Tennessee School Counselor Association

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FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions and Resources

Q: How can I become a school counselor in TN?

A: We are so excited that you are interested in becoming a School Counselor in Tennessee.

First, we would suggest contacting the licensure department at TN.gov for more information.

For counselors coming from out of state, you will be required to pass the Praxis for school counseling and to show completion of a counseling program.

You can read more about the licensure application here:

https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/licensure/lic_out-of-state_app_checklist.pdf

If you have additional questions or concerns, we would recommend calling the department and speaking with someone directly.

Currently, we would also recommend reaching out to the specific county you plan to work in. In light of COVID-19 some districts are on a hiring freeze, and taking applications or doing interviews.

Need more help? ASCA also has a resource guide for all the state licensing.

Q: Can we refer to outside agencies?

A: Yes. Teachers, Principals and School Personnel – As enacted, authorizes a school counselor to refer or help facilitate a referral of a parent or legal guardian’s student to a counselor or therapist for mental health assessments or services. – Amends TCA Title 4; Title 49 and Title 63. Read more about SB 0341 here.

Q: What are the guidelines regarding restraint of students?

A: You can read more about r estraint and isolation here.

Q: Do school counselors have privileged communication with students?

A: Currently in the state of Tennessee, privileged communication is provided between client and social worker, licensed professional counselor, psychologist, clergy, marriage and family therapist, and psychiatrist. There is no mention specifically of school counselors in the law. Very few states honor privileged communication between student and school counselor. Learn more here: http://alaskaschoolcounselor.groupsite.com/file_cabinet/download/0x00007a4dd

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*Disclaimer: The following is a provider of a particular service. This opportunity is being provided as a courtesy, and the user should understand that there are no assurances or guarantees regarding the providers. TSCA neither endorses, approves, nor recommends any specific curriculum provider. It is the responsibility of the member to determine whether any of the content is of value to them and whether or not the service meets their needs.

TSCA is the state division of the American School Counselor Association.