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Louisiana Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Professional Counselor

Independent professional mental health counseling license.

Licensing authority: Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners · Application information

New home state license based on Compact privilege to practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Apply for the new home-state license, pay applicable fees, and notify both licensing authorities according to Commission rules.
Background checks
FBI fingerprint-based check if not previously performed or updated under Commission rules, and other background checks required by the new home state.
Existing authority
Hold an eligible home-state LPC license and privilege to practice under the Compact; move primary residence between member jurisdictions.
Fallback
An applicant failing Compact criteria must instead meet the ordinary single-state licensing requirements.
Former license
The former home-state license becomes a privilege once the new home-state license activates.
Jurisprudence
R.S. 37:1135(B)(2)(c) requires "Completion of any requisite jurisprudence requirements of the new home state." It does not identify an examination; retain that contingent requirement as an applicant condition.
Verification
The new home state verifies the R.S. 37:1134 eligibility criteria through the data system rather than repeating primary-source verification.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Endorsement with less than one year of licensure
Application
Complete the endorsement application, pay the fee, provide official graduate transcripts, declaration, photograph, and fingerprints and criminal-history information.
Existing license
Hold a current professional counselor license in another jurisdiction, with verification sent by each licensing board where a license is or was held.
Experience
Licensed as an LPC for less than one year in another jurisdiction.
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and have no discipline that would have been grounds for refusal, suspension, or revocation in Louisiana when the act occurred.
Implementation statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Scores
Provide proof of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score, including examinations passed before this application.
Substantial equivalence
The other jurisdiction’s licensing requirements must be substantially equivalent to or exceed Louisiana’s requirements.
Endorsement after at least one year of licensure and active practice
Application
Complete the endorsement application, pay the fee, provide official graduate transcripts, declaration, photograph, and fingerprints and criminal-history information.
Continuing education
Document at least 40 Board-qualifying CE hours within the two years preceding application.
Existing license
Hold a current professional counselor license in another jurisdiction, with verification sent by each licensing board where a license is or was held.
Experience
Licensed and actively practicing mental health counseling for at least one year in another jurisdiction.
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and have no discipline that would have been grounds for refusal, suspension, or revocation in Louisiana when the act occurred.
Implementation statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Oral alternative
LAC 46:LX.1101(A) states applicants may "successfully complete an oral exam administered by the board" instead of proving NCE or NCMHCE passage. The text identifies no distinct examination name, version or registration boundary; that open Board-prescribed alternative is an applicant condition, not a fabricated examination leaf.
Scores
Provide proof of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score, including examinations passed before this application.
Reapplication after more than two years of lapse
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures, official graduate transcripts, photograph, and the application and required fee.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
Experience
At least 3,000 supervised post-masters hours over no less than two and no more than six years; substitutions for additional graduate study must still leave at least 2,000 supervised hours; remain under Board-approved supervision until licensed.
Oral assessment
R.S. 37:1107(A)(5) and LAC 46:LX.703(A)(5) permit an oral examination at Board discretion. The sources leave the assessment to be prescribed and do not identify a separately named, currently offered examination; it is retained as an unnamed examination-slot condition.
Prior status
Renewal is unavailable after more than two years of lapse; apply under current initial licensure guidelines and submit recent continuing education.
Score report
Provide official passing NCE or NCMHCE scores directly from NBCC; a currently offered examination remains a requirement even if passed before application.
Initial licensure by examination
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures, official graduate transcripts, photograph, and the application and required fee.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
Experience
At least 3,000 supervised post-masters hours over no less than two and no more than six years; substitutions for additional graduate study must still leave at least 2,000 supervised hours; remain under Board-approved supervision until licensed.
Oral assessment
R.S. 37:1107(A)(5) and LAC 46:LX.703(A)(5) permit an oral examination at Board discretion. The sources leave the assessment to be prescribed and do not identify a separately named, currently offered examination; it is retained as an unnamed examination-slot condition.
Score report
Provide official passing NCE or NCMHCE scores directly from NBCC; a currently offered examination remains a requirement even if passed before application.
Renewal of a lapsed license within two years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board instructions
The LPC renewal page requires a late fee, updated fingerprint criminal-records check and signed privacy acknowledgment; late renewals are audited and must be approved before reinstatement.
Continuing education
40 qualifying clock hours for the renewal period under R.S. 37:1107(D) and LAC 46:LX.705. The August 2026 compilation also prints prospective CE revisions effective April 1, 2027; do not apply those revisions before their stated effective date.
Cycle
Renew every two years in June.
Declaration
Submit changes in areas of focus or expertise and other required declaration updates for Board review.
Fee
Submit the renewal application and fee.
Lapse
Within two years after the renewal lapse; pay all arrears and provide evidence of required continuing education.
Specialty privileges
Maintain any additional required privilege renewal materials; supervisor privileges require three supervision CE hours and biannual orientation.
Teletherapy
If privileged in teletherapy, accrue three teletherapy CE hours each renewal period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensing portability for active servicemembers and spouses
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application documents
Military orders; marriage certificate for a spouse; notarized affidavit verifying identity, accuracy, understanding and compliance with licensing and scope-of-practice requirements, and good standing in every jurisdiction in which a license is or was held.
Background check
The licensing authority may conduct a background check.
Board form statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Compact exception
50 U.S.C. 4025a does not apply to a license to operate in multiple jurisdictions pursuant to an interstate compact; its own requirements govern.
Covered license
License must be in good standing, without revocation, discipline, a pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or surrender during such an investigation.
Eligibility
Active servicemember or spouse relocating residence because of military orders, holding a covered professional counselor license; use the Board endorsement application and send military orders to the Credentialing Department.
Examination treatment
This pathway recognizes the covered license under 50 U.S.C. 4025a. The existing license is an applicant condition; the federal recognition application does not require a new, identified examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
40 qualifying clock hours for the renewal period under R.S. 37:1107(D) and LAC 46:LX.705. The August 2026 compilation also prints prospective CE revisions effective April 1, 2027; do not apply those revisions before their stated effective date.
Cycle
Renew every two years in June.
Declaration
Submit changes in areas of focus or expertise and other required declaration updates for Board review.
Fee
Submit the renewal application and fee.
Specialty privileges
Maintain any additional required privilege renewal materials; supervisor privileges require three supervision CE hours and biannual orientation.
Teletherapy
If privileged in teletherapy, accrue three teletherapy CE hours each renewal period.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board action
Re-evaluation and favorable Board recommendation; reinstatement is discretionary.
Prior status
Existing Louisiana LPC license revoked.
Time
Apply no earlier than two years after the revocation becomes legally effective.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board action
Re-evaluation and favorable Board recommendation; reinstatement is discretionary.
Prior status
Existing Louisiana LPC license suspended.
Time
Suspension may not exceed two years; the Board re-evaluates it at the end.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor

Supervised professional mental health counseling license.

Licensing authority: Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners · Application information

Reapplication after expiry of the 90 day renewal lapse period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Board page statement
The Board FAQ states that on expiry and reapplication all previously accrued supervised hours are forfeited; applicants should obtain the Board’s determination of retained hours.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures and receive the Board’s provisional-license approval before accruing supervised experience.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
National examination
The NCE/NCMHCE is not required for initial provisional issuance under the complete LAC 46:LX.603 qualifications; LAC 46:LX.609 introduces examination attempts at renewal.
Practice setting
Obtain Board approval of the practice setting, appropriate administrative oversight and availability of a licensed mental-health professional for consultation; no ownership or management of the practice setting and no direct client payments.
Prior status
Apply under current provisional-license requirements and submit recent CE hours after missing the 90-day renewal limit; the rule forfeits supervised hours accrued during that renewal period.
Supervisor
Obtain a Board-approved LPC Supervisor, a proposed supervision agreement, and written Board approval before accruing hours; prohibited family and dual relationships require any Board-authorized exception.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial provisional licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures and receive the Board’s provisional-license approval before accruing supervised experience.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
National examination
The NCE/NCMHCE is not required for initial provisional issuance under the complete LAC 46:LX.603 qualifications; LAC 46:LX.609 introduces examination attempts at renewal.
Practice setting
Obtain Board approval of the practice setting, appropriate administrative oversight and availability of a licensed mental-health professional for consultation; no ownership or management of the practice setting and no direct client payments.
Supervisor
Obtain a Board-approved LPC Supervisor, a proposed supervision agreement, and written Board approval before accruing hours; prohibited family and dual relationships require any Board-authorized exception.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of a lapsed provisional license within 90 days
Board instructions
The PLPC renewal page requires late-renewal fees, updated fingerprints, a signed privacy acknowledgment, and audit approval.
Continuing education
20 Board-qualifying clock hours under LAC 46:LX.609 and 611. The compiled prospective amendments effective April 1, 2027 do not change this September 2026 route’s requirements.
Cycle
Renew every two years in October by October 31.
Declaration
Submit an updated declaration if the area of focus or expertise changes, and pay the renewal fee.
Lapse
Renew within the 90-day lapse period, with all fees and required materials by January 31; no practice or accrual of supervised hours during lapse.
Oral assessment
LAC 46:LX.609(A)(4) permits an additional Board-discretionary oral examination without identifying a distinct currently offered examination; this is an unnamed-slot condition.
Scores
Attempt the NCE or NCMHCE at least once per renewal period until a passing score is achieved and request NBCC score submission; a prior passing score excuses a new attempt but the currently offered exam remains in this route’s tree.
Supervised hours
Submit direct, indirect and face-to-face supervision hours accrued since approval or renewal.
Provisional licensure with transfer of out of state supervised experience
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures and receive the Board’s provisional-license approval before accruing supervised experience.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
Good standing
Good standing and no disqualifying discipline in all licensing or credentialing jurisdictions.
National examination
The NCE/NCMHCE is not required for initial provisional issuance under the complete LAC 46:LX.603 qualifications; LAC 46:LX.609 introduces examination attempts at renewal.
Practice setting
Obtain Board approval of the practice setting, appropriate administrative oversight and availability of a licensed mental-health professional for consultation; no ownership or management of the practice setting and no direct client payments.
Supervisor
Obtain a Board-approved LPC Supervisor, a proposed supervision agreement, and written Board approval before accruing hours; prohibited family and dual relationships require any Board-authorized exception.
Transfer
Transfer of up to 2,500 hours is at Board discretion: no more than 1,600 direct hours, 815 indirect hours, and 85 face-to-face supervision hours; the supervisor must meet Board-equivalent requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial provisional license renewal
Continuing education
20 Board-qualifying clock hours under LAC 46:LX.609 and 611. The compiled prospective amendments effective April 1, 2027 do not change this September 2026 route’s requirements.
Cycle
Renew every two years in October by October 31.
Declaration
Submit an updated declaration if the area of focus or expertise changes, and pay the renewal fee.
Oral assessment
LAC 46:LX.609(A)(4) permits an additional Board-discretionary oral examination without identifying a distinct currently offered examination; this is an unnamed-slot condition.
Scores
Attempt the NCE or NCMHCE at least once per renewal period until a passing score is achieved and request NBCC score submission; a prior passing score excuses a new attempt but the currently offered exam remains in this route’s tree.
Supervised hours
Submit direct, indirect and face-to-face supervision hours accrued since approval or renewal.
Reinstatement of a revoked provisional license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board action
Favorable Board vote and recommendation are discretionary.
Prior status
Louisiana provisional license revoked.
Supervision
Any reinstated PLPC remains subject to active-supervision requirements.
Time
Reinstatement application only after at least two years from the legally effective revocation.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reapplication after six years without full licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Age
At least 21 years of age.
Background check
Submit the required fingerprints and criminal-history information; the LPC application requests submission within 60 days of application.
Character
Good moral character.
Compliance
Comply with the Mental Health Counselor Licensing Act and Board rules.
Declaration
Submit a Declaration of Practices and Procedures and receive the Board’s provisional-license approval before accruing supervised experience.
Education
Board-approved graduate mental health counseling degree from a regionally accredited institution; at least 60 graduate credits for present applicants, the eight required content areas, a 100-clock-hour practicum including 40 direct hours, and a 600-clock-hour internship including 240 direct hours; grades at least C in coursework and A, B, or P in field experience.
National examination
The NCE/NCMHCE is not required for initial provisional issuance under the complete LAC 46:LX.603 qualifications; LAC 46:LX.609 introduces examination attempts at renewal.
Practice setting
Obtain Board approval of the practice setting, appropriate administrative oversight and availability of a licensed mental-health professional for consultation; no ownership or management of the practice setting and no direct client payments.
Prior status
The provisional licensee must obtain LPC licensure within six years; otherwise forfeit all accrued supervised hours, reapply under current requirements, and submit recent CE hours.
Supervisor
Obtain a Board-approved LPC Supervisor, a proposed supervision agreement, and written Board approval before accruing hours; prohibited family and dual relationships require any Board-authorized exception.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended provisional license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board action
Favorable Board vote and recommendation are discretionary.
Prior status
Louisiana provisional license suspended.
Supervision
Any reinstated PLPC remains subject to active-supervision requirements.
Time
Suspension may not exceed two years; re-evaluation at its end.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary Licensed Professional Counselor

Temporary LPC license pending the criminal-history inquiry, distinct from a 30-day temporary registration.

Licensing authority: Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners · Application information

Temporary license pending background results for endorsement less one year
Application
Complete the endorsement application, pay the fee, provide official graduate transcripts, declaration, photograph, and fingerprints and criminal-history information.
Equivalence
The licensing jurisdiction’s requirements are substantially equivalent to or exceed Louisiana’s requirements.
Existing license
Hold a current professional counselor license in another jurisdiction, with verification sent by each licensing board where a license is or was held.
Experience
Licensed for less than one year.
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and have no discipline that would have been grounds for refusal, suspension, or revocation in Louisiana when the act occurred.
Implementation statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Scores
Provide proof of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score, including examinations passed before this application.
Temporary
Board-approved temporary issuance for applicants in good standing upon a complete endorsement application, including proof of fingerprint-packet submission; valid no more than ninety calendar days while criminal-history results are pending.
Temporary license pending background results for endorsement one year
Application
Complete the endorsement application, pay the fee, provide official graduate transcripts, declaration, photograph, and fingerprints and criminal-history information.
Continuing education
40 qualifying CE hours within two years before application.
Existing license
Hold a current professional counselor license in another jurisdiction, with verification sent by each licensing board where a license is or was held.
Experience
Licensed and actively practicing in another jurisdiction for at least one year.
Good standing
Be in good standing in every licensing jurisdiction and have no discipline that would have been grounds for refusal, suspension, or revocation in Louisiana when the act occurred.
Implementation statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Oral alternative
The unidentified Board-administered oral alternative in LAC 46:LX.1101(A) is retained as an applicant condition.
Scores
Provide proof of a passing NCE or NCMHCE score, including examinations passed before this application.
Temporary
Board-approved temporary issuance for applicants in good standing upon a complete endorsement application, including proof of fingerprint-packet submission; valid no more than ninety calendar days while criminal-history results are pending.
Temporary license during military portability processing
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application documents
Military orders; marriage certificate for a spouse; notarized affidavit verifying identity, accuracy, understanding and compliance with licensing and scope-of-practice requirements, and good standing in every jurisdiction in which a license is or was held.
Background check
The licensing authority may conduct a background check.
Board form statement
The Board endorsement application, General Instructions, states: "Out-of-state applicants who have NOT been licensed and actively practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor for at least five (5) years will be required to meet Louisiana’s academic, supervision, and exam requirements." Its five-year threshold is older than the controlling one-year distinction in LAC 46:LX.1101; the rule governs this route. The form also states all applicants must have passed NCE or NCMHCE, while the rule permits a Board-administered oral alternative in the one-year tier.
Compact exception
50 U.S.C. 4025a does not apply to a license to operate in multiple jurisdictions pursuant to an interstate compact; its own requirements govern.
Covered license
License must be in good standing, without revocation, discipline, a pending unprofessional-conduct investigation, or surrender during such an investigation.
Eligibility
Active servicemember or spouse relocating residence because of military orders, holding a covered professional counselor license; use the Board endorsement application and send military orders to the Credentialing Department.
Examination treatment
This pathway recognizes the covered license under 50 U.S.C. 4025a. The existing license is an applicant condition; the federal recognition application does not require a new, identified examination.
Temporary
Under 50 U.S.C. 4025a(b), when covered-license recognition cannot be completed during the thirty days after receipt of the statutory application, the licensing authority may issue a temporary license carrying the same rights and responsibilities.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

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