In America, today’s school counselors do a lot more than their predecessors. It may be hard to tell from the outside looking in, but they help teachers and staff handle various issues, counsel parents, and sometimes play a crucial part in shaping education policy. They are a pivotal part of the student success equation, and they help schools create supportive and safe environments for students.

Want to become a school counselor in the United States, but want to know how? Don’t worry; the Edvocate has your back. Check out this guide that we created explaining how to become a school counselor in Iowa.

Academics: Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education; completion of a sanctioned human relations component; completion of a sanctioned exceptional learner component; teaching and counseling practicum consisting of a minimum of 500 contact hours.

Necessary Courses: (1) Completion of a sanctioned human relations component and (2) Completion of a sanctioned exceptional learner component.

Experience Requirements: The school demonstrates competency in conducting classroom sessions with elementary, middle, or middle and secondary school learners. The practicum consisting of 500 contact hours provides chances for the potential counselor, under the supervision of a professional school counselor, to engage in various activities in which a regularly employed counselor would be expected to participate in individual counseling, group work, classroom guidance, and consultation.

Assessment: None

Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: Yes, must recommend for certification Licensure: (1) Elementary – Grades K-6 OR (2) Secondary – Grades 7-12

Licensure Reciprocity: No

Criminal Background Investigation: Yes

Iowa Department of Education