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Minnesota Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

US-MN · License preparation

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

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

LPC licensure includes supervised practice under an approved plan and independent practice after the supervised-practice requirement is completed.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy · Application information

Late renewal before termination for nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed or electronic renewal application and the applicable nonrefundable renewal fee by expiration or the following business day when applicable.
Continuing education
During the first four years complete the required additional graduate credits, capped at 60 total semester credits, plus at least 40 approved continuing-education hours. Thereafter complete 40 hours per two-year period, including four cultural-competence hours; approved graduate coursework may count as specified by section 148B.54.
Late fee
Pay the current renewal fee and statutory late fee before consideration. The Board terminates an unrenewed license at least 60 days overdue after required notices; practice after expiration is unauthorized.
Optional home study
Some optional continuing-education activities have an independently graded test; this is not a registered counselor licensure examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed or electronic renewal application and the applicable nonrefundable renewal fee by expiration or the following business day when applicable.
Continuing education
During the first four years complete the required additional graduate credits, capped at 60 total semester credits, plus at least 40 approved continuing-education hours. Thereafter complete 40 hours per two-year period, including four cultural-competence hours; approved graduate coursework may count as specified by section 148B.54.
Optional home study
Some optional continuing-education activities have an independently graded test; this is not a registered counselor licensure examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination with completed supervised practice
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Character
Good moral character.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Open equivalency
The Board may approve another equivalent national examination upon Examination Evaluation Committee review; an unnamed alternative remains a condition.
Other profession exam
The Board's LPC Exam Information also accepts the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP), administered by ASPPB. This psychology examination is an applicant condition under this contract, rather than a counselor-examination leaf.
Passing score
Have passing NCE, NCMHCE, CRC, or other Board-accepted examination results submitted directly to BBHT. The examination may be taken after graduation and before application.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Supervised practice
Document Board-acceptable completion of 2,000 post-degree supervised practice hours, 100 supervision hours, at least half individual.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Licensure by examination under an approved supervision plan
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Character
Good moral character.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Open equivalency
The Board may approve another equivalent national examination upon Examination Evaluation Committee review; an unnamed alternative remains a condition.
Other profession exam
The Board's LPC Exam Information also accepts the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP), administered by ASPPB. This psychology examination is an applicant condition under this contract, rather than a counselor-examination leaf.
Passing score
Have passing NCE, NCMHCE, CRC, or other Board-accepted examination results submitted directly to BBHT. The examination may be taken after graduation and before application.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Supervised practice
Submit a Board-approved plan for the first 2,000 post-degree professional practice hours; supervision at two hours per 40 practice hours, at least half individual. The license begins in LPC-Supervised status.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Regular licensure after military temporary license
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Character
Good moral character.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Open equivalency
The Board may approve another equivalent national examination upon Examination Evaluation Committee review; an unnamed alternative remains a condition.
Other profession exam
The Board's LPC Exam Information also accepts the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP), administered by ASPPB. This psychology examination is an applicant condition under this contract, rather than a counselor-examination leaf.
Passing score
Have passing NCE, NCMHCE, CRC, or other Board-accepted examination results submitted directly to BBHT. The examination may be taken after graduation and before application.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Temporary license
A holder of the one-year military temporary license must meet section 148B.53(1)(a)-(b) for LPC or section 148B.5301(1)-(2) for LPCC to remain licensed after expiration.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Licensure based on a current Minnesota psychologist license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Board supervision documentation
The BBHT LPC application page additionally states: "2,000 hours of supervised professional practice." It accepts supervision for the LP license and requests copies of supervision verification; this implementing demand is a condition and does not override the statutory exemption.
Degree basis
The LPC license is based on the degree underlying the LP license.
License held
Show a current license from the Minnesota Board of Psychology. Section 148B.53(1)(c) exempts this route from paragraphs (a) and (b), including their counselor examinations.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New initial license after termination exceeding two years
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Alternative initial method
The separately surveyed current reciprocity methods, and for LPC the statutory Minnesota-psychologist method, remain available when their own conditions are met; those methods have their own no-exam routes.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Cancellation
A license terminated voluntarily or for nonrenewal for which relicensure was not sought for over two years is canceled; obtain a new license under current initial requirements.
Character
Good moral character.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Open equivalency
The Board may approve another equivalent national examination upon Examination Evaluation Committee review; an unnamed alternative remains a condition.
Other profession exam
The Board's LPC Exam Information also accepts the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP), administered by ASPPB. This psychology examination is an applicant condition under this contract, rather than a counselor-examination leaf.
Passing score
Have passing NCE, NCMHCE, CRC, or other Board-accepted examination results submitted directly to BBHT. The examination may be taken after graduation and before application.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Reactivation of an inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Submit the approved application with signed notarized affirmation of no Minnesota practice during inactivity.
Continuing education
Provide acceptable documentation of continuing-education compliance during inactivity.
Fees
Pay the active fee or the inactive-to-active difference outside the renewal cycle.
Inactive status
Hold the corresponding Minnesota license in inactive status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity — five or more years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Board review
The Board reviews current licensure laws and scope, experience, and qualifications; an unapproved credential requires another application method. This survey makes no determination about another jurisdiction's credential.
Continuing education
If graduate credits are below 60 semester credits, satisfy the additional-credit requirement within the first four years of Minnesota licensure.
Documents
Submit application and fees, relevant graduate transcripts, verified current and prior licenses, copies of the credential's current laws and rules, professional experience resume, background disclosures, and signed affidavit.
Eligibility
Current license or credential in good standing elsewhere; at least five years of active practice after licensure. Board determines LPC or LPCC based on individual experience and qualifications.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity — less five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Board review
The Board reviews current licensure laws and scope, experience, and qualifications; an unapproved credential requires another application method. This survey makes no determination about another jurisdiction's credential.
Continuing education
If graduate credits are below 60 semester credits, satisfy the additional-credit requirement within the first four years of Minnesota licensure.
Documents
Submit application and fees, relevant graduate transcripts, verified current and prior licenses, copies of the credential's current laws and rules, professional experience resume, background disclosures, and signed affidavit.
Eligibility
Current license or credential in another jurisdiction for less than five years; Board determines its requirements are substantially similar to Minnesota's.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion from LPC Supervised to LPC Independent status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Completion
Complete the 2,000 post-master's supervised practice hours; the supervisor submits the Verification of Supervision Plan Completion directly to BBHT. Conversion changes practice status within the LPC identity.
Current license
Hold LPC-Supervised status under a Board-approved plan.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • BBHT Apply for LPC

    Supervised Professional Practice completed after Licensure; conversion to independent status

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Independent clinical counseling license.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy · Application information

Late renewal before termination for nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed or electronic renewal application and the applicable nonrefundable renewal fee by expiration or the following business day when applicable.
Continuing education
During the first four years complete the required additional graduate credits, capped at 60 total semester credits, plus at least 40 approved continuing-education hours. Thereafter complete 40 hours per two-year period, including four cultural-competence hours; approved graduate coursework may count as specified by section 148B.54.
Late fee
Pay the current renewal fee and statutory late fee before consideration. The Board terminates an unrenewed license at least 60 days overdue after required notices; practice after expiration is unauthorized.
Optional home study
Some optional continuing-education activities have an independently graded test; this is not a registered counselor licensure examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual active license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed or electronic renewal application and the applicable nonrefundable renewal fee by expiration or the following business day when applicable.
Continuing education
During the first four years complete the required additional graduate credits, capped at 60 total semester credits, plus at least 40 approved continuing-education hours. Thereafter complete 40 hours per two-year period, including four cultural-competence hours; approved graduate coursework may count as specified by section 148B.54.
Optional home study
Some optional continuing-education activities have an independently graded test; this is not a registered counselor licensure examination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Conversion from an active Minnesota LPC license
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application
Pay LPCC application and licensure fees and supply required documents; a prior BBHT background check may qualify for the stated exemption.
Clinical credits
24 graduate semester credits or equivalents: six diagnostic assessment/development/psychopathology; three treatment planning; six clinical interventions; three effectiveness evaluation; three clinical ethics; three cultural diversity.
Clinical practice
4,000 supervised post-master's clinical practice hours, including 1,800 direct client-contact hours; a supervision contract and a qualified supervisor are required.
Education
A qualifying CACREP-recognized or CHEA-accredited counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree, plus the 24 clinical credits required by section 148B.5301(4).
License held
Active Minnesota LPC in good standing, with no pending complaints, unfinished disciplinary order, or corrective action agreement.
Passing score
Passing NCMHCE is required even if taken and supplied with the earlier LPC application.
Practice credit
An independent LPC with 2,000 qualifying clinical supervised hours need document only 2,000 additional hours and 900 additional direct client-contact hours.
Supervision
Two supervision hours per 40 practice hours, 200 total; at least half individual. Section 148B.5301(2)(c) allows the required in-person portion through real-time two-way audiovisual communication; the statutory text governs over the older in-person-only wording in the February 2025 reciprocity form.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Initial licensure by the general method
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Character
Good moral character.
Clinical credits
24 graduate semester credits or equivalents: six diagnostic assessment/development/psychopathology; three treatment planning; six clinical interventions; three effectiveness evaluation; three clinical ethics; three cultural diversity.
Clinical practice
4,000 supervised post-master's clinical practice hours, including 1,800 direct client-contact hours; a supervision contract and a qualified supervisor are required.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Passing score
Pass NCMHCE and have official results submitted to BBHT.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Supervision
Two supervision hours per 40 practice hours, 200 total; at least half individual. Section 148B.5301(2)(c) allows the required in-person portion through real-time two-way audiovisual communication; the statutory text governs over the older in-person-only wording in the February 2025 reciprocity form.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Regular licensure after military temporary license
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Character
Good moral character.
Clinical credits
24 graduate semester credits or equivalents: six diagnostic assessment/development/psychopathology; three treatment planning; six clinical interventions; three effectiveness evaluation; three clinical ethics; three cultural diversity.
Clinical practice
4,000 supervised post-master's clinical practice hours, including 1,800 direct client-contact hours; a supervision contract and a qualified supervisor are required.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Supervision
Two supervision hours per 40 practice hours, 200 total; at least half individual. Section 148B.5301(2)(c) allows the required in-person portion through real-time two-way audiovisual communication; the statutory text governs over the older in-person-only wording in the February 2025 reciprocity form.
Temporary license
A holder of the one-year military temporary license must meet section 148B.53(1)(a)-(b) for LPC or section 148B.5301(1)-(2) for LPCC to remain licensed after expiration.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
New initial license after termination exceeding two years
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Age
At least 18 years of age.
Alternative initial method
The separately surveyed current reciprocity methods, and for LPC the statutory Minnesota-psychologist method, remain available when their own conditions are met; those methods have their own no-exam routes.
Application
Submit the complete application, applicable fees, official graduate transcript, field-experience verification, and required primary-source license and supervision documentation.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Cancellation
A license terminated voluntarily or for nonrenewal for which relicensure was not sought for over two years is canceled; obtain a new license under current initial requirements.
Character
Good moral character.
Clinical credits
24 graduate semester credits or equivalents: six diagnostic assessment/development/psychopathology; three treatment planning; six clinical interventions; three effectiveness evaluation; three clinical ethics; three cultural diversity.
Clinical practice
4,000 supervised post-master's clinical practice hours, including 1,800 direct client-contact hours; a supervision contract and a qualified supervisor are required.
Education
A counseling or related-field master's or doctoral degree; at least 48 semester or 72 quarter credits, 700 supervised field-experience hours, and all ten statutory core content areas; CACREP recognition or CHEA-recognized regional institutional accreditation.
Foreign degree
Section 148B.532 requires certified English translations and a degree-equivalence evaluation sent directly by an NBCC-accepted evaluating agency, at the applicant's expense, for a foreign degree outside the specified accreditation.
Postdegree completion
Section 148B.531 permits missing coursework or field experience to be completed postdegree for credit at an eligible institution; no more than 20 semester or 30 quarter credits unless earned in an organized sequence of study.
Supervision
Two supervision hours per 40 practice hours, 200 total; at least half individual. Section 148B.5301(2)(c) allows the required in-person portion through real-time two-way audiovisual communication; the statutory text governs over the older in-person-only wording in the February 2025 reciprocity form.
Unnamed assessments
Minnesota Statutes 148B.53(1)(a)(5) and 148B.5301(1)(a)(4) allow ethical, oral, and situational examinations prescribed by the Board; these provisions identify no particular examination and are retained as applicant conditions.
Reactivation of an inactive license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Affidavit
Submit the approved application with signed notarized affirmation of no Minnesota practice during inactivity.
Continuing education
Provide acceptable documentation of continuing-education compliance during inactivity.
Fees
Pay the active fee or the inactive-to-active difference outside the renewal cycle.
Inactive status
Hold the corresponding Minnesota license in inactive status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity — five or more years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Board review
The Board reviews current licensure laws and scope, experience, and qualifications; an unapproved credential requires another application method. This survey makes no determination about another jurisdiction's credential.
Continuing education
If graduate credits are below 60 semester credits, satisfy the additional-credit requirement within the first four years of Minnesota licensure.
Documents
Submit application and fees, relevant graduate transcripts, verified current and prior licenses, copies of the credential's current laws and rules, professional experience resume, background disclosures, and signed affidavit.
Eligibility
Current license or credential in good standing elsewhere; at least five years of active practice after licensure. Board determines LPC or LPCC based on individual experience and qualifications.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reciprocity — less five years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Background check
Complete the Board's criminal background check before licensure; the Board provides an exemption when a state or national criminal-history check was previously submitted for a BBHT license.
Board review
The Board reviews current licensure laws and scope, experience, and qualifications; an unapproved credential requires another application method. This survey makes no determination about another jurisdiction's credential.
Continuing education
If graduate credits are below 60 semester credits, satisfy the additional-credit requirement within the first four years of Minnesota licensure.
Documents
Submit application and fees, relevant graduate transcripts, verified current and prior licenses, copies of the credential's current laws and rules, professional experience resume, background disclosures, and signed affidavit.
Eligibility
Current license or credential in another jurisdiction for less than five years; Board determines its requirements are substantially similar to Minnesota's.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

CRC Examination

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

National Counselor Examination

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

National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination

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