Empowering others, tackling interpersonal problems, and helping people overcome challenges in their life are all part of a day's work for licensed counselors. Professionals with strong communication skills, empathy, and a knack for solving problems are well-suited to a career in counseling. Counselors are always in demand, particularly now that many insurance companies include counseling services as a covered benefit. This allows counselors to find a steady pool of clients regardless of where they work.According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions in mental health counseling and family therapy are projected to grow 19% through 2024. Increasingly, students interested in the field are pursuing counseling degrees online. The online format is enticing to students from a range of backgrounds, including first time students and working professionals looking to change careers. Distance programs are particularly ideal for the latter demographic, as they allow students to complete assignments and watch lectures at their own convenience.As online education gains popularity throughout the country, students interested in counseling have access to a wider range of programs than ever before. To learn more about the options available to you, be sure to check out our guide to online education in counseling.
Meet Our Expert: Tasha Holland-Kornegay
Licensed Professional Counselor, Our Treatment Center
Online Counseling Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $14,145 | 17.67% | 2 years | $33,000 | $44,500 | Not reported |
| Bachelor's | $16,989 | 10.43% | 4 years | $40,700 | $57,100 | 7.2% |
| Master's | $17,053 | 8.79% | 2+ years | $44,600 | $65,800 | 3.1% |
Online counseling degrees prepare graduates for a rewarding career by providing a foundational overview of the field and the tools and skills needed to help patients. Licensed counselors must obtain a master's degree or higher. An associate degree in counseling or psychology can prepare students for an advanced program, but does not qualify graduates to work as counselors. A bachelor's degree in counseling provides students with a more comprehensive overview of the field, training them to use their communication and analytical skills in a non-clinical setting. The degree also prepares graduates for an internship or assistant position in counseling.
Online Counseling Degrees
Online Counseling Find Accredited Degrees
Online Counseling Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Counselor | $53,370 | 8% | 273400 |
| Addiction Counselor | $39,270 | 22% | 94900 |
| Mental Health Counselor | $41,710 | 19% | 106920 |
| Family Therapist | $48,040 | 19% | 30150 |
Online Counseling Degree in Action
Meet Our Expert: Tasha Holland-Kornegay
Licensed Professional Counselor, Our Treatment CenterTasha Holland-Kornegay is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her degree from Walden University online, graduating with a PhD in Human Services with a focus on Family Strategies. She is currently working in private practice, and has been for over seven years. She also provides supervision for post-master's degree counselors and therapists pursuing a license in North Carolina as a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Online Counseling Professional Requirements
State Boards
Every state has different requirements for licensed counselors. Some states require counselors to obtain a single license while others mandate multiple credentials. Titles and credentials include Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Many accredited schools offering online counseling degrees offer license examination preparation courses so students can earn their license shortly after graduating. Duration depends on how long it takes to complete master's degree and supervised experience requirements.
Certifications
National certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) can help graduates obtain a state license in some states, but is not a substitute for a license itself. A National Certified Counselor (NCC) has met all certification requirements set forth by the NBCC and is committed to staying current with best practices while abiding by the NBCC Code of Ethics. Duration depends on how long it takes to complete a master's degree, pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for Licensure, and complete 3,000 hours of counseling experience and 100 hours of supervised experience.