Master's-Level Training Standard for the Counseling Profession

Master's-level counselors undergo extensive educational and ethical training.

Counselors are mental health professionals working in community-based or clinical settings who provide a wide range of therapeutic services. Types of master's-level counselors include school counselors, agency counselors, private practitioners, rehabilitation counselors, and counselors in business and industry. Master's-level counselors must adhere to strict ethical and professional training standards.

Educational Training

Although education standards may vary with areas of specialty, a master's degree is generally required to be a certified or licensed counselor. Courses are grouped into core areas such as human growth and development, counseling techniques, assessment, cultural diversity, group work, etc. Educational standards also include the completion of a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship.

Accreditation

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is the accrediting body that sets the educational requirements and standards for master's-level counselors, according to author and professor Ed Nuekrug in "The World of the Counselor." Accreditation often becomes the standard that credentialing bodies use to determine who is eligible to become certified or licensed.

Credentialing

Credentialing is a method of ensuring that professionals in the counseling field are competent. Credentialing also increases professionalism and helps the public identify individuals who have the appropriate training and skills to so counseling. The three levels of credentialing include registration, certification and licensure.

Ethical Training

According to Neukrug, master's-level counselors must undergo extensive training on the ethical codes and standards of practice that govern the counseling profession. These standards act as a guide for counselors' behavior on topics such as confidentiality, professional responsibility, research and publication, and relationships with other professionals.

Lifelong Learning

Master's-level counselors may receive additional training and education throughout the course of their careers. This is usually accomplished when counselors become members of local and national professional organizations and associations. Such groups often conduct annual or quarterly conferences that provide up-to-date information on new developments within the counseling profession.

References

• "The World of the Counselor"; Ed Nuekrug, Ph.D.; 2003