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Illinois Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Illinois independent clinical professional counseling practice license.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Licensure by acceptance of examination
Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Applicant status
Applicant is not actively licensed as a counselor and does not need Department approval to sit the exam. Includes completed or intended exams through university or NBCC certification pathways and CRC candidates.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Education evidence
An active Illinois LPC license meets the educational requirements under 1375.145(b); it does not excuse a missing NCE or NCMHCE under the ordinary initial route.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Implementation experience statement
IDFPR’s May 2025 qualifications sheet states: “One must complete at least 2 years full time or equivalent part-time supervised experience AFTER the counseling degree.” It also states an average of at least 4 hours per month in supervision. The higher-ranked 1375.130 doctoral allowance and weekly supervision requirement govern; applicants should note the Department’s stated documentation expectations.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Prior passage
A currently offered accepted exam remains in the requirement tree even when passed before application. Arrange official score verification; complete any missing required examination.
Supervised experience
Under 1375.130, complete two full-time years of satisfactory supervised clinical counseling: master’s applicants complete both after the degree; doctoral applicants complete at least one after the degree and qualifying doctoral internships may count. A year is 1680 clock hours in not less than 48 weeks; at least 50% must be direct face-to-face client service, including synchronous audiovisual telehealth. Part-time experience counts.
Supervisor
Use a qualified licensed LCPC, clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, marriage and family therapist or psychiatrist; supervision for an applicant physically in Illinois must be by an Illinois licensee. Meet live, interactively and visually at least one hour each week; group supervision may not exceed five supervisees. Submit VE-LCPC evidence evaluated satisfactory or better.
Licensure by endorsement
Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Education evidence
An active Illinois LPC license meets the educational requirements under 1375.145(b); it does not excuse a missing NCE or NCMHCE under the ordinary initial route.
Exam waiver
Section 70 permits the Department to issue the license without the required examination; this permission is applicant-specific. Rules 1375.70 and 1375.160 and current instructions require the named examinations; any missing required examination must be passed unless the Department grants applicable relief.
Experience evidence
This ordinary endorsement route is for applicants who do not qualify for the five-consecutive-year independent-licensure evidence exemption.
External license
Section 70 allows endorsement based on substantially equivalent licensing standards or individual qualifications at the time of licensure. Provide certification from the original and currently practiced jurisdictions, describing dates, examination and discipline. IDFPR’s August 2024 application instructions specify an ACTIVE equivalent license and state an inactive external license is ineligible for its endorsement method.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Implementation experience statement
IDFPR’s May 2025 qualifications sheet states: “One must complete at least 2 years full time or equivalent part-time supervised experience AFTER the counseling degree.” It also states an average of at least 4 hours per month in supervision. The higher-ranked 1375.130 doctoral allowance and weekly supervision requirement govern; applicants should note the Department’s stated documentation expectations.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Supervised experience
Under 1375.130, complete two full-time years of satisfactory supervised clinical counseling: master’s applicants complete both after the degree; doctoral applicants complete at least one after the degree and qualifying doctoral internships may count. A year is 1680 clock hours in not less than 48 weeks; at least 50% must be direct face-to-face client service, including synchronous audiovisual telehealth. Part-time experience counts.
Supervisor
Use a qualified licensed LCPC, clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, marriage and family therapist or psychiatrist; supervision for an applicant physically in Illinois must be by an Illinois licensee. Meet live, interactively and visually at least one hour each week; group supervision may not exceed five supervisees. Submit VE-LCPC evidence evaluated satisfactory or better.
Endorsement after five consecutive years of independent licensure without discipline
Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit the application, PHQ, certified licensure verification, official examination score verification, and applicable personal history or name-change documentation.
Evidence exemption
Under Section 70 and 1375.160(b), proof of education and supervised employment or experience is not required. Submit certified licensure verification covering the jurisdictions of practice during those five years and meet all other licensing requirements, including the accepted examinations and fees.
Exam waiver
Section 70 permits the Department to issue the license without the required examination; this permission is applicant-specific. Rules 1375.70 and 1375.160 and current instructions require the named examinations; any missing required examination must be passed unless the Department grants applicable relief.
External license
Section 70 allows endorsement based on substantially equivalent licensing standards or individual qualifications at the time of licensure. Provide certification from the original and currently practiced jurisdictions, describing dates, examination and discipline. IDFPR’s August 2024 application instructions specify an ACTIVE equivalent license and state an inactive external license is ineligible for its endorsement method.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Independent licensure
Have five consecutive years of independent-level licensure in another United States jurisdiction without discipline.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Licensure by examination with Department preapproval
Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Education evidence
An active Illinois LPC license meets the educational requirements under 1375.145(b); it does not excuse a missing NCE or NCMHCE under the ordinary initial route.
Exam approval
Use this method when Department approval is wanted or needed to sit NCE or NCMHCE, as applicable to the license; CRC candidates use acceptance of examination. Approval to test is not approval for licensure.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Implementation experience statement
IDFPR’s May 2025 qualifications sheet states: “One must complete at least 2 years full time or equivalent part-time supervised experience AFTER the counseling degree.” It also states an average of at least 4 hours per month in supervision. The higher-ranked 1375.130 doctoral allowance and weekly supervision requirement govern; applicants should note the Department’s stated documentation expectations.
Passing score
Pass the accepted examination alternative at the testing entity’s passing score and arrange direct official scores.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Supervised experience
Under 1375.130, complete two full-time years of satisfactory supervised clinical counseling: master’s applicants complete both after the degree; doctoral applicants complete at least one after the degree and qualifying doctoral internships may count. A year is 1680 clock hours in not less than 48 weeks; at least 50% must be direct face-to-face client service, including synchronous audiovisual telehealth. Part-time experience counts.
Supervisor
Use a qualified licensed LCPC, clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, marriage and family therapist or psychiatrist; supervision for an applicant physically in Illinois must be by an Illinois licensee. Meet live, interactively and visually at least one hour each week; group supervision may not exceed five supervisees. Submit VE-LCPC evidence evaluated satisfactory or better.
LCPC registration for an active Illinois clinical psychologist or clinical social worker
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply and pay the required fee. Section 45(d) and 1375.135 grant LCPC registration without examination. IDFPR labels the application method acceptance of examination, which does not impose an examination on this statutory exception.
Existing license
Hold an active Illinois clinical psychologist or licensed clinical social worker license.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2023-01-01.

Periodic renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Ce waiver
A timely documented request may obtain a Board-recommended waiver for qualifying military service, incapacitating illness or similar extenuating circumstances.
Continuing education
Complete 30 continuing education hours in the preceding 24 months, including at least three ethics hours and applicable 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130 Subpart E training. First renewal is exempt from CE; the second LCPC renewal requires nine clinical-supervision hours once in the lifetime. Qualifying CE courses may themselves include a course examination under 1375.220(b)(2); these unnamed course assessments are conditions, not identifiable licensing examination leaves.
Fees
Pay the renewal fee prescribed in 1375.205.
License status
Renew the existing license before expiry on March 31 of odd-numbered years.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation after five years or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete and provide proof of the continuing education required by 1375.220 during the 24 months immediately preceding restoration.
Discipline
This ordinary restoration route does not replace the separate petition process for a license subject to disciplinary action.
Fees
File the Division restoration form and pay the applicable fees.
License history
The Illinois license has expired or been inactive for five years or less.
Military fee relief
Section 50(d) excuses lapsed renewal fees upon satisfactory proof of qualifying military service or pre-induction government training and honorable termination within two years.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

One time restoration after five years or less without disciplinary history
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Provide 1375.220 continuing education completed in the 24 months preceding restoration and file the restoration form; the exception suspends only the specified requirements.
License history
The inactive or expired Illinois LCPC license is within five years and the licensee has had no disciplinary action in Illinois or any other jurisdiction during the entire licensure period.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Single use
This statutory restoration exception may be used only once.
Suspended requirements
Section 50(g) suspends proof of fitness, certification of active practice in another jurisdiction and the renewal fee.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation after more than five years
Alternative fitness
Instead of the examination proof, 1375.80(b) or 1375.170(c) accepts certification of active practice in another jurisdiction or an affidavit of qualifying military service. These are applicant conditions; the currently offered examinations remain leaves.
Continuing education
Complete and document the 1375.220 continuing education requirements during the 24 months immediately preceding restoration.
Documentation review
Provide clarification or appear before the Board if documentation is insufficient or conflicting; restoration follows Board recommendation and Division approval.
Fees
Submit the restoration application and fees prescribed in 1375.205; statutory military relief may excuse lapsed renewal fees.
License history
Restore an expired or inactive Illinois license after more than five years. Expiry or inactive status of exactly five years is covered by the separate five-years-or-less rule.
Military fee relief
Under Section 50(d), submit satisfactory evidence of qualifying federal service, State Militia service, or pre-induction government training or education and honorable termination within two years to obtain relief from lapsed renewal fees. The LPC rule’s reference to Section 60(d) is inconsistent with the Act: the governing military provision is Section 50(d).
Passing window
When using the examination alternative, provide passage during the period the license was lapsed or inactive.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Licensed Professional Counselor

Illinois supervised professional counseling practice license.

Licensing authority: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation · Application information

Licensure by acceptance of examination

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Applicant status
Applicant is not actively licensed as a counselor and does not need Department approval to sit the exam. Includes completed or intended exams through university or NBCC certification pathways and CRC candidates.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Prior passage
A currently offered accepted exam remains in the requirement tree even when passed before application. Arrange official score verification; complete any missing required examination.
Supervised experience
No post-degree supervised clinical experience is required for LPC issuance; the LPC does not authorize independent clinical practice.
Licensure by endorsement

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Exam waiver
Section 70 permits the Department to issue the license without the required examination; this permission is applicant-specific. Rules 1375.70 and 1375.160 and current instructions require the named examinations; any missing required examination must be passed unless the Department grants applicable relief.
External license
Section 70 allows endorsement based on substantially equivalent licensing standards or individual qualifications at the time of licensure. Provide certification from the original and currently practiced jurisdictions, describing dates, examination and discipline. IDFPR’s August 2024 application instructions specify an ACTIVE equivalent license and state an inactive external license is ineligible for its endorsement method.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Supervised experience
No post-degree supervised clinical experience is required for LPC issuance; the LPC does not authorize independent clinical practice.
Licensure by examination with Department preapproval

At least one of the following alternatives:

Age
Be at least 21 years old.
Application period
The application is valid for three years; reapplication uses the then-current requirements.
Certification
The Department may accept substantially similar State or national certification under 225 ILCS 107/45. LPC rules accept CRC or NCC as education evidence; LCPC rules accept CRC or CCMHC. This does not create an additional examination identity.
Documentation
Submit ED-PC education verification or an accepted certification substitute, PHQ personal history disclosures and supporting records, any applicable licensure certifications, and proof of any name changes.
Education
Complete an approved counseling, psychology, rehabilitation counseling or similar master’s or doctoral degree. Under 1375.45(a)(7), applicants beginning July 1, 2026 need 60 semester or 90 quarter hours with a course in each of the 13 Appendix A core areas. Programs must be at least two academic years, with 30 semester hours of residence beginning July 1, 2026. Programs of at least 39 hours and at least 7 core areas may be remediated with qualifying graduate coursework; lower programs are unacceptable.
Exam approval
Use this method when Department approval is wanted or needed to sit NCE or NCMHCE, as applicable to the license; CRC candidates use acceptance of examination. Approval to test is not approval for licensure.
Fees
Submit the prescribed application and the $150 application fee; examination fees are separate.
Foreign education
Foreign graduates must provide a course-by-course evaluation through a recognized credentials evaluation service as directed by IDFPR.
Passing score
Pass the accepted examination alternative at the testing entity’s passing score and arrange direct official scores.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.
Pending practice
Under 225 ILCS 107/47, effective January 1, 2026, an applicant may temporarily practice under supervision while the application is pending if the applicant authorizes release of application status and the Department acknowledges receipt. Authorization ends upon an adverse eligibility or conduct determination or issuance of the permanent license.
Supervised experience
No post-degree supervised clinical experience is required for LPC issuance; the LPC does not authorize independent clinical practice.
Periodic renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Ce waiver
A timely documented request may obtain a Board-recommended waiver for qualifying military service, incapacitating illness or similar extenuating circumstances.
Continuing education
Complete 30 continuing education hours in the preceding 24 months, including at least three ethics hours and applicable 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130 Subpart E training. First renewal is exempt from CE; the second LCPC renewal requires nine clinical-supervision hours once in the lifetime. Qualifying CE courses may themselves include a course examination under 1375.220(b)(2); these unnamed course assessments are conditions, not identifiable licensing examination leaves.
Fees
Pay the renewal fee prescribed in 1375.205.
License status
Renew the existing license before expiry on March 31 of odd-numbered years.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation after five years or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete and provide proof of the continuing education required by 1375.220 during the 24 months immediately preceding restoration.
Discipline
This ordinary restoration route does not replace the separate petition process for a license subject to disciplinary action.
Fees
File the Division restoration form and pay the applicable fees.
License history
The Illinois license has expired or been inactive for five years or less.
Military fee relief
Section 50(d) excuses lapsed renewal fees upon satisfactory proof of qualifying military service or pre-induction government training and honorable termination within two years.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-01-01.

Restoration or reactivation after more than five years

At least one of the following alternatives:

Alternative fitness
Instead of the examination proof, 1375.80(b) or 1375.170(c) accepts certification of active practice in another jurisdiction or an affidavit of qualifying military service. These are applicant conditions; the currently offered examinations remain leaves.
Continuing education
Complete and document the 1375.220 continuing education requirements during the 24 months immediately preceding restoration.
Documentation review
Provide clarification or appear before the Board if documentation is insufficient or conflicting; restoration follows Board recommendation and Division approval.
Fees
Submit the restoration application and fees prescribed in 1375.205; statutory military relief may excuse lapsed renewal fees.
License history
Restore an expired or inactive Illinois license after more than five years. Expiry or inactive status of exactly five years is covered by the separate five-years-or-less rule.
Military fee relief
Under Section 50(d), submit satisfactory evidence of qualifying federal service, State Militia service, or pre-induction government training or education and honorable termination within two years to obtain relief from lapsed renewal fees. The LPC rule’s reference to Section 60(d) is inconsistent with the Act: the governing military provision is Section 50(d).
Passing window
When using the examination alternative, provide passage during the period the license was lapsed or inactive.
Payment termination
Under 225 ILCS 107/65, termination or denial for an unpaid returned-payment fine requires an application for restoration or issuance and all fees and fines due; the applicable underlying issuance or restoration route supplies the requirements.

CRC Examination

Provider
Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC); delivered by Pearson VUE
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination administered three times a year in testing windows, in two locked sections (Rehabilitation and Disability; Counseling) with conjunctive scoring
Exam questions
175 multiple-choice questions: 150 scored items and 25 field test questions
Time limit
210 minutes to complete the examination questions (3½ hours allotted; set aside 4 hours)
Passing score
Passing score required on both the Counseling part and the Rehabilitation and Disability part in a single administration
Exam fee
$420 certification fee; $275 reexamination fee
Examination outline
  • 1. Professional Orientation and Ethical Practice (10.7% of questions) (10.7%)
    • A. Uphold professional ethical standards for rehabilitation counselors and manage risk. [C] — a) Conceptualize and articulate the counseling relationship; b) Adhere to and ensure confidentiality, privileged communication, and privacy; c) Understand how to promote and participate in advocacy and ensure accessibility; d) Maintain professional roles to ensure appropriate service provision; e) Maintain appropriate relationships with other professionals; f) Understand the differing professional relationships in forensic and indirect services; g) Understand the ethical requirements of evaluation, assessment, and interpretation; h) Understand the ethical requirements in the roles of teaching, supervising, and training; i) Understand the ethical implications of research and publication; j) Understand the limits and ethical implications of the use of technology and distance counseling; k) Understand and ensure appropriate business practices; l) Understand and apply ethical decision-making models and processes.
    • B. Understand and apply laws and public policy affecting individuals with disabilities. [R] — a) Summarize and synthesize the impacts of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.; b) Summarize and synthesize the impacts of Title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Sections 501-504.; c) Summarize and synthesize the impacts of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as Amended.; d) Understand the impact of SSI/SSDI on employment, independent living and economic self-sufficiency.; e) Understand the impact of veteran benefits (e.g., service-connected disability compensation and non-service-connected pension) on employment, independent living and economic self-sufficiency.; f) Summarize and synthesize the impacts of the Fair Labor Standards Act.; g) Understand the definition of a disability in ADA, the uses of the definition, and how the definition relates to the rights guaranteed by the ADA.; h) Understand the rights guaranteed by the ADA in an employment setting.; i) Understand the definition of a reasonable accommodation as defined by the ADA.; j) Understand the rights guaranteed by the ADA on public transportation.; k) Understand the changes to the definition of disability in the ADAAA, the changes to the interactive process, and the implications for employees and employers.; l) Understand the role of the EEOC in relation to discrimination.; m) Summarize and synthesize the impacts of IDEA.; n) Summarize and synthesize the historical impacts of WIA.; o) Understand the rights and limits guaranteed by FMLA.; p) Understand the confidentiality and technology requirements of HIPAA.; q) Understand the impact of TWWIIA (Ticket to Work) on employment, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.; r) Understand the impact and implications of WIOA on employment outcomes, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.
    • C. Advocate for diversity, understand, and apply appropriate services that address multicultural counseling issues. [C]
    • D. Understand and apply appropriate rehabilitation terminology and concepts. [R]
    • E. Understand and identify the differing professional roles, functions, and effective relationships with other providers and professionals. [C]
    • F. Understand the credentialing issues related to the rehabilitation counseling profession and advocate for appropriate solutions. [C]
    • G. Understand the differing organizational structures of rehabilitation counseling practice settings (e.g., public, private-for-profit, and not-for-profit service delivery systems). [R]
    • H. Understand, synthesize, and apply knowledge of historical and philosophical foundations of rehabilitation counseling. [R]
  • 2. Counseling Theories, Techniques, and Evidence-Based Practice (11.3% of questions) (11.3%)
    • A. Apply clinical problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. [C]
    • B. Understand rehabilitation techniques for individuals with disabilities. [R]
    • C. Understand individual counseling theories. [C] — a) Integrated/Eclectic; b) Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy; c) Reality Therapy; d) Person-Centered; e) Psychoanalytic; f) Gestalt; g) Trait-factor/Person Environment Fit; h) Behavioral; i) Cognitive/Behavioral; j) Adlerian; k) Solution-Focused; l) Narrative; m) Feminist; n) Existential
    • D. Utilize individual counseling practices, interventions, and techniques. [C] — a) Systematic Desensitization; b) Behavior Analysis and Therapy; c) Social Skills; d) Time Management; e) Stress Management; f) Restructuring; g) Anger Management; h) Problem Solving Therapy; i) Person-centered practices; j) Mindfulness-based practices
    • E. Understand substance use and treatment. [C]
    • F. Establish and maintain effective working alliances with clients. [C]
    • G. Understand dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders. [C]
    • H. Understand counseling/training to help clients develop workplace socialization skills. [R]
    • I. Demonstrate motivational interviewing use and skills. [C]
    • J. Facilitate treatment planning for clinical conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD). [C]
    • K. Understand human growth and development. [C]
    • L. Apply evidence-based psychosocial/psychiatric rehabilitation interventions in rehabilitation counseling practice. [R]
    • M. Apply evidence-based vocational interventions in rehabilitation counseling practice. [R]
    • N. Apply or facilitate evidence-based counseling/therapy for clients with clinical diagnoses (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD). [C]
    • O. Apply or facilitate evidence-based counseling/therapy for clients with substance use disorders. [C]
    • P. Understand theories and techniques of clinical supervision. [C]
    • Q. Recognize and utilize evidence and research-based practices. [C]
  • 3. Group and Family Counseling (4.7% of questions) (4.7%)
    • A. Understand family counseling theories. [C]
    • B. Incorporate family counseling practices and interventions. [C]
    • C. Understand group counseling theories. [C]
    • D. Incorporate group counseling practices and interventions. [C]
  • 4. Crisis and Trauma Counseling and Interventions (6.0% of questions) (6%)
    • A. Conduct assessment of client risk and development of a safety plan. [C]
    • B. Provide effective rehabilitation counseling services for individuals with polytrauma injuries. [C]
    • C. Understand the impact of crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events on people with disabilities. [C]
    • D. Use principles of crisis intervention for people with disabilities during crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events. [C]
    • E. Understand the emergency management system within rehabilitation agencies and in the community. [C]
  • 5. Medical and Psychosocial Aspects of Chronic Illness and Disability (9.3% of questions) (9.3%)
    • A. Evaluate the psychosocial and cultural impact of disability. [R] — a) Individual adjustment to disability; b) Human sexuality and disability issues; c) Family or support system adjustment to disability
    • B. Understand medical terminology. [R]
    • C. Apply knowledge of the medical aspects and implications of various disabilities. [R] — a) Mental Functions; b) Sensory Functions and Pain; c) Voice and Speech Functions and Structures; d) Cardiovascular, Hematological, Immunological, and Respiratory Functions and Structures; e) Digestive, Metabolic, and Endocrine Systems and Structures; f) Genitourinary and Reproductive Functions and Structures; g) Neuromusculoskeletal and Movement Related Functions and Structures; h) Skin and Related Functions and Structures; i) Nervous System Structures; j) Eye, Ear, and Related Structures; k) Learning and Applying Knowledge; l) Interpersonal Interactions and Relationships; m) General Tasks and Demands; n) Communication; o) Mobility; p) Self-Care; q) Domestic-Life; r) Major Life Areas; s) Community, Social, and Civic Life
    • D. Review the implications of medications as they apply to individuals with disabilities. [R]
    • E. Address environmental and attitudinal barriers for individuals with disabilities. [R]
  • 6. Assessment/Evaluation, Occupational Analysis, and Service Implementation (10.7% of questions) (10.7%)
    • A. Understand the vocational implications of functional limitations associated with disabilities. [R] — a) Mental Functions; b) Sensory Functions and Pain; c) Voice and Speech Functions and Structures; d) Cardiovascular, Hematological, Immunological, and Respiratory Functions and Structures; e) Digestive, Metabolic, and Endocrine Systems and Structures; f) Genitourinary and Reproductive Functions and Structures; g) Neuromusculoskeletal and Movement Related Functions and Structures; h) Skin and Related Functions and Structures; i) Nervous System Structures; j) Eye, Ear, and Related Structures; k) Learning and Applying Knowledge; l) Interpersonal Interactions and Relationships; m) General Tasks and Demands; n) Communication; o) Mobility; p) Self-Care; q) Domestic-Life; r) Major Life Areas; s) Community, Social, and Civic Life
    • B. Access and review resources for the assessment process. [C] — a) Review of case materials for pertinent information; b) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM); c) International Classification of Diseases (ICD)
    • C. Refer or conduct informal assessments. [C] — a) Interviews and initial assessments; b) Situational assessment/job shadowing/community-based work assessment
    • D. Refer or conduct formal assessments. [C] — a) Achievement Tests; b) Aptitude Tests; c) Intelligence Tests; d) Interest Inventories; e) Career, Work Values, and Maturity Tests; f) Personality Tests; g) Psychological/Neuropsychological Tests; h) Adaptive Behavior/Behavioral Observations; i) Mental Health Screeners; j) Learning Styles Tests; k) Ecological/Functional Capacity Evaluations; l) Dexterity Tests; m) Work Samples; n) Non-Cognitive Tests
    • E. Refer or perform Transferable Skills Analysis (e.g., VDARE). [C]
    • F. Interpret assessment results for rehabilitation planning purposes. [C]
    • G. Perform job analysis. [R]
    • H. Assess ergonomic, job accommodation, and assistive technology needs. [R]
    • I. Advise on job modification and restructuring techniques. [R]
    • J. Perform labor market analysis. [R] — a) Occupational and labor market information (e.g., DOT, ORS, O*NET, OOH, other national, regional, or local government labor market sources, private salary surveys); b) Methods and techniques used to conduct labor market surveys
    • K. Use computer-based job matching systems. [C]
  • 7. Career Development and Job Placement (9.3% of questions) (9.3%)
    • A. Understand, identify, and apply career development and job placement strategies. [R]
    • B. Understand, identify, and apply job readiness, seeking, and retention skills. [C]
    • C. Understand the unique needs of specialized populations in relation to job development and placement. [R]
    • D. Understand techniques to develop and retain relationships with employers to assist with job development and placement. [R]
    • E. Understand and identify evidence-based employment models and services tailored to individuals with significant disabilities and/or barriers to competitive employment. [R] — i) Supported Employment (SE); ii) Customized Employment (CE); iii) Individual Placement and Support (IPS); iv) Self-Employment
    • F. Understand the unique needs of individuals with a dual diagnosis in the workplace and apply appropriate strategies. [R]
    • G. Understand and apply theories of career development and work adjustment. [C] — a) Trait-Factor/Person Environment Fit theories.; b) Personality theories; c) Developmental/Self-Concept theories; d) Sociological/Self-Concept theories; e) Behavioral theories
    • H. Understand, identify, and facilitate the appropriate use of work conditioning or work hardening resources and strategies. [R]
    • I. Understand the effective use of and risks of social media as a networking tool. [C]
  • 8. Business Engagement (7.6% of questions) (7.6%)
    • A. Assist employers with job accommodations for their employees with disabilities (e.g., assistive technology, workspace modifications). [R]
    • B. Provide consultation services and training to employers / businesses concerning disability concepts, best practices, and applicable laws (e.g., hiring, return to work, reasonable accommodations, and retention). [R]
    • C. Partner with employers/businesses to address needs and concerns related to hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities. [R]
    • D. Understand, communicate, and apply business-focused strategies, techniques, and terminology to improve employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. [R]
    • E. Work with employers to develop pipelines for employing individuals with disabilities using work-based learning and training methods. [R] — a) Apprenticeships; b) Internships; c) On-the-job training (OJT)
    • F. Understand the dual customer role (e.g., employer and person with a disability). [R]
  • 9. Community Resources and Partnerships (8.0% of questions) (8%)
    • A. Understand the programs and services available for specific and underserved populations. [R]
    • B. Understand Social Security programs, benefits, work incentives, and disincentives. [R]
    • C. Possess knowledge of funding sources and community resources for rehabilitation services. [R]
    • D. Provide or facilitate skills development and independent living services. [R]
    • E. Provide or facilitate financial literacy training. [R]
    • F. Understand and refer to services available through client advocacy programs (e.g., Client Assistance Program [CAP], legal aid). [R]
    • G. Refer to and partner with one-stop career centers and other community stakeholders. [R]
    • H. Understand and facilitate life care planning and life care planning services. [R]
    • I. Advocate with community partners for full community inclusion for people with disabilities. [R]
    • J. Provide or facilitate counseling on the impact of employment on community services and benefits. [R]
  • 10. Case Management (10.0% of questions) (10%)
    • A. Understand and apply the case management process. [C] — a) Case finding; b) Planning; c) Service coordination; d) Referral to and utilization of other disciplines; e) Advocacy
    • B. Complete case recording and documentation. [C]
    • C. Understand and apply negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution strategies. [C]
    • D. Understand and apply the principles of caseload management. [C]
    • E. Understand and address institutional and social barriers that impede access, equity, and success for clients. [C]
    • F. Apply techniques for working with individuals with limited English proficiency or varied communication methods. [C]
    • G. Understand and apply principles, models, and documentation formats for biopsychosocial case conceptualization and treatment planning. [C]
  • 11. Health Care and Disability Management (7.3% of questions) (7.3%)
    • A. Understand and provide appropriate medical intervention resources. [R]
    • B. Understand the diversity of healthcare benefits, delivery systems, and the impact of services on individuals with disabilities. [R]
    • C. Understand and collaborate with health promotion and wellness providers regarding strategies for people with chronic illness and disability. [R]
    • D. Understand different insurance programs (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, group and individual, short-and long-term disability, personal injury no-fault liability). [R]
    • E. Understand and apply disability prevention and management strategies. [R]
    • F. Understand the variability of workers’ compensation laws and practices. [R]
  • 12. Research, Methodology, and Performance Management (5.3% of questions) (5.3%)
    • A. Understand statistics and psychometric concepts related to measurement. [C] — a) Validity; b) Reliability/ Standard Error of Measurement; c) Norms; d) Scaled and Standard Scores; e) Percentiles; f) Distributions/Bell Curve; g) Norm- and Criterion-Referenced Measurement
    • B. Understand research methods (e.g., surveys, case studies) and data analysis. [C]
    • C. Assess research literature related to evidence – based practice. [C] — a) Research databases (e.g., EBSCO, PsycINFO, MEDLINE); b) Ability to select between various levels of evidence-based research (e.g., subject matter experts to the systematic reviews and meta-analyses gold standard)
    • D. Comprehend concepts and principles of organizational development and stakeholder management. [C] — a) Effective management of services and programs, including areas such as administration, finance, benefit systems, and accountability; b) Strategic planning techniques and budget planning
    • E. Understand program evaluation procedures for assessing the effectiveness of rehabilitation services and outcomes. [R]
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