The difference between school counselors and school psychologists

June 25, 2025

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Mental health can have a big impact on young people’s academic and behavioral performance. Professionals in the fields of school psychology and school counseling can offer tools to help students navigate school settings and look to their futures. But what are the differences between the two professions?

School counseling and school psychology may sound similar. And in fact, there is some overlap: both professions deliver services directly to students, as well as work with parents or staff in education settings.

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the differences between each degree and field of study as you figure out which is right for you.

What is school counseling?

School counselors provide services that support academic achievement, college and career readiness and personal development. Many of these services are provided directly to students through individual or small group counseling, small group or class-based instruction or individual appraisal. Other services may indirectly support students, such as consulting teachers or parents, collaborating with other professionals in the school or community and providing referrals as needed to additional support services.

While school counselors do not provide ongoing, long-term counseling or therapy for mental health disorders, they are trained to provide crisis counseling as needed.

Ultimately, everything a school counselor does is focused on improving student outcomes. Learn more by exploring the MS in School Counseling degree.

What is school psychology?

School psychology is a specialized area of the psychology field that focuses on supporting students’ ability to learn and teachers’ ability to educate.

School psychologists demonstrate expertise in behavior, mental health, learning and school systems. In addition to providing academic, behavioral and social supports to students, they assess and analyze data to aid in the development of specialized student services. In addition, school psychologists consult with teachers and families and facilitate support for school, family and community partnerships.

School psychologists are also uniquely trained to provide schoolwide data-based decision making. In some cases, experienced professionals in this field work directly with educational administration to help influence district policy as well as with students to develop and implement personalized strategies.

If you want to learn more about this field and possibly pursue state licensure or certification, Capella’s MS in School Psychology provides foundational knowledge on how to conduct assessments and interventions – however, it’s not intended to adequately prepare students for licensure or certification. For that, students should explore Capella programs such as an EdS in School Psychology or PsyD in School Psychology in addition to researching professional licensure requirements in their state.

Accreditation and licensure

As you research programs to decide which is right for you, it’s also important to learn if the university or program is accredited. Read more about the difference between institutional and specialized accreditation.

Capella’s MS in School Psychology, EdS in School Psychology, PsyD in School Psychology and MS in School Counseling are each accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The MS in School Counseling is accredited by both CAEP and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Learn more about Capella accreditations.

In addition to earning an advanced degree in your chosen field, pursuing a professional path in school psychology or school counseling may involve meeting state licensure requirements.

Applicable Coursework:
Master’s in School Counseling program courses include:
Theories of Counseling with Children and Adolescents, Counseling for College and Career Readiness, Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, Group Counseling and Psychotherapy, School Counseling Program Development and Evaluation

Applicable Coursework:
PsyD in School Psychology program courses include:
Principles of School Psychology, Child and Adolescent Development for School Psychologists, Psychological Testing, Consultation and Collaboration in the School, Childhood Mental Health, Counseling, and Crisis Intervention/Prevention

It is important to understand all education and individual requirements for licensing. Capella University cannot guarantee licensure, certification or endorsement. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure. Not all programs are offered to residents of every state due to regulatory requirements. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with requirements for your state.

Want to learn more? Read our blog post: What to look for in a master’s counseling program.

Explore degree programs from Capella University.