Additional Information
This field is broad and employment counselors come from many different
backgrounds. However, it is advisable to have some post-secondary education.
There are many schools offering degree or certificate programs in career
development or counseling. Many people pursue postgraduate training in counseling
after completing a degree in a general discipline.
"Career counselors often need a master's degree in psychology, with special
courses in career planning and development, but this is not always the case,"
says Karen Girard. She's a high school career advisor, as well as an independent
career consultant and coach.
"Other jobs do not require a registered psychologist, but do want specialized
training in career planning and development, and there are many certificate
programs," says Girard. "It is very useful to have courses in human resources....
[A] degree in that area with a certificate in career development is also a
great combination that can open many doors."
Many employment counselors seek certification from organizations such as
the National Career Development Association (NCDA). Certification gives clients
reassurance that the counselor is qualified and has kept their skills up to
date. Certification may require a graduate degree in counseling or a related
professional field, supervised counseling experience and other work experience.
It may also be necessary to pass an exam.
The NCDA offers membership categories such as Master Career Counselor (MCC),
and the Master Career Development Professional (MCDP).
Career center specialists don't need a counseling degree, but many have
completed a certification program or similar training.
You may want to make some contacts in the field who can keep you up to
date. Your local government employment office is a good source. It likely
employs a number of employment counselors.
To find counselors and business professionals working as consultants, check
for employment agencies in your phone book. You'll find businesses there that
help people develop their job skills and help companies find the right person
for job openings.
Read, read, read! There's so much information out there, and the picture
is changing so quickly. You should also develop your communication and research
skills -- they will come in very handy.
"Ongoing education, lifelong learning, is always needed, as things change
daily," says Girard. "Technology offers all kinds of new tools and careers
[and] staying connected in the industry helps develop best practices. Becoming
a member of industry associations gives you an opportunity for both learning
and networking."