How to Become a School Counselor in Indiana

:: 2025 Guide

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: November 25th, 2024

The Hidden Power of School Counselors: Why Indiana Needs Them Now More Than Ever

We often think of school counselors as mere administrators of schedules and college applications. But this narrow view obscures their true, transformative power. School counselors are the unsung heroes of education, quietly guiding students towards their full potential.

Take, for example, the recent surge in student mental health crises in Indiana. According to a 2023 report by the Indiana Youth Institute, [insert specific statistic or quote from the report], a significant number of students are struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. In these turbulent times, school counselors are the first line of defense, offering much-needed support and intervention.

But the role of school counselors extends far beyond mental health. They are also essential in academic achievement, career exploration, and social-emotional development. By providing individual and group counseling, classroom guidance lessons, and college and career counseling, school counselors empower students to overcome obstacles, set goals, and build the skills they need to succeed.

So, why should someone consider becoming a school counselor in Indiana? The answer lies in the immense impact they can have on the lives of young people. School counselors have the opportunity to make a real difference in their communities, helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to thrive.

For those passionate about education and committed to making a positive change, a career in school counseling is a truly rewarding path. It’s a chance to work with students from all walks of life, to inspire and motivate, and to help shape the future of our state.

By becoming a school counselor in Indiana, you can join a dedicated group of professionals who are making a difference every day. You can help students reach their full potential, both academically and emotionally. And you can contribute to building a brighter future for Indiana.

Indiana School Counselor Certification

The certification process for school counselors falls under the overarching professional category of school services, and the pathways to certification in Indiana encompass:

Original School Services License

  • This represents the standard pathway for individuals aspiring to attain initial certification as a school counselor.
  • Requirements include the successful completion of a Masters degree program from an accredited school counselor program or additional coursework from an approved program for those already holding a degree.
  • Applicants are mandated to pass the Praxis Content area test, specifically in the “school services: school counselor” content area.
  • The license is initially granted for two years and is subject to renewal.
  • See Indiana Initial School Counseling Certification to learn more.

Original Emergency Permit – School Services

  • An Emergency Permit (EP) is a temporary credential issued by a school corporation or special education cooperative to address staffing challenges in a specific curriculum area.
  • Eligibility requires a Bachelor’s Degree from a university accredited regionally, and applicants must commit to pursuing an approved program.
  • Valid for one school year, the Emergency Permit can be renewed annually if renewal conditions are met.
  • Expiration occurs on June 30th, and applications should not be submitted before July 1st.
  • The Office of Educator Licensing enforces a four-week limit for filing Emergency Permit applications, ensuring timely processing.
  • See Indiana Alternative School Counseling Certification to learn more.

The educational component for both pathways underscores the significance of a Bachelor’s/Master’s degree from an accredited school counselor program, ensuring individuals possess a comprehensive understanding of the knowledge and skills requisite for effective school counseling. Indiana’s licensure framework is designed to support professional advancement through distinct tiers of licensing, including Initial Practitioner, Practitioner, and Accomplished Practitioner, each characterized by different renewal periods. A mandatory requirement under the Rules for Educator Preparation and Accountability 3 (REPA 3) adopted in 2015 is the successful completion of a core content licensure test specifically tailored for school counselors.