How to Become a Prison Counselor

Are you interested in helping those who have been incarcerated build better lives for themselves? Becoming a prison counselor may be the perfect career for you. It provides meaningful and impactful work in a rewarding arena.

Here are some steps to get started on the path to becoming a prison counselor.

Step 1: Earn a Degree

Working as a prison counselor requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. This degree will typically be in social work, psychology, or a related field. It’s important to ensure that the degree you pursue is from a program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education. This allows you to join the field as a licensed practitioner.

If you want to progress further in your career and become a manager or supervisor, a master’s degree in social work or psychology is likely required.

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience

It’s essential to gain practical experience prior to entering the prison counseling field. One of the best ways to do so is via internships. Many college psychology master’s programs offer prisoners the opportunity to work at prisons and with inmates. This type of program provides students with first-hand experience and offers insight into the challenges of the job.

In addition to internships, many states also offer volunteers the opportunity to work with inmates. Volunteering allows you to gain valuable experience and make a difference in the lives of those you work with.

Step 3: Obtain Professional Certifications

In order to practice as a prison counselor, you’ll need to obtain professional certifications. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) offers a variety of certifications in different specialties, including addictions and mental health, totaling about 25 in all. This organization also provides advanced certifications, which allow you to specialize in specific areas or practices. Becoming certified with NBCC is one of the most reliable ways to gain trust and respect in the prison counseling field.

Step 4: Build an Understanding of Trauma

Many of the prisoners in the correctional system have experienced some form of trauma in their lifetime. A successful prison counselor needs to understand how traumatic events can affect people and how to approach trauma therapeutically. There are many organizations dedicated to helping healthcare professionals become trauma-informed. It’s a good idea to research and get involved with one of these organizations so that you can learn more about the best ways to work with trauma survivors.

Step 5: Prepare for Working With AI

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly more prominent in the correctional system. AI can already be used for monitoring and tracking prisoners and can even detect when someone is in danger. As a prison counselor, it is important to understand how AI works and how it can be used to help prisoners improve their lives and reenter society successfully. It’s also vital to remember that AI used in this context requires responsible use and ethical considerations.

Conclusion

Becoming a prison counselor is a rewarding decision that requires dedication, education, and experience. With the right degree, professional certifications, and understanding of trauma, you can be on your way to making a tangible difference in the lives of those you work with.