Do you regret your decision to become a licensed or certified counselor? Why or why not?

Question

I am considering getting a 2nd Master's degree in Counseling and I want to hear from certified or licensed counselors and what they think about the profession. Can you make a comfortable living from private practice? Do you do other things (i.e. teach or do research) to make additional income? Do you like the work or do you hate it and want to do something else?

Please, only replies from counselors.

Just to reiterate - answers from licensed or professional counselors only, please. Secretaries & unlicensed youth counselors are not in the profession. Thank you.

Thanks for the answers so far. Additional question - is it feasible to do private practice counseling "part time"? I currently teach part-time and am working on a research project part-time also. If I completed a Master's in Counseling, is it practical to think that I could split my time between college teaching, counseling and working on research projects?

I would think malpractice insurance, office rental, etc. would be rather costly for a private practice counselor and therefore maybe make doing counseling "part time" a bit unrealistic. Your thoughts? Is anyone doing something similar? Thanks again.

Answer 1

I got into the field 18 years ago, and loved it. However, the money resources (grants, etc.) change with the political current, so you have to be able to be flexible in what areas (specialties) you work.

My Master's degree is "nice" to have, but I will never make enough money to justify the cost.

Due to not working with the population I prefer (addicts), I enjoy my job less than I did. Other professional associates of mine got into private practice, but even with good malpractice insurance, it is a real hassle.

Research isn't my thing, but I would like to teach. However, the education market is glutted with counselors wanting extra income.

Probably, I will stay in the profession, because I still feel that I have a lot to offer. Eventually, funding will become available for my specialty, again.

Bottom line: don't get in it for the money. Do it only if you have a passion for helping others. Good luck & GOD bless.

Answer 2

I am a certified and licensed therapist. I love what I do. I have worked in the field for nearly 12 years. I am currently working with a private agency. I am a self employed contractor who gets referred cases from DFCS and CPS. I go into the homes and provide counseling and therapeutic services to families. This work is very rewarding for me. I basically set my own hours. The pay is great! I have considered going into private practice, but working like I do now works for me. I am still young and have time to do my own thing if I choose to do so in a couple of years. I can't see myself doing anything other than what I do now. Social work and counseling is in my blood and I honestly feel that this is what I was put here to do. I hope to continue on this track for many more years to come. Things can only get better. My advice to you is to make sure that you want to do counseling before getting the degree in the field. Anyone should love what they do. If you are unhappy in your chosen field then something is wrong. To be successful you have to be happy in doing what you do. Try it on for size before making a commitment. Good luck to you and I know you will make a wise and sound decision.

Answer 3

I did it and dont have one degree. I helped teens dealing with all kinds of problems. If you dont really care about people and want the money,,, then dont do it.Too many philosophical people into with their psychogical blah blah ,,,people need help not a philosopher.

Answer 4

I was a secretary to a group of counselors and must say that they're all on drugs.

Answer 5

I think you should go ahead and pursue it. I wish I would have.