How to Become a Counselor Without a Degree: Is It Possible?

Many people wonder, How can I become a counselor without a degree? After all, college can be expensive and time-consuming. And if you could skip it all while still pursuing a fulfilling career in counseling, why not?

There are many types of counselors. The specific job duties of a counselor vary based on your education and work setting, but all counselors must be attentive listeners who can provide empathy and understanding to their clients.

So do you really need a degree to become a counselor? Read on to find out.

The reality is that you typically can’t become a full-fledged counselor without a graduate degree and licensure. Each state determines its own requirements to practice as a counselor.

Here’s a general overview of what you must do to become a licensed counselor:

The main exception to these steps is substance use counseling, which usually requires a bachelor’s degree — not a master’s degree. Some states, however, such as Pennsylvania, allow substance use counselors to practice with just a high school diploma or GED certificate.

These counselors focus on helping clients recover from addiction without diagnosing conditions. Instead of licensure, substance use counselors normally obtain state certification and only practice under supervision.

Below are the typical education requirements for various types of counselors.

If you think you’d enjoy a counseling career but are unsure about it or don’t yet have the necessary education, counseling-adjacent jobs without a degree can be a great alternative.

The jobs below all involve attentive listening skills and helping others. And since they do not entail clinical skills, licensure is not required.

All salary and job growth data comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Payscale.

A career coach helps you build the skills needed for career development. This can include resume-building, interviewing, and job searching. Career coaches can also help you identify your professional goals and skills and offer guidance on career choices you may find fulfilling.

Community health workers act as intermediaries between clients and care providers. They’re usually active in their communities, where they advocate for their clients’ unique needs, conduct outreach, or provide coaching support.

These workers may also help clients overcome barriers that impede access to care.

A life coach helps you achieve your goals related to wellness or personal growth. These professionals provide support as clients navigate various obstacles and help them remain focused on their life goals.

The life coach industry is largely unregulated and does not require a degree. Income varies widely and tends to increase for experienced coaches who are skilled at networking and marketing themselves.

Peer support specialists assist licensed counselors and psychologists by supporting patients seeking mental health or substance use services. They use their experiences to provide social and emotional support as well as to supply access to clinical care and community resources.

Personal trainers help people achieve their fitness goals. Trainers can work privately with clients in their homes or teach individuals or classes at gyms. These professionals offer coaching support, develop training plans, and teach proper form to help people avoid injury.

They may also provide education about nutrition and lifestyle factors related to fitness.

Psychiatric technicians and aides assist doctors in caring for patients seeking care for mental health conditions or drug or alcohol addiction. They may monitor patients’ health, assist with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, and accompany patients on group outings.

Social and human service assistants provide client services in areas such as psychology, rehabilitation, and social work. These assistants help clients get benefits and select appropriate treatment plans.

Teaching assistants work with licensed teachers to provide classroom support and teaching assistance. They often review lessons with students, help teachers with lesson plans, and handle recordkeeping.

Assistants who gain more experience and education down the line may be interested in becoming school counselors.