How to Become a Counseling Psychologist

Counseling psychologists are a rapidly growing portion of the psychological and counseling communities. These individuals, which are typically counselors with a master's degree or psychologists with a doctorate degree, provide guidance, therapy and advice for clients who have troubling, but often short term, needs. Like any profession which is considered a part of the medical field, becoming a counseling psychologist is not easy. However, for those who do put in the time and the effort needed, it can be a rewarding experience.

Obtain your master's degree. This can be a degree in either counseling or in psychology, both will work equally well for this particular career path.

Obtain a certification. Those who hold a master's degree can get certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. (NBCC) in order to work in a counseling psychology environment. Even with this certification, though, they will have to be supervised by someone who is both licensed as a psychologist, and who has a doctorate.

Obtain a doctorate and get licensed by your state. Once these measures are obtained, an individual can work in a supervisory position in a clinical setting, or they can go into independent counseling practice.