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North Dakota Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

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Licensed Associate Professional Counselor

Associate license for supervised counseling, initially limited to two years.

Licensing authority: North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners · Application information

Reinstatement following disciplinary action
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Hearing
The Board may grant or deny reinstatement following a hearing on the evidence.
Payment
Approved reinstatement follows payment of then-applicable fees; the defining reinstatement rule specifies no examination.
Prior license
Held this credential and had it revoked or renewal denied under NDAC 97-02-02-01.
Waiting period
Apply no earlier than two years after revocation or denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Extension of associate licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Discretion
The Board considers the request and assigns the extension period.
Fee
The Board form specifies $100.
Form difference
The Board LAPC Extension form, page 1, states: "An associate professional counselor initially licensed under this chapter may be licensed for no more than two years. The associate professional counselor’s license may be extended beyond two years only upon recommendation of the associate professional counselor’s supervisor and verification of hours to date.". NDCC 43-47-06(6) additionally requires recommendations from three other counselors, at least one a professor from the training program; the statute controls.
Prior license
Hold LAPC and need additional time to finish the supervision plan.
Recommendations
The statute requires the supervisor and three other counselors, at least one a professor from the training program, to recommend extension.
Request
Explain the unfinished plan, report supervision and client hours to date, and give a proposed completion schedule.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial associate licensure
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Duration
Initial associate licensure may not exceed two years without the statutory extension recommendations.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Plan
File a two-year supervision plan with estimated client contact hours and a qualified supervisor; provide 100 supervision hours, at least 60 individual face-to-face, and no ownership in the practice.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Professional intent
The Board LAPC page also requests an intent-to-practice statement.
References
Three recommendations: practicum agency contact, master's advisor and an additional counselor educator.
Reporting
Board instructions call for supervisor evaluations every six months and immediate notification of interruption or changes in supervision.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.
Reinstatement within one year of nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Associate limit
The two-year initial associate limit and statutory extension recommendations continue to apply.
Hardship
The Board may extend expiration and filing deadlines upon proof of medical or other hardship.
Payment
Pay the delinquent license and applicable late fees.
Prior license
Previously held this credential; failure to renew occurred within one year.
Renewal evidence
Provide the renewal application and applicable continuing-education evidence; no practice while expired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New application after more than one year of lapse
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Duration
Initial associate licensure may not exceed two years without the statutory extension recommendations.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Expiration
More than one year elapsed without completing renewal, fees and education evidence; submit a new application meeting current license requirements.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Plan
File a two-year supervision plan with estimated client contact hours and a qualified supervisor; provide 100 supervision hours, at least 60 individual face-to-face, and no ownership in the practice.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Professional intent
The Board LAPC page also requests an intent-to-practice statement.
References
Three recommendations: practicum agency contact, master's advisor and an additional counselor educator.
Reporting
Board instructions call for supervisor evaluations every six months and immediate notification of interruption or changes in supervision.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.

Licensed Professional Counselor

Full professional license for counseling.

Licensing authority: North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners · Application information

Advancement from LAPC
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Clients
Board instructions require at least 400 direct counseling client hours during the two-year period and at least ten clients each year, including at least five individual clients.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Experience
Two years of supervised counseling experience with 100 hours of direct supervision, including at least 60 individual face-to-face hours at regular intervals.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Ownership
No ownership interest in the supervised practice.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Prior license
Hold a North Dakota LAPC license; its NCE passing evidence remains an involved currently offered examination.
Professional intent
State the proposed practice, intended population and counseling procedures, including distance counseling if applicable.
References
Recommendations from the practicum/internship counselor educator, general work supervisor and direct counseling supervisor.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.
Supervisor
An NDBCE-certified LPC or LPCC supervisor, subject to NDCC 43-47-06(2)(c) equivalency and hardship provisions; secure HIPAA-compliant video supervision is permitted.
Timing
Apply no sooner than six weeks before LAPC expiry; supervision continues to expiry and LPC takes effect on that date.
Reinstatement following disciplinary action
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Hearing
The Board may grant or deny reinstatement following a hearing on the evidence.
Payment
Approved reinstatement follows payment of then-applicable fees; the defining reinstatement rule specifies no examination.
Prior license
Held this credential and had it revoked or renewal denied under NDAC 97-02-02-01.
Waiting period
Apply no earlier than two years after revocation or denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure by examination
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Clients
Board instructions require at least 400 direct counseling client hours during the two-year period and at least ten clients each year, including at least five individual clients.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Experience
Two years of supervised counseling experience with 100 hours of direct supervision, including at least 60 individual face-to-face hours at regular intervals.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Ownership
No ownership interest in the supervised practice.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Professional intent
State the proposed practice, intended population and counseling procedures, including distance counseling if applicable.
References
Recommendations from the practicum/internship counselor educator, general work supervisor and direct counseling supervisor.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.
Supervisor
An NDBCE-certified LPC or LPCC supervisor, subject to NDCC 43-47-06(2)(c) equivalency and hardship provisions; secure HIPAA-compliant video supervision is permitted.
Reinstatement within one year of nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Hardship
The Board may extend expiration and filing deadlines upon proof of medical or other hardship.
Payment
Pay the delinquent license and applicable late fees.
Prior license
Previously held this credential; failure to renew occurred within one year.
Renewal evidence
Provide the renewal application and applicable continuing-education evidence; no practice while expired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse licensure
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

New application after more than one year of lapse
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Clients
Board instructions require at least 400 direct counseling client hours during the two-year period and at least ten clients each year, including at least five individual clients.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Experience
Two years of supervised counseling experience with 100 hours of direct supervision, including at least 60 individual face-to-face hours at regular intervals.
Expiration
More than one year elapsed without completing renewal, fees and education evidence; submit a new application meeting current license requirements.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Ownership
No ownership interest in the supervised practice.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Professional intent
State the proposed practice, intended population and counseling procedures, including distance counseling if applicable.
References
Recommendations from the practicum/internship counselor educator, general work supervisor and direct counseling supervisor.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.
Supervisor
An NDBCE-certified LPC or LPCC supervisor, subject to NDCC 43-47-06(2)(c) equivalency and hardship provisions; secure HIPAA-compliant video supervision is permitted.
Licensure by reciprocity
National Counselor Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed application and fee, official transcript and required professional recommendations.
Board checklist
The reciprocity form screens for the other jurisdiction requiring a 60-hour counseling master's, 100-hour practicum, 600-hour internship, NCE and 100 supervision hours by a counselor; applicants failing the checklist are directed to the standard application.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history record checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Discretion
NDCC 43-47-06(4) permits waiver of formal examination for substantially equivalent licensed or certified counselors. NDCC 43-51-06 also permits licensing foreign practitioners with two years of practice without examination. The implementing reciprocity materials still require evidence of NCE passage.
Education
A qualifying accredited counseling master's degree with 60 semester or 90 quarter credits in the ten categories in NDAC 97-02-01-02.
Equivalence
The Board verifies substantially equivalent requirements and no good cause to refuse licensure.
Ethics coursework
At least three semester or five quarter credits in professional orientation and ethics, including the counseling profession and ACA Code of Ethics.
Fitness
Satisfy professional fitness requirements and explain disciplinary, criminal or incapacity disclosures.
Internship
At least 600 supervised internship hours in counseling.
Passing evidence
The Board requires NCE passing evidence; its LPC reciprocity form expressly rejects NCMHCE as a substitute.
Practicum
At least 100 supervised practicum hours in counseling.
Prior license
Hold an out-of-jurisdiction counseling license and provide its copy, licensing laws and rules and licensing authority contact information.
Research coursework
Research coursework must include statistical analysis of counseling data sets.
Supervision
The form also says the Board can consider up to 50 supervision hours from a credentialed supervisor outside counseling, subject to statutory equivalency and hardship rules.
Biennial license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee.
Education
Complete 30 hours of continuing education in the preceding two years, at least three primarily on counselor ethics.
Fitness
No grounds for denial under NDCC 43-47-07.
Prior license
Hold the credential being renewed.
Timing
The license expires two years after issue or renewal; late filing triggers the rule's $100 late fee. The Board may extend deadlines upon proof of medical or other hardship.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor

Clinical mental health counseling specialty license.

Licensing authority: North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners · Application information

Reinstatement following disciplinary action
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Hearing
The Board may grant or deny reinstatement following a hearing on the evidence.
Payment
Approved reinstatement follows payment of then-applicable fees; the defining reinstatement rule specifies no examination.
Prior license
Held this credential and had it revoked or renewal denied under NDAC 97-02-02-01.
Waiting period
Apply no earlier than two years after revocation or denial.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement within one year of nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Hardship
The Board may extend expiration and filing deadlines upon proof of medical or other hardship.
Payment
Pay the delinquent license and applicable late fees.
Prior license
Previously held this credential; failure to renew occurred within one year.
Renewal evidence
Provide the renewal application and applicable continuing-education evidence; no practice while expired.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse clinical licensure
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Clinical practice
The form requires verification of clinical practice and clinical skills.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Passing evidence
The LPCC-only part of the form requires NCMHCE completion.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
New application after more than one year of lapse
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed LPCC application and $150 fee.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Education
Accredited counseling master's and 60 graduate semester hours, including one semester credit each in diagnostic evaluation of psychopathology and clinical counseling skills.
Experience
Two years and 3,000 hours of post-master's clinical counseling experience in a clinical setting.
Expiration
More than one year elapsed without completing renewal, fees and education evidence; submit a new application meeting current license requirements.
Passing evidence
Have passed NCMHCE and arrange NBCC score delivery; prior passage remains a current examination leaf.
Prior license
Hold a North Dakota LPC license; that credential is a qualification, not an additional NCE leaf in this clinical specialty route.
References
Three professional references, including the clinical supervisor and two professionals familiar with clinical experience.
Skills evaluation
Submit the Board-approved supervisor clinical counseling skills attestation.
Supervision
100 hours of clinical supervision, at least 60 individual face-to-face, by a certified LPCC or statutorily authorized supervisor; secure HIPAA-compliant video is allowed.
Training
At least 700 supervised practica and internship hours relevant to counseling, which may be included in the graduate credits.
Clinical specialty licensure by reciprocity
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application
Use Board-prescribed materials and fees. The LPC reciprocity form rejects NCMHCE for LPC and is not an LPCC alternative-exam list.
Criminal history
Submit the criminal history record checks required for specialty applicants.
Discretion
The Board may grant reciprocity. General LPCC requirements retain NCMHCE passing evidence; any applicant waiver is a condition.
Equivalence
Provide satisfactory proof that the licensing requirements are equal to or more stringent than NDAC Chapter 97-02-01.1.
Prior license
Currently hold a professional clinical counselor license in a United States jurisdiction.
Qualifications
Provide clinical academic, experience, supervision and reference evidence used to determine equivalence.
Biennial clinical license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee.
Education
LPC renewal education plus at least ten additional clinical counseling hours related to intended practice and preapproved by the Board.
Expiry
The LPCC expires when its LPC expires.
Fee
The LPCC renewal fee is $75 in addition to underlying LPC renewal requirements.
Fitness
No grounds for denial under NDCC 43-47-07.
Prior license
Hold the credential being renewed.
Timing
The license expires two years after issue or renewal; late filing triggers the rule's $100 late fee. The Board may extend deadlines upon proof of medical or other hardship.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Clinical specialty licensure
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Application
Submit the prescribed LPCC application and $150 fee.
Criminal history
Submit statewide and nationwide criminal history checks under NDCC 43-47-06.3.
Education
Accredited counseling master's and 60 graduate semester hours, including one semester credit each in diagnostic evaluation of psychopathology and clinical counseling skills.
Experience
Two years and 3,000 hours of post-master's clinical counseling experience in a clinical setting.
Passing evidence
Have passed NCMHCE and arrange NBCC score delivery; prior passage remains a current examination leaf.
Prior license
Hold a North Dakota LPC license; that credential is a qualification, not an additional NCE leaf in this clinical specialty route.
References
Three professional references, including the clinical supervisor and two professionals familiar with clinical experience.
Skills evaluation
Submit the Board-approved supervisor clinical counseling skills attestation.
Supervision
100 hours of clinical supervision, at least 60 individual face-to-face, by a certified LPCC or statutorily authorized supervisor; secure HIPAA-compliant video is allowed.
Training
At least 700 supervised practica and internship hours relevant to counseling, which may be included in the graduate credits.

Provisional License

Provisional counseling license, including military provisional issuance.

Licensing authority: North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners · Application information

Military spouse provisional authorization for LPC
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPC.
Term
Current subsection 2 permits no more than two years, ending on licensing disposition, expiry, noncompliance or public-safety revocation.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military spouse provisional authorization for LPC
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Automatic
Subsection 5 requires automatic authorization if the Board has neither decided the completed application nor issued provisional authorization within 30 days.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPC.
Term
Automatic authorization remains until the Board decides the license application or issues subsection 2 provisional authorization.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse provisional authorization for LPCC
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Clinical practice
The Board form calls for verification of clinical practice and skills.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Passing evidence
The pending military LPCC route involves currently offered NCMHCE; the passing requirement can remain unmet during authorized provisional practice.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPCC.
Term
Current subsection 2 permits no more than two years, ending on licensing disposition, expiry, noncompliance or public-safety revocation.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.
Automatic military spouse provisional authorization for LPCC
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Automatic
Subsection 5 requires automatic authorization if the Board has neither decided the completed application nor issued provisional authorization within 30 days.
Clinical practice
The Board form calls for verification of clinical practice and skills.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Passing evidence
The pending military LPCC route involves currently offered NCMHCE; the passing requirement can remain unmet during authorized provisional practice.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPCC.
Term
Automatic authorization remains until the Board decides the license application or issues subsection 2 provisional authorization.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

Temporary Permit

Temporary counseling authorization under the military licensure statute.

Licensing authority: North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners · Application information

Military spouse temporary authorization for LPC
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPC.
Term
Current subsection 2 permits no more than two years, ending on licensing disposition, expiry, noncompliance or public-safety revocation.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Automatic military spouse temporary authorization for LPC
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Automatic
Subsection 5 requires automatic authorization if the Board has neither decided the completed application nor issued provisional authorization within 30 days.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPC.
Term
Automatic authorization remains until the Board decides the license application or issues subsection 2 provisional authorization.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Military spouse temporary authorization for LPCC
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Clinical practice
The Board form calls for verification of clinical practice and skills.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Passing evidence
The pending military LPCC route involves currently offered NCMHCE; the passing requirement can remain unmet during authorized provisional practice.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPCC.
Term
Current subsection 2 permits no more than two years, ending on licensing disposition, expiry, noncompliance or public-safety revocation.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.
Automatic military spouse temporary authorization for LPCC
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Applicant status
A foreign practitioner who is a military spouse under NDCC 43-51-01, with proof such as military orders.
Application
Submit the military-spouse application, proof of military status and supporting documents.
Automatic
Subsection 5 requires automatic authorization if the Board has neither decided the completed application nor issued provisional authorization within 30 days.
Clinical practice
The Board form calls for verification of clinical practice and skills.
Competency
Demonstrate competency through Board-determined methods or standards.
Criminal history
Complete the Board-provided background check.
Education
The Board form requires verification of a graduate counseling degree.
Fee
Current subsection 2 prohibits provisional-license and temporary-permit fees.
Form terms
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "2. A board will issue a provisional license or temporary permit to a military spouse for which one or more of the licensure requirements under (1) have not been met. A provisional license or temporary permit issued under this subsection remains valid for 90 days while the military spouse is making progress toward satisfying the necessary unmet licensure requirements, unless otherwise approved by the board. Background checks must be completed within 30 days.". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1(2) supplies the maximum two-year term; subsection 5 supplies the term for automatic authorization.
Passing evidence
The pending military LPCC route involves currently offered NCMHCE; the passing requirement can remain unmet during authorized provisional practice.
Practice history
The Board Military Spouse Application, page 1, states: "1. A board will provide a licensure for active military spouses upon proof of competency, verification that the applicant has experience for at least two of the last four years preceding the date of application, and that granting the license will not substantially increase the risk of harm to the public. The board therefore requires the following for licensure:". Current NDCC 43-51-11.1 does not impose that fixed experience period; the statute controls and the quoted form demand is retained for applicants.
Prior license
The Board form requires good-standing verification from the current or most recent licensing jurisdiction.
Public safety
The Board determines that licensing will not substantially increase risk of harm to the public.
Target license
The pending military application is for LPCC.
Term
Automatic authorization remains until the Board decides the license application or issues subsection 2 provisional authorization.
Unmet requirements
For subsection 2 issuance, substantially meet licensure requirements and make progress toward those unmet.

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