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This question is about mental health counselor education.
What degree do you need to be a mental health counselor?
You need a master's degree in mental health counseling or a related field to become a mental health counselor. To practice as a licensed mental health counselor, your master's degree is required regardless of what state you reside and practice in.
To enter a graduate program for counseling, most schools require an undergraduate in a field related to mental health, such as psychology or sociology. Before a candidate can attempt a licensure exam, they must successfully complete a master's program in mental health counseling or a related field.
Candidates must also have an ample amount of fieldwork. Most programs require 800+ hours of fieldwork, working directly with and under the supervision of a professional. It is important to be aware of the accreditation that is accepted by the state you plan to be employed in.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is widely accepted.
Not only is a degree required for mental health counseling, but there is so much importance behind the knowledge you gain. You gain a foundation in understanding anatomy, as well as the functions of the brain. The degree programs teach you to recognize symptoms of mental and emotional illness and give you the tools to address them.
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