How to Become a Counselor in South Dakota

Online Counseling Education in South Dakota

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Several factors are likely to impact the occupational growth in this field. The most significant contributor, however, is the increasing number of individuals seeking mental health and addiction counseling services. More and more healthcare providers are also embracing the concept of integrated care, which entails treating multiple problems at one time. As a result, specialists are working as collective and cohesive groups more frequently. Another important shift impacting demand for counselors stems from changes in the legal system. Many states are moving to sentence treatment and counseling services rather than, or in addition to, jail time for people with addictions and/or mental health concerns. This adjustment will greatly impact job availability, especially for professionals who specialize in addiction.

The educational services, healthcare, and social assistance industry is the second largest industry in South Dakota. It accounts for approximately $5.4 billion in revenue each year. As of May 2021, the state employed 7,040 community and social service professionals who made an annual mean wage of $44,490. It’s important to note that this is slightly lower than South Dakota’s annual mean wage of $46,810 for all occupations. It’s also just below the median annual wage of $45,760 for all occupations in the United States.

Many colleges and universities in South Dakota offer counseling as a degree option. Current professionals and those with other responsibilities or restrictions may struggle, however, to consistently attend classes on campus. While online programs exist throughout the nation and abroad, those who intend to work in South Dakota should give preference to academic institutions within the state. These schools will be far more familiar with the certification and licensure requirements of local counselors and will ensure that graduates are better prepared to meet various qualifying requirements. Colleges and universities in the state are also familiar with the needs and expectations of employers in the region. As a result, graduates tend to be better prepared for employment and perceived as more competitive. Additionally, it’s common for institutions to establish collaborative relationships with nearby companies and organizations. This can make acquiring internships, work experience, and professional employment much easier.

Find Your Online Counseling Program

There are many different types of counselors. These professionals can specialize in particular behavioral health services, becoming experts in treating certain conditions.

Some of the most common counseling specializations include:

Counselors may also designate specific populations they prefer to work with such as trauma victims, veterans, or addicts. In some cases, these professionals even specialize in treating certain age groups, from children and teens to adults and the elderly.

Specializing in a specific type of counseling can significantly impact daily responsibilities, as well as working environments. Some of the most common workplaces include hospitals, outpatient mental health facilities, substance abuse centers, service centers, and residential substance abuse homes. Professionals who are properly certified can also establish their own private practices in South Dakota.

Working as a counselor can be extremely rewarding, but it can be quite stressful as well. Those interested in the profession should consider their own dispositions and what the job entails carefully before proceeding. Professionals in this field are often responsible for managing large workloads and working long hours. Additionally, many facilities require participation in on-call rotations or availability for emergency situations. Further, helping patients work through difficult and/or traumatic experiences can be emotionally draining.

Some amount of higher education is generally required in order to qualify for most counseling and behavioral health jobs in South Dakota. While the minimum degree required for licensed counselors in the state is a master’s, prospective students can pursue programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and doctoral levels as well. Employment opportunities will, however, vary based on the education obtained.

Become a Counselor in South Dakota

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The first step to becoming a counselor in South Dakota is determining what type of professional you want to be. While specialization is not required, knowing your intentions early can be helpful. Not only will it help you find the most appropriate degree program available in the state, but it can ensure you obtain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the future. If you do have a specific type of counseling in mind, it’s important to verify that your college or university of choice offers it as a concentration. Otherwise, additional education and training may be needed. As previously mentioned, counselors generally need master’s or doctoral degrees in counseling from an accredited institution.

The state of South Dakota requires all counselors to be licensed. Providing counseling services for a fee without a license is against the law. The Board of Examiners for Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists oversees the licensure process and awards the necessary credentials.

The board issues three professional licenses:

All applications for licensure must be made through the board’s office and each application requires a refundable $225 fee that cannot be pro-rated. Licenses are valid until November 30th of the next even-numbered year following the issue date.

Those seeking the LPC credential must first submit a Plan of Supervision. Requirements include providing transcripts showing graduation from an approved program or a 48-hour master’s degree in counseling from an accredited institution. Candidates must also provide a passing score on the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for Licensure and Certification, which is administered by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). Additionally, a board-approved supervisor must be designated in order to oversee the required supervision and direct client contact hours for full licensure.

Counseling licenses in South Dakota must be renewed biennially in even-numbered years. Licensees must show 40 hours of continuing education, including at least four hours related to ethics.

Careers for Counseling Graduates

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