How to Become a School Counselor in Georgia for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

In 2022, Georgia reported 10,850 professionals employed as educational, guidance, school, and vocational counselors, highlighting a sustained demand for expertise in student development, academic advising, and career readiness. This workforce figure reflects broader educational priorities that increasingly recognize the role of counseling in addressing students' social-emotional needs and promoting equitable access to postsecondary opportunities.

I designed this guide to help you pursue a meaningful role as a school counselor, an essential contributor to student success and educational progress. I will also detail the academic, licensure, and practical steps required to become a certified school counselor in Georgia, to aid you in starting and growing in this impactful profession.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Georgia

School counselors in Georgia earn an average annual salary of $51,008, which equates to approximately $24.52 per hour, offering a competitive wage in a state with a relatively low cost of living.
Employment for educational, guidance, school, and vocational counselors in Georgia is projected to grow by 12%, reflecting a strong and steady demand for professionals in the field.
A master's degree in counseling with an education or school counseling concentration is required to become a school counselor in Georgia.

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in Georgia?
Are there school counseling specializations in Georgia?
How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in Georgia?
What certification is required to work as a school counselor in Georgia?
Can I transfer my Georgia school counseling license between states?
How often do Georgia school counselors need to renew their credentials?
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a school counselor in Georgia?
What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in Georgia?
What is the average salary of school counselors in Georgia?
What is the job outlook for school counselors in Georgia?
What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in Georgia?
Other Things You Should Know About Being a School Counselor in Georgia

What degree do I need to become a school counselor in Georgia?

To meet Georgia school counselor degree requirements, you must hold a graduate-level degree specifically aligned with school counseling standards. These qualifications ensure you are prepared for certification and practice in the state.

Master’s Degree in School Counseling: This is the primary qualification, requiring completion of a GaPSC-approved program at level five or higher, designed specifically for future school counselors.
Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology or Educational Psychology (with School Counseling Concentration): Acceptable if the program includes a school counseling focus adhering to CACREP standards.

Applicants must also complete special education coursework before obtaining the Professional Certificate. The typical master’s programs for school counseling in Georgia take about 2.5 to 3 years full-time. For a practical guide on advancing your education and licensure efficiently, check out this fastest way to become a therapist.

Are there school counseling specializations in Georgia?

Georgia’s CACREP-accredited school counseling programs offer several focused options, enabling candidates to tailor their education to specific student needs and career goals. These school counseling degree concentrations in Georgia prepare graduates for diverse roles in educational settings.

School Counseling (P-12 Focus): Prepares counselors to support students academically, socially, and emotionally across all grade levels, from elementary through high school.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Trains counselors to provide mental health assessments and crisis interventions, qualifying them for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Georgia.
Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling: Focuses on assisting students with disabilities to achieve academic and independent living goals while promoting inclusion.
Integrative Behavioral Health in Schools: Offers advanced skills for delivering behavioral health services within schools, often including fieldwork collaborations with districts and healthcare providers.

Each specialization supports specific certification paths, aligning with the school counselor certification specializations Georgia requires. For those seeking the quickest way to become a counselor, selecting a program that matches your career focus and certification goals is essential.

How long does it take to complete a school counseling degree in Georgia?

Completing a school counseling degree in Georgia generally takes between two and three years if you enroll full-time in a master’s program. Most programs require 60 to 66 credit hours, which aligns with state certification and national counseling standards.

Part-time students or those balancing work may take longer, stretching the timeline beyond three years depending on course load and program flexibility. Some universities, like Fort Valley State, offer accelerated paths that allow completion in about two years by taking three courses each semester.

Several key factors affect how long the degree takes:

Field Experience Requirements: Expect to complete 100 hours of practicum and between 600 to 660 hours of internship, depending on the program, which can extend your timeline if placements are competitive or limited.
Program Format and Pacing: Evening and online options provide flexibility but may prolong the duration if fewer courses are taken per term.
Credit Hour Expectations: Sticking to the 60-66 credit requirement is crucial, as it ensures eligibility for state licensure and meets educational standards.

After finishing coursework, candidates must meet Georgia’s certification requirements, including passing state exams and supervised experience. Programs like the University of Georgia’s integrate certification preparation and local school partnerships, facilitating a smoother transition into licensure.

Students have up to seven years to complete their degree at some institutions, but aiming for completion within two to three years is practical to stay current and maintain momentum. Planning your course load and field experiences carefully can help avoid unnecessary delays.

What certification is required to work as a school counselor in Georgia?

To work as a school counselor in Georgia, you must obtain the Professional School Counselor certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). This certification is separate from a teaching certificate and is necessary for employment in K-12 public schools statewide. The certification process involves several key steps designed to verify your qualifications and readiness for the role.

Follow these practical steps to obtain your certification:

Apply for GaPSC Certification: Submit your application for the Professional School Counselor certificate after completing your counseling degree. This step officially starts your certification process.
Pass the GACE School Counseling Assessment: Achieve a passing score on the state’s GACE exam specific to school counseling, which tests your knowledge and skills.
Complete Background Check and Fingerprinting: Undergo the required criminal history check and fingerprinting coordinated through your hiring district.
Complete Induction Experience (if new): If you are a new counselor, complete a supervised induction year in a Georgia public school to transition into the profession.
Upgrade to Full Professional Certificate: After induction or if already experienced, apply for the renewable Professional School Counselor certificate, valid for five years.
Fulfill Ethics and Legal Requirements: Pass the Georgia Educator Ethics Assessment and comply with the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators to maintain certification.

Can I transfer my Georgia school counseling license between states?

Georgia does not participate in nationwide “true” reciprocity agreements that allow school counselors to automatically transfer their licenses to other states without meeting additional requirements. While Georgia recognizes out-of-state school counseling certificates for those applying to work in Georgia, counselors moving out of Georgia must follow each receiving state’s specific licensure process, usually called licensure by endorsement.

Typically, transferring your Georgia school counseling license involves several steps that vary by state but often include:

Submitting an application with proof of your Georgia certification and good standing.
Having your education and professional experience evaluated to ensure they meet the new state’s standards.
Passing state-specific exams, which may cover content knowledge or state law and ethics.
Completing a new criminal background check or fingerprinting, even if you had one in Georgia.
Taking additional coursework or training if your previous studies don’t align with the new state’s requirements.
Possibly working under a provisional license while completing outstanding conditions.

This process can be lengthy and costly. States differ widely in their counselor requirements, and some may not fully credit your Georgia experience or professional development. Processing times can extend for weeks or months, especially if you need to take extra exams or classes.

When I spoke with a school counselor from Georgia who graduated from a local university, she shared that transferring her license out of state was a challenging but manageable process. She recalled feeling frustrated by the lack of straightforward reciprocity, explaining, “I had to gather transcripts, submit multiple applications, and prepare for a state-specific exam I didn’t expect.”

However, she also noted the advantage of gaining a deeper understanding of the new state’s educational environment through required coursework and training. “It was a bit overwhelming at first, but it helped me feel more confident in my new role,” she said. Her experience highlights that while license transfer isn’t automatic, careful preparation and patience can smooth the transition.

How often do Georgia school counselors need to renew their credentials?

Georgia school counselors must renew their Standard Professional Certificate every five years to maintain active certification. This renewal cycle ensures counselors stay current with professional standards and regulatory requirements.

Renewal Cycle: Certificates are valid for five years, with renewal required before expiration to avoid lapses.
Professional Learning: Counselors must complete ongoing professional development as defined by their Local Unit of Administration (LUA), with some exemptions available.
Application Submission: Renewal applications for those employed by a Georgia LUA must be submitted electronically by the employer; others follow GaPSC procedures.
Renewal Fee: A non-refundable $20 fee must accompany the renewal application.
Background Check: A criminal record check is mandatory at renewal unless specifically exempted.
Proof of Employment or Experience: Counselors must be employed in a certified position or provide evidence of equivalent recent professional activity, such as coursework or professional learning units.
Renewal Period: Applications are accepted from December 1 prior to expiration through June 30 of the expiration year.

Understanding this cycle also offers a useful backdrop for examining national patterns, such as the average tenure of school counselors in the United States.

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a school counselor in Georgia?

School counselors in Georgia perform a diverse range of duties that extend beyond academic advising. They develop tailored support plans, facilitate group and individual counseling sessions, and coordinate with educators, administrators, and parents to address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. Responsibilities often include crisis intervention, program development for student well-being, and strategic data analysis to enhance service delivery. For focused guidance on entering and excelling in this role, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in Georgia.

What are the alternative pathways to become a school counselor in Georgia?

Georgia offers multiple alternative pathways for individuals pursuing a career change to school counselor in Georgia without a traditional education background. These options accommodate professionals with counseling experience or degrees in related fields, aiming to meet the state’s demand for qualified school counselors.

Certification-Only Programs: For those holding a master’s in counseling or related areas, requiring transcripts, a 3.0 GPA, GACE exam passage, and targeted coursework.
Provisional or Non-Renewable Certification: A three-year certificate allowing work as a school counselor while completing full certification requirements, often initiated by the employing school district.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Programs: Designed for counselors with graduate degrees outside school counseling, requiring supervised practicum and additional coursework.
Relevant Work Experience: Candidates with significant counseling or mental health experience may qualify through supervised practicum and graduate coursework review.
Exams and Coursework: Passing the GACE School Counseling content assessment and completing a special education course are mandatory across pathways.

For detailed requirements and options, consult the counseling license requirements in each state. Exploring these pathways also provides useful context for understanding the profession’s demographics, including the average age of school counselors across the U.S.

What is the average salary of school counselors in Georgia?

The average annual salary for school counselors in Georgia is approximately $51,008, or about $24.52 per hour, which equates to roughly $980 per week or $4,250 per month. This places Georgia 50th out of 50 states for school counselor salaries, highlighting the need for strategic career planning within the state.

Several factors influence a counselor's earning potential in Georgia:

Geographic Location: Urban and suburban areas like Atlanta may offer higher salaries due to local funding and cost of living.
Experience and Education: Advanced degrees and certifications often lead to increased pay and promotion opportunities.
School Level and Type: High school counselors or those in private or charter schools may see varied compensation based on role complexity.
District Funding: Counselors in well-funded districts typically receive more competitive pay and benefits.
Specialized Roles: Online counseling roles in Georgia, such as Online College Counselor ($54,046) or Online High School Counselor ($52,465), tend to offer slightly higher average salaries.

A school counselor from Georgia, who graduated from a local university, shared that starting salaries in rural districts initially felt limiting but improved significantly after gaining experience and additional credentials. He recalled, “When I began, the pay was modest, but as I earned my master’s degree and took on more responsibilities, my salary increased noticeably.”

He also highlighted how working in a suburban district near Atlanta later provided not only a higher base salary but also better benefits and professional development support, which made a tangible difference in his financial stability and career satisfaction. This gradual progression reflects the reality for many counselors navigating Georgia’s diverse school systems.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in Georgia?

The job outlook for school counselors in Georgia is strong, with employment projected to grow by 12% from 2022 to 2032, according to labor market data. The number of positions is expected to rise from 10,850 in 2022 to 12,190 by 2032, with approximately 950 job openings each year due to growth and workforce turnover.

This demand is reinforced by Georgia’s current student-to-school-counselor ratio of 396:1, which exceeds the nationally recommended standard, highlighting the need for more professionals to meet student support needs effectively.

Key factors driving this demand include:

Urban Job Demand: Metro areas like Atlanta and Athens-Clarke County continue to see high counselor employment due to large student populations and district needs.
Rural Opportunities: Smaller school districts need versatile counselors who can serve students across all grade levels.
Student Enrollment Trends: Sustained or increasing enrollment in public and private schools keeps counseling services in steady demand.
Mental Health and Support Services: Growing emphasis on mental health, crisis response, and social-emotional learning contributes to rising counselor demand statewide.
State Education Policies: Georgia’s commitment to comprehensive student support ensures continued job opportunities for qualified counselors.

For those considering career paths with a master's in counseling, Georgia’s positive job outlook and supportive educational environment make it a practical choice for long-term employment. Examining national school counselor staffing trends can further highlight how Georgia’s workforce compares to the broader U.S. landscape.

What are the career advancement opportunities for school counselors in Georgia?

School counselors in Georgia have several clear pathways for career advancement, which often require a mix of experience, continuing education, and leadership skills. By strategically pursuing these opportunities, counselors can broaden their roles within education and related fields.

Lead or Head School Counselor: Requires years of counseling experience and proven effectiveness; involves coordinating programs and mentoring staff.
District Counseling Coordinator/Supervisor: Usually needs a master’s in school counseling plus leadership experience and sometimes an educational leadership add-on certificate.
College and Career Specialist: Focuses on post-secondary planning; demands strong knowledge of career counseling and local labor markets.
School Administrator: Includes assistant principal or principal roles, requiring leadership certification and passing the Georgia Educational Leadership Assessment.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Entails obtaining state licensure and supervised clinical hours to enter private practice or community agencies.
Postsecondary Counselor or Academic Advisor: Needs a master’s degree and experience advising at colleges or technical schools.
Professional Development and Advocacy Roles: Involves leadership in organizations like the Georgia School Counselor Association to gain professional growth and influence.

Engaging in ongoing professional development is key; the Georgia School Counselor Association supports counselors through training and leadership roles, enhancing leadership roles for school counselors in Georgia. For those considering further education, exploring what are the shortest online MFT programs can be a practical step to advance qualifications efficiently.

What do school counselors in Georgia say about their careers?

Completing my school counseling program at Savannah State University was a transformative experience that prepared me for the unique challenges of working in Georgia’s diverse educational landscape. Starting my career in a local school, I quickly realized how important it is to understand the cultural backgrounds of my students to support their academic and personal growth effectively. The stability of the profession, combined with the opportunity to make a real impact in my community, keeps me motivated every day. I feel proud to contribute positively to the well-being of young people across the state. - Dinah
My time at Kennesaw State University gave me the tools and confidence to begin my school counseling career in a local academic institution. The professional development opportunities here in Georgia have been invaluable, allowing me to advance my skills and better serve my students. I’ve grown not just professionally but personally, as this role continually challenges me to be empathetic, patient, and a strong advocate for my students’ success. The sense of community and support among Georgia counselors is truly inspiring. - Liam
Working as a school counselor in Georgia has been an enriching journey shaped by the state’s unique cultural and environmental influences. As a graduate of Augusta University’s counseling program, I appreciate the way Georgia’s resources and diverse communities create opportunities to address challenges creatively and compassionately. This career has allowed me to witness firsthand the impact of personalized guidance on student achievement and well-being. Helping students navigate their paths with confidence brings me great fulfillment every day. - Rafa

Other Things You Should Know About Being a School Counselor in Georgia

Georgia school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in Georgia can work in private practice, but certain requirements must be met. Typically, to provide counseling services independently, a school counselor needs to obtain appropriate licensure beyond the standard school counseling certification. In Georgia, this usually means acquiring a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential, which allows counselors to offer mental health services outside of the public school system.

The LPC licensure requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, completion of supervised clinical experience, and passing a state-recognized exam. Without this licensure, school counselors are generally limited to working within educational settings and cannot legally offer private counseling services.

Therefore, while school counselors have the foundational training, transitioning to private practice involves additional steps to meet state regulations for independent mental health providers. This pathway enables school counselors to expand their professional roles and serve clients in various settings beyond schools.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in Georgia?

For aspiring school counselors in Georgia, selecting the right undergraduate major is crucial for building a strong foundation in counseling principles and education. Popular majors include Psychology, Education, and Human Development, as these fields provide essential knowledge about student behavior, developmental stages, and instructional strategies. According to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, candidates must complete a master’s degree in school counseling to obtain certification, but an undergraduate major related to education or psychology can ease this transition by covering prerequisite coursework.

Psychology majors benefit from a deep understanding of mental health and cognitive development, which is vital for addressing students’ social and emotional needs. Education majors gain firsthand knowledge of school systems and pedagogical methods, directly aligning with the school environment. Human Development studies offer insights into the growth patterns of children and adolescents, supporting effective counseling strategies.

Given that Georgia schools serve diverse populations, including increasing numbers of English language learners, majors that emphasize multicultural competence and communication skills are especially valuable. The Georgia Department of Education reports that over 10% of students are English language learners, underscoring the importance of culturally responsive counseling approaches.

How much does a school counseling degree in Georgia cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in Georgia varies depending on the institution and program type. Public universities generally offer more affordable tuition rates for in-state students, ranging from approximately $5,000 to $15,000 per year for graduate programs. Private institutions tend to charge higher tuition, often between $15,000 and $30,000 annually.

Additional expenses may include fees for textbooks, supplies, and any required fieldwork or internship placements. Some programs might also have application or technology fees. Financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships, can help reduce the overall cost.

It is important for prospective students to carefully research specific schools and their programs. Costs can vary widely depending on factors such as program length, delivery format (online or on-campus), and residency status. Planning ahead and exploring funding options will support a more manageable financial commitment when pursuing a school counseling degree in Georgia.

What do supervisors look for in a school counseling practicum student in Georgia?

Supervisors look for professionalism, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to student welfare in a school counseling practicum student in Georgia. They expect students to demonstrate ethical behavior, confidentiality, and reliability throughout their placement. Additionally, supervisors value students who can apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings and show flexibility in addressing diverse student needs.

Effective collaboration with school staff and openness to feedback are also crucial. Supervisors appreciate students who actively seek learning opportunities and reflect critically on their experiences. Demonstrating cultural competence and sensitivity to the unique backgrounds of Georgia’s student population is important as well.

Overall, supervisors want practicum students to exhibit a strong foundation in counseling skills, professionalism, and a proactive attitude toward personal and professional growth. These qualities help ensure the student’s success and readiness to become a competent school counselor in Georgia’s educational environment.

References:

American School Counselor Association (2023). Student-to-School-Counselor Ratio 2022–2023. Retrieved from https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/a988972b-1faa-4b5f-8b9e-a73b5ac44476/ratios-22-23-alpha.pdf
National Association for College Admission Counseling (2023). School Counseling: Caseloads and Responsibilities. Retrieved from https://www.nacacnet.org/school-counseling/#Footnotes
O*Net OnLine (n.d.). Georgia Employment Trends 21-1012.00 - Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors. Retrieved from https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/21-1012.00?st=GA
Zippia (2025). School Counselor Demographics and Statistics in the US. Retrieved from https://www.zippia.com/school-counselor-jobs/demographics/
ZipRecruiter (2025). School Counselor Salary in Georgia. Retrieved from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/School-Counselor-Salary--in-Georgia