scholarly activities.
Graduates are prepared for careers in both academic and applied settings including positions at universities and colleges, research and governmental organizations and business and industry.
The Psychology Ph.D. program is one of 18 Ph.D. programs in the biosciences.
UCLA
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the nine campuses of the University of California. Located in west Los Angeles, five miles from the Pacific Ocean, UCLA lies in one of the most attractive areas of Southern California. The campus is bordered on the north by the Santa Monica mountains and the new Getty Museum, and at its southern gate by Westwood Village, an entertainment magnet with theaters, restaurants, and the Armand Hammer Museum. The treasures of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art are a few miles to the east, as are the communities of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the downtown business and entertainment districts.
- Provides psychotherapy and active problem-solving assistance to individuals, families, and children in community mental health agencies, social service agencies, college counseling centers, private practice, hospitals, schools, etc.
- Counseling individuals, couples, and families to improve the clients’ quality of life
- Lead therapy groups for individuals with specific problems (e.g., substance abuse, eating disorders, depression)
- Administering a prevention program for at-risk populations (e.g. teens, children, the aging, the disabled)
- Providing crisis and emergency intervention and counseling Education and Licensing
- Minimum degree, Master’s of Social Work (MSW)
- Coursework and practicum in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological problems
- Does not provide training in psychological testing
- Training is generalist and focuses on at-risk populations like, the aging, children, youth and families, physically and mentally disabled, child welfare and schools
- To become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), must first apply to be an associate clinical social worker, must complete 3200 supervised hours, must pass written and oral exam
National Association of Social Workers – Information on social workers across the country
Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT, LMFT)
Typical Job Duties
- Help people with personal, family, social, and developmental problems
- Work with individuals, couples, and families to resolve emotional conflicts and improve interpersonal functions
- Practice psychotherapy and help clients with less severe psychological problems in mental health centers, social service agencies, counseling centers, private practices, etc.
Education and Licensing
- Master’s degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
- To become a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), must complete 3,000 supervised hours in no less than 2 years, must pass written and oral exam
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists – National Organization for Marriage and Family Therapists
School Psychologist
Typical Job Duties
- Primarily work in K-12 school systems with students, their families, and teachers
- Major portion of work involves diagnostic assessment of students’ learning aptitudes, special needs, and personality, emotional, social development
- Evaluating effectiveness of programs, conducting individual or group counseling with students, making referrals to appropriate services Education and Credentialing
- Minimum of a Master’s degree, consisting of 60 semester units with one year fieldwork, Specialist degree is recommended (between MA and PhD)
- Requires Pupil Personnel Services credential
- School psychologists with PhD can become licensed psychologist
National Association of School Psychologists – National Organization for School Psychologists
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing – Learn how to obtain a PPS credential
Guidance/Educational Counselor
Typical Job Duties
- Individual and group counseling with students
- Administering achievement, aptitude and vocational testing
- Crisis intervention, prevention programs
- Consulting with parents, faculty, and administrators
- Elementary school counselors focus on behavioral problems
- Secondary school counselors focus on academic, college, and career advising
- Guidance counselors typically work in K-12 grades
- Educational and Vocational counselors work in post-secondary institutions (community colleges, private and public universities) Education and Credentials
- K-12 – Requires Master’s degree as well as Pupil Personnel Services credential, many programs combine M.Ed. with credential
- Community College – Requires Master’s degree in Counseling (e.g., MFT, career, guidance, rehabilitation, student affairs/higher ed.)
- 4 year colleges and universities – At least Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, education preferred
Accredited Counseling and Education Programs CACREP – Find accredited graduate programs in counseling
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing – Find out how to obtain a PPS credential
Rehabilitation Counselor
Typical Job Duties
- Providing individual and group counseling for the disabled and aging in hospitals, community health agencies, schools, college disabled services, government agencies
- Assessment and Evaluation of disabled individual’s strengths and limitations
- Providing educational and vocational counseling
- Planning a client’s rehabilitation program
- Outreach programs to educate public regarding disabilities
Education and Training
- Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or psychology
Accredited Counseling and Education Programs CACREP – Find accredited graduate programs in rehabilitation counseling
Counselors work in a variety of settings with diverse populations. Counselors may work in fields including:
- School counseling
- Mental health counseling
- Addiction counseling
- Career counseling
- Family, couples and marriage counseling
- Student affairs and college counseling
- Gerontological counseling
All states and the District of Columbia typically require that counselors have a master of counseling degree. With master of counseling online programs, aspiring counselors have more options than ever to pursue their dream to become a counselor.
Of course, going to school for a counseling master’s requires time, energy and a financial commitment. You may be wondering, is a master of counseling worth it? Learn about the career opportunities you have as a counselor and counseling degree alternatives if you’re unsure a counseling master’s degree is right for you.
How to Decide Whether a Master’s in Counseling is Right for You
Maybe you feel stuck in your career and want to find more meaningful work. Or, you want to grow your career by getting your master’s degree, and counseling interests you. You may have always been interested in a career as a counselor, but you don’t want to attend school on campus full-time. Read ahead to discover if there are counseling programs that fit your particular needs.
Here are three reasons why you might want to pursue a master’s in counseling.
1. You want to be a counselor.
Most types of counselors must have a master’s degree in order to work professionally. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these counselor positions require a master’s degree External link :
The BLS reports External link a master’s degree is also typically required to become a mental health counselor, substance abuse counselor or behavioral disorder counselor. A master’s degree is the first step toward beginning a counseling career in most environments.
2. You have an interest in psychology.
Counselors learn how the human brain works, what motivates people and how to shape behavior. They learn research-backed techniques to help individuals reach their goals and change their habits and actions to do so. Counselors learn a variety of talk therapy methods to help their clients, as well as practical suggestions to put into practice to move toward change.
Counseling is tied closely to psychology. If you’re fascinated by what makes humans tick, you’ll likely enjoy work as a counselor.
3. You’re caring and have a passion for helping people.
Counselors make a meaningful impact on those they work with. They must be empathetic, have strong interpersonal and communication skills, be excellent listeners and be able to show compassion in all types of situations. Counselors work with the best interest of their clients in mind.
Every day in your work as a counselor, you have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of other people. If you thrive on working with people and enjoy relationship building, you might enjoy work as a counselor.
Financial Return on Investment for a Counseling Master’s
The financial return on investment you’ll make with a counseling master’s will depend on a variety of factors. These include how much more you may make in a counseling job and how many years you plan to work. Because counselor work can be intrinsically rewarding, some professionals leave higher-paying jobs to take a pay cut and work as a counselor.
The environment you work in will also influence your salary as a counselor. For example, the BLS indicates that 2018 median pay for school and career counselors External link was $56,310 per year, while, counselors in elementary and secondary schools (state, local and private) earned a median salary of $63,280 per year. The 2018 median pay for marriage and family therapists External link working for state government, excluding education and hospitals, was $69,900, according to the BLS.
Some master of counseling students are able to get part or all of their school paid for through financial aid and counseling scholarships. If you go this route, you may be able to increase your salary while needing to pay less for school.
Likewise, if you choose a part-time or online master of counseling program, you may be able to work while earning your graduate degree, and this in turn can help fund your tuition.
How much could a master of counseling increase your salary on average?
Again, that will depend on a variety of factors, including where you work geographically, what industry you work in and how many years of experience you have. If you don’t yet have a master’s degree, your earning potential can increase compared to if you continued to work with just a bachelor’s degree.
According to a BLS report on unemployment rates and earnings by educational attainment External link , the median usual weekly earnings for those with a master’s degree were $1,434 in 2018, while they were $1,198 for those with a bachelor’s degree. Over 20 years, that’s a difference of $245,440.
Find more information related to salary and career outlook for school counselors and mental health counselors.
Which Counseling Specialties Are in Demand?
A benefit of working as a counselor is that the number of counseling jobs is increasing across all industries. The BLS indicates the following on job outlook growth between 2018 and 2028 for various counseling industries:
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health External link :
- 22% employment change
- 68,500 new jobs
- much faster growth than average
- Marriage and family therapists External link :
- 22% employment change
- 12,300 new jobs
- much faster growth than average
- School and Career Counselor External link :
- 8% employment change
- 27,200 new jobs
- faster growth than average
- Rehabilitation counselors External link :
- 10% employment change
- 11,800 new jobs
- faster growth than average
There are currently more than 804,000 people working in these counseling fields in the United States, according to the BLS. Counselors work in every state across the country and are in demand at schools, at rehab facilities, in private practice and in other environments.
How Does Life Change After a Counseling Master’s?
After you get your counseling master’s, you can work toward getting licensed for your field of choice. Then, you can apply for counseling jobs and move into a new industry or new role in counseling. As a counselor, you’ll help your clients create plans to achieve their goals, discuss their progress and obstacles, and motivate them to make positive changes in their lives.
Most counselors work full-time, sometimes on nights and weekends External link depending on their work environment, according to the BLS and other sources. Make sure you choose a setting that best fits your lifestyle. For example, a school counselor will likely not work as many nights and weekends.
Several counseling jobs rank among U.S. News & World Report 100 best jobs rankings in 2020 External link . Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor ranked #35, marriage and family therapist ranked #51, mental health counselor ranked #71 and school counselor ranked #81.
Counseling Degree Alternatives
If counseling sounds interesting but you’re not sure a master of counseling is the right degree for you, then consider these counseling degree alternatives:
Master’s in Psychology
If you’re interested in human behavior but don’t want to counsel people, a master’s in psychology teaches you more about psychology, which you can apply to other diverse roles. With this degree, you might pursue a career in research, health care, human resources or education.
Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy
If you know marriage and family therapy is your desired field of choice, a master’s in marriage and family therapy (MFT) program may fast-track your career growth. This program focuses on family and couple dynamics and how to counsel these specific populations.
Master’s in Social Work
If you love helping people, you might be interested in a career in social work. A master’s in social work teaches students how to work with at-risk individuals and be welfare advocates.
Learn More About Online Counseling Master’s Programs
Whatever type of population you want to help, there are online master’s programs designed to enable you to pursue your career goals. With online master’s in counseling programs, you can learn the skills you need to become a counselor, all from a location and online device that’s convenient for you.
Why Consider Counseling Psychology?
Counseling is a great way for professionals to reach out to others in their time of need. Some students find that a degree in counseling can set them on the path to a satisfying career that can last a lifetime.
Master’s In Counseling Psychology Online
Starting at the beginning, the acquisition of a Masters in Counseling Psychology begins with getting into the right undergraduate program. During this 3-4 year increment, you will pick a major that is related to your desired field, such as Psychology, Counseling, or Sociology. Throughout this level you can learn the history and implications of psychology, which can contribute to how well you absorb the information in later studies.
Consider A Featured Online Counseling Program
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Path to a Masters in Counseling Psychology Program
In order to be accepted into a masters level program in counseling psychology, you may need to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above during your bachelors program. You can choose a masters program through many different sources. These programs are found in traditional in-person environments as well as in online format. The entirety of most masters level programs can be completed in about 2 years and require anywhere from 45-80 credit hours for completion.
Consider the GRE Entrance Exam
Online programs are available in great numbers in recent years, making the decision process much more fluid for upcoming students. Some of these online programs may require that you complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), but there are many different counseling programs that overlook this requirement and waive the GRE, or require no GRE for entry.
Coursework and Experience of the Program
Once you have been accepted into the masters program, you may be expected to take part in coursework that includes classroom discussions, interactive class meetings, individual quizzes and homework, and online exams. Online degree programs typically allow students to engage in self-learning and self-driven assignments to encourage individuality.
Gaining Experience After Your Degree
In the field of counseling psychology, it is important that students gain the skills necessary to form their own conclusions about diagnosis, treatment, and follow-ups. At the end of your masters program, you may be expected to take part in a cumulative project or research proposal that exhibits your skills within the field.
Some colleges have different projects and evaluations to determine whether or not you have the necessary knowledge for future licensure. After you have completed all of these steps, you may be on track for a 1-2 year work experience requirement as well as sitting for the board exam for counselors.
Online Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology Admission Requirements
Depending on the university, the admissions requirements for the Masters in Counseling Psychology program can be different from others offering the same degree. Through your research, it can become overwhelming to decipher what you need to achieve prior to admissions, without leaving out any important steps.
Our team has recognized the need for more generalized data on these requirements. In response, our educational experts researched some of the admissions requirements for online programs offering this degree, in an effort to give you a better idea of what to expect when applying to programs in the future. Take a look at what they found below.
Undergraduate Requirements
Some Masters in Counseling Psychology programs require that students hold an accredited undergraduate degree in psychology, counseling, or related discipline. Accreditation is required at every point of the educational process for those than plan to pursue licensure. This process includes the validation of coursework, experience, and relevance to the field of counseling psychology. Not only does the title of your degree count during this requirement, but your performance may also be weighed. Some schools require that students achieve a 3.0 or higher GPA in order to be accepted within their programs.
GRE Requirements
While not required by every school, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) could be a requirement for the university that you choose for you graduate degree. The exam was designed to test the skills of undergraduate earners prior to entering into graduate level programs. Scores are provided after students have completed the test, which can then be forwarded to schools during the application process. Schools that require the GRE will have the requirement listed on their website and may have acceptable score listed as well. If you must take this exam for the program you choose, you can take it after completing your undergraduate degree program.
Transcripts, Letters of Recommendations, and Resume
Any time you enroll in a graduate program, you are likely going to need to submit copies of official transcripts from any college that you have attended. This is part of the initial degree verification process and it is required for all degree programs. Letters of recommendation are required for some programs, which can be drafted by previous professors or even employers, if the field you work in is relevant to the degree program. Some colleges even require that students submit an official resume, but this is usually only requested if students are required to have some work experience as part of the college admissions process.
Essay Questions & Person Statements
Another variable requirement includes the completion of essay questions and personal statements. Essay questions are usually formatted to include your reasoning for choosing the field in which you are in, what you can contribute to the field, and experiences that have helped you grow into a more knowledgeable professional. In lieu of essay questions, some schools may require that you submit a personal statement, which can include more about your own personal experiences and how they are related to your interest and investment in counseling psychology.
Counseling Psychology Program and Coursework Overview
Once you have been admitted into the Masters in Counseling Psychology program, you may find that you are entering into a new experience than what you remember from undergraduate education. At the masters level, students may be given the opportunity to take a more self-directed approach to learning through the use of convenient online formats.
During the course of your degree program, you may be expected to take part in interactive class lectures on a weekly basis, complete assignments and submit them via the online upload feature, and post discussions and respond to classmates on a regular basis. Some of the other feature of this degree program, including length and courses will be noted below this section.
Program Length
The length of a masters program can be different depending on what you prefer as a learner. Many online degree programs provide students with the option of pursuing a degree at an expedited rate – between 1-2 years, while others can be expanded depending on the needs of the student. Since this degree program can require anywhere from 45-80 credit hours for completion, the standard completion time is between 2-3 years for students at full-time enrollment.
In addition to the time spent in the classroom, most programs require that students take part in 1 or 2 practicum experiences, most of which are conducted in designated locations during the program. The practicum requirement may include the need for students to be present on-campus, or may be set through local organizations. The requirements for each university’s practicum should be listed clear on the university’s website.
Sample Courses
As you move forward into your degree program, you can take courses that are both specific to counseling and relevant to the field of psychology. The theories and principles associated with the diagnostic assessment and treatment of patients should be taught in detail throughout your experience. If you plan on choosing a separate specialization to go alongside you degree in counseling psychology, you may see a slight change in the consistency of your curriculum. Some of the more common generalized courses for counseling psychology are below.
- Research Methods in Counseling:
Students may take part in learning the steps of a proper research project, including the formation of a research question, choosing participants, ethical and sound research practices, and results reporting.
- Psychopathology in Counseling:
In this course, students can learn to implement diagnostic skills from the user of the DSM-5. Students may also take part in course work and projects that involve practice of diagnostics through case studies and research.
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy:
Students in this course can take a look at the theories of counseling from a psychoanalytic perspective. This course investigates the theoretical frameworks that surround counseling and the implementation of psychotherapy.
- Cultural Diversity in Counseling:
This course can provide students with a better understanding of the diverse society from a service provider’s standpoint. This course seeks to help students set aside bias and opinion to be more efficient professionals regardless of their workplace.
Potential Emphasis Selection of Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychology is a broad field that includes the treatment of all people. If you have an interest in working with a particular group within society or want to work in a specific field, you may find that choosing an emphasis for your degree program can be beneficial. One major benefit to choosing an emphasis to your degree program is the expertise that the extra education can provide. Having that extra notation on a degree can set you apart from others when applying for careers within your specialized area of practice.
The implementation of specializations with a degree program allows for students to become more accustomed to their area of interest, without sacrificing time and effort while learning a more generalized practice. If you are undecided about a particular emphasis, our experts have provided a few specializations for you to read about. These areas are some of the most commonly chosen for counseling psychology students.
Marriage and Family Therapy
Counseling professionals that specialize in marriage and family therapy play a large role in managing attachments and connections within the family unit. If you have an interest in providing hands on counseling to families in need, this is a great place to specialize.
Behavior Therapy
The field of behavior therapy is likely to become more prominent in the coming years. Specializing in behavior studies and therapy can help to provide you with helpful methods for observing, assessing, and changing unwanted behaviors.
Women’s Counseling
Providing a heavy focus in issues that are typically experienced by women, women’s counseling is a great option if you want to counsel women through difficult periods in life. Support through marriage, childbirth, menopause, and even hormonal change is a large portion of what is addressed in this line of work.
Child and Adolescent Counseling
If you have the desire to work with children and adolescents throughout your career, you may find this emphasis to be of interest to you. Counselors within this domain focus on the emotional and developmental needs of children and adolescents, in school and at home.
Who Should Consider an Online Masters in Counseling Psychology?
If you have the desire to move forward into a degree program that can assist people with getting through difficult times, counseling psychology is a great option for you. This field is a primary choice for those with a profound interest in the practice of counseling and the theoretical components of psychology.
Observing people wholly without focusing on specific aspects of their personality is what makes counseling psychology different from other aspects of counseling.
Online counseling degree programs that focus on counseling psychology are available for you to enroll. It can be hard to sift through all of the available programs and find the one that fits your needs.
Our team provided this guide to help you with sorting through the requirements, expectations, and time-frames that lie ahead of you on your journey. As you take the next step towards obtaining your Masters in Counseling Psychology, take the time to research each school thoroughly and choose a program that you are truly passionate about.
Counseling psychologists often focus on patients’ daily life stressors, helping them find a balanced approach to overcoming stress. Some counseling psychologists intervene and assist people in times of crisis or extreme stress, providing assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of more severe psychological symptoms.
Continue reading to explore the counseling psychology field, including possible career paths.
Featured Online Programs
Figuring out where to apply? These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online degrees. Consider one of these accredited programs, and discover their value today.
What Does a Counseling Psychologist Do?
Counseling psychologists facilitate healthy personal and interpersonal relationships in their patients’ lives. Professionals work with individuals, organizations, groups, and families to reach the root of mental distress and help them find ways to live with or conquer these issues.
Depending on their specialization and licensure, counseling psychologists can work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, businesses, and schools. Some open their own private practices. Counselors tailor their approach to psychotherapy based on their settings and patients. While some psychologists focus on cognitive therapy, others take a more active approach and work to alter their patients’ behavior.
Many psychologists collaborate with nurses, social workers, and other mental health professionals to find the best treatment plans for patients, at times combining aspects of multiple therapies.
Skills and Competencies
Clear Communication
Listening Skills
Complex Problem-Solving
Analysis
Trustworthiness
Patience
Empathy
Establishment of Boundaries
The work of counseling psychologists varies, but the goal is always to improve the quality of patients’ lives and mental well-being. See below for some common specializations within counseling psychology.
Areas of Expertise in the Counseling Psychology Field
- 1. Substance Abuse/AddictionPsychologists treat patients of all ages for substance abuse, alcohol abuse or addictive behavior disorders.Typical Patient Issues
- Drugs
- Alcohol
- Eating disorders
- Gambling
- Compulsive/addictive behavior
- Drug Counselor
- Counseling Psychologist – Abuse and Addiction
- Addiction Counselor
- Addiction Specialist
- Addiction Therapist
- 2. EducationPsychologists specializing in education counsel elementary, high school or college students. Most of the work involves helping students navigate changes within themselves and their surroundings, as well as providing academic and career advice to those who are struggling.Common Education-related Issues
- Academic potential
- Learning disabilities
- Motor skills
- Cognitive function
- Social skills
- Identity formation
- Aptitude testing
- Education Therapist
- School Psychologist
- School Psychology Specialist
- Student Psychology Specialist
- 3. RehabilitationCounseling rehabilitation psychologists treat patients struggling with congenital, hereditary or acquired disabilities or special needs. Generally, patients who seek out a rehabilitation specialist need help reaching personal goals and achieving independence.Common Issues
- Disease
- Chronic illness
- Accidents
- Birth defects
- Depression
- Social anxiety
- Counseling Psychologist – Rehabilitation
- Rehabilitation Counselor
- Rehabilitation Psychology Therapist
- 4. Mental HealthMental health counselors treat individuals, families and couples for a variety of psychological issues.Examples of Reasons for Seeking Counseling
- Anxiety
- Grief
- Depression
- Self-esteem issues
- Stress
- Mental Health Counselor
- Mental Health Specialist
- Mental Health Therapist
- Mental Health Professional
Counseling Psychology By the Numbers
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects psychology jobs to grow 14% between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average rate for other professions. Counseling psychologists often work in schools, private offices of health practitioners, family services centers, and outpatient care centers. Of the many industries that employ counseling and clinical psychologists, home healthcare services, colleges, and outpatient care centers serve as some of the top-paying workplaces.
Counseling psychologists earn a mean annual wage of $87,450. However, several factors influence earnings, including geographic location, employer, experience, and education. The top-paying states for counseling psychologists include Oregon ($112,010), California ($111,750), Washington, D.C. ($106,900), and New York ($96,170). California, New York, and Texas hold the highest employment level for this profession.
How Do I Become a Counseling Psychologist?
Though students can earn a bachelor’s in counseling psychology, they need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor. Requirements for licensure vary by state, but they generally include holding a graduate degree, continued education, and proof of several thousand hours working under a licensed counselor.
Some careers, such as those in academic or research settings in higher education or private practices, require counseling psychologists to hold a doctorate.
