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Washington Professional Counselor — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Washington professional counseling is the independent assessment, diagnosis and treatment profession called mental health counseling. This survey covers its licensed, associate, probationary, temporary, retired and enhanced forms. The family name is read here as the graduate-level mental health counselor profession DOH expressly associates with licensed professional counselor terminology; chapter 18.19 separately regulates agency-affiliated counselors and certified counselors/advisers. Military and military-related statuses retain the underlying license identity.

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Health · Application information

Endorsement under discretionary substantial equivalency
Application
Submit the required application and credential verification, with no disqualifying fitness history.
Exam waiver
RCW 18.225.140(1) permits licensure without examination; it does not itself mandate waiver. WAC 246-809-240 supplies the ordinary NCE/NCMHCE alternatives when an examination is involved. Any applicant-specific waiver is a condition. Applicants meeting RCW 18.130.077(1) instead use the mandatory-waiver route.
Other license
Hold a credential in another state; the secretary determines its credentialing standards are substantially equivalent.
Initial licensure by examination
Conditional issuance
RCW 18.225.090(3) subjects applicants to denial or conditional issuance under the Uniform Disciplinary Act. A conditional or restricted disposition retains the mental health counselor license identity; applicant-specific restrictions and medical/psychological fitness assessments are conditions.
Continuing education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b)(iv), WAC 246-809-630/-632: applicable continuing education including professional ethics; current rules apply rather than superseded numbers on older forms.
Education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b) and WAC 246-809-220/-221: qualifying counseling or related-discipline master’s/doctoral degree and course equivalency; official transcript sent directly to DOH. NCC or CCMHC verification from NBCC satisfies the rule’s education requirements. Supplemental coursework may complete a related degree’s deficiencies.
Exam verification
Either registered NBCC NCE or NCMHCE passing result must be verified directly. A prior passing result remains an examination leaf because these examinations are currently offered.
Experience
At least 36 months full-time counseling or 3,000 postgraduate hours under an approved supervisor, including 100 immediate-supervision hours and 1,200 direct-counseling hours. CACREP graduates receive the rule’s credit of 50 supervision and 500 experience hours.
Fitness and application
Completed DOH application, required fees, personal-data answers and explanations, credential verification and background screening; discretionary conditional issuance or denial under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Foreign degree
WAC 246-809-096(2): translated and evaluated credentials through an authorized credential evaluator establishing approved-school equivalence.
Military external license portability
The DOH SCRA portability application recognizes a covered external license during military orders and states: “Unless I obtain appropriate licensure in Washington, I must maintain my licenses issued by other states in good standing in order to continue practicing in Washington State.” External-license recognition is distinguished from issuance of a Washington credential; its other-state license is an applicant condition.
Substance use experience credit
Three years of substance use disorder professional practice within ten years reduces total required hours to 2,700; immediate-supervision and direct-counseling minimums remain.
Restoration after expiration for one renewal cycle or less
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expired period
Restoration after expiration for one renewal cycle or less
Old form discrepancy
The currently linked September 2021 activation checklist says “Complete 36 hours of continuing education, with six in professional ethics.” Current WAC 246-809-630 requires 32 hours every two years. The regulation controls; the form’s demand is disclosed.
Practice
No practice until the credential is active.
Requirements
(a) Expired for one renewal cycle or less: (i) Pay the late renewal penalty fee; (ii) Pay the current renewal fee; (iii) Pay the current substance use disorder monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession; (iv) Provide written declarations or documentation, if required for the profession; and (v) Comply with current continuing education or continuing competency requirements if required by the profession.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after expiration for three years or more
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expired period
Restoration after expiration for three years or more
Old form discrepancy
The currently linked September 2021 activation checklist says “Complete 36 hours of continuing education, with six in professional ethics.” Current WAC 246-809-630 requires 32 hours every two years. The regulation controls; the form’s demand is disclosed.
Practice
No practice until the credential is active.
Requirements
(c) Expired for three years or more: (i) Complete an abbreviated application form; (ii) Pay the late renewal penalty fee; (iii) Pay the current renewal fee; (iv) Pay the current substance use disorder monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession; (v) Pay the expired credential reissuance fee; (vi) Satisfy other competency requirements of the regulatory entity, if required; (vii) Provide a written declaration that no action has been taken by a state or federal jurisdiction or hospital which would prevent or restrict the practitioner's practice of the profession; (viii) Provide a written declaration that the practitioner has not voluntarily given up any credential or privilege or has not been restricted in the practice of the profession in lieu of or to avoid formal action; (ix) Provide a written declaration that continuing education or competency requirements for the two most recent years have been met, if required for the profession to maintain an active credential; and (x) Provide other written declarations or documentation, if required for the profession.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after more than one renewal cycle but less than three years
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Expired period
Restoration after more than one renewal cycle but less than three years
Old form discrepancy
The currently linked September 2021 activation checklist says “Complete 36 hours of continuing education, with six in professional ethics.” Current WAC 246-809-630 requires 32 hours every two years. The regulation controls; the form’s demand is disclosed.
Practice
No practice until the credential is active.
Requirements
(b) Expired for more than one renewal cycle but less than three years: (i) Complete an abbreviated application form; (ii) Pay the late renewal penalty fee; (iii) Pay the current renewal fee; (iv) Pay the current substance use disorder monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession; (v) Pay the expired credential reissuance fee; (vi) Provide a written declaration that no action has been taken by a state or federal jurisdiction or hospital which would prevent or restrict the practitioner's practice of the profession; (vii) Provide a written declaration that the practitioner has not voluntarily given up any credential or privilege or has not been restricted in the practice of the profession in lieu of or to avoid formal action; (viii) Provide a written declaration that continuing education and competency requirements for the two most recent years have been met, if required for the profession to maintain an active credential; and (ix) Provide other written declarations or documentation, if required for the profession.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintenance of military status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to maintain a military status credential. (1) The expiration date for all credentials is the practitioner's birthday, except for faculty, postgraduate education, associate, or trainee credentials authorized by law. (2) As long as a practitioner's military service continues, the practitioner is not required to renew their credential, but should maintain the credential in military status. To maintain a military status credential, the practitioner shall submit to the department an official copy of service orders verifying that they are an active duty member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Services Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States. (3) The department will mail or email courtesy maintenance notices to the practitioner's address on file using credential renewal cycles. (4) A practitioner shall return the courtesy maintenance notice to the department with an official copy of their service orders. (5) Military status credential maintenance requests are accepted by the department no sooner than 90 days prior to the date the credential would expire if not in military status. (6) Continuing education is not required while the credential is in military status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in inactive military related status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to obtain an inactive military-related status credential. A person is military related if they are the spouse or registered domestic partner of a service member in the United States Armed Forces or United States Public Health Services Commissioned Corps. (1) To obtain an inactive military-related status credential the practitioner shall: (a) Submit a written request that the department place their credential in inactive military-related status; (b) Hold an active Washington state credential that is valid and in force and effect; (c) Submit to the department an official copy of service orders verifying that their spouse or registered domestic partner is a member of the service described in WAC 246-12-500 (2) and has been deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state; (d) Submit a copy of their marriage certificate or certificate of registered domestic partnership. (2) There is no fee due for placing a credential in inactive military-related status. Portions of the current renewal fee will not be prorated or refunded. (3) The practitioner may not practice in the state of Washington when their credential is in inactive military-related status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintenance of inactive military related status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to maintain an inactive military-related status credential. The expiration date for all credentials is the practitioner's birthday, except for faculty, postgraduate education, associate, or trainee credentials authorized by law. (1) The practitioner may maintain a credential in inactive military-related status for as long as their spouse or registered domestic partner continues to be stationed or deployed in a location outside of the state of Washington and they remain married to or in a registered domestic partnership with that person. (2) To maintain an inactive military-related status credential, the practitioner shall submit to the department an official copy of service orders verifying that their spouse or registered domestic partner continues to be deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state. (3) The department will mail or email courtesy maintenance notices to the practitioner's address on file using credential renewal cycles. (4) Inactive military-related status credential maintenance requests are accepted by the department no sooner than 90 days prior to the date the credential would expire if not in inactive military-related status. (5) Continuing education is not required while the credential is in an inactive military-related status.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from inactive military related status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to return to active status from inactive military-related status. (1) A practitioner in inactive military-related status can return their credential to active status at any time. (2) To return to active status the practitioner must: (a) Pay the appropriate current active renewal fee; (b) Pay the current substance use disorder monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession as part of renewal; (c) Submit documentation of the service member's current service or discharge status. (3) If the practitioner requests a change to active status after their spouse or registered domestic partner is discharged, they shall submit an official copy of the discharge papers (DD214) showing that their spouse or registered domestic partner has received a qualifying discharge within the previous six months. (4) The credential must be changed from inactive military-related status to active status within six months of the military personnel's qualifying discharge by meeting the requirements of subsections (2) and (3) of this section. (5) A practitioner who does not comply with subsection (3) of this section will be subject to late fees as required by WAC 246-12-040 . (6) After returning a credential to active status, applicable continuing education requirements will apply during the following renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to active status after military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to return to active status from military status. (1) To change the status of a credential from military status to active status, the practitioner must submit to the department: (a) Written notification of the change in their service status; (b) An official copy of the practitioner's discharge papers (DD214); (c) The appropriate current active renewal fee; (d) The current substance abuse monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession as part of the renewal fee. (2) The practitioner must request the military status credential be changed from military status to active status within six months of qualifying discharge by meeting the requirements of subsection (1) of this section. (3) A practitioner who does not comply with subsection (2) of this section will be subject to late fees as required by WAC 246-12-040 . (4) Continuing education requirements will apply after the first post-discharge renewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Placement in military status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing license
Hold the applicable existing Washington mental health counselor or associate credential; these are statuses of that license, not new license identities.
Military eligibility
Who can obtain a military status or military-related status credential. (1) A practitioner who is a member of the United States Armed Forces, the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, or the Merchant Marine of the United States may obtain a military status credential if their credential is valid and in force and effect. (2) A practitioner who is the spouse or registered domestic partner of member of the United States Armed Forces or the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps who is deployed or stationed in a location outside of Washington state may request that their credential be placed in inactive military-related status if the credential is valid and in force and effect. (3) A credential is valid and in force and effect if it is active and in good standing. "In good standing" means the credential is not currently subject to any sanction, terms, conditions or restrictions required by formal or informal discipline or an agreement to practice with conditions under chapter 18.130 RCW, the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Requirements
How to obtain a military status credential. (1) To obtain a military status credential the practitioner must submit a written request notifying the department of the intent to obtain a military status credential. (2) A practitioner may obtain a military status credential if he or she: (a) Holds an active Washington state credential that is valid and in force and effect; and (b) Submits to the department an official copy of service orders verifying that he or she is a member of the armed forces or other services described in WAC 246-12-500 (1). (3) The practitioner may obtain a military status credential at any time the criteria in subsection (2) of this section are met. There is no fee due for military status. Portions of the current renewal fee will not be prorated or refunded. (4) A military status credential remains in full force and effect so long as service continues and allows practice throughout the state of Washington unless sooner suspended or revoked by the regulatory entity.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Renewal cycle
Every year on or before the practitioner’s birthday; 32 hours of CE every two years including six hours in ethics/law and other applicable required training.
Requirements
Required renewal fees, attestations, and current continuing-education requirements.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement following support or visitation order suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Other requirements
Continue meeting all other reinstatement requirements during suspension, and pay any applicable reinstatement fee; the secretary shall automatically reissue the license.
Release
Provide the DSHS release establishing compliance with the support or visitation order.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

  • Rcw 18 130 Full

    18.130.150 — A person whose license has been suspended for noncompliance

  • Rcw 18 130 Full

    18.130.040 — (x) Persons licensed as mental health counselors

Initial licensure by mandatory substantial equivalency waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Application, credentials verification, personal-data responses, fees and relevant documentation required.
Fitness
Not subject to denial or conditional licensure; no disciplinary action for unprofessional conduct or impairment in the preceding two years or during application, and no pending investigation or charges during application.
Prior licensure
Credentialed under substantially equivalent standards for at least two years immediately before application, with no interruption exceeding 90 days.
Waiver
RCW 18.130.077(1) mandates waiver of education, training, experience and exam requirements; DOH publishes the profession-specific substantial-equivalency application.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Initial licensure with out of state supervised experience equivalency
Continuing education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b)(iv), WAC 246-809-630/-632: applicable continuing education including professional ethics; current rules apply rather than superseded numbers on older forms.
Education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b) and WAC 246-809-220/-221: qualifying counseling or related-discipline master’s/doctoral degree and course equivalency; official transcript sent directly to DOH. NCC or CCMHC verification from NBCC satisfies the rule’s education requirements. Supplemental coursework may complete a related degree’s deficiencies.
Exam verification
Either registered NBCC NCE or NCMHCE passing result must be verified directly. A prior passing result remains an examination leaf because these examinations are currently offered.
Experience
At least 36 months full-time counseling or 3,000 postgraduate hours under an approved supervisor, including 100 immediate-supervision hours and 1,200 direct-counseling hours. CACREP graduates receive the rule’s credit of 50 supervision and 500 experience hours.
Fitness and application
Completed DOH application, required fees, personal-data answers and explanations, credential verification and background screening; discretionary conditional issuance or denial under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Foreign degree
WAC 246-809-096(2): translated and evaluated credentials through an authorized credential evaluator establishing approved-school equivalence.
Out of state experience
WAC 246-809-230(1): an active mental health counselor license held for the past year in another United States jurisdiction, without disciplinary record or disqualifying criminal history, satisfies the supervised-experience requirement.
Substance use experience credit
Three years of substance use disorder professional practice within ten years reduces total required hours to 2,700; immediate-supervision and direct-counseling minimums remain.
Licensure from qualifying pre July 22, 2001 Washington certification
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Exam exemption
RCW 18.225.130 makes this applicant eligible for a mental health counselor license without taking the examination.
Prior certificate
Certified under chapter 18.19 RCW and met its applicable education and experience requirements before July 22, 2001.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Transition from probationary to full licensure
Continuing education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b)(iv), WAC 246-809-630/-632: applicable continuing education including professional ethics; current rules apply rather than superseded numbers on older forms.
Education
RCW 18.225.090(1)(b) and WAC 246-809-220/-221: qualifying counseling or related-discipline master’s/doctoral degree and course equivalency; official transcript sent directly to DOH. NCC or CCMHC verification from NBCC satisfies the rule’s education requirements. Supplemental coursework may complete a related degree’s deficiencies.
Exam verification
Either registered NBCC NCE or NCMHCE passing result must be verified directly. A prior passing result remains an examination leaf because these examinations are currently offered.
Experience
At least 36 months full-time counseling or 3,000 postgraduate hours under an approved supervisor, including 100 immediate-supervision hours and 1,200 direct-counseling hours. CACREP graduates receive the rule’s credit of 50 supervision and 500 experience hours.
Fitness and application
Completed DOH application, required fees, personal-data answers and explanations, credential verification and background screening; discretionary conditional issuance or denial under the Uniform Disciplinary Act.
Foreign degree
WAC 246-809-096(2): translated and evaluated credentials through an authorized credential evaluator establishing approved-school equivalence.
Mandatory waiver
If independently eligible under RCW 18.130.077, the mandatory substantial-equivalency waiver route applies.
Probationary status
Hold the mental health counselor probationary license; DOH determines the education and experience deficiencies and required approved supervision. Complete full requirements during the probationary period.
Substance use experience credit
Three years of substance use disorder professional practice within ten years reduces total required hours to 2,700; immediate-supervision and direct-counseling minimums remain.
Return from retired active status to full active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Competency
Any additional competency requirement set for the applicant is a condition; no identifiable examination is named by the governing return procedure.
Existing status
Retired active mental health counselor license.
Requirements
How to return to active status from retired active status. To change a retired active credential to an active credential status the practitioner shall: (1) Notify the department in writing of the change; (2) Pay the appropriate current active renewal fee; (3) Pay the current substance use disorder monitoring surcharge, if required by the profession. (4) Provide a written declaration that no action has been taken by a state or federal jurisdiction or hospital which would prevent or restrict the practitioner's practice of the profession; (5) Provide a written declaration that they have not voluntarily given up any credential or privilege or have not been restricted in the practice of the profession in lieu of or to avoid formal action; (6) Provide a written declaration that continuing education and competency requirements have been met, if required for the profession; (7) Provide other written declarations or documentation, if required for the profession; and (8) Satisfy other competency requirements of the regulatory entity, if required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return from retired volunteer status to full active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Existing status
Retired volunteer medical worker license based on former mental health counselor licensure.
Practice
No full independent practice until the ordinary license has been restored.
Restoration
WAC 246-12-450 applies WAC 246-12-040; meet the fees, application/declarations, continuing education and any competency conditions for the applicable expiration interval.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Mental Health Counselor Temporary Practice Permit

Temporary full-scope permit for otherwise qualified applicants while a national background check or eligible military-spouse administrative requirements are pending; maximum 180 days and earlier termination on licensing action.

Licensing authority: Washington State Department of Health · Application information

Temporary permit while the national background check is pending — mandatory substantial equivalency waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
At most 180 days, terminating earlier on licensing action as provided by the rule.
Examination
RCW 18.130.077(1) mandates waiver of exam requirements; applicant meets its fitness restrictions.
Other license
Substantially equivalent license held for at least two years immediately before application, without a gap exceeding 90 days.
Permit requirements
How to obtain a temporary practice permit — National background check. Fingerprint-based national background checks may cause a delay in licensing. Individuals who satisfy all other licensing requirements and qualifications may receive a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed. This section applies to any profession listed in RCW 18.130.040 (2)(a) that does not currently issue a temporary practice permit under the profession's specific statute or rule, unless the profession prohibits temporary practice permits by statute or rule. (1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who: (a) Holds an unrestricted, active license in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the same profession to those in Washington; (b) Is not subject to denial of a license or issuance of a conditional or restricted license; and (c) Does not have a criminal record in Washington. (2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice for the profession. (3) A temporary practice permit will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs: (a) The license is granted; (b) A notice of decision on the application is sent by mail or email to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or (c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued. (4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must: (a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), and documentation for the license; (b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license, except the results from a fingerprint-based national background check, if required; (c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license in the same profession from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the profession in Washington; and (d) Submit the fingerprint card and a written request for a temporary practice permit when the department notifies the applicant the national background check is required.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary permit while the national background check is pending — standard underlying qualifications
Duration
At most 180 days, terminating earlier on licensing action as provided by the rule.
Examination
Meet the applicable underlying mental health counselor qualifications, including the registered NCE/NCMHCE alternatives unless the applicant meets a statutory waiver.
Other license
Active unrestricted same-profession license from a jurisdiction with substantially equivalent licensing standards.
Permit requirements
How to obtain a temporary practice permit — National background check. Fingerprint-based national background checks may cause a delay in licensing. Individuals who satisfy all other licensing requirements and qualifications may receive a temporary practice permit while the national background check is completed. This section applies to any profession listed in RCW 18.130.040 (2)(a) that does not currently issue a temporary practice permit under the profession's specific statute or rule, unless the profession prohibits temporary practice permits by statute or rule. (1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who: (a) Holds an unrestricted, active license in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the same profession to those in Washington; (b) Is not subject to denial of a license or issuance of a conditional or restricted license; and (c) Does not have a criminal record in Washington. (2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice for the profession. (3) A temporary practice permit will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs: (a) The license is granted; (b) A notice of decision on the application is sent by mail or email to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or (c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued. (4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must: (a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), and documentation for the license; (b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license, except the results from a fingerprint-based national background check, if required; (c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license in the same profession from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the profession in Washington; and (d) Submit the fingerprint card and a written request for a temporary practice permit when the department notifies the applicant the national background check is required.
Temporary military spouse practice permit — mandatory substantial equivalency waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Duration
At most 180 days, terminating earlier on licensing action as provided by the rule.
Examination
RCW 18.130.077(1) mandates waiver of exam requirements; applicant meets its fitness restrictions.
Other license
Substantially equivalent license held for at least two years immediately before application, without a gap exceeding 90 days.
Permit requirements
How to obtain a temporary practice permit — Military spouse. A military spouse or state registered domestic partner of a military person may receive a temporary practice permit while completing any specific additional requirements that are not related to training or practice standards for the profession. This section applies to any profession listed in RCW 18.130.040 (2)(a). (1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who is a military spouse or state registered domestic partner of a military person and: (a) Is moving to Washington as a result of the military person's transfer to Washington; (b) Holds an unrestricted, active license in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the same profession to those in Washington; and (c) Is not subject to any pending investigation, charges, or disciplinary action by the regulatory body of the other state or states. (2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice for the profession. (3) A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs: (a) The license is granted; (b) A notice of decision on the application is sent by mail or email to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or (c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued. (4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must: (a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), fingerprint card if required, and documentation for the license; (b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license that are specific to the training, education, and practice standards for the profession; (c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license in the same profession from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the profession in Washington; (d) Submit a copy of the military person's orders and a copy of: (i) The military-issued identification card showing the military person's information and the applicant's relationship to the military person; (ii) A marriage license; or (iii) A state registered domestic partnership; and (e) Submit a written request for a temporary practice permit. (5) For the purposes of this section: (a) "Military spouse" means any person married to or a registered domestic partner of a military person. (b) "Military person" means a person serving in the United States armed forces, the United States public health service commissioned corps, or the merchant marine of the United States.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary military spouse practice permit — standard underlying qualifications
Duration
At most 180 days, terminating earlier on licensing action as provided by the rule.
Examination
Meet the applicable underlying mental health counselor qualifications, including the registered NCE/NCMHCE alternatives unless the applicant meets a statutory waiver.
Other license
Active unrestricted same-profession license from a jurisdiction with substantially equivalent licensing standards.
Permit requirements
How to obtain a temporary practice permit — Military spouse. A military spouse or state registered domestic partner of a military person may receive a temporary practice permit while completing any specific additional requirements that are not related to training or practice standards for the profession. This section applies to any profession listed in RCW 18.130.040 (2)(a). (1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who is a military spouse or state registered domestic partner of a military person and: (a) Is moving to Washington as a result of the military person's transfer to Washington; (b) Holds an unrestricted, active license in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the same profession to those in Washington; and (c) Is not subject to any pending investigation, charges, or disciplinary action by the regulatory body of the other state or states. (2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full scope of practice for the profession. (3) A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs: (a) The license is granted; (b) A notice of decision on the application is sent by mail or email to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on the application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or (c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued. (4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must: (a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), fingerprint card if required, and documentation for the license; (b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license that are specific to the training, education, and practice standards for the profession; (c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted license in the same profession from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards for the profession in Washington; (d) Submit a copy of the military person's orders and a copy of: (i) The military-issued identification card showing the military person's information and the applicant's relationship to the military person; (ii) A marriage license; or (iii) A state registered domestic partnership; and (e) Submit a written request for a temporary practice permit. (5) For the purposes of this section: (a) "Military spouse" means any person married to or a registered domestic partner of a military person. (b) "Military person" means a person serving in the United States armed forces, the United States public health service commissioned corps, or the merchant marine of the United States.

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