How do I Become a Career Counselor in NYC?

Counselors are available to help individuals find or switch careers.

Career counselors assist clients with career decisions. Whether the clients are interested in obtaining advancement opportunities, finding a job or switching careers, career counselors provide them the knowledge and skills to achieve their goals. In addition to providing counseling, career counselors evaluate a client's education and work history, conduct aptitude tests and prepare them for job interviews. According to Indeed, as of 2010, the average salary for a career counselor in New York City is $68,000 per year.

Instructions

1. Complete a bachelor's degree program in psychology. This program provides foundational knowledge in psychology and counseling. While graduates are qualified for entry-level careers in social work, people who want to become career counselors must enroll in a master's degree program. Schools in New York City offering this degree include CUNY City College, The New School and Barnard College.

2. Graduate with a master's degree in counseling or psychology. These programs provide you the advanced knowledge and skills to work in counseling. Courses include communication sciences, analysis of change, cognitive processes, learning the brain and personality psychology. Columbia University and New York University offer these master's degree programs.

3. Develop the skills to work as a career counselor. This often comes through an internship or clinical experience. Under the supervision of a career counselor, you begin counseling patients and offering direction on where to take their careers.

4. Become certified as a career counselor. Organizations that offer certification include the International Coach Federation and the National Board of Certified Counselors. Benefits of certification include being part of a coaching community, gaining support in the industry, access to new coaching methods and having employment opportunities.

5. Look for employment opportunities as a career counselor in New York City. Career counselors are often self-employed and work in private practice. To obtain clients, market and advertise your services on the Internet. This may require you to create a website and post ads online. Purchase business cards to hand out to prospective clients. New York City offers many opportunities to residents who are looking to change careers and take their lives in a different direction.

References

• Indeed.com: Salary
• Columbia: Master's program
• ICF: Certification