How to Become a Child Counselor for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a child counselor is a deeply rewarding career path for those passionate about helping children navigate emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. However, many aspiring professionals find the path to this career confusing, with questions about educational requirements, licensing, and job opportunities. Without clear guidance, it can be overwhelming to determine the right steps to take.

This guide is designed to provide a step-by-step roadmap for anyone interested in becoming a child counselor. Whether you are a student exploring career options or a professional considering a career change, this resource will help you understand the education, training, and certifications required. You will also gain insights into career paths, salary expectations, and the skills needed to succeed in this field.

Key things you should know about becoming a child counselor

To become a child counselor, you typically need a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or social work, along with state licensure.
Child and adolescent counselors earn an average salary of $87,702 per year, with higher earnings in private practice or specialized fields.
Focusing on areas like trauma therapy, autism spectrum disorders, or play therapy can open doors to higher-paying and more fulfilling roles.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 534300 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will be needed by 2033.
Counselors must stay updated with the latest research and therapeutic practices by participating in workshops, conferences, and continuing education courses to maintain licensure and ensure effective client care.

What does a child counselor do on a daily basis?
What age groups do child counselors work with?
What is the difference between a child counselor and a child psychologist?
What are the different types of child counseling careers?
What are the educational requirements to become a child counselor?
What certifications do you need to become a child counselor for 2025?
What skills do you need to be a good child counselor?
Which online programs complement my child counseling education?
How can child counselors prevent burnout and maintain work-life balance?
What legal and ethical responsibilities do child counselors have?
How much do child counselors make for 2025?
Can you become a child counselor online?
How do child counselors collaborate with other professionals?
What is the job outlook for child counselors for 2025?
How does accreditation affect career advancement in child counseling?
Should child counselors consider pursuing an addiction counselor certification?
Can child counselors benefit from an applied behavior analysis specialization?
What affordable advanced education options can further enhance my child counseling career?
Other things you should know about becoming a child counselor

What does a child counselor do on a daily basis?

A child counselor helps children and adolescents navigate emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges through therapy and support. Their daily tasks typically include:

Conducting Therapy Sessions – Child counselors meet with children individually or in group settings to discuss their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These sessions provide a safe space for children to express themselves and work through challenges with professional guidance.
Using Therapeutic Techniques – Counselors use evidence-based methods such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and art therapy to help children process their emotions. These techniques allow children to communicate in ways that feel natural and comfortable for their developmental stage.
Collaborating with Parents & Teachers – Child counselors work closely with parents, caregivers, and educators to ensure a child receives the support they need at home and in school. They provide strategies and resources to help adults better understand and address the child's emotional and behavioral needs.
Assessing & Diagnosing Issues – Counselors evaluate children for conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma-related disorders. They use interviews, observations, and standardized assessments to identify challenges and recommend appropriate interventions.
Creating Treatment Plans – Based on their assessments, child counselors develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each child's unique needs. These plans outline therapy goals, coping strategies, and techniques to help the child build emotional resilience over time.

What age groups do child counselors work with?

Child counselors typically work with children from preschool and adolescents ranging from toddlers to young adults, usually between the ages of 3 to 18 years old. The specific age group they focus on depends on their training, specialization, and the setting in which they work.

Some counselors specialize in early childhood therapy, helping children as young as three who may struggle with developmental delays, trauma, or emotional regulation. Others work primarily with school-age children, addressing issues like anxiety, bullying, academic stress, or family conflicts. Many also support teenagers and adolescents, who may be dealing with depression, self-esteem issues, peer pressure, or identity-related concerns. Regardless of the age group, child counselors tailor their approach to fit the developmental and emotional needs of their clients.

Child counselors typicall handle children age between 3 to 18 years old..png

What is the difference between a child counselor and a child psychologist?

The main difference between a child counselor and a child psychologist lies in their education, scope of practice, and approach to treatment. While both professionals work with children to address emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues, their training and methods differ significantly.

Education and Training

A child counselor typically holds a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or a related field. Their training focuses on talk therapy, coping strategies, and emotional support to help children navigate everyday challenges. In contrast, a child psychologist must earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology, which includes extensive training in psychological assessments, diagnosis, and research-based interventions.

For those exploring alternative mental health careers with a lower educational barrier, some of the cheapest online psychiatric nurse practitioner programs offer a more affordable and flexible path to providing mental health care, though their focus differs from child counseling.

Scope of Practice

Child counselors primarily provide therapy and emotional support to children facing issues like anxiety, school stress, or family conflicts. They use methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and talk therapy but generally do not diagnose complex disorders. Child psychologists, however, can diagnose and treat a broader range of mental health conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, severe anxiety, and depression. They often conduct in-depth psychological testing to assess cognitive and emotional development.

Work Settings and Approach

Child counselors often work in schools, private practices, or community mental health centers, focusing on helping children build healthy coping mechanisms. Child psychologists typically work in clinical settings, hospitals, or research institutions, where they may collaborate with psychiatrists for medication management and long-term treatment plans.

What are the different types of child counseling careers?

There are several different types of child counseling careers, each focusing on various aspects of children’s mental, emotional, and behavioral health. Here are some of the most common career paths in child counseling:

School Counselor – School counselors work in elementary, middle, and high schools, helping students with academic, social, and emotional challenges. They provide support for issues such as bullying, anxiety, career guidance, and behavioral concerns while collaborating with teachers and parents.
Child and Adolescent Therapist – These counselors specialize in mental health therapy for children and teens, addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral disorders. They may use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, or art therapy to help children express their emotions and develop coping strategies.
Pediatric Behavioral Counselors – These professionals work with children who have behavioral and emotional disorders, such as ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorders. They focus on modifying problematic behaviors and teaching children self-regulation skills.
Family and Marriage Therapist (FMT) – FMTs help children by working with the entire family unit to address relationship dynamics, conflict resolution, and emotional challenges. They assist families in improving communication and creating a supportive home environment.
Trauma and Crisis Counselor – These specialists provide counseling for children who have experienced trauma, such as abuse, neglect, grief, or natural disasters. They use trauma-informed therapy techniques to help children process their experiences and develop resilience.
Play Therapist – Play therapists use play-based techniques to help younger children express emotions and process difficult experiences. This is particularly helpful for children who struggle with verbal communication or have experienced trauma. For those interested in related careers, exploring how much do child life specialists make can provide insight into other roles that support children's emotional and developmental needs.
Substance Abuse Counselor for Adolescents – These counselors work with teens struggling with addiction, including drugs, alcohol, and behavioral addictions like social media or gaming. They provide education, therapy, and support for both the adolescent and their family.

What are the educational requirements to become a child counselor for 2025?

To become a child counselor, the educational requirements typically include several stages of formal education and training. Here's a breakdown of the key steps:

Bachelor's Degree: Similar to getting an online Christian counseling degree, the first step toward becoming a child counselor is earning a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as psychology, social work, education, or human services. While a specific major isn’t always required, it is essential to have a foundation in subjects related to mental health and child development. A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete and prepares you for graduate studies in counseling or related fields.
Master's Degree in Counseling or a Related Field: Next, aspiring child counselors must obtain a master’s degree in counseling, social work (MSW), or a related mental health field. This advanced education focuses on therapeutic techniques, child development, and counseling methods. It generally takes two to three years to complete and includes practical training through supervised internships or fieldwork, where you gain hands-on experience working with children.
Clinical Hours and Supervised Experience: After earning a master’s degree, most states require individuals to complete a specific number of supervised clinical hours (often around 2,000 to 4,000 hours) under the supervision of a licensed professional. These hours allow aspiring counselors to gain real-world experience in providing therapy and support to children under guidance.
Licensure and Certification: To legally practice as a child counselor, you must become licensed in your state. Requirements vary by location, but generally, you need to pass a licensure exam (such as the National Counselor Examination or similar) and meet the specific criteria for your state’s licensing board. Additionally, you may choose to pursue certifications, such as becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), which may enhance your qualifications and career prospects.
Continuing Education: Once licensed, child counselors are required to complete continuing education to maintain their licensure and stay updated on the latest therapeutic methods and research in child counseling. For those considering alternative career paths in healthcare, exploring 2 year medical degrees can offer quicker entry into medical and mental health professions while still making a meaningful impact.

Becoming a child counselor typically takes at least eight years of education and training. First, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes 4 years. Afterward, you will pursue a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or a related field, which typically takes an additional 2 to 3 years. Following your graduate education, you will need to complete 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, which can take about 1 to 2 years depending on your schedule. Finally, you will need to pass a licensure exam and meet any other state-specific requirements to become fully licensed, which can take several months.

It takes around 8 years to become a licensed child counselor..png

What certifications do you need to become a child counselor for 2025?

To become a child counselor, there are several certifications and licensure requirements that vary by state and the type of counseling you plan to practice. Here are the most common certifications and licensure credentials you'll need:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): This is one of the primary certifications for child counselors. To become an LPC, you must have a master's degree in counseling or a related field, complete the required supervised clinical hours, and pass a licensure exam. An LPC allows you to provide therapeutic services independently in most settings.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): If you have a master's degree in social work (MSW), you can pursue LCSW certification. This certification allows you to practice as a clinical social worker, providing therapy to children and families. Like the LPC, becoming an LCSW requires supervised experience and passing a licensing exam.
National Certified Counselor (NCC): This certification is provided by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and is often pursued to enhance qualifications. To earn this certification, you must complete a master’s degree in counseling, gain the necessary clinical hours, and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Specialist (CAMHS): Some professionals pursue a specialization in child and adolescent counseling. While not always required, this certification demonstrates expertise in working with young clients and may enhance career opportunities.
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP): This certification is for counselors who want to specialize in trauma-informed therapy. Given the rise in childhood trauma cases, obtaining this certification can be a valuable addition to your qualifications.

What skills do you need to be a good child counselor?

To be a successful child counselor, you need a combination of soft skills, therapeutic techniques, and professional competencies to effectively support children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Here are some of the most important skills:

Strong Communication Skills – Child counselors must be able to explain emotions and psychological concepts in a way that children can understand. They also need excellent active listening skills to ensure children feel heard, validated, and supported.
Patience and Empathy – Children process emotions differently and may take time to open up, so patience is essential when working through their struggles. Empathy helps build trust and creates a safe space for children to express their thoughts and feelings.
Knowledge of Child Development – Understanding developmental psychology allows counselors to tailor therapy approaches based on a child's age and cognitive abilities. Recognizing the difference between age-appropriate behaviors and signs of distress is crucial for effective intervention.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking – Child counselors must assess a child’s needs and determine the best therapeutic strategies for their specific challenges. They should be able to adapt treatment plans quickly based on a child's progress or changing circumstances.
Creativity and Flexibility – Many children respond better to non-traditional therapy methods such as play therapy, art therapy, or storytelling. Counselors must be creative and flexible in adjusting their approach to find the best way to engage each child.
Strong Ethical and Professional Boundaries – Child counselors must adhere to strict confidentiality and ethical guidelines, ensuring that their young clients feel safe sharing personal information. They must also maintain clear professional boundaries while fostering a supportive and trusting relationship.
Ability to Work with Families and Other Professionals – Effective child counseling often requires collaboration with parents, teachers, and healthcare providers. Counselors need strong interpersonal skills to communicate strategies and provide guidance for ongoing support outside of therapy.

Which online programs complement my child counseling education?

Expanding your expertise with supplemental training in family systems and advanced counseling techniques can enhance your therapeutic practice. Specialized online programs offer targeted coursework on systemic approaches, crisis intervention, and family dynamics that deepen your ability to address complex issues affecting children. This integrated education not only broadens your clinical skill set but also positions you as a more versatile mental health professional. For detailed information on cost-effective and accredited options, consider exploring online marriage and family therapy graduate programs.

How can child counselors prevent burnout and maintain work-life balance?

Child counselors face emotionally demanding situations that may lead to burnout if unaddressed. Developing strong self-care strategies and maintaining clear professional boundaries are essential to sustaining a long-term career. Approaches such as regular peer consultation, clinical supervision, and participation in stress management programs can mitigate the risks of secondary trauma. In addition, leveraging professional development tools to enhance coping strategies and resilience is crucial. For further insights on compensation and its impact on career satisfaction, review how much do counselors make.

What legal and ethical responsibilities do child counselors have?

Child counselors must adhere to strict legal and ethical standards to protect their clients and maintain professional integrity. They are obligated to uphold confidentiality while recognizing the mandatory duty to report any suspected abuse or neglect. Adherence to state and licensing board regulations includes maintaining accurate records, obtaining informed consent, and avoiding dual relationships that could impair professional judgment. Practitioners are also required to continuously update their knowledge through ongoing education in ethical practices and legal mandates. For an affordable option to advance your education, consider exploring the cheapest online master's in mental health counseling.

How much do child counselors make for 2025?

The salary of a child counselor can vary widely depending on factors such as location, level of experience, education, and the setting in which they work. On average, child counselors earn around $87,702 per year. Those working in private practice or specialized areas, such as trauma therapy or working with children with autism, may see higher salaries, while those employed in schools or non-profit organizations may earn less.

Some of the best-paying related jobs in the child and adolescent therapy field include:

Marriage and Family Therapist: With an average salary of $58,510, these therapists who specialize in children’s issues and family dynamics can earn more if they work in private practice or high-demand areas.
Clinical Psychologist: Clinical psychologists who work with children and adolescents can make $92,740 per year, especially if they specialize in psychological testing or therapy for complex issues like trauma or behavioral disorders.
School Counselor: Typically earning $61,710, school counselors who work with children to address learning and emotional challenges in educational settings may earn more in districts with higher demand or more funding for mental health services.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): LCSWs in child and adolescent therapy can earn $58,380, with higher pay in private practice or in hospitals and mental health clinics. Professionals looking to advance their careers in social work and counseling may benefit from earning a human services master's degree online, which can provide specialized training and open up more job opportunities in the field.

Overall, salaries for these professionals vary based on the work setting, geographic location, and level of specialization, but these roles are in high demand due to the increasing need for mental health services for children and adolescents. The chart below shows the varying salaries for child counselors and similar occupations:

Can you become a child counselor online?

Yes, you can become a child counselor through online degree programs, as many universities offer fully accredited bachelor’s and master’s degrees in counseling, psychology, and social work. These programs provide the same foundational coursework as traditional in-person programs, covering topics like child development, counseling techniques, and ethics. Additionally, online students must complete supervised clinical hours in person at an approved location to gain hands-on experience.

Studying online offers several advantages, making it a flexible and accessible option for students:

Flexibility – Online programs allow students to learn at their own pace and balance coursework with personal or professional responsibilities.
Accessibility – Students can enroll in top counseling programs without needing to relocate, giving them access to a wider range of educational opportunities.
Cost Savings – Online learning often reduces costs related to commuting, housing, and campus fees, making education more affordable. Many students also take advantage of affordable online courses to fulfill continuing education requirements without the financial burden of traditional programs.

How do child counselors collaborate with other professionals?

Child counselors frequently work within a multidisciplinary framework that brings together mental health experts, educators, and family practitioners to offer well-rounded care. By engaging in collaborative efforts, they combine insights from varied fields, ensuring that each child’s needs are addressed comprehensively. Clear communication protocols and defined role boundaries are essential to fostering effective team dynamics and making informed referral decisions. For example, understanding the distinctions between different roles—as demonstrated in the comparison of a social worker versus psychologist—can enhance interdisciplinary strategies and improve overall treatment outcomes.

What is the job outlook for child counselors for 2025?

The job outlook for child counselors is promising, with employment opportunities expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to our research, employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is projected to grow 19 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. Additionally, the BLS reports that employment of school and career counselors and advisors is projected to grow 4 percent over the same period.

This growth is driven by an increased awareness of mental health issues and a greater emphasis on providing psychological services to children and adolescents in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and mental health centers. This means that from 449,800 employed individuals in 2023, employment is projected to reach 534,300 by 2023. The chart below shows the employment projections data for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors over the next decade:

How does accreditation affect career advancement in child counseling?

Accreditation verifies that educational programs meet industry standards essential for clinical competence and ethical practice. It enhances professional credibility, ensuring employers and licensing boards recognize your rigorous training. Evaluating accredited programs can lead to stronger clinical skills and improved job prospects. For instance, consider exploring online PsyD programs APA accredited to further validate your qualifications and underscore your commitment to excellence.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their child counseling degrees

Becoming a child counselor has been the most fulfilling decision of my life. Watching children open up, build confidence, and develop healthy coping skills makes every challenge in this field worthwhile. Knowing that I play a role in shaping their emotional well-being is truly priceless. – Eli

The demand for child counselors is growing, and I’ve never struggled to find meaningful work. With more schools and mental health organizations prioritizing children’s emotional health, I’ve been able to advance in my career while making a real difference. It’s a profession that offers both stability and purpose. – Jack

Child counseling has given me the flexibility to work in different settings, from schools to private practice. Every child I work with teaches me something new, pushing me to grow both personally and professionally. It’s a career that constantly challenges and inspires me. – Peter

Should child counselors consider pursuing an addiction counselor certification?

Child counseling sometimes requires addressing complex family dynamics and secondary substance issues that may indirectly affect a child’s well-being. Complementing your credentials with specialized training can broaden your clinical perspective and foster more integrated intervention strategies. Earning an addiction counselor certification equips professionals with targeted insights into substance abuse assessment and intervention, offering a valuable tool when working in multidisciplinary teams.

Can child counselors benefit from an applied behavior analysis specialization?

A focused training in applied behavior analysis can offer child counselors evidence-based strategies to further enhance behavioral interventions. This specialization provides practical tools for analyzing, modifying, and reinforcing behavior patterns in children, leading to more effective therapy outcomes. Exploring rigorous programs such as the online MS in psychology applied behavior analysis can deepen clinical insights and expand treatment options, ultimately supporting a tailored approach to child counseling.

What affordable advanced education options can further enhance my child counseling career?

Investing in advanced education and targeted professional development is essential for staying current with evolving therapeutic approaches and regulatory standards. Expanding your expertise through accredited workshops, specialized certification courses, and advanced degree programs can lead to higher competency and career growth. For instance, exploring options like the cheapest masters in psychology online not only offers an affordable pathway to deepen your clinical skills but also enhances your eligibility for leadership roles in multidisciplinary settings.

Key Findings

You usually need a master’s degree in counseling and other similar specializations to become a child counselor.
Becoming a child counselor requires extensive education, supervised clinical experience, and state licensure
It takes around 8 years to become a licensed child counselor or therapist in the U.S.
The average annual salary for child and adolescent counselors is around $87,702.
The demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is expected to grow by 19% over the next decade.

Other things you should know about becoming a child counselor

What is the best major for a child counselor?

The best major for a child counselor is typically psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field that provides a strong foundation in mental health and child development. A bachelor’s degree in psychology or human services can be a great starting point, as it covers essential topics like behavioral science, emotional development, and therapy techniques. However, to become a licensed child counselor, most professionals pursue a master’s degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work (MSW), with a specialization in child and adolescent therapy. Some programs also offer child-focused coursework in areas like play therapy, trauma counseling, and school counseling, which can further enhance expertise in working with young clients.

Is it better to work for an agency or start your own practice?

Whether it is better to work for an agency or start your own practice as a child counselor depends on your career goals, experience level, and preferred work environment. Working for an agency, such as a school, hospital, or mental health center, provides job stability, steady income, and access to supervision and resources, making it a great option for new counselors. On the other hand, starting a private practice offers greater flexibility, independence, and earning potential, but it requires business skills, marketing efforts, and financial investment. Many child counselors begin their careers in agencies to gain experience before transitioning to private practice once they feel confident in their expertise and client management.

How do child counselors build trust with children?

Child counselors build trust with children by creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. They use age-appropriate communication, active listening, and gentle encouragement to help children open up at their own pace. Techniques such as play therapy, storytelling, and art activities allow children to share their thoughts and emotions in a way that feels natural to them. Additionally, counselors establish consistency, reliability, and empathy, ensuring that children feel heard, respected, and understood throughout the therapeutic process.

Can you become a child counselor with a psychology degree?

Yes, you can become a child counselor with a psychology degree, but additional education and training are usually required for licensure. A bachelor’s degree in psychology provides a strong foundation in human behavior and child development, but most counseling positions require a master’s degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work. After earning a graduate degree, you must complete supervised clinical hours and pass a licensure exam to practice as a professional child counselor. Specializing in child and adolescent therapy through coursework or certifications can further enhance your qualifications in this field.

Resources:

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Child Psychologist. https://my.clevelandclinic.org
Mindful Health Solutions. (2023). Therapy for Kids: 5 Signs that Your Child Should See a Therapist. https://mindfulhealthsolutions.com
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. https://www.bls.gov
ZipRecruiter. (2025). Child And Adolescent Therapist Salary. https://www.ziprecruiter.com