Masters in Trauma & Crisis Counseling (MS)

Trauma and crisis counselors learn the skills and practices specific to crisis counseling, including theories of crisis intervention and models for working with children and adolescents. They help couples and families overcome health-related, school, and mental health crises, including interventions with suicidal clients and victims of abuse.

Steps Toward A Masters in Trauma and Crisis Counseling (MS)

To become a trauma and crisis counselor, requirements vary significantly by state. Successful students typically complete the following steps:

Earn proper undergraduate degree (requirements vary by state). Common undergraduate degrees include Bachelor of Science programs in education, psychology, or human services.
Earn proper graduate degree (requirements vary by state). Typically includes completing a Master of Counseling with a focus in trauma and crisis counseling.
Obtain proper licensure. Licensure requirements differ greatly by state, occupational specialty, and work setting.
Consider certification options. Some counselors elect to be certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors, which grants a general practice credential of National Certified Counselor. While voluntary and distinct from state licensing, in some states, those who pass the national exam are exempt from taking a State certification exam.

My Earning Power

The expected salary, career growth, and work environment for a trauma and crisis counselor might include:

Median Expected Salary: $38,154, according to PayScale.com’s most recent report.
Job Prospects: Excellent, particularly for individuals with advanced education.
Job Setting: Private practices, healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, correctional facilities, community centers, homes.

My Degree and What It’s Worth

A trauma and crisis counselor is typically responsible for the following job duties:

Teach people how to positively deal with grief, trauma and major life-changing incidents.
Provide personal and vocational counseling.
Offer case management support and guidance.
Arrange for medical care, vocational training, job placement and other outside services.

Online Masters in Trauma and Crisis Counseling Degree Programs

Walden University: MS in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling – Trauma and Crisis Counseling
Walden University: MS in Psychology – Crisis Management and Response

Masters in Counseling Online Programs

The following accredited schools offer online masters in counseling programs in various specialties. You can request information from one or more schools by clicking on the school's link.