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Arkansas Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Board-approved supervisor status

Approval for a licensed Arkansas professional counselor to supervise associates.

Licensing authority: Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling · Application information

Initial Board approved supervisor status

All of the following:

Application
Submit the supervisor status application and fee.
Assessment
Complete Arkansas jurisprudence and pass an oral interview; a failed interview may be rescheduled after three months.
Prior license
Fully licensed Arkansas LPC for three years, in good standing.
Restrictions
Observe the twelve-agreement limit, good-standing requirements, investigation restrictions, conflict-of-interest and delegation restrictions.
Training
Three-hour post-master’s graduate clinical supervision course with 18 hours of supervised supervision experience.
Underlying LPC renewal while retaining supervisor status
General ce
Ordinary LPC renewal CE may be replaced by a passing NCE/NCMHCE score; the separate supervision-content CE requirement remains.
Other profession exam
The AMFTRB CE substitute named in § 75-702(d) is another profession’s examination and remains only a condition.
Supervision ce
Six supervision-content hours per renewal; three from Board-recognized state associations or an Arkansas university-associated workshop or program.
Underlying license
Renew the LPC license and maintain good standing; an unrenewed or investigated supervisor may not sign new agreements.

Compact privilege to practice

Arkansas compact practice authorization equivalent to a license.

Licensing authority: Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling · Application information

Initial Arkansas compact privilege to practice
Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling Jurisprudence Exam
Adverse actions
Report nonmember-jurisdiction adverse action, encumbrance or restriction to the Commission within 30 days.
Continuing education
Meet home-state continuing competence requirements.
Eligibility
Valid SSN or NPI; satisfy compact eligibility, two-year absence-of-encumbrance requirements, Commission notice and applicable fees.
Home license
Hold an eligible unencumbered home-state professional counselor license. Home-state education, experience and nationally recognized examination qualifications are conditions here; the statute does not identify a particular registered national exam for this route.
Jurisprudence
Complete Arkansas jurisprudence and email the certificate to the Board with subject AR JPex-Counseling Compact.
Practice law
Comply with Arkansas laws, rules and compact commission rules.
Validity
Privilege lasts through home-state license expiration; maintain Section 4(A) eligibility. After encumbrance or removal, satisfy Section 4(E)-(H) reinstatement, waiting-period and fine conditions.
Maintenance or restoration of an Arkansas compact privilege
Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling Jurisprudence Exam
Adverse actions
Report nonmember-jurisdiction adverse action, encumbrance or restriction to the Commission within 30 days.
Continuing education
Meet home-state continuing competence requirements.
Eligibility
Valid SSN or NPI; satisfy compact eligibility, two-year absence-of-encumbrance requirements, Commission notice and applicable fees.
Home license
Hold an eligible unencumbered home-state professional counselor license. Home-state education, experience and nationally recognized examination qualifications are conditions here; the statute does not identify a particular registered national exam for this route.
Jurisprudence
Complete Arkansas jurisprudence and email the certificate to the Board with subject AR JPex-Counseling Compact.
Practice law
Comply with Arkansas laws, rules and compact commission rules.
Validity
Privilege lasts through home-state license expiration; maintain Section 4(A) eligibility. After encumbrance or removal, satisfy Section 4(E)-(H) reinstatement, waiting-period and fine conditions.

Licensed associate counselor

Associate counseling license requiring approved supervision; not intended to be permanent.

Licensing authority: Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling · Application information

Automatic occupational licensure based on an existing out of state license

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Completion window
Under § 75-905(d)-(e), complete all other licensure requirements within no more than one year and comply with renewal requirements. National exams remain involved even when completion follows issuance.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Disqualifications
No disqualifying criminal offense or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Documentation
Provide eligibility and residency evidence and pay initial application and licensure fees.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Jurisprudence waiver
The Board may waive the state law exam when education, training and experience sufficiently substitute and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior qualification
Hold a similar-scope license in good standing for at least one year.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residency.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Automatic occupational licensure based on experience in an unregulated jurisdiction

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Completion window
Under § 75-905(d)-(e), complete all other licensure requirements within no more than one year and comply with renewal requirements. National exams remain involved even when completion follows issuance.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Disqualifications
No disqualifying criminal offense or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Documentation
Provide eligibility and residency evidence and pay initial application and licensure fees.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Jurisprudence waiver
The Board may waive the state law exam when education, training and experience sufficiently substitute and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior qualification
Work at least three years in an occupation in a jurisdiction that does not license it.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residency.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Endorsement based on associate, provisional or intern licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Exam waiver
The Board may waive the NCE/NCMHCE when another examination is equivalent or endorsement requirements are met. A waiver is an applicant condition; jurisprudence and any required oral interview remain involved.
License verification
Provide verification from every state or agency; the Board reviews disciplinary history and applicable application documentation.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior license
An associate, provisional or intern license in good standing; document total client contact and supervision hours for Board determination of associate or full eligibility.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Initial LAC licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
New application after expiration exceeds twelve months

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Lapse
Reapply as a new applicant meeting current requirements. The Board may require an appearance before processing to explain missed renewal deadlines.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Late renewal within twelve months of expiration
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LAC license.
Delinquency
Practice is automatically suspended while delinquent. Within twelve months, renew by satisfying Board requirements and paying all fees, including applicable late fees.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.
Counselor licensure for a licensed psychologist
Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior profession
The applicant holds psychologist licensure; § 75-903(a) expressly says NCE will not be waived.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Automatic licensure for uniformed service members, veterans and qualifying spouses
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Pay initial application and licensure fees and document the license and military or spousal eligibility. Section 17-4-103 defines automatic licensure without occupational qualification requirements; § 75-602(c) expressly excepts § 75-904 applicants.
Military eligibility
A member stationed in Arkansas, a veteran residing or establishing residency in Arkansas, or a qualifying spouse under § 75-904(b), including excluded-accompaniment deployment and line-of-duty survivor situations.
Prior license
Hold a license in good standing with similar scope issued by another United States jurisdiction.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-07-09.

Nonpracticing status and biennial nonpracticing renewal
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LAC license.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Nonpracticing
If approved, pay the nonpracticing fee, provide required CE and attest no counseling practice.
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Request
Request nonpracticing status in writing for health, temporary departure, retirement, deployment or other extenuating circumstances.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.
Supervision
LACs need no supervision agreement while nonpracticing; obtain approval of a new agreement before returning.
Return from nonpracticing to practicing associate status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Current license
Hold a current LAC license in approved nonpracticing status.
Supervision
Submit a new supervision agreement for Board approval before returning to practice; ordinary renewal and delinquency obligations still apply.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-07-09.

LAC licensure for a licensed psychological examiner

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience credit
Complete at least 1,000 direct client contact hours; up to 2,000 supervised hours may be approved with Psychology Board or supervisor verification of ratio and practice scope not involving assessment, appraisal or testing.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior profession
Licensed psychological examiner applying for LAC.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Relicensure after revocation or surrender

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Board conditions
The Board may impose appropriate conditions or limitations, require a licensing examination, and prescribe supervision duration and ratio.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Fitness
Show authorized practice can occur without undue public risk and satisfy qualifications under current statute and Board rules.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Petition
Petition no earlier than five years after revocation or surrender; prove rehabilitation before the application is received.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Biennial license renewal
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LAC license.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.

Licensed professional counselor

Full counseling license. Automatic issuance and nonpracticing status retain this license identity.

Licensing authority: Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling · Application information

Automatic occupational licensure based on an existing out of state license

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Completion window
Under § 75-905(d)-(e), complete all other licensure requirements within no more than one year and comply with renewal requirements. National exams remain involved even when completion follows issuance.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Disqualifications
No disqualifying criminal offense or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Documentation
Provide eligibility and residency evidence and pay initial application and licensure fees.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Jurisprudence waiver
The Board may waive the state law exam when education, training and experience sufficiently substitute and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior qualification
Hold a similar-scope license in good standing for at least one year.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residency.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Automatic occupational licensure based on experience in an unregulated jurisdiction

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Completion window
Under § 75-905(d)-(e), complete all other licensure requirements within no more than one year and comply with renewal requirements. National exams remain involved even when completion follows issuance.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Disqualifications
No disqualifying criminal offense or pending occupational complaint, allegation or investigation.
Documentation
Provide eligibility and residency evidence and pay initial application and licensure fees.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Jurisprudence waiver
The Board may waive the state law exam when education, training and experience sufficiently substitute and waiver will not harm public health, safety or welfare.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior qualification
Work at least three years in an occupation in a jurisdiction that does not license it.
Residency
Establish Arkansas residency.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
New Arkansas home state LPC license based on a compact privilege
Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling Jurisprudence Exam
Application
Apply for a new home-state license, pay applicable fees and notify current and new home states; Arkansas verifies eligibility through the data system.
Background check
Complete any requisite FBI fingerprint-based and Arkansas criminal background checks.
Eligibility
A licensed professional counselor moves primary residence between compact member jurisdictions and satisfies Section 4 eligibility.
Former license
The former home-state license converts to a privilege after new home-state activation.
Jurisprudence
Complete Arkansas’s requisite jurisprudence requirements.
Endorsement based on associate, provisional or intern licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Exam waiver
The Board may waive the NCE/NCMHCE when another examination is equivalent or endorsement requirements are met. A waiver is an applicant condition; jurisprudence and any required oral interview remain involved.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
License verification
Provide verification from every state or agency; the Board reviews disciplinary history and applicable application documentation.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior license
An associate, provisional or intern license in good standing; document total client contact and supervision hours for Board determination of associate or full eligibility.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Endorsement based on full licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Exam waiver
The Board may waive the NCE/NCMHCE when another examination is equivalent or endorsement requirements are met. A waiver is an applicant condition; jurisprudence and any required oral interview remain involved.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
License verification
Provide verification from every state or agency; the Board reviews disciplinary history and applicable application documentation.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior license
Continually maintained full LPC or equivalent licensure in good standing.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Initial LPC licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
License change from LAC to LPC

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Ncmhce credit
After Level 1, on the contracted supervisor recommendation, the Board may permit an LAC to take NCMHCE; passing reduces client contact hours by 500 and supervision hours by 25.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior exam scores
Previously passed NCE/NCMHCE and jurisprudence examinations remain leaves because they are currently offered. Their representation does not itself require a new sitting.
Prior license
Hold an Arkansas LAC license; petition with the supervisor recommendation after completing both supervision levels.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
New application after expiration exceeds twelve months

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Lapse
Reapply as a new applicant meeting current requirements. The Board may require an appearance before processing to explain missed renewal deadlines.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Late renewal within twelve months of expiration
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LPC license.
Delinquency
Practice is automatically suspended while delinquent. Within twelve months, renew by satisfying Board requirements and paying all fees, including applicable late fees.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.
Counselor licensure for a licensed psychologist
Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Prior profession
The applicant holds psychologist licensure; § 75-903(a) expressly says NCE will not be waived.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Automatic licensure for uniformed service members, veterans and qualifying spouses
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documentation
Pay initial application and licensure fees and document the license and military or spousal eligibility. Section 17-4-103 defines automatic licensure without occupational qualification requirements; § 75-602(c) expressly excepts § 75-904 applicants.
Military eligibility
A member stationed in Arkansas, a veteran residing or establishing residency in Arkansas, or a qualifying spouse under § 75-904(b), including excluded-accompaniment deployment and line-of-duty survivor situations.
Prior license
Hold a license in good standing with similar scope issued by another United States jurisdiction.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-07-09.

Nonpracticing status and biennial nonpracticing renewal
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LPC license.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Nonpracticing
If approved, pay the nonpracticing fee, provide required CE and attest no counseling practice.
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Request
Request nonpracticing status in writing for health, temporary departure, retirement, deployment or other extenuating circumstances.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.
Supervision
Maintain the underlying LPC license in approved nonpracticing status.
Relicensure after revocation or surrender

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Board conditions
The Board may impose appropriate conditions or limitations, require a licensing examination, and prescribe supervision duration and ratio.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Experience
Document 3,000 acceptable client contact hours and 175 supervision hours under §§ 75-303 and 75-401, including at least 2,000 direct hours. Academic or NCMHCE credits may reduce hours subject to Board approval and applicable minimums.
Fitness
Show authorized practice can occur without undue public risk and satisfy qualifications under current statute and Board rules.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Petition
Petition no earlier than five years after revocation or surrender; prove rehabilitation before the application is received.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Biennial license renewal
Continuing education
24 hours in the preceding 24 months, including three ethics hours, with remaining hours counseling-related and consistent with the statement of intent; specialization-specific CE is required when a specialization is claimed. A national passing score on NCE or NCMHCE may substitute for CE clock hours, so an exam sitting is optional when CE is used.
Current license
Hold the underlying LPC license.
Deployment
A deployed member or spouse receives a 180-day post-return license extension and full CE exemption under § 75-904(d)-(e).
Other profession exam
Section 75-702(d) also names the AMFTRB examination as a possible CE substitute; it is another profession’s examination and is recorded only as a condition.
Renewal
Renew biennially by May 31 and pay the applicable renewal fee.
Statement of intent
Review and update the Board-approved statement of intent when practice scope changes.

Provisional license to be a licensed associate counselor

One-year provisional associate license allowing at most three national examination attempts; not renewable.

Licensing authority: Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling · Application information

Provisional associate licensure

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Exam window
One-year provisional license; at most three attempts within that year to pass a national exam. It cannot be renewed; failure requires reapplication as a traditional applicant.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.
Expedited initial provisional associate licensure for military applicants

All of the following:

Application
Submit application and fees, statement of intent, transcripts and at least four qualifying references; official degree-conferring transcript is required before issuance. Applications are active for 12 months, with one requested paid extension.
Background check
Meet Ark. Code Ann. § 17-27-313 criminal background check requirements; waiver requests follow § 75-307.
Disciplinary status
Applications are not considered until other professional-board sanctions, investigations, revocation or rehabilitation are resolved and documented.
Education
Graduate degree primarily in counseling from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate semester hours meeting current CACREP and Arkansas core curriculum standards under §§ 75-302 and 75-306; grades B- or better.
Expedited processing
Section 17-4-106(b) requires expedited processing and temporary or provisional authorization upon required documentation or completion of required examinations.
Military eligibility
An initial applicant listed in § 17-4-104; the automatic route requiring an existing similar license does not describe this applicant.
Oral discretion
The Board may require an oral interview under § 75-603; after failure, wait three months and obtain Board approval for another attempt.
Provisional terms
The profession-specific provisional LAC form in § 75-906 lasts one year, permits at most three national examination attempts, and is not renewable.
Supervision
Arrange a Board-approved LPC supervisor and obtain approval of the supervision agreement before issuance and before counseling practice; report supervision and client contact hours every six months.
Work status
United States citizenship or current USCIS documentation of legal alien work status.

Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling Jurisprudence Exam

Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Arkansas Code Title 17, Chapter 27 — Counselors
  • 17 CAR Part 75 — Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling Rules
Examination sources

Oral interview

Provider
Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling
Format
Oral interview
Passing score
An affirmative vote of a majority of Board members present and voting is evidence that the applicant passed.
Examination outline
  • A review of the applicant's statement of intent
  • Questions from the board relative to the profession of counseling/therapy
  • Questions about credentials submitted with the application
Examination sources

National Counselor Examination

Provider
National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC); administered through the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE) and delivered by Pearson VUE at test centers or online through OnVUE
Format
200-question, multiple-choice, non-sectioned examination; scored and unscored items appear in jumbled order; a different form is compiled for each administration
Exam questions
200 multiple-choice questions: 160 scored and 40 unscored field-test items
Time limit
225 minutes to complete the examination within a 255-minute test session (one scheduled 15-minute break after question #100)
Passing score
Criterion passing score set by a modified Angoff method and adjusted for each form by statistical equating; passing scores may vary slightly for each version
Examination outline
  • 1. Professional Practice and Ethics — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities related to maintaining proper administrative and clinical protocols. (12% of items; 19 scored items) (12%)
    • A. Assess your (the counselor) competency to work with a specific client
    • B. Understand statistical concepts and methods in research
    • C. Practice legal and ethical counseling
    • D. Clarify counselor–client roles
    • E. Discuss client’s rights and responsibilities
    • F. Discuss limits of confidentiality
    • G. Explain counselor agency policies
    • H. Review payment, fees, and insurance benefits
    • I. Explain counseling processes, procedures, risks, and benefits
    • J. Explain uses and limits of social media
    • K. Inform clients about the legal aspects of counseling
    • L. Obtain informed consent
    • M. Discuss confidentiality as it applies to electronic communication
    • N. Establish group rules, expectations, and termination criteria
    • O. Assess competency to provide informed consent
    • P. Monitor the therapeutic relationship and build trust as needed
    • Q. Review client records
    • R. Provide adequate accommodations for clients with disabilities
    • S. Provide information to third parties
    • T. Provide referral sources if counseling services are inadequate/ inappropriate
    • U. Advocate for professional and client issues
    • V. Seek supervision/consultation
    • W. Create and maintain documentation appropriate for each aspect of the counseling process
    • X. Awareness and practice of self-care
  • 2. Intake, Assessment, and Diagnosis — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively conduct client intake, assessment, and diagnosis. (12% of items; 19 scored items) (12%)
    • A. Conduct a biopsychosocial interview
    • B. Conduct a diagnostic interview
    • C. Conduct cultural formulation interview
    • D. Conduct an initial interview
    • E. Determine diagnosis
    • F. Perform a Mental Status Exam (MSE)
    • G. Consider co-occurring diagnoses
    • H. Determine level of care needed
    • I. Determine the appropriate modality of treatment
    • J. Assess the presenting problem and level of distress
    • K. Evaluate an individual’s level of mental health functioning
    • L. Screen clients for appropriate services
    • M. Select, use, and interpret appropriate assessment instruments
    • N. Use formal and informal observations
    • O. Assess for trauma
    • P. Assess substance use
    • Q. Obtain client self-reports
    • R. Evaluate interactional dynamics
    • S. Conduct ongoing assessment for at-risk behaviors (i.e., suicide, homicide, self/other injury, and relationship violence)
    • T. Use pre-test and post-test measures to assess outcomes
    • U. Evaluate counseling effectiveness
  • 3. Areas of Clinical Focus — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge and skills related to areas of clients’ concern(s). (29% of items; 47 scored items) (29%)
    • A. Adjustment related to physical loss/injury/medical condition
    • B. Aging/geriatric concerns
    • C. Behavioral problems
    • D. Bullying
    • E. Caregiving concerns
    • F. Cultural adjustments
    • G. End-of-life issues
    • H. Fear and panic
    • I. Financial issues
    • J. Gender identity development
    • K. Grief/loss
    • L. Hopelessness/depression
    • M. Loneliness/attachment
    • N. Hyper/hypo mental focus
    • O. Intellectual functioning issues
    • P. Insomnia/sleep issues
    • Q. Maladaptive eating behaviors
    • R. Remarriage/recommitment
    • S. Developmental processes/tasks/issues
    • T. Obsessive thoughts/behaviors
    • U. Occupation and career development
    • V. Physical issues related to anxiety
    • W. Physical issues related to depression
    • X. Physical/emotional issues related to trauma
    • Y. Process addictions (pornography, gambling)
    • Z. Racism/discrimination/oppression
    • AA. Religious values conflict
    • AB. Retirement concerns
    • AC. Ruminating and/or intrusive thoughts
    • AD. Separation from primary care givers
    • AE. Sexual functioning concerns
    • AF. Sleeping habits
    • AG. Spiritual/existential concerns
    • AH. Stress management
    • AI. Substance use/addiction issues
    • AJ. Suicidal thoughts/behaviors
    • AK. Terminal illness issues
    • AL. Visual/auditory hallucinations
    • AM. Worry and anxiety
    • AN. Adoption issues
    • AO. Blended family issues
    • AP. Child abuse-related concerns
    • AQ. Child development issues
    • AR. Dating/relationship problems
    • AS. Divorce
    • AT. Family abuse/violence (e.g., physical, sexual, emotional)
    • AU. Interpersonal partner violence concerns
    • AV. Marital/partner communication problems
    • AW. Parenting/co-parenting conflicts
    • AX. Emotional dysregulation
  • 4. Treatment Planning — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to develop an effective course of treatment. (9% of items; 14 scored items) (9%)
    • A. Collaborate with client to establish treatment goals and objectives
    • B. Establish short- and long-term counseling goals consistent with clients’ diagnoses
    • C. Identify barriers affecting client goal attainment
    • D. Identify strengths that improve the likelihood of goal attainment
    • E. Refer to different levels of treatment (e.g., outpatient, inpatient, residential, etc.)
    • F. Refer to others for concurrent treatment
    • G. Guide treatment planning
    • H. Discuss termination process and issues
    • I. Discuss transitions in group membership
    • J. Follow-up after discharge
    • K. Use assessment instrument results to facilitate client decision making
    • L. Review and revise the treatment plan
    • M. Engage clients in review of progress toward treatment goals
    • N. Collaborate with other providers and client support systems (documentation and report writing)
    • O. Discuss with clients the integration and maintenance of therapeutic progress
    • P. Educate client to the value of treatment plan compliance
  • 5. Counseling Skills and Interventions — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to conduct effective counseling. (30% of items; 48 scored items) (30%)
    • A. Align intervention with client’s developmental level
    • B. Align intervention with counseling modality (individual, couple, family, or group)
    • C. Align intervention with client population (e.g., veterans, minorities, disenfranchised, disabled)
    • D. Implement individual counseling in relation to a plan of treatment
    • E. Establish therapeutic alliance
    • F. Apply theory-based counseling intervention(s)
    • G. Address addiction issues
    • H. Address cultural considerations
    • I. Address family composition and cultural considerations
    • J. Evaluate and explain systemic patterns of interaction
    • K. Explore family member interaction
    • L. Explore religious and spiritual values
    • M. Guide clients in the development of skills or strategies for dealing with their problems
    • N. Help clients develop support systems
    • O. Help facilitate clients’ motivation to make the changes they desire
    • P. Improve interactional patterns
    • Q. Provide crisis intervention
    • R. Educate client about transference and defense mechanisms
    • S. Facilitate trust and safety
    • T. Build communication skills
    • U. Develop conflict resolution strategies
    • V. Develop safety plans
    • W. Facilitate systemic change
    • X. Provide distance counseling or telemental health
    • Y. Provide education resources (e.g., stress management, assertiveness training, divorce adjustment)
    • Z. Provide psychoeducation for client
    • AA. Summarize
    • AB. Reframe/redirect
    • AC. Facilitate empathic responses
    • AD. Use self-disclosure
    • AE. Use constructive confrontation
    • AF. Facilitate awareness of here-and-now interactions
    • AG. Facilitate resolution of interpersonal conflict
    • AH. Use linking and blocking in a group context
    • AI. Management of leader–member dynamics
    • AJ. Model giving and receiving of feedback
    • AK. Address impact of extended families
    • AL. Contain and manage intense feelings
    • AM. Explore the influence of family of origin patterns and themes
    • AN. Address the impact of social support network
    • AO. Use “structured” activities
    • AP. Promote and encourage interactions among group members
    • AQ. Promote and encourage interactions with the group leader
    • AR. Use psychoeducation as a part of the group process
    • AS. Explain phases in the group process
    • AT. Identify and discuss group themes and patterns
    • AU. Create intervention based on the stage of group development
    • AV. Challenge harmful group member behaviors
    • AW. Address the potential interaction of members outside of the group
  • 6. Core Counseling Attributes — This section encompasses behaviors, traits, and dispositions of effective counselors. (8% of items; 13 scored items) (8%)
    • A. Awareness of self and impact on clients
    • B. Genuineness
    • C. Congruence
    • D. Demonstrate knowledge of and sensitivity to gender orientation and gender issues
    • E. Demonstrate knowledge of and sensitivity to multicultural issues
    • F. Demonstrate conflict tolerance and resolution
    • G. Empathic attunement
    • H. Empathic responding
    • I. Foster the emergence of group therapeutic factors
    • J. Non-judgmental stance
    • K. Positive regard
    • L. Respect and acceptance for diversity
    • M. Use foundational listening, attending, and reflecting skills
Examination sources

National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination

Provider
National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC); administered through the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE) and delivered by Pearson VUE at test centers or online through OnVUE
Format
11 clinical case studies, each with one narrative in three sections (initial intake summary and two counseling sessions) followed by 9–15 four-option, single-answer multiple-choice questions; one case study is unscored
Exam questions
130–150 multiple-choice items, of which 100 are scored
Time limit
225 minutes to complete the examination within a 255-minute test session (one scheduled 15-minute break after the fifth case study)
Passing score
Cut score set through standard setting and applied to other forms through statistical equating; the total score is the number of correctly answered scored items
Examination outline
  • 1. Professional Practice and Ethics — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities related to maintaining proper administrative and clinical protocols. (15% of scored items) (15%)
    • A. Assess your (the counselor) competency to work with a specific client
    • B. Understand statistical concepts and methods in research
    • C. Practice legal and ethical counseling
    • D. Clarify counselor/client roles
    • E. Discuss client’s rights and responsibilities
    • F. Discuss limits of confidentiality
    • G. Explain counselor/agency policies
    • H. Review payment, fees, and insurance benefits
    • I. Explain counseling processes, procedures, risks, and benefits
    • J. Explain uses and limits of social media
    • K. Inform clients about the legal aspects of counseling
    • L. Obtain informed consent
    • M. Discuss confidentiality as it applies to electronic communication
    • N. Establish group rules, expectations, and termination criteria
    • O. Assess competency to provide informed consent
    • P. Monitor the therapeutic relationship and build trust as needed
    • Q. Review client records
    • R. Provide adequate accommodations for clients with disabilities
    • S. Provide information to third parties
    • T. Provide referral sources if counseling services are inadequate/inappropriate
    • U. Advocate for professional and client issues
    • V. Supervision
    • W. Create and maintain documentation appropriate for each aspect of the counseling process
    • X. Awareness and practice of self-care
  • 2. Intake, Assessment, and Diagnosis — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively conduct client intake, assessment, and diagnosis. (25% of scored items) (25%)
    • A. Conduct a biopsychosocial interview
    • B. Conduct a diagnostic interview
    • C. Conduct cultural formulation interview
    • D. Conduct an initial interview
    • E. Determine diagnosis
    • F. Perform a Mental Status Exam (MSE)
    • G. Consider co-occurring diagnoses
    • H. Determine level of care needed
    • I. Determine the appropriate modality of treatment
    • J. Assess the presenting problem and level of distress
    • K. Evaluate an individual’s level of mental health functioning
    • L. Screen clients for appropriate services
    • M. Select, use, and interpret appropriate assessment instruments
    • N. Use formal and informal observations
    • O. Assess for trauma
    • P. Assess substance use
    • Q. Obtain client self-reports
    • R. Evaluate interactional dynamics
    • S. Conduct ongoing assessment for at-risk behaviors (i.e., suicide, homicide, self/other-injury, and relationship violence)
    • T. Use pre-test and post-test measures to assess outcomes
    • U. Evaluate counseling effectiveness
  • 4. Treatment Planning — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to develop an effective course of treatment. (15% of scored items) (15%)
    • A. Collaborate with client to establish treatment goals and objectives
    • B. Establish short- and long-term counseling goals consistent with client’s diagnosis
    • C. Identify barriers affecting client goal attainment
    • D. Identify strengths that improve the likelihood of goal attainment
    • E. Refer to different levels of treatment (e.g., outpatient, inpatient, residential)
    • F. Refer to others for concurrent treatment
    • G. Guide treatment planning
    • H. Discuss termination process and issues
    • I. Discuss transitions in group membership
    • J. Follow up after discharge
    • K. Use assessment instrument results to facilitate client decision-making
    • L. Review and revise the treatment plan
    • M. Engage clients in review of progress toward treatment goals
    • N. Collaborate with other providers and client support systems (documentation and report writing)
    • O. Discuss with clients the integration and maintenance of therapeutic progress
    • P. Educate client to the value of treatment plan compliance
  • 5. Counseling Skills and Interventions — This section encompasses counselors’ knowledge, skills, and abilities to conduct effective counseling. (30% of scored items) (30%)
    • A. Align intervention with client’s developmental level
    • B. Align intervention with counseling modality (individual, couple, family, or group)
    • C. Align intervention with client population (e.g., veterans, minorities, disenfranchised, disabled)
    • D. Implement individual counseling in relation to a plan of treatment
    • E. Establish therapeutic alliance
    • F. Apply theory-based counseling intervention(s)
    • G. Address addiction issues
    • H. Address cultural considerations
    • I. Address family composition and cultural considerations
    • J. Evaluate and explain systemic patterns of interaction
    • K. Explore family member interaction
    • L. Explore religious and spiritual values
    • M. Guide clients in the development of skills or strategies for dealing with their problems
    • N. Help clients develop support systems
    • O. Help facilitate clients’ motivation to make the changes they desire
    • P. Improve interactional patterns
    • Q. Provide crisis intervention
    • R. Educate client about transference and defense mechanisms
    • S. Facilitate trust and safety
    • T. Build communication skills
    • U. Develop conflict resolution strategies
    • V. Develop safety plans
    • W. Facilitate systemic change
    • X. Provide distance counseling or telemental health
    • Y. Provide education resources (e.g., stress management, assertiveness training, divorce adjustment)
    • Z. Provide psychoeducation for client
    • AA. Summarize
    • AB. Reframe/redirect
    • AC. Facilitate empathic responses
    • AD. Use self-disclosure
    • AE. Use constructive confrontation
    • AF. Facilitate awareness of here-and-now interactions
    • AG. Facilitate resolution of interpersonal conflict
    • AH. Use linking and blocking in a group context
    • AI. Management of leader–member dynamics
    • AJ. Model giving and receiving of feedback
    • AK. Address impact of extended families
    • AL. Contain and manage intense feelings
    • AM. Explore the influence of family of origin patterns and themes
    • AN. Address the impact of social support network
    • AO. Use “structured” activities
    • AP. Promote and encourage interactions among group members
    • AQ. Promote and encourage interactions with the group leader
    • AR. Use psychoeducation as a part of the group process
    • AS. Explain phases in the group process
    • AT. Identify and discuss group themes and patterns
    • AU. Create intervention based on the stage of group development
    • AV. Challenge harmful group member behaviors
    • AW. Address the potential interaction of members outside of the group
  • 6. Core Counseling Attributes — This section encompasses behaviors, traits, and dispositions of effective counselors. (15% of scored items) (15%)
    • A. Awareness of self and impact on clients
    • B. Genuineness
    • C. Congruence
    • D. Demonstrate knowledge of and sensitivity to gender orientation and gender issues
    • E. Demonstrate knowledge of and sensitivity to multicultural issues
    • F. Demonstrate conflict tolerance and resolution
    • G. Empathic attunement
    • H. Empathic responding
    • I. Foster the emergence of group therapeutic factors
    • J. Non-judgmental stance
    • K. Positive regard
    • L. Respect and acceptance for diversity
    • M. Use foundational listening, attending, and reflecting skills
Examination sources