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 Rhode Island.

Academic Experience: Advanced degree from an accredited institution.

Necessary Courses: Completing a sanctioned program to prepare school counselor support professionals and completion of 300-hour Internship. Candidates who have not completed a sanctioned program can be certified by using the Credential Review Pathway, a program that allows eligible persons to pursue Rhode Island licensure by following a program of study. Teachers pursuing this pathway need to complete an entrance/exit assessment document.

Experience Requirements: Meet the content competencies.

Assessment: Yes – Praxis II Professional School Counselor test (5421) with a score of 156.
Is an Institutional Recommendation Needed?: No

Licensure: Pre-K–12

Licensure Reciprocity: Yes

Criminal Background Investigation: At the district level

Rhode Island Department of Education/school counseling