We are in a time when the mental, emotional, and behavioral health of our entire population, especially our children, is at an all-time low. School Counselors are defined by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) as “certified/licensed educators who improve student success for all students by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program” (2023).
School Counselors play an integral role in our schools by “leading, advocating, and collaborating to promote equity and access for all students by connecting their school counseling program to the school’s academic mission and school improvement plan” (ASCA, 2023). With the growing need for mental health support, it can also be highly beneficial for a school counselor to earn their credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Adds value
Having a dual licensure adds value to your school counselor role. Dr. Jill Hubble, an adjunct instructor for the Graduate Counseling program, says, “Agency directors and Principals have told me that having a school counseling and clinical counseling degree makes me “highly valuable” in both arenas.”
Adjunct instructor Heidi Schildt, MSE, LPC, also agrees. She says, “I have found that being licensed in both worlds has helped at the clinic and school. I find myself explaining how the school world works during our weekly supervision at my clinic. I’m often helping families/school professionals understand how the clinical aspects of therapy might benefit their children/students.”
Increase in demand
Not only can you add value to your position, but demands for counseling and therapy are increasing. Dr. Amanda DeSua, M.A. Ed., Ed. D, NBCT, adjunct instructor, states, “The need for school-based therapy is growing. When counselors have their professional counseling license, they can provide therapy on-site to students who may not otherwise receive this level of support due to transportation barriers. Having an understanding of the school environment as well as the therapeutic process is an incredible asset.”
Further learning
Receiving dual licensure also broadens your education and understanding of the whole person and the mental health field. Adjunct instructor Rick Hudson articulates, “As a School Counselor, obtaining my LPC has given me a greater appreciation and understanding of mental health accessibility, treatment, and practice. It has also helped to narrow the focus of my time with students and expand my efforts for all with ASCA mindsets and behaviors through social and emotional learning.
Our graduate counseling program at Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor prides itself on employing multi-dimensional practitioners with robust and comprehensive knowledge as adjunct faculty to teach, guide, and mentor our students.
What’s next?
Are you a school counselor looking to add to your professional licensure or interested in becoming a counselor? Contact us to see how our flexible, online Master’s in Counseling degree can help you reach your goals!