Out-of-state School Counselors: Thinking About Coming to California? Here is some valuable information for you.

Apply for a California Credential. The best contact is Dr. Joe Dear at CCTC. His email is Jdear@ctc.ca.gov

To Work in CALIFORNIA
Educational Requirements: Complete post baccalaureate degree study consisting of a minimum of 48 semester units in a Commission-accredited professional preparation program specializing in school counseling, including a practicum with school-aged children and obtain the recommendation of a California college or university with a Commission-accredited Pupil Personnel Services program specializing in school counseling
Experience Requirements: None
Examination: Pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) Total scaled score must be at least 123 (41 in each of the three sections: reading, writing, and math).
Certification: pre K-12
Reciprocity: Individuals prepared outside of California may satisfy requirements by verifying completion of a professional preparation program consisting of at least 48 semester units of post baccalaureate study and a minimum of 600 clock hours of supervised field experience in a public school at two of three school levels (elementary, middle and high school). Up to 150 of the 600 clock hours need to be devoted to issues of diversity. A letter verifying practicum must be on original, official letterhead from the college or university's education department and must accompany the application packet. The applicant must also verify eligibility for the equivalent credential authorization in the state where the program was completed. If the out-of-state preparation does not fit this pattern, the applicant must contact a California college or university with a Commission-accredited school counseling program for an evaluation.  Individuals prepared outside California must still fulfill California’s examination requirement and background check.
Background Check: Submit a completed application (form 41-4) [PDF], Character and Identification Clearance application (form 41-CIC) , either a Livescan receipt (form 41-LS) or two fingerprint cards (FD-258)
http://www.ctc.ca.gov/
http://www.ctc.ca.gov/credentials/leaflets/cl606.html