How to Become a School Counselor in Virginia for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring school counselors struggle with understanding the precise steps to enter the profession in Virginia, where demand is growing. Recent data shows that Virginia’s public schools employ over 2,000 counselors, yet the student-to-counselor ratio remains above the national recommendation of 250:1, highlighting a critical need for qualified professionals.

Pursuing a career as a school counselor in Virginia offers meaningful opportunities to impact youth development while ensuring job stability in a state that invests in education support services. This article, developed by career planning experts, clarifies certification requirements, educational pathways, and practical advice to guide candidates toward successful licensure and employment

Key Things to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Virginia

Obtain a master’s degree in school counseling from a Virginia Board of Education-approved program to meet licensure requirements.
Complete supervised practicum and internship hours, typically totaling around 600, to gain practical experience in K-12 settings.
Pass the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment and the Praxis School Guidance and Counseling exam to earn the professional school counselor license.

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

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

Achieving licensure as a school counselor in Virginia requires completing a specific graduate education pathway that ensures both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. These degree requirements reflect the standards upheld by accredited school counselor preparation programs in Virginia.

Master’s Degree in School Counseling: Candidates must earn a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution within a state-approved program tailored for school counseling at the PK-12 level.
School Counselor Preparation Program: The program must include at least 100 clock hours of internship and practicum in both preK-6 and grades 7-12 settings, ensuring broad experience across student age groups.
Credit Hour Requirement: Many programs, such as the M.Ed. in School Counseling at Virginia Commonwealth University, require a minimum of 60 graduate credit hours to meet state standards.
Accreditation: The program should be accredited by recognized bodies like CACREP, guaranteeing curriculum quality and compliance with licensure eligibility.
Practical Experience: A total of at least 200 supervised clock hours in practicum and internship are necessary, divided between elementary and secondary school environments.

For those exploring how to become a licensed therapist, understanding these school counseling master's degree requirements in Virginia is essential to navigate the path with clarity and purpose.

Are there school counseling specializations in Virginia?

Exploring school counseling specializations in Virginia reveals a diverse set of focused areas designed to equip counselors with the skills necessary to support students effectively. These specializations address both core counseling duties and elective fields that enhance professional versatility.

Certified programs emphasize the development of expertise aligned with the American School Counselor Association standards, ensuring counselors are prepared to meet the varied academic and social needs of PK-12 students. For those considering different paths, understanding these options can clarify the best route forward in their counseling careers.

PK-12 School Counseling: Prepares counselors to guide students from preschool through 12th grade in academic, career, and social-emotional development within diverse educational environments.
Comprehensive School Counseling Program Development: Focuses on designing and assessing school counseling programs using evidence-based, data-driven methods aligned with national standards.
Multicultural Counseling: Develops cultural competence and advocacy skills to support students from diverse backgrounds and address systemic educational barriers.
Career Counseling and Exploration: Trains counselors to provide career guidance and vocational support for students at all grade levels, fostering informed decision-making.
Addictions and Mental Health Counseling (Elective): Offers specialized coursework addressing addiction and mental health issues, aiding counselors pursuing Licensed Professional Counselor credentialing.
Family, Marriage, and Group Counseling (Elective): Provides skills in family dynamics and group counseling to meet complex student and family needs.

For those seeking the quickest way to become a counselor, understanding these specializations is essential to choosing the best school counseling degree options in Virginia that align with career goals and licensure requirements. Furthermore, the chart below highlights the different types of companies that employ school counselors, illustrating the variety of professional environments available in the United States, including Virginia.

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

Completing a master’s degree in school counseling in Virginia generally takes about two years of full-time study, typically involving a 60-credit-hour curriculum. Programs such as those at Virginia Commonwealth University and the College of William & Mary are designed to be completed within this timeframe, often including summer sessions to fulfill practicum and internship requirements.

For those pursuing part-time study, the duration can extend to three years or more, depending on course load and scheduling flexibility. This flexibility allows working professionals to balance education with other responsibilities.

Certain state-specific requirements influence the overall timeline beyond coursework completion:

Internship and Practicum: Virginia mandates at least 100 clock hours of supervised experience in both elementary and secondary school settings, which are integrated into the graduate program but require careful planning to complete.
Additional Licensure Requirements: Candidates must also complete emergency first aid, CPR, and AED training and submit a social security number as part of the certification process.
Professional Experience: Without two years of prior teaching or counseling experience, graduates often need to complete a two-year provisional license period working full-time as a school counselor before full licensure is granted.

Because of these factors, the total time from starting a master’s degree to achieving full licensure can extend beyond the initial two-year academic program. Prospective counselors should carefully assess program structures and state licensing requirements to accurately estimate their timeline.

Consulting the Virginia Department of Education and program advisors can help align educational goals with licensure pathways, ensuring a smooth transition into the profession.

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

To practice as a school counselor in Virginia’s public schools, obtaining the Pupil Personnel Services License with a School Counseling endorsement is essential. This credential confirms that candidates have met state standards beyond their graduate degree and are prepared for the unique demands of K-12 counseling.

The certification process involves several key steps, each designed to ensure competency and readiness:

Pass Required Examinations: Candidates must successfully complete the Praxis Professional School Counselor exam (Test Code 5421 or the current equivalent), assessing knowledge aligned with national counseling standards.
Complete Supervised Internship/Practicum: A state-approved, hands-on internship or practicum within a K-12 setting provides critical real-world experience and is mandatory for licensure.
Submit Application to the VDOE: Applicants formally apply for licensure through the Virginia Department of Education, providing transcripts, test scores, internship documentation, and paying the applicable fee.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: Stringent safety requirements mandate a criminal background check and fingerprinting to protect school communities.
Verification of Legal Work Status: Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal authorization to work is required to complete the application process.

This structured approach balances academic preparation with practical experience and legal safeguards, reflecting Virginia’s commitment to competent and trustworthy school counseling professionals. The image below illustrates the size of the school counselor workforce in the U.S., providing context for Virginia’s role within the national landscape.

There are 131,230 school counselors working in the U.S. from 2023 to 2024.

Can I transfer my Virginia school counseling license between states?

Virginia does not participate in formal interstate reciprocity agreements for school counseling licenses. This means you cannot simply transfer your Virginia school counseling license to another state and begin practicing right away. Instead, you must pursue licensure by endorsement or apply as an out-of-state candidate, which involves a detailed review of your credentials by the new state’s licensing board.

Each state has its own set of standards and requirements, so the process is often more complex than a straightforward transfer.

When moving to another state, school counselors typically face several steps, including:

Submitting an application for endorsement to the new state’s Department of Education or licensing board.
Providing verification of your Virginia license, transcripts from an accredited master’s program, and documentation of supervised internship or practicum hours (Virginia requires at least 200 hours split between elementary and secondary settings).
Demonstrating relevant work experience, as Virginia requires two years of full-time teaching or counseling experience for initial licensure.
Passing state-specific exams such as jurisprudence or ethics tests, which many states require even for already licensed counselors.
Completing additional coursework if your previous education or practicum hours do not meet the new state’s standards.
Undergoing a criminal background check and fingerprinting.
Providing professional recommendations or evidence of standing, if requested.
Possibly obtaining provisional licensure to work while completing outstanding requirements.

Without true reciprocity, transferring a school counseling license can involve delays, added requirements, and a lack of portability due to varying state standards. A school counselor who graduated from a Virginia program shared that moving to another state required gathering transcripts, documenting internship hours, and retaking an ethics exam—steps she found time-consuming and sometimes frustrating.

However, she appreciated how Virginia’s rigorous training prepared her well, and the provisional license allowed her to keep working while meeting new requirements. Her experience reflects the patience, persistence, and adaptability needed to navigate licensure across state lines while maintaining professional integrity.

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

In Virginia, school counselors are required to renew their professional credentials every five years to maintain their licensure. This renewal cycle ensures counselors continue to meet evolving educational standards and statutory requirements throughout their careers.

Renewal Cycle: Licenses must be renewed every five years by completing required professional development and submitting an application.
Professional Development Points: Counselors must earn 180 professional development points through approved activities such as workshops, conferences, or college courses during each renewal period.
Statutory Requirements: Mandatory training, including child abuse recognition and intervention, must be completed within each five-year cycle to comply with state law.
Application Submission: A completed renewal application must be submitted to the Virginia Department of Education or district licensure office with supporting documentation.
Documentation and Recordkeeping: Maintaining accurate records of professional development and statutory training is essential for verification and audit purposes.
Renewal Fee: As of 2025, the standard renewal fee is $50, though districts or the state may update this amount.
Background Check: Counselors with employment gaps may be required to complete a new background check prior to renewal.
Proof of Employment: Some districts may request current employment verification as part of the renewal process.

This structured process not only upholds professional competency but also reflects the state’s commitment to quality counseling services—an important context for understanding the school counselor staffing status shown in the chart below.

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

Virginia offers several alternative pathways for those pursuing school counselor licensure, especially career-changers or individuals without a traditional education background. These options provide flexibility while ensuring candidates meet state standards through coursework, supervised fieldwork, and exams.

Post-Master’s Certificate Programs: Designed for those with a master’s in another field, these programs include required counseling courses and field experiences, typically completed in one to two years.
Provisional Licensure: Allows candidates employed by a school division to work under supervision while completing licensure requirements, valid for up to three years.
Graduate Coursework for Career-Changers: Flexible or accelerated master’s programs accommodate working professionals, sometimes permitting prerequisite courses as non-degree study.
Relevant Work Experience and Alternative Certification: Prior experience in education or mental health may be partially credited through tailored plans with the state.

Key requirements include supervised practicum hours and passing the Praxis exam if mandated. For more on educational options, explore types of counseling degrees.

What is the average salary of school counselors in Virginia?

The average salary for school counselors in Virginia hovers around $62,540 annually, slightly below the national median salary, which tends to be higher. This gap highlights regional differences and the importance of local factors in shaping compensation for this profession.

Location: Urban and affluent districts often offer better pay, reflecting local economic conditions and funding availability.
Experience and Seniority: Salaries increase with years of practice and leadership roles, rewarding dedication and expertise.
Education and Certification: Advanced degrees and specialized credentials typically lead to higher pay, recognizing professional development.
School District Budgets: Districts with larger budgets can provide more competitive salaries and benefits.
Role and Responsibilities: Additional duties, such as department leadership, often come with stipends or salary boosts.
Market Demand: Areas facing counselor shortages may offer bonuses or higher wages to attract talent.

When I spoke with a school counselor from Virginia who graduated locally, he shared how navigating salary expectations felt like balancing passion with practical needs. “Starting out, the pay was modest, but knowing the role’s impact kept me motivated,” he recalled.

Over time, earning advanced certifications and taking on extra responsibilities helped increase his salary, and moving within the district to a higher-demand school brought unexpected financial bonuses. He emphasized that while Virginia’s pay may not top national charts, the steady growth and support from the community made the journey rewarding both professionally and personally.

School counselors earn an average of $76,960 from local schools as of 2024.

What is the job outlook for school counselors in Virginia?

The job outlook for school counselors in Virginia is encouraging, with employment growth expected to exceed national averages. While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4% increase in school and career counselor jobs nationally from 2023 to 2033, Virginia anticipates a 10.1% expansion in related employment opportunities by 2026. This favorable trend reflects a growing need for skilled counselors to support students across the state’s educational system.

Student Enrollment Growth: Rising K–12 enrollment in Virginia creates a sustained demand for school counselors to address academic guidance and social development needs.
Mental Health Needs: Increased recognition of student mental health challenges elevates the importance of counselors in providing critical support and interventions.
State Education Initiatives: Efforts to improve student well-being often include reducing student-to-counselor ratios, driving demand for more qualified professionals.
Employment Projections: Around 29,100 openings for school and career counselors are expected nationwide annually, largely due to retirements and career shifts, indicating consistent job availability.
Compensation Trends: In Virginia, average annual salaries for school counselors hover near $59,891, with variations based on experience and location, offering room for career advancement.
Professional Support: Organizations like the Virginia School Counselor Association provide advocacy and development, strengthening career pathways and job stability.

For those exploring career options with a masters in counseling, these positive employment trends and professional supports make Virginia an attractive state for building a fulfilling counseling career. The school counselor employment growth in Virginia reflects a combination of demographic shifts, policy focus, and increasing awareness of student needs.

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

School counselors in Virginia have a range of career advancement options that reflect their growing expertise and leadership potential. Progression often depends on gaining experience, further education, and active participation in professional development.

Lead or Head School Counselor: Oversees counseling programs and staff within a school or district, requiring several years of experience and often advanced certification or graduate degrees.
School Counseling Program Coordinator or Director: Manages district-level counseling services and policy development, typically requiring a master’s or specialist degree and administrative credentials.
School Administrator (Assistant Principal, Principal): Moves into broader educational leadership with an administration program completion and relevant licensure.
Specialist Roles: Focuses on areas like college and career readiness or mental health coordination, needing specialized training and certifications.
Professional Development Facilitator or Trainer: Leads training initiatives for counselors, requiring recognized expertise and ongoing professional involvement.
Leadership in Professional Associations: Engages in organizations such as VSCA to build leadership and advocacy skills based on professional reputation.
Higher Education Faculty or Counselor Educator: Teaches future counselors at the college level with doctoral credentials and counseling experience.
School Mental Health Coordinator or Supervisor: Oversees mental health programs across districts, requiring advanced mental health training and licensure.

To navigate these leadership roles for school counselors in Virginia, continuous learning is essential. Pursuing the most affordable online school counseling degrees and engaging in professional development opportunities for school counselors in Virginia can significantly enhance one’s qualifications and open doors to impactful positions.

What do school counselors in Virginia say about their career?

Completing my school counseling program at James Madison University was a transformative experience that prepared me thoroughly for the unique challenges of working in Virginia’s public schools. Starting my career at a local school allowed me to immediately apply what I learned in a supportive community where student well-being is a priority. I’ve found the balance of professional stability and meaningful impact incredibly rewarding, especially as I support students navigating both academic and personal growth. Virginia’s emphasis on comprehensive counseling services truly makes a difference in shaping well-rounded young individuals. Dianne
Working as a school counselor in Virginia has been a journey of profound personal growth and community engagement. After finishing my degree at Virginia Commonwealth University, I dove into a role where I could address not just academic concerns but also the social and emotional needs of my students. The diverse cultural landscape and resources available here have enriched my ability to connect with students from all backgrounds. I love knowing that every day I contribute to the well-being and future success of children in my community. Bryan
Virginia offers exceptional opportunities for professional development in school counseling, which I have experienced firsthand since starting my career in a local school. The state’s commitment to ongoing training and career advancement has helped me stay current with best practices and broaden my skills in crisis intervention and college readiness. Navigating the distinct challenges of Virginia’s educational system has made me a more effective counselor and a confident advocate for students’ futures. The role here is both demanding and deeply fulfilling, and I’m proud to be part of it. Mika

What challenges do school counselors in Virginia encounter?

School counselors in Virginia face significant challenges, including managing high caseloads and limited resources while addressing diverse student needs. They must balance administrative responsibilities with direct student interaction, often under tight schedules that can impact service quality. Continuous adaptation to regulatory changes and educational best practices is essential to maintain professional competency. For strategies that streamline preparation and certification, exploring the fastest way to become a counselor in Virginia can offer practical insights and targeted guidance.

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a School Counselor in Virginia

Can Virginia school counselors work in private practice?

School counselors in Virginia can work in private practice, but there are specific requirements they must meet to do so legally and ethically. While employed school counselors typically hold a Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) license for school counseling, this credential alone does not authorize private practice.

To provide counseling services independently, a school counselor must obtain the appropriate license for clinical or professional counseling, such as the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential issued by the Virginia Board of Counseling. This license requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, supervised clinical experience, and passing a national counseling exam.

Practicing privately also involves adhering to state laws, ethical standards, and continuing education requirements specific to clinical counseling. Therefore, while the foundational training as a school counselor is valuable, transitioning to private practice in Virginia necessitates additional licensure and compliance with regulations governing private mental health services.

Which majors are best for aspiring school counselors in Virginia?

For aspiring school counselors in Virginia, selecting the right undergraduate major is crucial to meeting state licensure requirements and gaining relevant skills. The most common and recommended majors include Psychology, Education, and Human Development. According to the Virginia Department of Education, a strong foundation in counseling theories and child development, typically covered in these majors, is essential for effective school counseling practice.

Psychology provides a deep understanding of behavior and mental health, which is vital given that nearly 20% of Virginia’s K-12 students have reported experiencing anxiety or depression (Virginia Department of Health, 2023).

Education majors gain practical knowledge about school systems and instructional strategies, aligning well with the counselor’s role in academic advising and student support. Human Development focuses on the social and emotional growth of children and adolescents, directly relevant to the counseling profession. These majors facilitate entry into Virginia’s graduate counseling programs, which are required for licensure, and prepare candidates to meet the state’s diverse student needs effectively.

How much does a school counseling degree in Virginia cost?

The cost of a school counseling degree in Virginia varies depending on the institution and program format. On average, tuition ranges from $8,000 to $30,000 per year for graduate programs. Public universities tend to offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private institutions generally charge higher fees.

Additional expenses include fees, textbooks, and materials, which can add several hundred to a few thousand dollars annually. Some programs offer online or part-time options that may affect overall costs. Financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships are often available to help offset expenses.

Prospective students should carefully review the total cost of attendance and consider factors such as program length and accreditation. Choosing a Virginia Board of Education-approved program ensures eligibility for state licensure as a school counselor. Overall, costs vary widely, so researching multiple schools and financial options is crucial for planning your educational investment effectively.

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

Supervisors look for professionalism, strong communication skills, and a genuine commitment to student development in a school counseling practicum student in Virginia. They expect students to demonstrate ethical behavior and maintain confidentiality. Being proactive in seeking feedback and showing adaptability to diverse school environments is crucial. Supervisors value students who apply counseling theories effectively and engage actively in case discussions and school activities.

Time management and organizational skills are important to handle the varied responsibilities of a practicum. Supervisors also appreciate cultural competence and sensitivity to the needs of all students. Reflective practice, where students critically assess their performance and growth, is highly regarded. Ultimately, supervisors seek candidates who show empathy, professionalism, and a readiness to learn from their experiences to become effective school counselors.

References:

Bell, E. and Meyer, K. (2023). The school counselor staffing landscape: Policies and practice. Brookings Institution
CareerHerd. (2025). Becoming a School Counselor in Virginia [2025 Certification Guide]. CareerHerd
Duquesne University. (n.d.). School Counseling, M.S.Ed. DU
James Madison University. (n.d.). School Counseling. JMU
The Graduate School of Education and Human Development. (n.d.). Master's in School Counseling. GWU
University of Lynchburg. (2025). Master of Science in School Counseling. Lynchburrg.edu
University of Virginia. (2025). Counselor Education: M.Ed. - Master of Education. UV
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education. (2025). M.Ed in Counselor Education. VCU
Virginia State University. (n.d.). Counselor Education Program M.Ed. and M.S. Curriculum Sheet. VSU
Virginia Tech College of Liberal Arts and Humanities. (2025). School Counseling. Virginia Tech
William and Mary School of Education. (n.d.). School Counseling. WMSE
Zippia. (2025). School counselor demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia