Can You Be a Counselor and a Teacher?
You can work as a school teacher and counselor, but typically not simultaneously. Transitioning from teaching to school counseling is simple with the right education.
School counseling and teaching are fantastic career options for individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of k-12 students. Both professionals prepare students to succeed in school and life. But there are differences in these careers.
A school teacher instructs classes in one or more subject areas and gets students ready for the next grade level. A school counselor guides students academically and socially outside the traditional classroom. Both careers are very rewarding, which is why some professionals want to take on both roles. But can you be a counselor and a teacher?
Yes, you can be a counselor and a teacher, though most don't do them at the same time. It's more common for school teachers to transition into counseling roles. Learning the steps needed to make the switch can result in having two great careers.
Can You Be a Counselor and a Teacher?
It's possible to be a teacher and a counselor. But before trying to take on these professions, you should know more about each career path.
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What Is a Teacher?
A teacher plays a major role in a student's academic journey. Teachers educate students in elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Here are some of their duties:
- create lesson plans
- grade assignments and exams
- provide classroom and small group instruction
- observe student progress and provide updates to parents
- offer individual guidance to students facing challenges
- prepare students for state-based standardized tests
- enforce classroom rules and manage student behavior
- supervise younger students outside the classroom
What Is a Counselor?
A school counselor or guidance counselor, helps students make social and academic progress throughout the school year. Some duties include the following:
- determine reasons for poor academic performance
- assist students with time management and other learning skills
- use aptitude tests and interviews to gauge students' abilities
- help young students develop academic and social skills
- provide middle school students with decision-making, social, and academic skills
- assist high school students with planning for life after graduating (internships, college applications, training programs, etc.)
Shared Skills Between Teachers and Counselors
While school teachers and counselors play different roles, they share some responsibilities. Teachers and counselors both:
- observe student progress
- guide learners through their k-12 academic journey
- manage behavioral issues and conflict resolution
- give students with learning disabilities individual attention
- help students build social skills and manage their mental health
- intervene when students struggle academically or behaviorally
- work with parents to help students achieve their goals
Educational Requirements for Teachers and Counselors
School teachers and counselors have different educational requirements. Learn which degrees to get and discover licensure requirements for each role.
Teacher Educational Requirements
Educational requirements for teachers include earning a bachelor's degree and securing licensure. You'll also take steps to maintain your teaching credential.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Teachers typically earn bachelor's degrees in teaching or education. Elementary school teachers often earn a degree in elementary education. Middle and high school teachers might opt for a degree in the subject they plan to teach (ex. English or math). Special education teachers typically earn degrees in special education.
Education programs prepare students to work with learners of different backgrounds and abilities. They also give students field experiences to observe and teach learners in the classroom. Special education programs prepare students to teach learners with disabilities.
Gain Professional Teaching Licensure
Public school teachers in each state must earn teaching certification or licensure for the grade level they will teach. Private school teachers don't need to be licensed. Common requirements for teaching licensure include the following:
- complete a student teaching program
- earn a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA
- pass a background check
- pass a teaching certification test
Maintain Your Teaching Credential
After getting your teaching credential, you must keep it current. States have varying requirements for maintaining teacher licensure. Some require students to take professional development classes. Others mandate earning a master's degree after becoming a teacher.
Consider an Advanced Degree
In some states, teachers must earn master's degrees to become licensed. Educators who don't need an advanced degree might consider doing so to make career advancements. Career options for teachers who earn a master's degree or beyond include:
- counselor
- instructional coordinator
- school principal
- school psychologist
- career counselor
Counselor Educational Requirements
The educational requirements for school counselors include earning more than one degree and completing an internship. You'll also need to become licensed.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's degree is your first step toward becoming a school counselor. You can earn your degree in a variety of fields; however, the most common are psychology, education, and social work. In your program, you should take courses in:
- counseling
- sociology
- research
- statistics
Acquire a Master's Degree in School Counseling
Next, earn a master's degree in school counseling. You could also consider a degree in counseling or psychology. In a master's program, you'll learn how to:
- conduct counseling for groups and individuals
- work within support systems of parents, teachers, and others
- create effective counseling programs
- encourage student development
Complete an Internship
Depending on your state, you'll likely need to complete an internship or clinical experience while enrolled in a counseling master's program. Requirements vary but could include hundreds of hours of practicum and/or internship experience where students learn in the field.
Obtain School Counseling Licensure
School counselors at public schools must earn state-issued licensure, certification, or an endorsement. This requires the following:
- earn a master's degree in school counseling
- complete an internship and/or practicum in a K-12 school
- pass a state or national counselor certification exam (ex. Praxis)
You'll need to participate in continuing education to maintain licensure. The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) details state-based licensure requirements.
How To Transition From Teacher to School Counselor
If you're a school teacher interested in making a career change, what better path to take than becoming a school counselor? Fortunately, making the switch is possible.
After earning a bachelor's degree, your next step is to enroll in a school counseling master's program. After completing the program, internship, and practicum, you'll have to take and pass the counselor certification exam. As a teacher, you will have years of experience working with students. This can help you stand out when searching for school counselor roles.
FAQs About Teachers and Counselors
Deciding whether to work as a teacher, counselor, or both can be challenging. Reviewing these frequently asked questions can help you understand more about these careers.
How Do Teachers and Counselors Work Together?
Teachers and counselors team up to discuss ways to help students make progress whether they're preparing for the next grade level or college and a career. They also work together to determine ways to meet students' emotional needs and address any behavioral issues.
Is It Worth It To Be a Teacher and a Counselor?
Both career paths are worth it. In addition to helping students grow in school and life, teachers and counselors benefit from abundant job options. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of school and career counselors is projected to grow 5% from 2022 to 2032. While teacher employment is not expected to grow as much, more than 200,000 job openings are projected annually due to teachers needing to be replaced.
Can You Work as a Counselor With a Teaching Degree?
Working as a school counselor typically requires earning a counseling or psychology degree. While you can have an undergraduate teaching degree, your master's degree should be aligned with the counseling field.
Can Someone With a Teaching Degree Become a Licensed Counselor Without Additional Schooling?
A person with a teaching degree needs more schooling to become a licensed counselor. In addition to earning a master's degree in a counseling-related field, you should complete counseling field experiences and pass a counseling certification exam.
