Education and Training: Those who wish to enter the profession of child and youth counseling must first complete a bachelor's degree related to child and youth counseling such as psychology, counseling, sociology, social work or child development. A master's degree in psychology, child psychology, sociology or social work is also required. Before full licensure is granted, supervised work experience hours in the field of child and youth counseling are necessary. After all education coursework and work experience hours are completed individuals must take a licensing exam that vary per state.