Q: What is the duration of OPT employment authorization: A: the initial post-completion period for which students can apply is 12 months, less any OPT time used pre-completion. The requested employment start date must be between the end of program date, and 60 days later.: F-1 students who have been enrolled in legal status for a minimum of nine months are eligible for up to twelve (12) months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) work authorization by the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).
Educational Requirements for Mental Health Counselors. In order to become a licensed mental health counselor in most states, a master's degree is required. Schools offer master's degrees in counseling, psychology and other related mental health fields.
The educational and licensing requirements vary depending upon the state in which you wish to practice and the specialty area you choose. In most cases, a minimum of a master's degree in counseling, psychology or social work is required to become a counselor. The type of degree you ultimately choose to pursue will also depend on the type of counseling you want to perform.