Are you considering a career as a school counselor in Virginia? Navigating the licensing requirements can be daunting, but we're here to break it down for you in an easy-to-understand format. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, understanding these requirements is crucial. Let's dive into the two primary pathways for becoming a licensed school counselor in Virginia.
Option I: The Traditional Route
If you prefer a more traditional approach, Option I might be the right fit for you. Here's what you need to do:
- Earn a Master's Degree: You must have a master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. The program should be state-approved and specifically designed for school counselor preparation.
- Complete Internship and Practicum: Your program must include at least 100 clock hours of internship and practicum experiences in both preK-6 and grades 7-12 settings.
- Gain Experience: You need two years of successful, full-time teaching experience or two years of full-time experience in school counseling in a public or accredited nonpublic school. Experience gained under a nonrenewable Provisional License may also be accepted.
Option II: The Alternative Route
Option II offers a bit more flexibility for those who may have taken a different path to their career in education:
- Earn a Master's Degree: Similar to Option I, you need a master's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and completion of an approved school counselor preparation program.
- Complete Internship and Practicum: Again, you'll need at least 100 clock hours of internship and practicum experiences in both preK-6 and grades 7-12 settings.
- Gain Experience: Two years of successful, full-time teaching experience or two years of full-time experience in school counseling in a public or accredited nonpublic school are required. Experience under a nonrenewable Provisional License is also acceptable.
Why Choose TinyEYE?
At TinyEYE, we understand the importance of having qualified and passionate school counselors in our education system. Our online therapy services are designed to support schools in providing top-notch counseling services, even in the face of staffing shortages. We offer a range of services, including:
- Online speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Mental health counseling
- Special education services
Our team of experienced professionals is here to ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed. If you're interested in learning more about how TinyEYE can assist your school, don't hesitate to reach out!
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