Becoming a school counselor (Austin, Round Rock: home, university, centers)

[chpeterson]

Hello Everyone!

I realize that this forum may not be the best place to ask this question- but I feel like I'm running in circles and not finding the answers I'm looking for, so I thought I'd try my luck here.

I am graduating with my master's degree in counseling psychology in January, 2012 from a university in Minnesota. My family and I are relocating to Round Rock, TX where we have recently purchased a home. In Minnesota, you can become a school counselor without having a master's in school counseling in particular. So here's my question:

What steps do I need to take to become a school counselor in Texas if I already have a master's degree in counseling psychology? I realize I need to teach for 2 years, but I'm confused about that process as well. I tried contacting the TX dept of education, but the woman I spoke with was very short with me and refered me to a website that did not answer my questions.

If ANYONE could offer me any sort of guidance, I would greatly appreciate it! I am lost and getting quite frustrated!

[RooCeleste]

Texas Education Agency - School Guidance and Counseling - Counselor Certification Requirements Here is a link to Texas Education Agency's statutes/rules governing school counselor requirements. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor but not a school counselor, so I don't know specifics on that, but everything you need to know should be in these statutes (Texas Education Code) and rules (Texas Administrative Code).

[chpeterson]

Thank you! I have looked at that website as well, but I still can't seem to get an answer on what I need to do first, or if my master's degree is sufficient or if I need to go back for yet another degree!

Thanks again for your help though. I have also been thinking of going the LPC route, but am having problems even finding a job that will allow me to work TOWARDS those hours. Ugh, what a stressful field!!!!!! Any advice on how to pursue my LPC?

[RooCeleste]

You would first have to get a temporary license, find a supervisor (I'm one - also a list of them on the DSHS website), and find some place that would allow you to work as an intern to do your supervised hours: Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors Home Page then click on the link on the right that says "Rules and Regulations"

Finding the location to do the internship is usually the most difficult part. I would start with treatment facilities, the local mental health authorities, residential treatment centers, county services, etc. I didn't get my degree or do my internship here and I only work in private practice with a surgeon, so I'm not really connected in the Austin area to give you a better idea of places you could go. I would start, though, with places like Travis County Counseling and Education, Austin Recovery, the jails, etc.

Good luck! If you have any other questions, don't hesitate to ask!