Juvenile Probation Counselor

Juvenile probation counselors, commonly known as youth corrections counselors, oversee troubled juveniles in addition to other responsibilities. They also have the duty to recommend to courts where juveniles that need to be supervised should be located, for example, a group home, state sponsored school, or a detention facility. Counselors also communicate with the families of juveniles, probation officers, social workers, and others involved with the juvenile. Counselors testify at hearing, complete predisposition studies, and have the responsibility to oversee diversion agreements.

Probation counselors also provide behavior, substance abuse, and mental health counseling. Likewise, many counselors set up and teach classes for juveniles’ families. Counseling services are usually offered by counselors who have completed a master’s degree in social work, psychology, or counseling.

How to become a juvenile probation officer:

At the very least, to work as a juvenile probation counselor you need to earn a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, criminal justice, social work, criminal justice or a related major.
It is also recommended you have professional experience working with youth. Such experience could include volunteering at a group home, residential treatment center, or youth probation services.
In certain states or other jurisdictions, juvenile probation counselors perform the same duties as their counterparts specializing in juvenile probation. In some jurisdictions, they have different responsibilities but often communicate with one another. For specific information, contact your local probation department. Whatever your position, you will need to earn a bachelor’s degree.

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