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Delaware Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health (LACMH)

Supervised associate license effective for two years and renewable at most twice.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Initial associate licensure
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Application forms
Submit planned direct supervision forms; the Board page also requests a planned professional counseling experience form if the applicant does not have 60 post-master’s counseling credit hours, verifying nonsupervised clinical hours. Statutory education requirements still apply.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience waiver
Under § 3033(a), satisfy the full-license requirements except completed professional experience.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License term
The associate license is effective for two years and may be renewed at most twice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision changes
Notify the Board on its approved form within 30 days of a clinical supervision change; the change requires Board approval.
Supervision plan
Before acquiring qualifying experience, obtain Board approval of a professional direct-supervision plan signed by the proposed approved supervisor; regulation 3.1 applies regulations 2.3–2.5.3.
Associate licensure after ineligible reciprocity application
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Application forms
Submit planned direct supervision forms; the Board page also requests a planned professional counseling experience form if the applicant does not have 60 post-master’s counseling credit hours, verifying nonsupervised clinical hours. Statutory education requirements still apply.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience waiver
Under § 3033(a), satisfy the full-license requirements except completed professional experience.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License term
The associate license is effective for two years and may be renewed at most twice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Reciprocity ineligibility
Under § 3034(c), an applicant licensed in a jurisdiction with nonsimilar standards and fewer than five licensed years may apply for LACMH to obtain the experience required for LPCMH.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision changes
Notify the Board on its approved form within 30 days of a clinical supervision change; the change requires Board approval.
Supervision plan
Before acquiring qualifying experience, obtain Board approval of a professional direct-supervision plan signed by the proposed approved supervisor; regulation 3.1 applies regulations 2.3–2.5.3.
New associate application after termination
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Application forms
Submit planned direct supervision forms; the Board page also requests a planned professional counseling experience form if the applicant does not have 60 post-master’s counseling credit hours, verifying nonsupervised clinical hours. Statutory education requirements still apply.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience waiver
Under § 3033(a), satisfy the full-license requirements except completed professional experience.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License term
The associate license is effective for two years and may be renewed at most twice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision changes
Notify the Board on its approved form within 30 days of a clinical supervision change; the change requires Board approval.
Supervision plan
Before acquiring qualifying experience, obtain Board approval of a professional direct-supervision plan signed by the proposed approved supervisor; regulation 3.1 applies regulations 2.3–2.5.3.
Terminated license
The Board renewal instructions require a new application after termination. The associate two-year term and limit of two renewals under § 3033(c) still apply; this route makes no claim that reapplication resets that limit.
Associate late renewal within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Associate license holders need no CE for renewal.
Late period
Apply within one year after expiration and pay the renewal and late fees; do not practice until active renewal.
Renewal limit
The statutory maximum of two renewals remains applicable.
Supervision
Maintain Board-approved supervision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military deployment license continuation and renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expiration protection
Expiration protection continues for 180 days after return if CE is not required; for 270 days if CE is required.
Other requirements
Protection does not waive other applicable licensure requirements; submit the Division’s extension/renewal request and required documentation.
Qualifying member
Provide official deployment verification as a qualifying military member under § 8735(p).
Renewal submission
For licenses without CE, submit renewal documents within 90 days after return; for licenses requiring CE, within 180 days after return, including CE proof.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military lapse reinstatement — member
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
For an associate, the statutory term and maximum two renewals continue to apply; the restoration does not establish a new six-year entitlement.
Discipline restriction
This special lapse-restoration provision does not apply to a suspended or revoked license unless it had been reinstated before lapse/expiration.
Documentation and fee
Submit the Division’s designated reinstatement form, applicable Title 24 reinstatement documentation, required fees and any applicable CE evidence.
Eligibility
Applicant is a qualifying military member under § 8735(p)(7), or that person’s spouse; provide official status and acceptable Delaware duty-assignment verification.
Route reading
Section 8735(q) authorizes reinstatement of the former license, not a new application under § 3008(c). No currently offered examination is named in its requirements; corrective conditions and licensure evidence remain applicant conditions.
Time limit
Apply within two years of lapse or expiration under § 8735(q), notwithstanding the ordinary one-year late-renewal rule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military lapse reinstatement — spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
For an associate, the statutory term and maximum two renewals continue to apply; the restoration does not establish a new six-year entitlement.
Discipline restriction
This special lapse-restoration provision does not apply to a suspended or revoked license unless it had been reinstated before lapse/expiration.
Documentation and fee
Submit the Division’s designated reinstatement form, applicable Title 24 reinstatement documentation, required fees and any applicable CE evidence.
Eligibility
Applicant is a qualifying military member under § 8735(p)(7), or that person’s spouse; provide official status and acceptable Delaware duty-assignment verification.
Route reading
Section 8735(q) authorizes reinstatement of the former license, not a new application under § 3008(c). No currently offered examination is named in its requirements; corrective conditions and licensure evidence remain applicant conditions.
Time limit
Apply within two years of lapse or expiration under § 8735(q), notwithstanding the ordinary one-year late-renewal rule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Removal from probationary status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Corrective actions
The Board may withdraw or reduce probation when deficiencies have been remedied; a hearing and satisfaction of all prescribed conditions govern full reinstatement.
Fees evidence ce
Provide required corrective-action evidence, pay established fees and demonstrate any applicable CE compliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Associate license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Associate license holders are exempt from continuing education requirements.
Fee and application
Submit the online renewal application, answer required questions and pay the fee.
Supervision
Continue to maintain an approved supervision arrangement; changes require timely notice and Board approval.
Term
Renew at the end of the two-year term; at most two renewals are allowed, for at most six total years.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
Associate term and renewal limits remain applicable.
Corrective measures
The Board may impose authorized disciplinary or corrective measures under § 3011(c); this is a case-specific applicant condition, with no named examination in the reinstatement provisions.
Documentation
Provide evidence the Board requests, pay established fees and prove any applicable CE compliance.
Hearing
The Board must be satisfied after a hearing that prescribed corrective actions and every condition of suspension have been fulfilled.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to unrestricted practice after voluntary treatment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Compliance
Fulfill the agreed treatment plan and practice restrictions, maintain satisfactory treatment progress and satisfy the Board or Division’s requirements.
Treatment completion
A professional whose practice was restricted may apply for unrestricted licensure on completing the Voluntary Treatment Option program.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH)

Ordinary independent mental health counselor license under Title 24, Chapter 30, Subchapter II.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

LACMH conversion to LPCMH
Alternative supervisor
For a non-LPCMH supervisor provide a compelling clinical reason and the alternative-supervisor form. A supervisor outside this Board must attest familiarity with Delaware licensure law and supervision training.
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Associate license
Hold an LACMH and submit an LPCMH application on completing the statutory experience under § 3033(d).
Clinical setting
The setting must clearly provide professional mental health clinical counseling and be subject to HIPAA. Educational or guidance counseling is not clinical experience; mental-health-organization services contracted to schools may be acceptable.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Direct client hours
Of the supervised 1,600 hours, at least 1,500 are actual face-to-face clinical services; at least 750 are individual client sessions, with the other 750 individual, group, couple or family services. Face-to-face includes in-person and live video.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience
Document 3,200 hours of professional mental health counseling obtained over at least two and at most four consecutive years, including 1,600 hours under approved professional direct supervision.
Experience documents
Use direct supervision reference forms sent by each approved clinical supervisor affirming readiness for independent practice, plus counseling experience verifications for other hours. Self-employment verification must come from a knowledgeable professional who is not a listed relative; total hours, not employment dates alone, must be stated.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision hours
At least 100 hours are face-to-face professional direct supervision; no more than 40 may be group supervision and a group has at most six supervisees.
Supervisor
The supervisor must meet regulations 2.5–2.5.3: an LPCMH licensed in a US jurisdiction or a Board-approved behavioral health professional with an essential clinical specialty; at least two postlicensure practice years without discipline; three clinical-supervision CE hours in the preceding two years or twelve lifetime; no more than ten supervisees.
Licensure by examination
Alternative supervisor
For a non-LPCMH supervisor provide a compelling clinical reason and the alternative-supervisor form. A supervisor outside this Board must attest familiarity with Delaware licensure law and supervision training.
Applicant
Applicant does not hold a current counselor license in another US jurisdiction.
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Clinical setting
The setting must clearly provide professional mental health clinical counseling and be subject to HIPAA. Educational or guidance counseling is not clinical experience; mental-health-organization services contracted to schools may be acceptable.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Direct client hours
Of the supervised 1,600 hours, at least 1,500 are actual face-to-face clinical services; at least 750 are individual client sessions, with the other 750 individual, group, couple or family services. Face-to-face includes in-person and live video.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience
Document 3,200 hours of professional mental health counseling obtained over at least two and at most four consecutive years, including 1,600 hours under approved professional direct supervision.
Experience documents
Use direct supervision reference forms sent by each approved clinical supervisor affirming readiness for independent practice, plus counseling experience verifications for other hours. Self-employment verification must come from a knowledgeable professional who is not a listed relative; total hours, not employment dates alone, must be stated.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision hours
At least 100 hours are face-to-face professional direct supervision; no more than 40 may be group supervision and a group has at most six supervisees.
Supervisor
The supervisor must meet regulations 2.5–2.5.3: an LPCMH licensed in a US jurisdiction or a Board-approved behavioral health professional with an essential clinical specialty; at least two postlicensure practice years without discipline; three clinical-supervision CE hours in the preceding two years or twelve lifetime; no more than ten supervisees.
Renewal with Board approved CE hardship exception
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Attestation
Attest to CE completion online; retain supporting attendance documents for at least one year after renewal and supply them if audited.
Continuing education
Complete 40 acceptable CE hours in the licensure period, including three hours in ethics and three in cultural inclusion, equity and diversity. Initial-period proration under regulation 12.2.1 is 0, 10, 20 or 30 hours according to issuance date; the 10/20/30-hour categories include one hour in each required topic.
Hardship
Before the period ends, submit a written good-cause request and renewal fee. Disability, illness, military service, extended absence or exceptional family responsibilities may justify a discretionary CE exception. Renewal requires Board approval.
National membership
Under § 3008(b), submit proof of membership in good standing as of licensure in a national certifying organization acceptable to the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Late renewal within one year
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Attestation
Attest to CE completion online; retain supporting attendance documents for at least one year after renewal and supply them if audited.
Continuing education
Complete 40 acceptable CE hours in the licensure period, including three hours in ethics and three in cultural inclusion, equity and diversity. Initial-period proration under regulation 12.2.1 is 0, 10, 20 or 30 hours according to issuance date; the 10/20/30-hour categories include one hour in each required topic.
Late period
File within one year after expiration and pay renewal and late fees. Practice is prohibited until renewed to active status; late renewals are audited.
National membership
Under § 3008(b), submit proof of membership in good standing as of licensure in a national certifying organization acceptable to the Board.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military deployment license continuation and renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expiration protection
Expiration protection continues for 180 days after return if CE is not required; for 270 days if CE is required.
Other requirements
Protection does not waive other applicable licensure requirements; submit the Division’s extension/renewal request and required documentation.
Qualifying member
Provide official deployment verification as a qualifying military member under § 8735(p).
Renewal submission
For licenses without CE, submit renewal documents within 90 days after return; for licenses requiring CE, within 180 days after return, including CE proof.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military lapse reinstatement — member
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
LPCMH CE and restoration documentation apply.
Discipline restriction
This special lapse-restoration provision does not apply to a suspended or revoked license unless it had been reinstated before lapse/expiration.
Documentation and fee
Submit the Division’s designated reinstatement form, applicable Title 24 reinstatement documentation, required fees and any applicable CE evidence.
Eligibility
Applicant is a qualifying military member under § 8735(p)(7), or that person’s spouse; provide official status and acceptable Delaware duty-assignment verification.
Route reading
Section 8735(q) authorizes reinstatement of the former license, not a new application under § 3008(c). No currently offered examination is named in its requirements; corrective conditions and licensure evidence remain applicant conditions.
Time limit
Apply within two years of lapse or expiration under § 8735(q), notwithstanding the ordinary one-year late-renewal rule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military lapse reinstatement — spouse
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
LPCMH CE and restoration documentation apply.
Discipline restriction
This special lapse-restoration provision does not apply to a suspended or revoked license unless it had been reinstated before lapse/expiration.
Documentation and fee
Submit the Division’s designated reinstatement form, applicable Title 24 reinstatement documentation, required fees and any applicable CE evidence.
Eligibility
Applicant is a qualifying military member under § 8735(p)(7), or that person’s spouse; provide official status and acceptable Delaware duty-assignment verification.
Route reading
Section 8735(q) authorizes reinstatement of the former license, not a new application under § 3008(c). No currently offered examination is named in its requirements; corrective conditions and licensure evidence remain applicant conditions.
Time limit
Apply within two years of lapse or expiration under § 8735(q), notwithstanding the ordinary one-year late-renewal rule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Removal from probationary status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Corrective actions
The Board may withdraw or reduce probation when deficiencies have been remedied; a hearing and satisfaction of all prescribed conditions govern full reinstatement.
Fees evidence ce
Provide required corrective-action evidence, pay established fees and demonstrate any applicable CE compliance.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Provide proof of 40 acceptable CE hours completed in the two years immediately before the request, including three hours in ethics and three in cultural inclusion, equity and diversity.
Fee
Pay the licensure renewal fee; no late fee applies to return to active status.
Inactive period
Request reactivation before the five-year inactive period ends; an inactive license confers no authority to practice.
Period wording
Regulation 12.5.2 states return must occur before the end of the then-current two-year licensure period; regulation 12.5.1 and the Board renewal page allow inactive status for up to five years. Both timing statements are retained for Board determination.
Request
Submit a written request through the DELPROS service-request process.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Attestation
Attest to CE completion online; retain supporting attendance documents for at least one year after renewal and supply them if audited.
Continuing education
Complete 40 acceptable CE hours in the licensure period, including three hours in ethics and three in cultural inclusion, equity and diversity. Initial-period proration under regulation 12.2.1 is 0, 10, 20 or 30 hours according to issuance date; the 10/20/30-hour categories include one hour in each required topic.
National membership
Under § 3008(b), submit proof of membership in good standing as of licensure in a national certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Renewal
Renew by September 30 of even-numbered years through DELPROS, answer the renewal questions and pay the renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
Applicable LPCMH continuing education requirements remain applicable.
Corrective measures
The Board may impose authorized disciplinary or corrective measures under § 3011(c); this is a case-specific applicant condition, with no named examination in the reinstatement provisions.
Documentation
Provide evidence the Board requests, pay established fees and prove any applicable CE compliance.
Hearing
The Board must be satisfied after a hearing that prescribed corrective actions and every condition of suspension have been fulfilled.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to unrestricted practice after voluntary treatment
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Compliance
Fulfill the agreed treatment plan and practice restrictions, maintain satisfactory treatment progress and satisfy the Board or Division’s requirements.
Treatment completion
A professional whose practice was restricted may apply for unrestricted licensure on completing the Voluntary Treatment Option program.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity — nonsimilar standards with five years of licensure
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current professional counseling license in good standing in another US jurisdiction. Good standing uses § 3032(a)(4)–(8).
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
Implementation
The Board application page states that applicants licensed at least five years in any one jurisdiction need no additional documentation beyond the requirements for all applicants.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Licensing history
Under § 3034(b), hold a license in good standing for at least five years in the jurisdiction from which reciprocal licensure is requested, meet other reciprocity qualifications, and have passed NCE or another acceptable examination.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
Reciprocity — substantially similar licensing standards
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current professional counseling license in good standing in another US jurisdiction. Good standing uses § 3032(a)(4)–(8).
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
Implementation
The application page requests examination scores for all reciprocity applicants. Applicants licensed less than five years must submit the licensing law/rules for current jurisdictions; if any has substantially similar standards no additional documentation is required.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Licensing standards
Demonstrate substantially similar education, experience and supervision standards under § 3034(a) and regulation 2.6.3; submit the issuing jurisdiction’s licensing law and rules when requested. The applicant bears the burden of proof and the Board determines similarity.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
New application after termination — examination
Alternative supervisor
For a non-LPCMH supervisor provide a compelling clinical reason and the alternative-supervisor form. A supervisor outside this Board must attest familiarity with Delaware licensure law and supervision training.
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Clinical setting
The setting must clearly provide professional mental health clinical counseling and be subject to HIPAA. Educational or guidance counseling is not clinical experience; mental-health-organization services contracted to schools may be acceptable.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
No current counselor license in another US jurisdiction; use examination application.
Direct client hours
Of the supervised 1,600 hours, at least 1,500 are actual face-to-face clinical services; at least 750 are individual client sessions, with the other 750 individual, group, couple or family services. Face-to-face includes in-person and live video.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Education
A regionally accredited master’s degree with at least 60 graduate semester hours in clinical mental health counseling, or a graduate degree the Board determines equivalent, is required by § 3032(a)(1). Arrange an official transcript directly from the institution.
Equivalent coursework
Under regulation 2.1, an applicant without a clinical mental health counseling degree must complete at least 60 graduate semester hours encompassing current CACREP clinical mental health standards, including specialty standards, practicum and internship. Submit a coursework evaluation and descriptions when the program is not CACREP-accredited or the degree is in another discipline.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Experience
Document 3,200 hours of professional mental health counseling obtained over at least two and at most four consecutive years, including 1,600 hours under approved professional direct supervision.
Experience documents
Use direct supervision reference forms sent by each approved clinical supervisor affirming readiness for independent practice, plus counseling experience verifications for other hours. Self-employment verification must come from a knowledgeable professional who is not a listed relative; total hours, not employment dates alone, must be stated.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Remediation date
If a certifying organization required degree remediation, the completion date of remediation courses is the conferment date for Board matters under regulation 2.1.
Supervision hours
At least 100 hours are face-to-face professional direct supervision; no more than 40 may be group supervision and a group has at most six supervisees.
Supervisor
The supervisor must meet regulations 2.5–2.5.3: an LPCMH licensed in a US jurisdiction or a Board-approved behavioral health professional with an essential clinical specialty; at least two postlicensure practice years without discipline; three clinical-supervision CE hours in the preceding two years or twelve lifetime; no more than ten supervisees.
Terminated license
An expired license not renewed within one year must be reapplied for as a new applicant under § 3008(c). The same applies to an inactive LPCMH not reactivated within five years under regulation 12.5.1. Pay required fees and provide required CE and acceptable national-certifying-organization membership proof.
New application after termination — five year reciprocity
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current professional counseling license in good standing in another US jurisdiction. Good standing uses § 3032(a)(4)–(8).
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Licensing history
Current counselor license in good standing held for at least five years in the applying jurisdiction, with other reciprocity qualifications satisfied despite nonsimilar licensing standards.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
Terminated license
An expired license not renewed within one year must be reapplied for as a new applicant under § 3008(c). The same applies to an inactive LPCMH not reactivated within five years under regulation 12.5.1. Pay required fees and provide required CE and acceptable national-certifying-organization membership proof.
New application after termination — substantially similar reciprocity
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current professional counseling license in good standing in another US jurisdiction. Good standing uses § 3032(a)(4)–(8).
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Licensing standards
Current counselor license in a jurisdiction whose standards the Board finds substantially similar to Delaware.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
Terminated license
An expired license not renewed within one year must be reapplied for as a new applicant under § 3008(c). The same applies to an inactive LPCMH not reactivated within five years under regulation 12.5.1. Pay required fees and provide required CE and acceptable national-certifying-organization membership proof.

Provisional Professional License — Professional Counselor of Mental Health

Nonrenewable provisional professional license for an eligible military member or spouse while an endorsement or reciprocity application is pending.

Licensing authority: Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals / Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Military provisional licensure — member
Applicant role
Applicant is the qualifying military member.
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Assignment
Provide official verification of assignment to a Delaware duty station. The linked provisional form also describes military reassignment or deployment by the President or Delaware Governor.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current license in good standing from a jurisdiction with substantially similar licensing requirements, with no unresolved complaint, review procedure or disciplinary proceeding.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Form
Submit the signed, notarized provisional application and official status/assignment verification. The Board may request direct licensure verification and the issuing jurisdiction’s licensure law if it cannot verify these online.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Military qualification
29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(7) defines qualifying military membership, including active duty, National Guard, reserve, retired military or veteran; § 8735(r) requires qualifying status or spouse status and an acceptable Delaware duty assignment.
Pending application
A full endorsement/reciprocity application must be filed concurrently or already pending. Section 8735(r) requires the documentation necessary for that application. Its currently offered NCE/NCMHCE passing-score alternatives are retained in this route; the provisional license establishes no additional separate examination.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
Term
Valid for at most six months from issuance and cannot be renewed.
Military provisional licensure — spouse
Applicant role
Applicant is the spouse of a qualifying military member; submit marriage/civil-union verification requested by the form.
Application
Submit a Board-approved application, fee, and evidence verified by oath; applications and supporting documents are processed in DELPROS.
Assignment
Provide official verification of assignment to a Delaware duty station. The linked provisional form also describes military reassignment or deployment by the President or Delaware Governor.
Certification
Under § 3034(a), hold certification by NBCC or another national mental health specialty certifying organization acceptable to the Board.
Criminal background
Submit Delaware and FBI criminal-history checks at applicant expense using fingerprints; checks completed for another purpose are not accepted. Licensure cannot issue before the reports are produced.
Criminal eligibility
Meet § 3032(a)(6) and (8): disclose substantially related convictions or pending charges and provide official information; a Board waiver is discretionary after consideration under 29 Del. C. § 8735(x)(3). A felony sexual offense cannot be waived.
Current license
Hold a current license in good standing from a jurisdiction with substantially similar licensing requirements, with no unresolved complaint, review procedure or disciplinary proceeding.
Disciplinary history
Meet 24 Del. C. § 3032(a)(4): disclose administrative penalties, consent agreements and license surrender; the Board may determine after a hearing whether a penalty warrants denial.
Ethics history
Meet § 3032(a)(7): no penalty for a willful violation of the Board, NBCC, or equivalent professional code of ethics.
Exam scores
Arrange direct verification of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score. The Board may accept another equivalent examination; an unnamed acceptable examination remains an applicant condition, not an invented examination leaf.
Form
Submit the signed, notarized provisional application and official status/assignment verification. The Board may request direct licensure verification and the issuing jurisdiction’s licensure law if it cannot verify these online.
Impairment
Meet § 3032(a)(5): no drug/alcohol impairment or physician finding of mental incompetence limiting safe practice.
License verifications
Arrange direct Board receipt of verifications from every jurisdiction where a license is or has been held.
Military education credit
Under 29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(6), qualifying military education, training or experience is accepted when substantially equivalent. All other licensure requirements, including examination requirements, remain applicable; submit proof if requesting credit.
Military qualification
29 Del. C. § 8735(p)(7) defines qualifying military membership, including active duty, National Guard, reserve, retired military or veteran; § 8735(r) requires qualifying status or spouse status and an acceptable Delaware duty assignment.
Pending application
A full endorsement/reciprocity application must be filed concurrently or already pending. Section 8735(r) requires the documentation necessary for that application. Its currently offered NCE/NCMHCE passing-score alternatives are retained in this route; the provisional license establishes no additional separate examination.
Prior jurisdictions
Provide a notarized list of prior licensing jurisdictions and a signed release allowing verification of disciplinary history and status under regulation 2.6.2.
Term
Valid for at most six months from issuance and cannot be renewed.

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