Fastest Way To Become a Counselor in Georgia 2025

Those interested in becoming a licensed counselor in Georgia must meet strict education requirements. These conditions usually necessitate at least six years of higher education in addition to practical experience.

To speed up the process toward licensure, many aspiring counselors enroll in accelerated education programs. Below, we explore the fastest way to become a licensed counselor, discussing options, such as accelerated master's programs and utilizing transfer credits. Keep reading to learn about the fastest way to become a counselor in Georgia.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Counselor in Georgia?

Becoming a licensed counselor typically takes about six years. This timeline accounts for a four-year bachelor's degree and a master's degree commonly spanning two to three years. Afterward, you must complete supervised clinical experience and pass state licensure exams.

The fastest way to become a therapist in Georgia typically involves accelerated education programs. Below, we dive deeper into all of the required steps you must go through to become a counselor in Georgia and how to speed up the process.

What Are the Steps To Becoming a Counselor in Georgia?

Counseling can be a rewarding career path; however, those pursuing this profession need the correct credentials. Aspiring licensed professional counselors (LPCs) must complete all education and licensure requirements before starting their careers. Learn about these steps below.

1. Earn a bachelor's degree: Begin by completing a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, which typically takes four years of study.

2. Earn a master's degree: Pursue a master's degree in counseling, which usually takes full-time students two to three years to complete. The program must be accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or a regionally accredited agency recognized by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

3. Complete supervised clinical experience: After earning your master's degree, complete three years of directed experience in professional counseling, with at least 600 practicum or internship hours, including two years of supervision by a licensed Professional Counselor.

4. Complete Georgia counselor licensure requirements: Submit required documentation to the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists, pass exams given by the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), and meet all state-specific licensing criteria, including a background check.

What Is the Fastest Way To Get a Counseling Degree in Georgia?

Students can earn a counseling degree quickly by pursuing accelerated degree options. There are several options available at the undergraduate and graduate level. Below, we'll explore the fastest way to become a therapist in Georgia in more detail.

Choose an Accelerated Online Master's in Counseling Program

Accelerated master's in counseling programs are one of the fastest ways to become a licensed counselor in Georgia. These programs often allow students to complete their coursework faster, often in two to three years depending on the program. Online options offer flexibility, enabling you to study from anywhere, and the curriculum is designed to cover all the necessary competencies for licensure.

Earn a Combined Bachelor's and Master's Degree

Some universities offer a combined bachelor's and master's degree program in counseling, allowing you to earn both degrees in less time. These programs typically shorten the overall timeline by integrating the undergraduate and graduate curriculum, allowing you to start graduate-level coursework near the end of your undergraduate degree. This route often reduces the time spent in school, enabling you to enter the counseling field more quickly.

Utilize Transfer Credits

If you've previously completed coursework in a related field, utilizing transfer credits can reduce the time required to earn your counseling degree. Many programs allow students to transfer credits from other accredited institutions, enabling them to avoid general courses.

Featured Online Counseling Programs in Georgia

Aspiring counselors can choose from several online programs in Georgia. Featuring varying tuition rates and specializations, these graduate programs may be the right fit for your academic and career goals.

Albany State University

Albany State University offers a 100% online Master of Education in counselor education. Students can pursue their degrees on a full-time or part-time basis and can study at their own pace. The program prepares students for counseling licensure and career success as mental health professionals.

• Time to completion: under three years
• Tuition cost: $308 per credit hour.
• Accreditation: CACREP
• Specializations: clinical mental health counseling, clinical rehabilitation counseling, and school counseling

LaGrange College

LaGrange College offers a clinical mental health counseling program that prepares students for licensure as Professional Counselors in Georgia. The program includes both in-person and virtual tracks, with classes held in the evening. Online students can take courses in a synchronous or asynchronous learning format to ensure flexibility with busy schedules.

• Time to completion: two years
• Tuition cost: $755 per credit hour
• Accreditation: CACREP
• Specializations: none

Piedmont University

At Piedmont University, students can pursue a Master of Science (MS) in clinical mental health counseling fully online. While classes are virtual, students still complete an in-person 700-hour practicum that fulfills licensure requirements. Students meet for online classes twice a week for real-time learning with faculty and peers. Faculty members also hold virtual office hours to ensure adequate student support.

• Time to completion: two years
• Tuition cost: $670 per credit
• Accreditation: CACREP
• Specializations: no information available

How Much Does It Cost To Become a Counselor?

The path to becoming a counselor can be costly; however, it varies depending on different factors. For a bachelor's degree, tuition typically ranges from $10,000 to $30,000 per year at public universities, with private universities often costing more.

A master's degree in counseling generally costs between $15,000 and $40,000 per year, depending on the institution. Online programs may offer lower tuition, averaging $10,000 to $25,000 annually. Additional costs include textbooks, LPC license exams ($300 to $500), and clinical supervision fees.

Are There Affordable Counseling Degree Programs?

Yes, affordable counseling degree programs are available. Many public universities offer low-cost tuition, especially for in-state students, with master's programs ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. One of the cheapest tuition rates comes from Albany State University, which is $308 per credit hour.

Additionally, online programs tend to be more affordable, with some schools offering flexible, lower-cost options. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities can further reduce costs. It's important to research different programs and consider factors like accreditation, faculty experience, and student support services to ensure quality education while managing costs.

How Much Can I Earn as a Counselor?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the annual mean wage for counselors in Georgia ranges from $47,980 and $50,880. Your earnings may vary depending on factors like specialization, experience, and location within the state. Counselors in large cities or those with more work experience may earn higher salaries.

Types of Counseling Career Paths With a Master's Degree

With a graduate degree in counseling, you can pursue several career paths. Here are some of the most common:

• Mental health counselors: These professionals focus on treating individuals with emotional and psychological issues, often in private practice or mental health clinics.
• School counselors: They work in educational settings to support students' academic, social, and emotional well-being.
• Marriage and family therapists: These family therapy counselors specialize in helping couples and families address relational and communication challenges.
• Substance abuse counselors: They work with individuals struggling with addiction and substance use disorders.
• Career counselors: These professionals assist individuals with job search strategies and career development.
• Rehabilitation counselors: They help individuals with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities adjust to life challenges, offering support in areas like employment, daily living, and independence.

Explore Master's Programs in Counseling

If you're considering a career in mental health, accelerated master's programs are the fastest way to become a counselor in Georgia. Explore the programs on Learn.org and find the right fit for your academic interests and career aspirations.