If you already have a 48-hour master’s degree in counseling from a regionally accredited university, you may qualify for the certification-only School Counselor program at Region 4 Inspire Texas. This option allows you to earn your Texas School Counselor certification without completing another degree.
Step 1: Apply
THE APPLICATION FEE IS $100 AND IS NON-REFUNDABLE. ASSEMBLE THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO US AT LEAST 10 DAYS PRIOR TO THE APPLICATION DEADLINE.
- Official transcript(s), bachelor’s and master’s degree transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA overall or last 60 hours. Master’s degree must be in counseling with a minimum of 48 credit hours. Electronic copies may be sent to advancedtranscripts@esc4.net
- Letter of recommendation from current principal on school or school district letterhead
- Approval from a certified school counselor who will serve as mentor/site supervisor (mentors must have 3 years of experience as a school counselor)
- School Counselor Competency Screening
Step 2: Select Cohort
The next INSPIRE TEXAS COUNSELOR CERTIFICATION COHORT starts March 2026 (Date: TBD)
Step 3: Train
The school counselor certification program provides flexible yet comprehensive online training to meet your needs.
At Region 4 Inspire Texas, your instructor will provide guidance and feedback throughout the program. Understanding students, planning, collaboration, consultation and professionalism are critical training objectives. All field supervisors have been counselors in Texas.
You will meet with the field supervisor and a campus/district mentor at least three times while enrolled in the program. This exchange will include sharing reflections of the internship experiences and activities completed, which allows you to apply that knowledge as you have learned in the coursework.
As a counselor candidate, you will complete school counselor program training, which includes coursework, and a practicum at an accredited public, private or charter school.
Step 4: Get Certified
You are required to pass the designated state certification content exam(s). Passing a content area is required by the majority of school districts in the state of Texas.
More information is available online for TExES exam registration, preparation, and test dates.
- 48-hour master’s degree in counseling
- 3.0 GPA (overall or last 60 hours)
- Principal/supervisor recommendation
- Approved mentor (certified school counselor with 3+ years of experience)
- Background check