8 answers
Johnpatrick
Student
Warri, Delta, Nigeria
1
Question
Asked
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What degree do I need to add to my bachelor's degree in public administration, if am to become a certified counselor, having worked for 5yrs in an NGO as a case manager?
Msc in public administration, 5 years experience as a counselor to people living with HIV.
7 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Upon receiving a Bachelors of Public Administration (MPA), the next reasonable step would be to pursue a masters degree, which would enable you to meet state requirements to become a counselor. This would mean a Masters in Psychology with an emphasis in Counseling. For most counseling careers, a master’s degree is required, and the Master’s in Counseling is one of the best degrees for those aiming to become licensed professional counselors (LPCs), therapists, or mental health counselors.
To work as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), you’ll need to earn a graduate (master’s) degree that fulfills all of your state’s requirements to pursue that license. Some states specify the degree must have a specific title, such as a master’s in professional counseling, while others are not as concerned about the title as long as the degree complies with that state’s specified courses and clinical training for the LPC license.
A graduate with a state-approved master’s degree can then begin the licensure process that usually consists of two years of post-graduate supervised work as a professional counselor associate. Once all post-graduate supervised hours are complete and the graduate passes a licensing exam, they are then allowed to become a licensed professional counselor.
I would check with the state licensing requirements, to see what is needed to achieve this goal.
To work as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), you’ll need to earn a graduate (master’s) degree that fulfills all of your state’s requirements to pursue that license. Some states specify the degree must have a specific title, such as a master’s in professional counseling, while others are not as concerned about the title as long as the degree complies with that state’s specified courses and clinical training for the LPC license.
A graduate with a state-approved master’s degree can then begin the licensure process that usually consists of two years of post-graduate supervised work as a professional counselor associate. Once all post-graduate supervised hours are complete and the graduate passes a licensing exam, they are then allowed to become a licensed professional counselor.
I would check with the state licensing requirements, to see what is needed to achieve this goal.
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Johnpatrick !
In your country of Nigeria, you would need a Bachelors Degree in Psychology or Counseling and then a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. You could probably get work with the Bachelors in Psych or Counseling, but your employment options would be better with a Masters Degree. The University that you attend would tell you what would be needed to be a Certified Counselor.
I was a Case Manager in the U.S. so I understand your experience and you've had substantial professional experience. The type of counseling entailed in case management is categorized as situational counseling and is crucial for the well being of the clients, however it is not therapeutic or clinical and that's why, as a Certified Counselor, you will need a foundation heavy in psychology. That begins with the Tier 1 courses for a Bachelors Degree and progresses forward towards the Masters Degree. I did social service intensive case management with people that had physical, mental disabilities, the homeless and basically every population except children. As a Certified Counselor, an undergraduate Psychology path will prepare you to work with all populations. Since you already have the medical case management experience, you will broaden your scope with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology, then the Masters in Counseling Psychology in your country of Nigeria.
With a Bachelors Degree in Public Administration and your experience with Case Management, you may want to consider work as a Program Director at a service agency that provides case management services. Read some of the employment notices in your local area for Program Directors and Certified Counselors to get a preview of what the requirements are. Unfortunately, Case Management does not prepare one to do clinical or therapeutic counseling.
You can consider returning to the university you obtained your Bachelors Degree from and inquire about what is required in Nigeria to be a Certified Counselor.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
In your country of Nigeria, you would need a Bachelors Degree in Psychology or Counseling and then a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. You could probably get work with the Bachelors in Psych or Counseling, but your employment options would be better with a Masters Degree. The University that you attend would tell you what would be needed to be a Certified Counselor.
I was a Case Manager in the U.S. so I understand your experience and you've had substantial professional experience. The type of counseling entailed in case management is categorized as situational counseling and is crucial for the well being of the clients, however it is not therapeutic or clinical and that's why, as a Certified Counselor, you will need a foundation heavy in psychology. That begins with the Tier 1 courses for a Bachelors Degree and progresses forward towards the Masters Degree. I did social service intensive case management with people that had physical, mental disabilities, the homeless and basically every population except children. As a Certified Counselor, an undergraduate Psychology path will prepare you to work with all populations. Since you already have the medical case management experience, you will broaden your scope with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology, then the Masters in Counseling Psychology in your country of Nigeria.
With a Bachelors Degree in Public Administration and your experience with Case Management, you may want to consider work as a Program Director at a service agency that provides case management services. Read some of the employment notices in your local area for Program Directors and Certified Counselors to get a preview of what the requirements are. Unfortunately, Case Management does not prepare one to do clinical or therapeutic counseling.
You can consider returning to the university you obtained your Bachelors Degree from and inquire about what is required in Nigeria to be a Certified Counselor.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
You rock! This advice is very helpful.
Johnpatrick
You are very welcome for the advice, Johnpatrick !
Michelle M.
Adeola Raji
Academic Research/Consultation
11
Answers
Ede, Osun, Nigeria
Updated
Adeola’s Answer
Hi Johnpatrick! Since you already have a bachelor’s in Public Administration and 5 years of experience as a case manager, the next step to becoming a certified counselor is usually earning a graduate degree in a counseling-related field. A Master’s in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work (MSW), or Mental Health Counseling would be the most direct path. These programs are designed to give you both the academic foundation and supervised clinical hours you’ll need for certification.
After completing the master’s, you’d typically need to do a certain number of supervised practice hours and then pass a licensing exam (the exact requirements depend on your country or state). Your background working with people living with HIV is a huge strength, because it shows you already have real counseling experience and compassion in practice.
An MSc in Public Administration builds your leadership and management skills, but if your goal is certification as a counselor, you’ll want to pivot into one of the fields I mentioned above. So, i ll advice you look into Master’s programs in Counseling or Social Work, see what the certification requirements are in your area, and choose the path that aligns with the kind of counseling you want to practice (mental health, community, school, etc.). You’ve already got a solid foundation now it’s about adding the right degree for credentials.
After completing the master’s, you’d typically need to do a certain number of supervised practice hours and then pass a licensing exam (the exact requirements depend on your country or state). Your background working with people living with HIV is a huge strength, because it shows you already have real counseling experience and compassion in practice.
An MSc in Public Administration builds your leadership and management skills, but if your goal is certification as a counselor, you’ll want to pivot into one of the fields I mentioned above. So, i ll advice you look into Master’s programs in Counseling or Social Work, see what the certification requirements are in your area, and choose the path that aligns with the kind of counseling you want to practice (mental health, community, school, etc.). You’ve already got a solid foundation now it’s about adding the right degree for credentials.
Arush Anand
Associate Architect
20
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Arush’s Answer
Hi Johnpatrick,
Great question 🙌—and kudos on your 5 years of NGO experience as a case manager. That background already gives you a solid foundation in counseling-related work. The exact degree and certification you’ll need depends a bit on what type of counseling you want to practice (mental health, addictions, school, marriage/family, etc.) and the licensing requirements of your country/state. But here’s a clear breakdown:
Typical Degrees Required to Become a Certified Counselor
Master’s in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Counseling Psychology, etc.)
Most common route if you want to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LCPC/LMHC).
Prepares you for general counseling practice—mental health, career, personal, etc.
Usually 2–3 years after your bachelor’s.
Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
If you want flexibility to work in mental health counseling, case management, advocacy, or policy.
With an MSW + supervised hours, you can become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW), which allows independent counseling/therapy.
Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT/LMFT)
If you want to specialize in couples, families, and relationship therapy.
Master’s in Addiction Counseling / Substance Abuse Counseling
If your focus is primarily on alcohol & drug counseling.
Some states allow certification with a bachelor’s + supervised training, but a master’s is increasingly preferred.
Alternative / Add-On Certifications
Since you already have a bachelor’s in Public Administration + 5 years of case management:
Some regions allow you to enter the counseling field through post-graduate diplomas or certification programs (e.g., Addiction Studies, Counseling Psychology, Trauma-Informed Care).
You might not always need another full bachelor’s—a master’s degree or postgraduate diploma in counseling/psychology/social work is the usual next step.
Location Matters
Licensing bodies differ by country/state. For example:
U.S. → LPC/LCPC requires a master’s in counseling + supervised hours + licensing exam.
UK → Often requires a post-graduate diploma/Master’s in counseling or psychotherapy.
Canada → Master’s in Counseling Psychology or Social Work for registration.
Other regions may accept professional certifications (e.g., ICF coaching, NGO-recognized counseling diplomas).
My recommendation: Since you already have your bachelor’s, you don’t need another undergraduate degree. The strongest and most transferable option is to pursue a Master’s in Counseling (or MSW if you want broader opportunities).
Regards,
Arush
Great question 🙌—and kudos on your 5 years of NGO experience as a case manager. That background already gives you a solid foundation in counseling-related work. The exact degree and certification you’ll need depends a bit on what type of counseling you want to practice (mental health, addictions, school, marriage/family, etc.) and the licensing requirements of your country/state. But here’s a clear breakdown:
Typical Degrees Required to Become a Certified Counselor
Master’s in Counseling (Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Counseling Psychology, etc.)
Most common route if you want to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LCPC/LMHC).
Prepares you for general counseling practice—mental health, career, personal, etc.
Usually 2–3 years after your bachelor’s.
Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
If you want flexibility to work in mental health counseling, case management, advocacy, or policy.
With an MSW + supervised hours, you can become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW), which allows independent counseling/therapy.
Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT/LMFT)
If you want to specialize in couples, families, and relationship therapy.
Master’s in Addiction Counseling / Substance Abuse Counseling
If your focus is primarily on alcohol & drug counseling.
Some states allow certification with a bachelor’s + supervised training, but a master’s is increasingly preferred.
Alternative / Add-On Certifications
Since you already have a bachelor’s in Public Administration + 5 years of case management:
Some regions allow you to enter the counseling field through post-graduate diplomas or certification programs (e.g., Addiction Studies, Counseling Psychology, Trauma-Informed Care).
You might not always need another full bachelor’s—a master’s degree or postgraduate diploma in counseling/psychology/social work is the usual next step.
Location Matters
Licensing bodies differ by country/state. For example:
U.S. → LPC/LCPC requires a master’s in counseling + supervised hours + licensing exam.
UK → Often requires a post-graduate diploma/Master’s in counseling or psychotherapy.
Canada → Master’s in Counseling Psychology or Social Work for registration.
Other regions may accept professional certifications (e.g., ICF coaching, NGO-recognized counseling diplomas).
My recommendation: Since you already have your bachelor’s, you don’t need another undergraduate degree. The strongest and most transferable option is to pursue a Master’s in Counseling (or MSW if you want broader opportunities).
Regards,
Arush
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Johnpatrick- interesting question as I happen to have worked in a clinic for adults with HIV for the past three years. I can share some thoughts, but your situation living in Nigeria may look different. It depends largely on what type of counselor as this term is a general term. Your background in public admin and with an NGO is amazing! Public health is a big field but the people I work with have a variety of backgrounds- mainly medicine, public health (Masters), social work, or clinical mental health counseling or psychology. Some people have training in sexual health and sex education. We also have researchers who meet with patients to conduct surveys and organize data (a very basic job description). I also know people who got their start working with the United States Peace Corp in South Africa, then pursued graduate work in data and visual storytelling. Our researchers and disease interventionists meet with patients to gather information about sexual practices and provide counseling in terms of disease prevention. We also have public health staff who meet with patients when they are first diagnosed with HIV; this is an ongoing discussion that medical staff address. My position in mental health is focused on all aspects of mental illness; however, the overarching goal of our clinic is to keep people virally suppressed. This means getting people to take medication. My work is not solely HIV focused but it can be when there is overlap- for instance denial or shame specific to HIV. If you plan to pursue medicine, you will want to specialize in infectious diseases. For mental health, a master's or doctorate degree in counseling psychology. Other options- master's in public health or social work. Important for you might be looking at the current job landscape and what degrees or training is most useful and sought after. You may not need graduate work depending upon where you work; for instance, in the US, we have peer counselors who may or may not have an undergraduate degree but do have what is termed, 'lived experience.' They bring a personal perspective which can be incredibly beneficial. I hope this helps you narrow down some options. I had zero experience with HIV prior to my current position; I did happen to study the body maps made by Jane Soloman, an artist who worked with people in Africa with HIV. As an art therapist they captivated me; as a student I crafted a research project inspired by them. This is important work! Best of luck to you!
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1205
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Johnpatrick,
Since you have five years of experience counseling individuals living with HIV and a bachelor's degree in public administration, you have a solid foundation. To become a certified counselor, however, you will need a graduate degree that is specifically focused on social work, psychology, or counseling, not public administration.
Options for the degree:
- Master’s in Counseling / Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master’s in Psychology (with a counseling focus)
- Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
These courses cover human development, ethics, counseling theory, and supervised practicums and internships—all of which are necessary for certification or licensure.
Particularly in Nigeria, the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON) is the governing organization that establishes guidelines for licensed counselors.
- The easiest way to recognition is to earn a Master of Guidance and Counseling degree, which is often offered by Nigerian colleges.
- You must finish the degree and fulfill the prerequisites for CASSON membership and registration in order to formally practice.
- Depending on their specialty, some counselors also register with relevant professional associations, such as the Nigerian Association of Clinical Psychologists (NACP).
In summary, more degrees in public administration are not necessary. A master's program focused on counseling (such as guidance and counseling, clinical psychology, or social work) is what you require. You can move from case management to becoming a certified, acknowledged counselor in Nigeria with that accreditation.
Best wishes!
Since you have five years of experience counseling individuals living with HIV and a bachelor's degree in public administration, you have a solid foundation. To become a certified counselor, however, you will need a graduate degree that is specifically focused on social work, psychology, or counseling, not public administration.
Options for the degree:
- Master’s in Counseling / Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Master’s in Psychology (with a counseling focus)
- Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
These courses cover human development, ethics, counseling theory, and supervised practicums and internships—all of which are necessary for certification or licensure.
Particularly in Nigeria, the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON) is the governing organization that establishes guidelines for licensed counselors.
- The easiest way to recognition is to earn a Master of Guidance and Counseling degree, which is often offered by Nigerian colleges.
- You must finish the degree and fulfill the prerequisites for CASSON membership and registration in order to formally practice.
- Depending on their specialty, some counselors also register with relevant professional associations, such as the Nigerian Association of Clinical Psychologists (NACP).
In summary, more degrees in public administration are not necessary. A master's program focused on counseling (such as guidance and counseling, clinical psychology, or social work) is what you require. You can move from case management to becoming a certified, acknowledged counselor in Nigeria with that accreditation.
Best wishes!
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Johnpatrick- interesting question as I happen to have worked in a clinic for adults with HIV for the past three years. I can share some thoughts, but your situation living in Nigeria may look different. It depends largely on what type of counselor as this is a general term. Your background in public admin and with an NGO is amazing! Public health is a big field but the people I work with have a variety of backgrounds- mainly medicine, public health (Masters), social work, or clinical mental health counseling or psychology. Some people have training in sexual health and sex education. We also have researchers who meet with patients to conduct surveys and organize data (a very basic job description). I also know people who got their start working with the United States Peace Corp in South Africa, then pursued graduate work in data and visual storytelling. Our researchers and disease interventionists meet with patients to gather information about sexual practices and provide counseling in terms of disease prevention. We also have public health staff who meet with patients when they are first diagnosed with HIV; this is an ongoing discussion that medical staff address. My position in mental health is focused on all aspects of mental illness; however, the overarching goal of our clinic is to keep people virally suppressed. This means getting people to take medication. My work is not solely HIV focused but it can be when there is overlap- for instance denial or shame specific to HIV. If you plan to pursue medicine, you will want to specialize in infectious diseases. For mental health, a master's or doctorate degree in counseling psychology. Other options- master's in public health or social work. Important for you might be looking at the current job landscape and what degrees or training is most useful and sought after. You may not need graduate work depending upon where you work; for instance, in the US, we have peer counselors who may or may not have an undergraduate degree but do have what is termed, 'lived experience.' They bring a personal perspective which can be incredibly beneficial. I hope this helps you narrow down some options. I had zero experience with HIV prior to my current position; I did happen to study the body maps made by Jane Soloman, an artist who worked with people in Africa with HIV. As an art therapist they captivated me; as a student I crafted a research project inspired by them. This is important work! Best of luck to you!
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