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Pathway: Counseling
Job: Gerontological Counselor
Job Description
Gerontological counselors provide services to elderly persons who face changing lifestyles because of health problems, and help families cope with these changes
Necessary Education
Bachelor’s Degree; possibly Master’s Degree dependent on type and location of employer and job position
Helpful High School Courses
English, Psychology, Sociology, Health
Working Conditions:
- Often work flexible hours to accommodate families who need evening or weekend appointments
- Dealing with problems on a daily basis can be stressful
Salary Range
- 2003, Delaware average annual salary,
$30,800
- 2003, Delaware average hourly wage,
$14.81
Career Ladder Information
- Most of the United States has some form of counselor credentialing, licensure, certification, or registry legislation governing practice
- Must participate in ongoing education to maintain certificates and licenses
- Counselors may become supervisors or administrators, or move into research, consulting, college teaching, or go into private or group practice
- Self-employed counselors who have well-established practices, as well as counselors employed in group practices, usually have the highest earnings, as do some counselors working for private firms, such as insurance companies and private rehabilitation companies
Personal Qualities and Interests
You:
- Have a strong interest in helping others with their needs
- Are able to handle stressful situations
- Are able to inspire respect, trust and confidence
- Are able to work independently or as part of a team
- Are able to follow the code of ethics associated with respective certifications and licenses
Did you know?
- About 50% of all counselors have a Master’s Degree
- Demand for gerontological counselors is expected to be strong, as advances in medical technology continues to save lives
Additional Information
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