OpenExamsFREE PRACTICE — ANY EXAM

Massachusetts Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

US-MA · License preparation

501 free questions · Answer explanations · No signup required

Choose what to practice

Start with an exam below. Your examination requirements depend on your application pathway. View licensing requirements

Choose an exam or combined practice to begin.

Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Independent mental health counseling license.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Automatic license continuation during active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active service
Be engaged in active United States armed-forces service; the existing license remains valid through active duty and at least 90 days after release.
Renewal waiver
The Department of Public Health states that active-duty licenses renew automatically without a renewal fee or continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure through qualifying civil service employment
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Approved supervisor
Experiences must meet the approved-supervisor and site requirements of 262 CMR 2.02 and 2.06; maintain required evaluations and supervisor or emergency-contact availability.
Civil service employment
Complete six months in the qualifying position with an agency of the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions.
Civil service exam
Section 166 requires a civil service examination for a position whose title is included in section 163. That governmental employment examination is an applicant condition, not this profession’s registered examination.
Clinical site
Maintain the formal clinical-site relationship, approved or contract supervisor, written contract arrangements where applicable, annual evaluations and emergency contact required by 262 CMR 2.07(4)-(5).
Direct client experience
Include 960 direct-client contact hours, at least 610 in individual, couples or family counseling and no more than 350 in group counseling.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score validity
A passing NCMHCE score is valid for five years unless the applicant was licensed as a supervised mental health counselor or as an equivalent mental health counselor elsewhere after passing it, under 262 CMR 2.03(2)(d).
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Foreign education
Where education was obtained abroad, arrange a qualifying evaluation sent directly to the Board and provide the required course-content table and English syllabi or course descriptions.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
Internship
Complete at least 600 hours after practicum, including 240 direct-client hours and 45 supervision hours: at least 15 individual, at least 15 group, remaining 15 individual or group.
Mental health counselor supervision
At least 75 of the 200 total pre- and post-master supervisory contact hours must be provided by an approved Licensed Mental Health Counselor or an equivalently licensed counselor in the jurisdiction of the experience.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Post master experience
Complete at least two years full-time or equivalent part-time supervised clinical experience, totaling 3360 hours over no less than two and no more than eight years, after completing all qualifying education.
Post master supervision
Include at least 130 supervision hours, at least 75 individual; at least one supervisory contact hour per 16 direct-client contact hours, and at least one every two weeks for part-time work.
Practicum
Complete at least 100 hours over at least seven weeks, including 40 direct-client or permitted role-play/laboratory hours and 25 supervision hours: at least 10 individual, at least 5 group, remaining 10 individual or group.
Section165 qualifications
Meet section 165 qualifications and submit the Board-prescribed application and licensure fee; section 166 waives a new examination sitting, while required prior passing evidence for the current registered profession examination remains a leaf.
Independent licensure after holding a supervised mental health counselor license
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Clinical site
Maintain the formal clinical-site relationship, approved or contract supervisor, written contract arrangements where applicable, annual evaluations and emergency contact required by 262 CMR 2.07(4)-(5).
Direct client experience
Include 960 direct-client contact hours, at least 610 in individual, couples or family counseling and no more than 350 in group counseling.
Documentation exception
Under 262 CMR 2.03(2)(e), provide only the prescribed application and clinical experience evidence; the Board guide waives the transcript, graduate/pre-master verification contacts and a new NCMHCE score report.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Mental health counselor supervision
At least 75 of the 200 total pre- and post-master supervisory contact hours must be provided by an approved Licensed Mental Health Counselor or an equivalently licensed counselor in the jurisdiction of the experience.
Post master experience
Complete at least two years full-time or equivalent part-time supervised clinical experience, totaling 3360 hours over no less than two and no more than eight years, after completing all qualifying education.
Post master supervision
Include at least 130 supervision hours, at least 75 individual; at least one supervisory contact hour per 16 direct-client contact hours, and at least one every two weeks for part-time work.
Prior exam
The NCMHCE passing requirement already established for supervised licensure remains a currently offered examination leaf under this contract; conversion does not require resitting or resubmitting its score.
Supervised license history
Hold or have held a Massachusetts Licensed Supervised Mental Health Counselor license.
Initial licensure
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Approved supervisor
Experiences must meet the approved-supervisor and site requirements of 262 CMR 2.02 and 2.06; maintain required evaluations and supervisor or emergency-contact availability.
Clinical site
Maintain the formal clinical-site relationship, approved or contract supervisor, written contract arrangements where applicable, annual evaluations and emergency contact required by 262 CMR 2.07(4)-(5).
Direct client experience
Include 960 direct-client contact hours, at least 610 in individual, couples or family counseling and no more than 350 in group counseling.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score validity
A passing NCMHCE score is valid for five years unless the applicant was licensed as a supervised mental health counselor or as an equivalent mental health counselor elsewhere after passing it, under 262 CMR 2.03(2)(d).
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Foreign education
Where education was obtained abroad, arrange a qualifying evaluation sent directly to the Board and provide the required course-content table and English syllabi or course descriptions.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
Internship
Complete at least 600 hours after practicum, including 240 direct-client hours and 45 supervision hours: at least 15 individual, at least 15 group, remaining 15 individual or group.
Mental health counselor supervision
At least 75 of the 200 total pre- and post-master supervisory contact hours must be provided by an approved Licensed Mental Health Counselor or an equivalently licensed counselor in the jurisdiction of the experience.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Post master experience
Complete at least two years full-time or equivalent part-time supervised clinical experience, totaling 3360 hours over no less than two and no more than eight years, after completing all qualifying education.
Post master supervision
Include at least 130 supervision hours, at least 75 individual; at least one supervisory contact hour per 16 direct-client contact hours, and at least one every two weeks for part-time work.
Practicum
Complete at least 100 hours over at least seven weeks, including 40 direct-client or permitted role-play/laboratory hours and 25 supervision hours: at least 10 individual, at least 5 group, remaining 10 individual or group.
Expedited licensure for a relocating military spouse
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score evidence
Provide evidence of passing NCMHCE. The Board guide states: “An official score report for the NCMHCE (no other exam will be accepted).”
Expedited decision
Within 30 days the authority issues a full or temporary license or provides the statutory notice of unmet qualifications or missing information; this pathway does not waive applicable profession qualifications.
Experience documentation waiver
The Board guide waives pre- and post-master experience-verification contacts for reciprocal applicants; the rule requires the final transcript and Board Examination passing-score evidence.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
License good standing
Submit written proof acceptable to the Board that the other-jurisdiction license, certification or registration has been in good standing for the three years preceding application, under 262 CMR 2.03(3)(d).
Military evidence
Upload transfer orders listing the applicant as a dependent and/or a marriage certificate through the licensing application.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Older implementation condition
The November 2024 application information asks applicants to have worked full-time or equivalent part-time for three years while independently licensed. The July 31, 2026 rule requires three years of license good standing; the Board’s older employment demand is retained here as an implementation condition.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Licensure by reciprocal recognition or equivalent license endorsement
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score evidence
Provide evidence of passing NCMHCE. The Board guide states: “An official score report for the NCMHCE (no other exam will be accepted).”
Experience documentation waiver
The Board guide waives pre- and post-master experience-verification contacts for reciprocal applicants; the rule requires the final transcript and Board Examination passing-score evidence.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
License good standing
Submit written proof acceptable to the Board that the other-jurisdiction license, certification or registration has been in good standing for the three years preceding application, under 262 CMR 2.03(3)(d).
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Older implementation condition
The Board policy adopted September 18, 2020 requests: "LMHCs only: A signed statement under the penalties of perjury that the applicant has worked full-time, or the equivalent part-time, for three years as a licensed LMHC in another jurisdiction." The July 31, 2026 rule requires three years of license good standing. The lower-ranked policy’s employment attestation remains an applicant condition.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: practice in Massachusetts
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay all back license fees, a late fee and the current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Practiced in Massachusetts while the license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: no practice
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Did not practice while the license was expired; submit the required affidavit under pains and penalties of perjury.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse while practicing in another state
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current license renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The Massachusetts license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
License good standing
Submit an official record or certified statement from the other licensing authority showing good standing in the state of current licensure.
Lower ranked examination demand
262 CMR 9.01(2)(c) exhaustively states reinstatement requirements for practice in another state and does not require re-examination. The lower-ranked Board reactivation form states: "If your license has been expired for more than six years, you will be required to retake and pass the licensing examination for your license type unless you have maintained a license in good standing in another jurisdiction during the entire period your license was expired." The rule governs the no-exam route, and this Board demand is retained as an applicant condition.
Practice status
Practiced in another state while the Massachusetts license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after lapse of one renewal cycle or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board requirements
Complete any other Board requirements under 262 CMR 9.01(1)(c); this provision identifies no examination.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the back license fee, late fee and current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for one renewal cycle or less.
Reactivation filing threshold
The current Board form directs online renewal for expiration under 20 months and requests a reactivation application for expiration over 20 months, even within the rule’s one-cycle period; provide the requested documentary evidence when applicable.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
First cycle ce proration
Policy 2020-01 prorates CE after first licensure: January–June of an even-numbered year, 22.5 hours; July–December of an even-numbered year, 15 hours; January–June of an odd-numbered year, 7.5 hours; July–December of an odd-numbered year, no CE required for that first cycle.
License expiration
The Board FAQ states expiration on December 31 of odd-numbered years.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary License — Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 1B(d), for a relocating military spouse.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary license for a relocating military spouse
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board determination
The Board determines the outstanding profession qualifications and whether full licensure, temporary licensure or a statutory deficiency notice is appropriate.
Examination evidence
The profession’s currently offered Board examination remains involved under its application rules; prior passing evidence or an applicant-specific waiver governs whether another sitting is needed.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Temporary authorization
Section 1B(d)(ii) permits practice while completing Massachusetts-specific requirements not required in the former licensing jurisdiction.

Temporary Permit — Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 167.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary permit: application pending
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The ordinary-license application is being processed by the Board.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.
Temporary permit: awaiting first written examination
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The applicant is awaiting the first written Board examination offered after filing the application.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.

Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor

Professional rehabilitation counseling license.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Automatic license continuation during active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active service
Be engaged in active United States armed-forces service; the existing license remains valid through active duty and at least 90 days after release.
Renewal waiver
The Department of Public Health states that active-duty licenses renew automatically without a renewal fee or continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure through qualifying civil service employment
CRC Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Civil service employment
Complete six months in the qualifying position with an agency of the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions.
Civil service exam
Section 166 requires a civil service examination for a position whose title is included in section 163. That governmental employment examination is an applicant condition, not this profession’s registered examination.
Clinical supervision
Complete at least 200 supervision hours including at least 100 individual hours, under an approved supervisor and in the settings required by 262 CMR 4.01.
Crc certificate substitution
An applicant currently holding CRC certification in good standing may submit the CRCC membership certificate instead of an examination score report under 262 CMR 4.01(3)(e); CRC certification itself is not required for state licensure.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Hold a master’s or doctoral degree in rehabilitation counseling or a Board-approved related field, totaling at least 48 semester hours with an internship; submit supplemental coursework, internship or combined-program evidence for Board approval when required.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Post master experience
Complete at least two years full-time or equivalent part-time post-master rehabilitation counseling experience under an approved supervisor; an eligible 48-credit master’s-program internship may count up to one-half of its hours toward this requirement.
Required coursework
Complete graduate courses in Job Placement/Development/Vocational Analysis/Transferable Skill Development; Vocational Assessment and Evaluation; Vocational and Affective Counseling; Rehabilitation Plan Development; and Medical Aspects of Disabilities.
Section165 qualifications
Meet section 165 qualifications and submit the Board-prescribed application and licensure fee; section 166 waives a new examination sitting, while required prior passing evidence for the current registered profession examination remains a leaf.
Initial licensure
CRC Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Clinical supervision
Complete at least 200 supervision hours including at least 100 individual hours, under an approved supervisor and in the settings required by 262 CMR 4.01.
Crc certificate substitution
An applicant currently holding CRC certification in good standing may submit the CRCC membership certificate instead of an examination score report under 262 CMR 4.01(3)(e); CRC certification itself is not required for state licensure.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Hold a master’s or doctoral degree in rehabilitation counseling or a Board-approved related field, totaling at least 48 semester hours with an internship; submit supplemental coursework, internship or combined-program evidence for Board approval when required.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Post master experience
Complete at least two years full-time or equivalent part-time post-master rehabilitation counseling experience under an approved supervisor; an eligible 48-credit master’s-program internship may count up to one-half of its hours toward this requirement.
Required coursework
Complete graduate courses in Job Placement/Development/Vocational Analysis/Transferable Skill Development; Vocational Assessment and Evaluation; Vocational and Affective Counseling; Rehabilitation Plan Development; and Medical Aspects of Disabilities.
Expedited licensure for a relocating military spouse
CRC Examination
Board equivalence
Submit documentation that permits the Board to determine comparable licensing qualifications under section 166.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Examination evidence
262 CMR 4.01(3)(e) requires a passing CRC licensure-examination score or the specified current CRC certification substitute; no new sitting is asserted for an applicant satisfying section 166.
Expedited decision
Within 30 days the authority issues a full or temporary license or provides the statutory notice of unmet qualifications or missing information; this pathway does not waive applicable profession qualifications.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Military evidence
Upload transfer orders listing the applicant as a dependent and/or a marriage certificate through the licensing application.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Licensure by reciprocal recognition or equivalent license endorsement
CRC Examination
Board equivalence
Submit documentation that permits the Board to determine comparable licensing qualifications under section 166.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Examination evidence
262 CMR 4.01(3)(e) requires a passing CRC licensure-examination score or the specified current CRC certification substitute; no new sitting is asserted for an applicant satisfying section 166.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: practice in Massachusetts
CRC Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay all back license fees, a late fee and the current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Practiced in Massachusetts while the license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: no practice
CRC Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Did not practice while the license was expired; submit the required affidavit under pains and penalties of perjury.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse while practicing in another state
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current license renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The Massachusetts license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
License good standing
Submit an official record or certified statement from the other licensing authority showing good standing in the state of current licensure.
Lower ranked examination demand
262 CMR 9.01(2)(c) exhaustively states reinstatement requirements for practice in another state and does not require re-examination. The lower-ranked Board reactivation form states: "If your license has been expired for more than six years, you will be required to retake and pass the licensing examination for your license type unless you have maintained a license in good standing in another jurisdiction during the entire period your license was expired." The rule governs the no-exam route, and this Board demand is retained as an applicant condition.
Practice status
Practiced in another state while the Massachusetts license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after lapse of one renewal cycle or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board requirements
Complete any other Board requirements under 262 CMR 9.01(1)(c); this provision identifies no examination.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the back license fee, late fee and current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for one renewal cycle or less.
Reactivation filing threshold
The current Board form directs online renewal for expiration under 20 months and requests a reactivation application for expiration over 20 months, even within the rule’s one-cycle period; provide the requested documentary evidence when applicable.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
First cycle ce proration
Policy 2020-01 prorates CE after first licensure: January–June of an even-numbered year, 22.5 hours; July–December of an even-numbered year, 15 hours; January–June of an odd-numbered year, 7.5 hours; July–December of an odd-numbered year, no CE required for that first cycle.
License expiration
The Board FAQ states expiration on December 31 of odd-numbered years.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary License — Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 1B(d), for a relocating military spouse.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary license for a relocating military spouse
CRC Examination
Board determination
The Board determines the outstanding profession qualifications and whether full licensure, temporary licensure or a statutory deficiency notice is appropriate.
Examination evidence
The profession’s currently offered Board examination remains involved under its application rules; prior passing evidence or an applicant-specific waiver governs whether another sitting is needed.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Temporary authorization
Section 1B(d)(ii) permits practice while completing Massachusetts-specific requirements not required in the former licensing jurisdiction.

Temporary Permit — Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 167.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary permit: application pending
CRC Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The ordinary-license application is being processed by the Board.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.
Temporary permit: awaiting first written examination
CRC Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The applicant is awaiting the first written Board examination offered after filing the application.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.

Licensed Supervised Mental Health Counselor

Supervised mental health practice while completing post-master clinical experience.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Automatic license continuation during active military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Active service
Be engaged in active United States armed-forces service; the existing license remains valid through active duty and at least 90 days after release.
Renewal waiver
The Department of Public Health states that active-duty licenses renew automatically without a renewal fee or continuing education.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure through qualifying civil service employment
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Approved supervisor
Experiences must meet the approved-supervisor and site requirements of 262 CMR 2.02 and 2.06; maintain required evaluations and supervisor or emergency-contact availability.
Civil service employment
Complete six months in the qualifying position with an agency of the Commonwealth or its political subdivisions.
Civil service exam
Section 166 requires a civil service examination for a position whose title is included in section 163. That governmental employment examination is an applicant condition, not this profession’s registered examination.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score validity
A passing NCMHCE score remains valid for five years from the examination date under 262 CMR 2.03(1)(d).
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Foreign education
Where education was obtained abroad, arrange a qualifying evaluation sent directly to the Board and provide the required course-content table and English syllabi or course descriptions.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
Internship
Complete at least 600 hours after practicum, including 240 direct-client hours and 45 supervision hours: at least 15 individual, at least 15 group, remaining 15 individual or group.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Practicum
Complete at least 100 hours over at least seven weeks, including 40 direct-client or permitted role-play/laboratory hours and 25 supervision hours: at least 10 individual, at least 5 group, remaining 10 individual or group.
Section165 qualifications
Meet section 165 qualifications and submit the Board-prescribed application and licensure fee; section 166 waives a new examination sitting, while required prior passing evidence for the current registered profession examination remains a leaf.
Supervised practice
Practice only under the supervision required by M.G.L. c.112, section 165; this license does not authorize independent practice.
Initial licensure
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application documents
Submit the prescribed online application, photograph, required educational and experience evidence, official verification of all other professional licenses, notarized CORI and applicable application and license fees. Mental-health applications also request an NPDB self-query; rehabilitation applicants submit two professional references.
Approved supervisor
Experiences must meet the approved-supervisor and site requirements of 262 CMR 2.02 and 2.06; maintain required evaluations and supervisor or emergency-contact availability.
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score validity
A passing NCMHCE score remains valid for five years from the examination date under 262 CMR 2.03(1)(d).
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Foreign education
Where education was obtained abroad, arrange a qualifying evaluation sent directly to the Board and provide the required course-content table and English syllabi or course descriptions.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate education
Complete at least 60 semester credits or 80 quarter credits from a recognized institution through one of the degree and certificate combinations in 262 CMR 2.05(1), including the ten required graduate course areas, electives, practicum and internship; complete all qualifying education before post-master experience begins.
Internship
Complete at least 600 hours after practicum, including 240 direct-client hours and 45 supervision hours: at least 15 individual, at least 15 group, remaining 15 individual or group.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
Practicum
Complete at least 100 hours over at least seven weeks, including 40 direct-client or permitted role-play/laboratory hours and 25 supervision hours: at least 10 individual, at least 5 group, remaining 10 individual or group.
Supervised practice
Practice only under the supervision required by M.G.L. c.112, section 165; this license does not authorize independent practice.
Expedited licensure for a relocating military spouse
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score evidence
The supervised-license application rule requires a passing NCMHCE score within five years; its already-earned score remains a leaf, while section 166 excuses a new sitting.
Expedited decision
Within 30 days the authority issues a full or temporary license or provides the statutory notice of unmet qualifications or missing information; this pathway does not waive applicable profession qualifications.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate and pre master requirements
Provide the degree, education and pre-master clinical-field evidence required by 262 CMR 2.03(1), subject to the Board’s section 166 equivalence determination.
Military evidence
Upload transfer orders listing the applicant as a dependent and/or a marriage certificate through the licensing application.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Supervised practice
A Massachusetts supervised license continues to require supervision under section 165.
Licensure by reciprocal recognition or equivalent license endorsement
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved domestic and sexual violence training before application; 262 CMR 7.03(2) also governs renewal, revival and reinstatement.
Exam score evidence
The supervised-license application rule requires a passing NCMHCE score within five years; its already-earned score remains a leaf, while section 166 excuses a new sitting.
Fitness to practice
Do not engage in conduct that is grounds for refusal under M.G.L. c.112, sections 165(2) and 169.
Good moral character
Provide satisfactory evidence of good moral character under M.G.L. c.112, section 165(1).
Graduate and pre master requirements
Provide the degree, education and pre-master clinical-field evidence required by 262 CMR 2.03(1), subject to the Board’s section 166 equivalence determination.
Military training credit
On satisfactory evidence, relevant armed-forces or reserve education, training and service must be accepted toward licensing qualifications under section 1B(b).
New sitting waiver
M.G.L. c.112, section 166 directs issuance without examination upon the Board’s equivalence determination. This is read as waiving a new sitting, while a currently offered examination’s required passing-score evidence remains an exam leaf under this survey contract.
Other jurisdiction license
Hold a professional license in a comparable field in another jurisdiction; the Board must determine its requirements equivalent to or exceeding Massachusetts requirements under M.G.L. c.112, section 166.
Supervised practice
A Massachusetts supervised license continues to require supervision under section 165.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: practice in Massachusetts
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay all back license fees, a late fee and the current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Practiced in Massachusetts while the license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse: no practice
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
Practice status
Did not practice while the license was expired; submit the required affidavit under pains and penalties of perjury.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Reexamination
The rule permits Board requirements including re-examination. Policy 17-001 and the current reactivation form identify it as the licensing examination for the license type and ordinarily require retaking and passing after a lapse beyond six years, unless the applicant maintained another-jurisdiction license in good standing throughout the entire lapse. Board discretion and this waiver are applicant conditions; the current registered examination remains a leaf.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.
Reinstatement after extended lapse while practicing in another state
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board reactivation policy
Policy 17-001 (revised August 21, 2020) calls for 30 CE contact hours for a lapse beyond two and under four years; 60 completed within the preceding four years for a lapse beyond four and under six years; and 90 completed within the preceding six years for a lapse beyond six years. The Board decides reinstatement and the rule’s practice-status categories govern their respective requirements.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the current license renewal fee and a late fee.
Lapse duration
The Massachusetts license has lapsed for more than one renewal cycle.
License good standing
Submit an official record or certified statement from the other licensing authority showing good standing in the state of current licensure.
Lower ranked examination demand
262 CMR 9.01(2)(c) exhaustively states reinstatement requirements for practice in another state and does not require re-examination. The lower-ranked Board reactivation form states: "If your license has been expired for more than six years, you will be required to retake and pass the licensing examination for your license type unless you have maintained a license in good standing in another jurisdiction during the entire period your license was expired." The rule governs the no-exam route, and this Board demand is retained as an applicant condition.
Practice status
Practiced in another state while the Massachusetts license was expired.
Reactivation application
The current Board form asks applicants with a lapse exceeding 20 months to submit a reactivation application, license verifications, practice-status statement, notarized CORI and the stated CE evidence; that implementing form uses an earlier filing threshold than the one-cycle rule.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after lapse of one renewal cycle or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board requirements
Complete any other Board requirements under 262 CMR 9.01(1)(c); this provision identifies no examination.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
Fees
Pay the back license fee, late fee and current license fee.
Lapse duration
The license has lapsed for one renewal cycle or less.
Reactivation filing threshold
The current Board form directs online renewal for expiration under 20 months and requests a reactivation application for expiration over 20 months, even within the rule’s one-cycle period; provide the requested documentary evidence when applicable.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing education
Complete at least 30 Board-recognized contact hours per two-year renewal period and attest to compliance under 262 CMR 7.03(1) and 7.04(1).
Domestic and sexual violence training
Complete Board-approved training; previously completed approved training need not be repeated unless the Board requires it under 262 CMR 7.03(2)(b).
Existing license
Hold this Massachusetts counselor license and submit the completed renewal application and applicable renewal fee.
First cycle ce proration
Policy 2020-01 prorates CE after first licensure: January–June of an even-numbered year, 22.5 hours; July–December of an even-numbered year, 15 hours; January–June of an odd-numbered year, 7.5 hours; July–December of an odd-numbered year, no CE required for that first cycle.
License expiration
The Board FAQ states expiration on December 31 of odd-numbered years.
Renewal period
Licenses are renewed biennially under M.G.L. c.112, section 168.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary License — Licensed Supervised Mental Health Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 1B(d), for a relocating military spouse.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary license for a relocating military spouse
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board determination
The Board determines the outstanding profession qualifications and whether full licensure, temporary licensure or a statutory deficiency notice is appropriate.
Examination evidence
The profession’s currently offered Board examination remains involved under its application rules; prior passing evidence or an applicant-specific waiver governs whether another sitting is needed.
Military spouse
Hold another-state licensure; the applicant’s spouse must be a service member transferred to Massachusetts, and the applicant must have left employment to accompany that spouse.
Temporary authorization
Section 1B(d)(ii) permits practice while completing Massachusetts-specific requirements not required in the former licensing jurisdiction.

Temporary Permit — Licensed Supervised Mental Health Counselor

Temporary practice authorization under M.G.L. c.112, section 167.

Licensing authority: Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions · Application information

Temporary permit: application pending
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The ordinary-license application is being processed by the Board.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.
Temporary permit: awaiting first written examination
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Board discretion
The Board may issue the permit at its discretion under section 167.
Duration
The permit is effective for up to one year.
Examination timing
The underlying counselor licensure examination remains involved; temporary issuance may precede the sitting or satisfaction of the ordinary license’s score requirement.
Pending application
The applicant is awaiting the first written Board examination offered after filing the application.
Scope of practice
The permit corresponds to the counselor license sought; applicants seeking the supervised form must practice under the statutory supervision requirement.

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

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