Teenager Development Counselor: Career Information for Becoming a Teen Counselor

As adolescents become teens, they often struggle with challenges that are difficult to overcome. A Teenager Development Counselor addresses behavioral issues that may arise as teens try to cope with social, academic and emotional pressures. Counseling careers generally require a master's degree and licensing; however, a bachelor's degree with appropriate coursework and experience may be sufficient for some Teenage Development Counselor positions.

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Career Definition: Teenager Development Counselor

Teenager Development Counselors work with at-risk youth and their families. They try to help teens find constructive ways to deal with problems, such as emotional issues, substance abuse, aggression, grief and destructive behavior. A Teenager Development Counselor may have his or her own practice, but many are employed by schools, private counseling centers, teen pregnancy programs and addiction rehabilitation facilities.

How to Become a Teenager Development Counselor

Required Education for a Career in Teenager Development Counseling

Most Teenager Development Counseling positions require a master's degree in counseling or psychology from an accredited university. Some employers will hire trainees with a bachelor's degree and coursework in the social services field if they are pursuing a master's degree. A state license is also required to practice Counseling in all states except California. Licensing requirements vary by state, but usually include passing an exam issued by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Additionally, the NBCC offers a voluntary National Certified Counselor professional credential (www.nbcc.org). Practicing Teenager Development Counselors must also take continuing education courses to maintain certification and licensure.

Skills Required for a Career as a Teenager Development Counselor

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, are needed to be a Teenager Development Counselors. In many regions, being bilingual is also an asset. They need to have a good understanding of various treatment techniques so that they can document client progress, make evaluations and plan treatment. Teenager Counselors often interact with teens one-on-one, but they should also be able to conduct sessions with family members and in group settings. Teenager Development Counselors in private practice should have good business management skills.

Economic Outlook for Teenager Development Counseling

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects the counseling profession in general to be one of the fastest growing occupations in the country, with a projected employment increase of 21 percent over the decade ending in 2016 (www.bls.gov). Those who specialize may see the most gains. Employment in areas involving youth, such as Teenager Development Counseling, may also increase as schools begin to expand preventive counseling programs.

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