To be or not be a Counselor Educator (CES), that is the question.

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I love my job — like a lot. I love learning about how to create a just world and help others work through their pain using their strengths — I love learning and being creative; I also love being a part of an academic community with other folxs who are just as excited about learning in a hyper-focused kind of way on some aspect of counseling, counseling education, or supervision as I am : )

This post is for students who enjoy learning and are considering furthering their education. This post is specifically geared toward why counselors might consider continuing for a Ph.D. in counselor education (I will create a separate post for practice-focused degrees).

Here are some thoughts worth considering

Pursuing a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision (CES) can be a significant endeavor with numerous professional and personal benefits. Below, I outline some reasons to consider pursuing such a degree, key factors to contemplate when selecting a program, and thoughtful questions to ask potential PhD programs.

Reasons to Pursue a PhD in CES

1. Advanced Knowledge and Skills: A PhD provides a deep dive into both theoretical foundations and empirical research, which can enhance your clinical skills and provide an understanding of the nuances and complexities of the counseling profession.
2. Teaching: Many with a PhD in CES take on roles as educators, teaching the next generation of counselors.
3. Research Opportunities: If you’re interested in contributing to the field by conducting research, a PhD is almost essential.
4. Supervision: You’ll gain skills to supervise other counselors, ensuring the maintenance of professional standards in the field.
5. Leadership: With a PhD, you’re more likely to take on leadership roles within professional organizations or administrative positions within clinical settings.
6. Higher Earning Potential: A doctorate can open up positions with higher salaries compared to some master’s level roles.

Important Things to Consider

1. CACREP Accreditation: The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) provides accreditation to counseling programs that meet their strict standards. Attending a CACREP-accredited program ensures a rigorous education and is often looked upon favorably by employers and licensing boards.
2. Online vs. Land-based:

• Online: Provides flexibility, which can be crucial for working professionals. Ensure the program still offers comprehensive training, including residencies or in-person training components.
• Land-based: Traditional face-to-face learning, which can offer richer interactions, networking opportunities, and access to on-campus resources.
• Funding and Tuition Cost: Investigate funding opportunities such as assistantships, fellowships, scholarships, or grants. Also, consider the overall cost of the program and the return on investment.
• Amount of Time: PhD programs can vary in length. Typically, a PhD in CES can take 3–5 years of full-time study. Part-time options might also be available.

Here are some questions for Potential PhD Programs:

1. What are the primary research interests of the faculty?
2. What percentage of students secure funding or assistantships?
3. How do you support students in their dissertation process?
4. How do graduates fare in the job market post-graduation?
5. Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration?
6. What kinds of practicum and internship opportunities are available to students?
7. How do you handle student advisement and mentorship?
8. What is the program’s philosophy on diversity, equity, and inclusion?
9. What resources are available for professional development?
10. How often do students present at conferences or publish in journals?
11. Are there opportunities to teach or co-teach courses?
12. How is the program adapted to current challenges in the counseling field?
13. What is the program’s completion rate, and how long do most students take to finish?

Finally, consider visiting the campuses or connecting with current students and alumni to get a first-hand perspective of the program. This can offer insights that can be incredibly valuable in making an informed decision.