Clinical mental health counseling
State licensure requirements

The University’s Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSC/CCMH) program meets the licensure requirements in the states listed below. Review the licensure requirements listed under your state.

See below for important information about state licensure

Alaska has one level of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Alaska Board of Examiners in Counseling Licensure page. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, every applicant needs to submit an Alaska name-based background check of criminal justice information under AS 12.62.005 –12.62.200 for Alaska. The report can be obtained by contacting the Alaska State Troopers. Only background reports from state law enforcement agencies will be accepted. Reports obtained through online services do not meet the requirement. The background reports cannot be issued earlier than 90 days prior to application.

Exams:

Applicants will need to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Both are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The exam scores must be sent directly to Division of Corporations, Business, and Professional Licensing from NBCC.

In lieu of the NCE or NCMHCE, the board will accept passage of another nationally recognized examination for professional counselors that is equivalent to the NCE or NCMHCE. The applicant must obtain verification of passage of the examination accepted by the board, sent directly to the board by the administrator of the examination.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Submit a completed notarized application and nonrefundable application fee.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Alaska Board of Professional Counselors
              PO Box 110806
              Juneau, AK 99811-0806

The initial licensing fee may be submitted at this time or upon successful passage of the examination.
Submit two letters of recommendation from professional counselors who are familiar with the applicants’ work (part of application).
Complete the Verification of post-master’s experience (part of application)

Post-Graduate Experience Requirement:

After graduation you may apply to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). To be eligible you must complete at least 3000 hours of experience over a period of at least two years under the supervision of a Board-approved supervisor. This supervision must come from a licensed professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, licensed marital and family therapist, licensed psychologist, licensed psychological associate, licensed physician, licensed psychiatrist, or licensed advanced nurse practitioner who is certified to provide psychiatric or mental health services that holds a board approved supervisor credential granted by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors. You must verify that you have had at least 1,000 hours of direct counseling with individuals, couples, families, or groups and at least 100 hours of direct face-to-face supervision. An applicant may receive supervision by telephonic or electronic means on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Apple FaceTime, or another audio and video platform that permits the supervisor and the applicant to engage in communication that is face-to-face.

Completed supervised hours are verified with submission of the verification of post-master’s experience. Have your supervisor complete this form (part of the application). For additional information on how to apply for your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Alaska Board of Professional Counselors

Mailing Address:
PO Box 110806
Juneau, AK 99801-1770

Physical Address:
(No US mail delivery)
333 Willoughby Ave., 9th Fl
State Office Building
Juneau, AK 99801-1770

Phone: 907-465- 2550

Fax: 907-465-2974

Email: ProfessionalCounselors@Alaska.Gov

This summary of state licensure requirements is provided as a reference tool for our counseling students and graduates. Every effort is made to ensure this information is accurate and up to date. However, as licensing requirements are subject to change at any time, you are strongly encouraged to regularly check with the state licensing authority (provided above) for licensure requirements.

Arizona has two levels of licensing: Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Arizona State Board of Behavioral Health Examiners Licensure website.

Graduates may apply for a temporary license while in the process of applying for the associate level license (LAC) if the graduate’s activities are performed under qualified supervision by the person who provided direct supervision during internship.

The temporary license is good for 90 days and direct client hours may be applied to the LAC. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process you will need to complete a criminal history background check. ONE of the following must be submitted:

Full set of fingerprints and payment for a criminal history background check through the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). Mail completed fingerprints on a blue lined FD-258 card directly to:

Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
1740 W. Adams St., Suite 3600
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Verification of a current, valid DPS fingerprint clearance card. You will be able to list your card number on the application and include verification from the AZ DPS website.
Indication that you already have your fingerprints on file with the Board.

Exams:

You will need to pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) before you can be licensed in Arizona. Candidates will receive their registration from the Arizona board after they have been authorized to test. Both exams are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). You must take the exam during the 12-month approval window. The official passing score report must be sent directly to the Board from NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC):

Completion and submission of application and corresponding required fee using the applicant portal.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to applications@azbbhe.us.

In the portal, you will provide:

United States Legal Presence. One government issued document must contain a photograph of the individual.

Background Questionnaire

Employment History

Exam Information

The Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) is the first level of licensure in Arizona. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
1740 West Adams St., Suite 3600
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Phone: 602-542-1882

Fax: 602-364-0890

Email: information@azbbhe.us

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

California has two levels of licensing: Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the California Board of Behavioral Sciences site. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix with a Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

California law authorizes the Board to conduct criminal record background checks to help determine the eligibility of a person applying for a license or registration. As part of the application process, you will need to complete the following:

Fingerprint clearance must be obtained via Applicant Live Scan. DO NOT COMPLETE FINGERPRINTS MORE THAN 30 DAYS PRIOR TO SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION. Live Scan results without corresponding applications on file are destroyed after six months. Additional information can be found in Instructions for Live Scan Fingerprinting.

Evaluation of the applicant’s criminal history is part of the application process. See Criminal Background FAQs for more information.

Apply for Licensure:

Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC):

Order official transcripts or your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to the Board at BBStranscripts@dca.ca.gov.
APCC Registration with applicable fee.
Degree Program Certification (Required for an Out-of-State Degree). The Board may require submission of syllabi for one or more courses listed on your Degree Program Certification after evaluating your application. Please gather your syllabi so that you can be prepared if any are requested.
Three hours in the provision of mental health services via telehealth, including law and ethics related to telehealth (verified on the Degree Program Certification).
Six hours in Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention Requirement (verified on the Degree Program Certificate).

Applicants should review information about the 90 Day Rule which allows applicants who graduated after January 1, 2020 to count supervised experience between the degree award date and issue date of the Associate registration number under the rule if the workplace required the applicant to complete Live Scan fingerprinting IF the Associate application is received within 90 days of the qualifying degree award date.

The Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) is the first level of licensure in California. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and official passing scores on the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) are required. For information on how to upgrade your Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) to the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credential review the Board’s website.

Marriage, Family and Child Therapy

California has two levels of licensing: Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) For additional information see the California Board of Behavioral Sciences website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Associate Marriage and Family Therapist after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling (MSC/MFCT) program.

Clearances:

Fingerprint clearance must be obtained via Applicant Live Scan. DO NOT COMPLETE FINGERPRINTS MORE THAN 30 DAYS PRIOR TO SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION. Live Scan results without corresponding applications on file are destroyed after six months. Additional information can be found in Instructions for Fingerprinting.
Evaluation of the applicant’s criminal history is part of the application process. See Criminal Background FAQs.

Exams:

To become an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) you will need to take and pass the California Law and Ethics Exam and then take and pass the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Clinical Exam. For study materials download the Examination Candidate Handbook.

Apply for Licensure:

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to the Board at BBStranscripts@dca.ca.gov.
Register as an Associate and begin accruing hours toward the State-required post-graduate total. Before you complete the associate registration form, be sure to have the following so you are prepared to submit all items in the same package:
- Submit Application form and applicable fee.
- Submit Degree Program Certification, in the application.
- Complete three hours in the provision of mental health services via telehealth, including law and ethics related to telehealth (verified on the Degree Program Certification).
- Complete six hours in Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention Requirement (verified on the Degree Program Certification).
Applicants should review information about the 90 Day Rule which allows applicants who graduated after January 1, 2020 to count supervised experience between the degree award date and issue date of the Associate registration number under the rule if the workplace required the applicant to complete Live Scan fingerprinting and IF the Associate application is received within 90 days of the qualifying degree award date.

The Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) is the first level of licensure in California. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), additional supervised clinical experience hours and official passing scores on the LFMT Clinical Exam and California Law and Ethics Exam are required. For information on how to upgrade your Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) to the Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credential review the Board’s website.

Stage Agency Contact Information:

California Board of Behavioral Sciences

1625 North Market Blvd., Suite S200
Sacramento, CA 95834

Phone: 916-574-7830

Toll free: 800-326-2297

Contact Form

Colorado has two levels of licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

During the application process you will be asked a series of screening questions related to your criminal history or complaints filed against you in Colorado or other jurisdictions (if applicable). This may require you to upload court documents or other materials. Please review the Division of Professions and Occupations (DPO) information regarding the disclosure of criminal history contained within these instructions.

Exams:

Colorado requires you to take and pass the following:

The Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination. The scores are valid for one year.

In order to apply for the second level of licensure in the state of Colorado, the National Counselor Examination (NCE) is required. A student in their last semester or quarter of their graduate degree program may apply directly to the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) to sit for the professional counselor examination. Once you have passed the examination, arrange for NBCC to send your scores directly to the Office of Licensing (address below).

Applying for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred. You will need to upload a copy with your application and will not be able to move forward in the application process without it.
Review the LPCC Registration Application Checklist.
Complete online application and submit the required fee.
Upload a signed and dated copy of the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Exam Results Report. You cannot move forward in the application process without submitting a copy of the Results Report.
Answer the Screening Questions and submit the Attestation.
Complete the Healthcare Professions Profile, including uploading any supporting documentation, if applicable.

The Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) is the first level of licensure in Colorado. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners
1560 Broadway, Suite 1350
Denver, CO 80202

Phone: 303-894-7800
Fax: 303-894-7764

E-mail: dora_dpo_licensing@state.co.us

Connecticut has two levels of licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Connecticut Department of Public Health website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be asked a series of screening questions related to your criminal history or complaints filed against you in Connecticut or other jurisdictions (if applicable). This may require you to upload court documents or other materials. The Commissioner of Public Health shall require each person applying for licensure as a professional counselor to submit to a state and national fingerprint-based criminal history records check. Please note, licensure may be denied to any individual who has committed or been found guilty of committing a felony or act which does not conform to the accepted standards of the profession. The Department will determine the eligibility of any applicant for licensure.

Exams:

In order to apply for the second level of licensure in the state of Connecticut (LPC), you will need to successfully complete the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Request for your score report for the NCE or NCMHCE exam be sent electronically to dph.counselorsteam@ct.gov, or directly to the Board address below.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA):

Submit a recent photo of the applicant will need to be submitted as part of the completed application along with the corresponding fee. Applications must be completed online.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Connecticut Department of Public Health
Professional Counselor Licensure
PO Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134

Complete a Course of Study Form listed in your application, indicating all graduate level coursework completed and graduate degree(s) conferred.

The Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) is the first level of licensure in Connecticut. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Connecticut Department of Public Health Professional Counselor Licensure

Physical Address:
410 Capitol Ave., MS #12 APP
Hartford, CT 06134

Mailing Address:
PO Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134

Phone: 860-509-7603

Fax: 860-707-1980

Email: dph.counselorsteam@ct.gov

Delaware has two levels of licensing: Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health (LACMH) and Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LACMH) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, candidates must submit a State of Delaware and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal background check (CBC). For instructions to complete your fingerprinting for both the State and Federal criminal background checks, go to IdentoGo.

Exams:

The Board accepts the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or other examination acceptable to the Board to meet licensure requirements. If you have passed the NCE, follow the instructions for requesting a score report on the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) website. If you have passed another exam acceptable to the Board, arrange for the organization to send your score report directly to the Board office.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health (LACMH):

Applications are submitted using a Delaware Professional Regulation Online Services (DELPROS) user account.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to DE_DPR_TRANSCRIPTS@delaware.gov or sent directly to:

Delaware Division of Professional Regulations
Cannon Building, Suite 203
861 Silver Lake Blvd.
Dover DE 19904

Submit a Planned Direct Supervision Form completed and signed by your approved clinical supervisor(s) under whose supervision you will complete the required hours of post-graduate experience.
Submit a Planned Professional Counseling Experience Form completed by an administrative supervisor to document the professional counseling experience you will complete while not under direct supervision.

Please note, forms requiring a supervisor signature, seal or notary may have to be mailed to the Board Office directly, unless instructions indicate to upload the document to the site with the application.

The Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health (LACMH) is the first level of licensure in Delaware. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Associate Counselor of Mental Health (LACMH) to the Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals

Physical Address:
861 Silver Lake Blvd.
Suite 203
Dover, DE 19904

Mailing Address:
Cannon Building, Suite 203
861 Silver Lake Blvd.
Dover, DE 19904

Phone: 302-744-4500

Email: customerservice.dpr@delaware.gov

Georgia has two levels of licensure: Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be required to provide fingerprints for a nationwide criminal background check. For instructions to complete your fingerprinting, please go to IdentoGo. Please note that not completing the registration process will delay the processing of your application.

Additionally, you will be asked Background Questions in the application. You may be asked to provide Court Documents and/or Letters of Explanation, if applicable.

Exams:

All applicants are required to take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) OR the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). If you have taken and passed one of these exams, please contact the National Board’s administrative offices at (336) 547-0607 or visit www.nbcc.org to request certification of your exam score report to Georgia.

Apply for Licensure:

Associate Professional Counselor (APC):

Review the “How to Guide” before starting your application.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217

Provide references from two (2) teachers or supervisors who are familiar with your experience in Professional Counseling.
You will need to upload a copy of your driver's license, or passport. For a complete list of approved Secure and Verifiable Documents, please go to the list of Secure and Verifiable Documents.
Submit a Notarized Practicum/Internship Supervision Verification.
Submit a Contract Affidavit/Supervision Plan: Submit a notarized contract for obtaining your post-master’s experience and supervision.
Graduate Education Form in the application. Complete this form for the graduate degree that you want the Board to consider as part of the application.
For documents that must be submitted by a third party (ex: exam scores, etc.) you will need to identify them in the application. A separate link will be sent via email to the Third Party to submit the required documents directly into your record.
Submit a Signed and Notarized Affidavit regarding citizenship.
Submit the completed application with the associated fee.

The Associate Professional Counselor (APC) is the first level of licensure in Georgia. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade from the Associate Professional Counselor (APC) to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists
3920 Arkwright Rd.
Suite 195
Macon, GA 31210
Phone: 478-207-2440

Contact Form

Hawaii has one level of license: Mental Health Counselor (MHC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (MHC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be required to complete questions regarding citizenship, disciplinary actions, or criminal convictions. Answering yes to the questions regarding disciplinary actions and/or criminal convictions will require additional documentation to be submitted to the Board for review.

Exams:

All applicants are required to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Once your application is approved, you are eligible to register for the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) NCE examination, and a registration form will be mailed to you. The NCE registration form and exam fee must be mailed back to NBCC for you to take the NCE examination. Please allow NBCC approximately up to 4 weeks’ processing time. You will be notified of the scheduling process by email and postcard once your examination registration is processed. Candidates must test within 6 months of notification by NBCC.

If you have already taken and passed the NCE examination, you will not be required to re-take the exam. Applicants must contact the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) to have written documentation sent directly to the Board.

Apply for Licensure:

To be eligible to start the required post-graduate experience hours, the following must be submitted to the board:

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to counselor@dcca.hawaii.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

Mental Health Counselor Program
DCCA-PVL Licensing Branch
PO Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801

Complete the Coursework Form and attach a catalog description and syllabus for each course listed on the Coursework Form. A course may be applied only once and may not be repeated in any of the other areas.
The Application may be submitted online (myHawaii account) or mailed to:

Mental Health Counselor Program
DCCA-PVL Licensing Branch
PO Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801

Have your Practicum/Internship supervisor complete Section two of the Practicum Verification Form to verify your practicum experience, then attach this form to your application. Your supervisor must sign this form before a notary public and attach a brief summary of the duties that you performed during the practicum.
Have your supervisor complete the Post-Graduate Verification Form. Your supervisor must sign this form before a notary public.

Post-Graduate Experience Requirement:

To apply to be a Mental Health Counselor (MHC), you will need to complete 3,000 hours of post-graduate experience in the practice of mental health counseling with 100 hours of face-to-face clinical supervision completed in no less than two years and in no more than four years. Your supervisor must be licensed as a mental health counselor, psychologist, clinical social worker, advanced practice registered nurse with a specialty in mental health, physician with a specialty in psychiatry, or a marriage and family therapist during the entire supervised period.

Completed supervised hours are verified with submission of the Post-Graduate Verification Form and must be completed by your supervisor. Your supervisor must sign this form before a notary public and attach a brief summary of the duties performed during the post-graduate period. For additional information on how to apply for your Mental Health Counselor (MHC) review the Board’s website.

Applicants have two years to complete the licensing process, including requests for additional documentation.

State Agency Contact Information:

Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional & Vocational Licensing Mental Health Counselor Program

Physical Address:
PVL Licensing Division
355 Merchant Street, Room 301
Honolulu, HI 96813

Mailing Address:
Mental Health Counselor Program
DCCA – PVL

PO Box 3469
Honolulu, HI 96801

Phone: 808-586-3000

Email: counselor@dcca.hawaii.gov

Residents on the neighboring islands may call by dialing the following toll-free numbers followed by the last 5 digits of the phone numbers above and the # sign:

Kauai 274-3141
Maui 984-2400
Hawaii 974-4000
Lanai & Molokai 1-800-468-4644

This summary of state licensure requirements is provided as a reference tool for our counseling students and graduates. Every effort is made to ensure this information is accurate and up-to-date. However, as licensing requirements are subject to change at any time, you are strongly encouraged to regularly check with the state licensing authority (provided above) for licensure requirements.

Idaho has two levels of professional counselor licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). However, you must first register as a Registered Counselor Intern to engage in the supervised practice of counseling while completing supervised experience hours or while awaiting examination results. For additional information on the licensure process visit the Idaho Licensing Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists site. Below are the steps necessary to first apply as a Registered Counselor Intern, then as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

To determine the suitability of applicants for professional licensure, the administrator of the Division of Occupational and Professional licenses is authorized to require an applicant to provide information and fingerprints necessary to obtain criminal conviction history information from the Idaho State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

During the application process you may need to provide the following:

Criminal Conviction Disclosure Form (if applicable)

Exams:

Take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Scores should be sent directly to the office from the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Please note: the application process is split into several steps because candidates need to complete 1000 hours of supervised practice to be eligible to apply for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Hours from practicum and internship can be counted toward the required 1000 hours. Your supervisor must be approved by the Board.

Step One: Registered Counselor Intern

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Idaho Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage & Family Therapists Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses
PO Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0063

Application for Registered Counselor Intern with applicable fee.
Name and license number of your supervisor (in the application).

Step Two: Licensed Professional Counselor

Application for Licensed Professional Counselor with applicable fee.
Proof of identification: a clear and readable color copy of a government-issued photo ID.
Evaluation and Verification of Supervised Experience Form
You will need to enter coursework relevant to licensure in the Education History section of application.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the first level of licensure in Idaho. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Idaho Board of Professional Counselors and Marriage & Family Therapists Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses

Mailing Address:
DOPL
550 W. State St.
Boise, ID 83702

Physical Address:
11341 W. Chinden Blvd.
Boise, ID 83714

Phone: 208-334-3233

Fax: 208-334-3945

Email: cou@dopl.idaho.gov

Illinois has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Professional Counselor page. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will complete the following:

Personal History Information (completed in the application), which includes answering questions regarding Child Support, Criminal History, Tax Information, and Worker’s Compensation.

Exams:

For LPC licensure, take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE), through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Candidates must register and apply with Continental Testing Services (CTS) and NBCC to take the exam. Visit CTS Testing Instructions & Information. The Division also shall accept passage of the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination of the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). Exam approval is dependent upon submission of the IL LPC licensure application.

If you have already taken and passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE) must contact NBCC to make arrangements for an Official NCE Score Verification to be provided directly to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation from NBCC.

Please note, the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is required for the second level of licensure, the LPC.

Apply for licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Submit the Online application and corresponding required fee (review the instruction sheet for additional information).

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              ATTN: Division of Professional Regulation
              PO Box 7007, HSS-4
              Springfield, IL 62791

Submit the Certification of Education Professional Counselors form (ED-PC) - This form is completed by the applicant and school official.

State Agency Contact Information:

Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

Chicago Office
555 West Monroe St, 5^th Floor
Chicago, IL 60661

Springfield Office
320 West Washington Street, 3rd Floor
Springfield, IL 62786

Phone: 1-888-473-4858

Indiana has two levels of licensing: Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Mental Health Counselor Associate information on the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) after graduating from the University of Phoenix with a Master of Science in Counseling/ Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

Once your application has been accepted in the Board’s online system, you will be required to complete a Criminal Background Check (CBC). An applicant will receive an email from the Board with the official date the application was processed and will include the specific service code that corresponds with the application license type. Fingerprints must be submitted on or after the date of this email notice for the CBC to be considered valid and timely.

Exams:

The Board has adopted the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) examinations. The Board will accept the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for the Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) for the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).

Once your application is approved, you will receive information from the Board on how to register for the examination. An applicant who has been approved by the Board to take the examination must take the examination within one (1) calendar year from the date of the initial Board approval. If the applicant has not taken the examination within one (1) calendar year from the date of initial Board approval, the approval will be invalid, and the applicant must submit a new application and all required documentation must be resubmitted. All questions and requests for information about either examination should be directed to NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA):

Complete and submit the electronic application and processing fee
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency
Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board
402 W. Washington Street, Room W072
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Both the Verification of Practicum and Verification of Internship Forms will need to be submitted to the Board directly by the University.

The Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) is the first level of licensure in Indiana. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) to the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Indiana Professional Licensing Agency Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board

Indiana Government Center South, Room W072
402 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Phone: 317-232-2960

Email: pla8@pla.IN.gov

Iowa has two levels of licensing: Mental Health Counselor Temporary License and Mental Health Counselor Permanent license. For additional information on the licensure process visit the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for the Mental Health Counselor Temporary license after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application, you will need to complete background check related questions. If any of the questions are answered "yes", additional documentation will need to be submitted to the Board.

Exams:

You will need to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Exam scores must be sent directly to the Board office from NBCC. Applicants may self-register for the exam directly with NBCC.

Please note, the NCMHCE will be required when applying for the Mental Health Counselor Permanent license. If the NCMHCE is passed for the temporary mental health counselor license, it does not need to be taken a second time when applying for the full mental health counselor license.

Apply for Licensure:

Mental Health Counselor Temporary License:

Complete and submit the online application and corresponding fee.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to plpublic@idph.iowa.gov or sent directly to:

Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals
6200 Park Ave., Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50321

You will need to submit the Supervisor Plan Form. At the onset, you will submit a form that gives the name and qualifications of your supervisor; it will also describe your work setting and duties.

The Mental Health Counselor Temporary License is the first level of licensure in Iowa. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, the Mental Health Counselor Permanent License, additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Mental Health Counselor Temporary License to the Mental Health Counselor Permanent License review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing
Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals
6200 Park Ave., Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50321

Phone: 515-281-0254

Email: plpublic@idph.iowa.gov

(Not enrolling new students at this time)

Kansas has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application, you will be answering the “Merit of the Public Trust” questions. If you answer “yes” to any of the questions, a signed, dated type-written explanation that gives specific details including disposition of the matter will need to be submitted as part of the application.

Exams:

The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) administers the National Counselor Examination (NCE) required for licensure. You will be notified by the board in writing if you are eligible to register and sit for the examination once your educational requirements have been reviewed. (You must have an application on file with the Board at least eight weeks prior to the desired exam date.) Request the official test scores be sent directly to the Board by the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Complete and submit the application packet and corresponding required fees (both application and license). Be sure to read all instructions and review the Statutes and Regulations relevant information found on the Board’s website.

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board
Eisenhower State Office Building
700 SW. Harrison St., Ste 420
Topeka, KS 66603

Submit the Academic Background Form.

Submit the Graduate Practicum Review Form. Must be submitted by the University.
Submit three (3) completed Professional Reference Forms. Forms must be submitted in an unopened sealed envelope by the applicant at the time of the application. The referencing individuals must be:
- Unrelated to the applicant;
- able to address the applicant’s professional conduct, competence and merit of the public trust;
- One of the references must be from the individual who provided direct clinical supervision of the applicant’s graduate practicum or internship; If this person is unavailable the graduate program director, or any person with knowledge of the applicant’s practicum or internship on the basis of the student records may complete the form.
- Must be licensed as an LPC or licensed in a related field.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the first level of licensure in Kansas. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board
Eisenhower State Office Building
700 SW Harrison St., Ste 420
Topeka, KS 66603

Phone: 785-296-3240

Fax: 785-296-3112

Email: bsrb@ks.gov

Louisiana has two levels of licensing: Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Louisiana Board of Examiners in Counseling Licensure page. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, candidates must complete a State of Louisiana and Federal Bureau of Investigation criminal background check (CBC). For instructions to complete your fingerprinting for both the State and Federal criminal background checks, go to IdentoGo.

As part of the application, you will need to review and submit the Privacy Statement Acknowledgement Form.

Please note, your application will not be processed, approved or denied until your background check has been received by the LPC Board office. Criminal Background Checks must be submitted within 90 days of the application.

You will need to take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE). Both examinations are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Applicants may self-register for the exam directly with NBCC. Exam scores will need to be sent to the Board directly from NBCC.

Successfully passing the NCE or NCMHCE is a requirement for renewal of the Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC). PLPCs must attempt the exam at least once every renewal period until a passing score is achieved.

Apply for Licensure:

Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to: credspec@lpcboard.org.
Complete and submit the online application and corresponding fee.
Course numbers and titles from your transcripts will need to be listed for each of the required content areas that you wish to be considered for approval of your application.
Upload a Headshot photo with your application.
A copy of the Statement or Declaration of Practices and Procedures must be submitted with the Application. A sample of the Statement or Declaration of Practices and Procedures can be found on the Board website.
Identify a board approved supervisor. The Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC), along with the desired board-approved supervisor will provide the Board with a written proposal outlining as much as specificity as possible the nature of the counseling duties to be performed by the PLPC and the nature of the board-approved supervision. The plan must be approved by the Board before beginning the supervised experience.

The Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) is the first level of licensure in Louisiana. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners 11410 Lake Sherwood Ave. North, Suite A
Baton Rouge, LA 70816

Phone: 225-295-8444

Fax: 225-295-8448

Email: lpcboard@lpcboard.org

Maine has four levels of licensing: Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (XL), Clinical Professional Counselor (CC), Conditional Professional Counselor (XC), and Professional Counselor (PC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Maine Board of Counseling Professionals Licensure. Below are the steps necessary to apply for conditional licensure as a Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (XL) after graduating from the University of Phoenix with a Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be required to complete personal background related questions and complete a fingerprint-based FBI criminal background check. More information will become available once you have submitted the application and fee to the Board.

Exams:

To qualify for conditional licensure, the applicant shall achieve a passing score on the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE-Global). Once you pass the required examination, you may then apply for conditional licensure.

Please note, the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is required for the second level of clinical licensure, the Clinical Professional Counselor.

Apply for Licensure:

Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (XL):

Complete the online application for Conditional Professional Counselor licensure and pay fee.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Maine Board of Counseling Professionals Licensure
35 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0035

Submit the Internship & Degree Verification Form to be completed by the University.
Submit exam results.
Submit the Proposed Supervision Plan Form with the proposed supervisor’s typed and signed statement, on letterhead, detailing all of the following:
- Goals and objectives of proposed supervision plan.
- Supervision experience and trainings received in counseling supervision.
- Supervision philosophy and orientation.
Submit a Disclosure Statement Form.

The Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (XL) is the first level of clinical licensure in Maine. To be eligible to apply for the second level of clinical licensure, Clinical Professional Counselor (CC), additional supervised clinical experience hours, exam, and continuing education hours are required. To transition from conditional licensure to the CC, applicants need to hold their XL (or equivalent license) for at least 2 years while obtaining the required amount of licensed supervised work experience hours and supervision hours. For information on how to upgrade your Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (XL) to the Clinical Professional Counselor (CC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Maine Board of Counseling Professionals Licensure
35 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0035

Phone: 207-624-8603

Fax: 207-624-8637

Email: counsel.board@maine.gov

Maryland has two levels of licensing: Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the licensure requirements on the Maryland Department of Health website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

Prior to submitting the application, you will need to complete the Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) required by the board. The search includes a national and state criminal history background search and will require the applicant to be fingerprinted. In order to be fingerprinted, you will need to complete and present the LiveScan Pre-Registration Form. Sign and date the FBI Privacy Rights Statement to acknowledge receipt of the FBI Privacy Act Statement and Noncriminal Justice Applicant’s Privacy Rights, and submit a copy of the signed form to the Board at mdh.bopct@maryland.gov.

In addition to the CHRC, the application requires you answer background questions which may require additional explanation.

Exams:

You will need to take and pass both: the National Counselor Exam (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and the Maryland Law Assessment (MLA). Upon review of your application, the Board will determine if you are eligible to take the NCE. Once you are deemed eligible, the Board will send you written authorization and instructions on how to register for the exam.

The Maryland Law Assessment (MLA) is to determine if a candidate is familiar with the state laws and ethical code related to safe and effective practice across several content areas. You will be presented with readings and questions until all items are answered correctly. Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion that you will submit to the Board with your application for licensure or certification. Prior Board approval is not required to take the MLA.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC):

Complete and mail in your notarized application and corresponding fee (fax and email submissions not permitted and address is below in the official transcript bullet)
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred. Applications must include the official transcripts in a sealed envelope. Have the transcripts sent directly to:

Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists
Attn: Licensing Coordinator
4201 Patterson Ave., Suite 316
Baltimore, MD 21215

Provide complete Qualifications (Education History).
Recent applicant photo (2”x2”) - attach to the application.
Applicant must include a copy of the receipt from the CHRC with this application.
Applicants are responsible for submitting the Maryland Law Assessment (MLA) Certificate of Completion to the Board with the application for licensure. Do not email, fax or mail the certificate of completion separately to the Maryland Board.

The Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) is the first level of licensure in Maryland. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) to the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists
4201 Patterson Avenue, Suite 316
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Phone: 410-764-4732

Fax: 410-358-1610

Email: mdh.bopct@maryland.gov

Massachusetts has one level of licensing: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). For additional information on the licensure process visit Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be required to provide the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) form, only available within the online application. The CORI form must be signed and notarized.

Exams:

In order to apply for licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, you will need to take and successfully complete the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). If you passed the NCMHCE in another state, please contact the NBCC and have an official score report sent to the Board by the NBCC. Exam scores expire after 5 years.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to amh.board@mass.gov or sent directly to:

Massachusetts Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions
250 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02118

Complete the online application and pay the required fees (Review Applicant Eligibility and the Licensed Mental Health Counselor Application Guide).
Submit a 2"X2" passport style color photo of the applicant.

Submit the Pre-Master’s Degree Experience and Education Form (Completed by the University).

Submit the Post-Master’s Degree Clinical Experience Attestation Form.

Submit the Post Master’s Degree Clinical Experience Form.

Submit verification of board-approved training in domestic and sexual violence. Please see https://chapter260training.org to take the free online training.

Post-Graduate Experience Requirement:

You must meet the following post-graduation experience requirements and have passed the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) to be eligible to apply to be a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).

Eligible applicants must complete, in no less than two and no more than eight years, a minimum of two years of full-time or equivalent part-time, post-master’s degree Supervised Clinical Field Experience and Direct Client Contact Experience. Experience Requirements must include 3,360 total hours. At least 960 hours of the 3,360 total hours must be in direct, face-to-face, clinical mental health counseling with a range of individuals, groups, couples, or families.

At least 610 of those hours must be in individual, couples, or family counseling.

No more than 350 of those hours may be in group counseling.

You must have at least 10 client contact hours each week for the experience to be full-time. Full-time is no more than 35 hours per week for 48 weeks a year.

At least 130 total hours of supervision of which at least 75 hours must be Individual Supervision.

At least one hour of supervision for every 16 hours of direct client contact.

If you are working part-time, you can have no less than one supervision hour every two weeks.

*Note that a small number of applicants will be randomly selected on a regular basis to provide forms with precise hour calculations, including forms from their supervisors.

Completed supervised hours are verified with submission of the Post-Master’s Degree Experience Form (part of the application). For additional information on how to apply for your LMHC review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Massachusetts Board of Registration of Allied Mental Health and Human Services Professions
250 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02108

Phone: (617) 624-6199

Email: amh.board@mass.gov

Michigan has two levels of licensing: a Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Bureau of Professional Licensing with the Michigan Board of Counseling Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/ Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to answer Good Moral Character Questions. Documentation will be required if you answer “yes” to either question to show at the current time you have the ability to, and are likely to, serve the public in a fair, honest and open manner, that you are rehabilitated, or that the substance of the former offense is not reasonably related to the occupation or profession for which you are seeking a license.

Once the online application is completed and submitted you will be emailed an Application Confirmation letter containing instructions to complete the Criminal Background Check. Your application will not be approved without completing the required background check.

Exams:

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), (the second level of licensure) you will need to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE), (both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)) or the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRCE) exam.

Certification of your examination scores must be submitted directly to the Board from the examination agency. You may request score reports for the NCE and NCMHCE from the National Board for Certified Counselors. You may request score reports for the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRCE) Examination from the CRCC. Scores from only one testing organization is required.

Apply for Licensure:

Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC):

Complete and submit the online application and corresponding required fee (for more information review the Limited Licensed Counselor Licensing Guide).
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
              Bureau of Professional Licensing
              PO Box 30670
              Lansing, MI 48909

Complete Human Trafficking Training, focused on identifying victims of human trafficking, that meets the standards of Administrative Rule 338.1771 prior to being issued a license. The training must only be completed one time.
Complete Implicit Bias Training: Individuals seeking licensure must have completed at least 2 hours of implicit bias training within the five years immediately preceding issuance of the license.
As part of the application process, an applicant will need to submit a Professional Disclosure Statement. Review the Limited Licensed Counselor Licensing Guide for additional details on what must be included.
Submit Supervising LPC Qualifications Form

The Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) is the first level of licensure in Michigan. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Bureau of Professional Licensing
PO Box 30670
Lansing, MI 48909

Phone: 517-241-0205

Fax: 517-373-2179

Email: BPLHelp@Michigan.gov

Minnesota has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be asked background questions. Any “yes” answers must be explained in detail in a separate signed statement. All applicants for licensure are required to complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

A fingerprint information packet with instructions will be emailed to you AFTER you submit the license application and the applicable fees. Additional information can be found on the Criminal Background Check Program (CBCP) website.

Exams:

You will need to take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Examination, or an alternate national examination the Board has approved for licensure. Exam scores must be sent directly to the Board office from NBCC or alternate testing agency. Applicants may self-register for the exam directly with NBCC.

Please note, the NCMHCE is required when applying for the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) license.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Order official transcripts or your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to bbht.board@state.mn.us or sent directly to:

Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy
335 Randolph Avenue, Ste 290
St. Paul, MN 55102

Submit a completed notarized license application with applicable fee.

Complete Education History and Waiver (in the application).
Review the LPC Required Coursework Guide. You will need to complete the Academic Summary Sheet and include detailed descriptions of courses involved in your program.

Complete Supervised Field Experience: You will need to list each location at which you received supervised practice experience for your education.

Submit Official letter(s) confirming the completion of at least 700 hours of supervised, graduate-level, practicum and/or internship field experience (if actual clock hours are not documented on transcripts).

Provide History or Resume of Professional Counseling Experience.
Submit Supervision Plan to be approved by the Board. This form should only be completed for supervision hours that you have yet to do.)
Submit Supervisor Application Form – only required if the proposed supervisor has not been previously approved by the Board.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the first level of licensure in Minnesota. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy
335 Randolph Avenue, Ste 290
St. Paul, MN 55102

Phone: 651-201-2756

Fax: 651-797-1374

Email: bbht.board@state.mn.us

Mississippi has two levels of licensing: Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors site. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will be completing the following steps:

A Fingerprint Card is requested when you submit your application and remit the application fee and the Background Check Processing Fee through your application submission. The Board will mail you a customized card for you to submit to Mississippi Criminal Information Center (MCIC). This fee is paid at the same time the application fee is remitted. Fingerprint cards cannot be requested outside of completion of application.
Submit the Fingerprint Card directly to MCIC. Fingerprint images must be submitted directly to the Mississippi Criminal Information Center on the customized card mailed to you. (Instructions will be included with the customized card.)

Exams:

After the application for the Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) is submitted, you will need to register to take and pass the Mississippi Pass/Fail Jurisprudence Examination. While taking the examination, you are encouraged to refer to the Mississippi Rules and Regulations and the ethical codes of the American Counseling Association (ACA). You must correctly answer a minimum of 80 percent of the questions to successfully pass the examination.

For the P-LPC you will need to take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Applicants may register and take the exam directly through the National Board for Certified Counselors. Mississippi Board approval is not required for either exam.

Apply for Licensure:

Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically via eScrip to info@lpc.ms.gov or sent directly to:

Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors
239 North Lamar Street, Suite 402
Jackson, MS 39201

Review the Instructions for Applying for Licensure.
Secure a Supervisor (LPC-S). You must secure a LPC-S before you can apply for the P-LPC license. Once you have secured a LPC-S, you can create an Applicant Profile and enter into a Supervisory Agreement.
You will need to submit a Declaration of Practice that is reviewed and approved by the LPC-S.
All items required are submitted through the online application process including verification of coursework, verification of supervised experiences, and personal history questions.
The P-LPC application is active for one year. If the application process is not completed within 365 days, the applicant must pay a Reapplication Fee (this extends the application process for an additional one year) in order to reactive the application. If the applicant does not complete the application process within the additional year, the application will become void.
The Board has provided a PowerPoint (PDF) with directions for the Application Process.

The Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) is the first level of licensure in Mississippi. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC) to the License Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors
239 North Lamar Street, Suite 402
Jackson, MS 39201

Phone: 601-359-1010

Email: info@lpc.ms.gov

Montana has two levels of licensing: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (PCLC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Montana Board of Behavioral Health Licensure page. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (LCPC-C) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application, you will need to complete the Board’s Fingerprint Background Check through submission of fingerprints for a state and federal criminal history records check. Please review the Instructions to Obtain Fingerprint Background Check for more detailed information. Results of the background check are sent directly to the department by the Montana Department of Justice.

Please note, when you complete the personal history questions on the application, any “yes” answers require a detailed explanation and documentation.

Exams:

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (PCLC) you will need to take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Applicants may register and take exam directly through the National Board for Certified Counselors.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor Candidate (PCLC):

Apply for license online and review the checklist from the website.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Montana Board of Behavioral Health
              301 S. Park, 4^th Floor
              PO Box 200513
              Helena, MT 59620-0513

Academic Summary sheet (in addition to transcripts)
Supervision Form
Submit Applicant Rights & Consent to Fingerprint Notice

The Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor - Candidate (PCLC) is the first level of licensure in Montana. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, License Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor - Candidate (PCLC) to the License Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Montana Board of Behavioral Health

Mailing Address:
PO Box 200513
Helena, MT 59620-0513

Physical Address:
301 S. Park Avenue
4^th Floor
Helena, MT 59620

Phone: 406-444-6880

Email: DLIBSDHELP@MT.GOV

Nebraska has three levels of licensing: Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP), Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) and Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Mental Health and Social Work Practice website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to provide conviction information (part of application). If you have EVER received a ticket from law enforcement or animal control, check the court system to see if the ticket is on your record as a misdemeanor or felony conviction. Speeding tickets are not misdemeanors or felonies. You are required to list ALL convictions (regardless of when they occurred) on the application; you are NOT required to list infractions, diversions or dismissals. Misdemeanor and felony convictions can either be processed through traffic or criminal court, so when you check with the county court/district court, you should ask for both traffic and criminal court misdemeanor/felony convictions.

If you have convictions, you must submit:

If the conviction(s) occurred in a state other than Nebraska, a copy of the court record related to all misdemeanor and felony convictions, that includes the statement of charges and final disposition;

An explanation of the events leading to the conviction (what, when, where. why) and a summary of actions that the applicant has taken to address the behaviors or actions related to the conviction; and

A letter from the applicant’s probation officer addressing the terms and current status of the probation if the applicant is currently on probation.

If you have a criminal conviction, you may submit an application to determine if your conviction(s) would disqualify you from obtaining a license.

Preliminary Application Conviction Review

Exams:

To become a Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP), you must pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). In order to receive authorization to take the exam, you will need to submit the completed examination application to the office. Once the completed application has processed, you will receive an email with a letter of authorization containing instructions to register.

Test scores are automatically forwarded to the Board.

Apply for Licensure:

Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP):

Complete and submit the application with signed attestation form and corresponding fee.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to dhhs.licensure2117@nebraska.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

              DHHS Licensure Unit
              Attn: Mental Health
              PO Box 94986
              Lincoln, NE 68509-4986

Submit proof of US Citizenship/Lawful Presence
Applicant Practicum/Internship Supervisor or Internship Director must complete the Affidavit of Practicum/Internship Form (part of the application).

The Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP) is the first level of licensure in Nebraska. To be eligible to apply for the second or third level of licensure, Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) or Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade from the Provisional Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP) to the Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) or Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Mental Health and Social Work Practice

Mailing Address:
DHHS Licensure Unit
Attn: Mental Health
PO Box 94986
Lincoln, NE 68509-4986

Physical Address:
301 Centennial Mall South
14th & M Streets, 3rd Floor
Lincoln, NE 68508

Phone: 402-471-2117

Email: DHHS.BHLicensure@nebraska.gov

New Jersey Professional Counselor Examiners Committee has two levels of licensure: Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Professional Counselor Examiners Committee website under the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

The state of New Jersey requires that all applicants undergo a criminal history background check as a condition for licensure. Upon submission of the application you will be forwarded information regarding the necessary steps to be taken for fingerprinting. Your license will not be issued until the complete results of the background check have been received and reviewed. Reports of criminal history will require you to submit additional documentation for review by the Board.

As part of the application process, you will be required to answer personal history (child support and medical condition) and criminal history background questions.

Exams:

You will need to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). If you have not taken the NCE through your university, you will check off the box on the application that indicates that you are applying for the Committee's permission to sit for the exam. Upon receipt of the exam approval letter, you may register for the exam.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC):

Create a MyLicense Online account to submit your application and corresponding fee
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to DCA_Professional_Counselors@dca.njoag.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

New Jersey Professional Counselor Examiners Committee
PO Box 45055
Newark, NJ 07101

A full face passport size photo (2" x 2") of applicant's head and shoulders taken within the past six (6) months.
Enter the course completed in the Course Work Description section of the application. Do not list a course more than once.
Have your qualified supervisor submit the Proposed Plan of Supervised Counseling Experience for approval.
A copy of the applicant’s Resume or Curriculum vitae.

The Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) is the first level of licensure in New Jersey. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

New Jersey Professional Counselor Examiners Committee
PO Box 45044
Newark, NJ 07101

Phone: 973-504-6582

Email: DCA_Professional_Counselors@dca.njoag.gov

New Mexico has two levels of licensing: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

The New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board does not require background checks as part of the licensure process.

Exams:

To be eligible to apply for Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), you will need to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Please note, the second level of licensure (LPCC) requires the passing of the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). This exam is also administered by the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC):

Complete and submit the online application and corresponding required fee
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to counseling.board@rld.nm.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department
Counseling and Therapy Practice Board
PO Box 25101
Santa Fe, NM 87504

Read the Code of Ethics outlined in 16.27.18 NMAC. (You will need to acknowledge that you have read them and agree to be bound and governed by the Code of Ethics.)
Experience Plan– upload into online application

The Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) is the first level of licensure in New Mexico. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required and passing the NCMHCE. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) to Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LPCC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department Counseling and Therapy Practice Board

Physical Address:
2550 Cerrillos Rd.
Santa Fe, NM 87505

Mailing Address:
PO Box 25101
Santa Fe, NM 87504

Phone: 505-476-4622 4610

Email: counseling.board@rld.nm.gov

(Not enrolling new students at this time)

North Carolina has two levels of licensure: Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

North Carolina requires a state and national Criminal Background Check through Live Scan. You will need to be logged into your Counselor Gateway profile in order to submit a Live Scan Application.

As part of the application process, you will be required to answer Legal and Ethics History questions.

Exams:

Exam scores will need to be sent to the Board directly from NBCC.

Complete the North Carolina Jurisprudence Exam (must be taken within six months prior to application to the Board). The Jurisprudence Exam is accessible through the Counselor Gateway portal.

Applying for Licensure:

Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA):

Create a Counselor Gateway profile through the online portal.
Complete the LCMHCA application in the portal and submit the required fees.
Order official transcripts and have the transcripts sent electronically to transcripts@ncblcmhc.org.
Obtain references of three individuals who are acquainted with the applicant’s professional counseling work. One must be a licensed clinical mental health counselor. References will complete the Professional Reference Form. The completed form must be returned directly to the applicant and must be in a sealed envelope with the reference's signature over the closure, or sent directly to the Board.
Submit the Verification of Graduate Counseling Experience Form(s). The form should be completed by a faculty member or university supervisor and sent directly to the Board in a sealed envelope to:

North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
PO Box 77819
Greensboro, NC 27417

Submit the LCMHCA Professional Disclosure Statement completed according to Board instructions.

List all professional counseling courses completed in order of attainment. In cases where the course title does not clearly reflect course content, applicants shall provide university course descriptions and/or syllabi for clarification. Courses may only be used once for one content area.

The LCMHCA is the first level of licensure in North Carolina. To be eligible for the second level of licensure, LCMHC, additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your LCMHCA to LCMHC review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors
PO Box 77819
Greensboro, NC 27417

Phone: 844-622-3572 or 336-217-6007

Email: LCMHCinfo@ncblcmhc.org

North Dakota has three levels of licensing: Licensed Associated Professional Counselor (LAPC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

All new applications for licensure shall be required to submit to a statewide and nationwide criminal history check. Once an application for license is received in the board office, the applicant will receive a Criminal History Record Check Request and two (2) fingerprint cards. (Do not have prints taken until the Board supplies you with the cards and proper documents and instructions.) The applicant will follow the instructions on the Criminal History Record Check Request. All fees associated with obtaining a background check are the responsibility of the applicant.

Exams:

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) is the required assessment for the Licensed Associated Professional Counselor (LAPC). Once your application and original transcript are received, the board will review them and grant approval to test. Further instructions and forms are sent to you once the approval is in place. If you have taken and passed the exam, request a copy of test results be sent directly to the Board office, by the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Associated Professional Counselor (LAPC):

Complete and submit the LAPC Application and corresponding required fee.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners
              2112 10th Ave. SE
              Mandan, ND 58554

Plan of Supervision Form (part of the application) Plan must include a supervisor that is licensed and be certified as a supervisor with the North Dakota Board. Please note, the supervisor offering the supervision must be accepted for each LAPC on an individual basis, by the Board.
Three professional recommendations mailed directly to the Board (Practicum/Internship Supervisor, Degree Program Advisor, Additional Counselor Educator). Letters of recommendation should speak to competencies, interpersonal skills, and any ethical concerns.
Verification letter(s) from academic program director or clinical supervisor indicating actual hours of Practicum and Internship.
Education Experience Form
Application must be notarized.

The Licensed Associated Professional Counselor (LAPC) is the first level of licensure in North Dakota. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Associated Professional Counselor (LAPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners
2112 10th Avenue SE
Mandan, ND 58554

Phone: 701-667-5969

Email: ndbce@outlook.com

Ohio has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Review the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board website for links and resources. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Note: Students enrolled in a practicum or internship in Ohio prior to receiving their degree may be eligible to apply for Counselor Trainee (CT) status. Visit CT License Instructions for information.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you must complete both the Ohio BCI (Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation also referred to as BCI&I) and FBI criminal records checks. For additional information, visit the BCI & FBI Background Checks website or watch the video provided on their website.

While completing the application, you will also be asked a series of personal history questions.

Exams:

Applicants applying for initial LPC licensure may choose to qualify by passing either the National Counselor Examination (NCE), or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Eligibility is valid for twelve (12) months.

Passing results may be e-mailed to the License Examiner assigned to you based on your last name. You can find the list of Examiners on the CSWMFT Staff website.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Create an account on the eLicense Portal – used for submitting the application for CT, LPC or LPCC.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to CSW-Transcripts@cswb.ohio.gov.
Review the Laws and Rules page, watch the video, and complete the required attestation.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the first level of licensure in Ohio. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor LPCC review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board
77 S. High St. 24th Floor, Room 2468
Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: 614-466-0912

Email: cswmft.info@cswb.ohio.gov

Contact Form

Oklahoma has one level of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure (BBHL) website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Please note, once an application for LPC licensure is approved, the applicant is designated as a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate. A Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate must practice under supervision in order to accrue supervised experience hours.

Clearances:

You will need to complete the Board’s required Criminal History Record Information Check.

The Board requires all new applicants for licensure to obtain an OSBI fingerprint-based background check and an FBI fingerprint-based background check.

Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) Background Check

Make arrangements with a local provider in your area who offers fingerprinting services (local law enforcement agency, county sheriff, university police, etc.). The blue or black fingerprint cards are universal and may be completed at any location that offers fingerprinting. The Board recommends you obtain two (2) fingerprint cards in order to request the OSBI fingerprint-based background check.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Background Check

The quickest FBI fingerprint-based background check option is to submit your Identity History Summary Check request online. For more information regarding obtaining an FBI fingerprint-based background check navigate to the FBI website and select "Online" for further instructions.

Exams:

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) is the required assessment to be eligible to apply for the Licensed Professional Counselor.

Applicants may request the issuance of an exam eligibility period prior to receiving a conferred degree on the official transcript for licensure by submitting the optional Verification of Academic Standing form with all other required forms and completed background check no more than 60 days prior to the expected graduation date.

If you successfully pass a national examination after receiving a Board approved eligibility period the exam result will be uploaded to the Oklahoma exam result portal the month after the exam was completed.

If you successfully passed a national examination prior to making application through a certified graduate program or in another jurisdiction, you will need to request the score be uploaded to the Oklahoma exam results portal. Your passing result will not be submitted to the Board automatically.

In addition, you will need to take and pass the Oklahoma Jurisprudence Examination (Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Examination (OLERE)). The instructions on how to register for both exams (the NCE and the OLERE) will be sent to you once your application has been approved by the Board.

Oklahoma Jurisprudence (OLERE) results are automatically forwarded to the Board.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Create an account on the Applicant Portal to complete and submit your application with the corresponding required fee (see getting started for more information on how to set up your account).
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure
              3815 N. Santa Fe, Suite 110
              Oklahoma City, OK 73118

Internship/Practicum Documentation Form

In order to begin accrual of supervised experience hours the Board must confirm the candidate for licensure has a completed application on file, a passing result on the jurisprudence exam, and a passing result on a national exam. The candidate must also submit a W-4 confirming their status as an employee of the agency where they intend to accrue supervised experience and a completed Supervision Agreement.

Post-Graduate Experience Requirements:

To be eligible for the License Professional Counselor (LPC), you will need to complete 3,000 hours of full-time, on-the-job professional counseling experience, supervised by an approved LPC Supervisor. A total of 1,000 hours must be direct client contact hours and 100 hours must be face-to-face supervision or technology-assisted supervision. Documentation of supervised hours, evaluation of competence, date of observations, and dates of consultation between approved supervisor and on-site supervisor, must be submitted on the Evaluation of Supervised Experience Form. The evaluation form must be submitted on a semi-annual basis.

State Agency Contact Information:

Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure
3815 N. Santa Fe, Suite 110
Oklahoma City, OK 73118

Phone: 405-522-3696

Email: Info.BehavioralHealth@bbhl.ok.gov

Oregon has two levels of licensing: Registered Associate and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Registered Associate after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

You must complete the required criminal background check and fingerprinting. Fingerprinting must be completed by the applicant no more than 90 days prior to submitting an application; you will need to follow the fingerprinting instructions in the Applicant Portal. See Fingerprinting Instructions.

Additionally, you will be asked personal history and background questions during the application process.

Exams:

You will need to pass two examinations: the Oregon Law and Rules exam and the competency exam.

Oregon Law and Rules Exam:

You may take the Oregon Law and Rules Examination after your application is approved. You will receive an email with instructions and a link to the online exam. You may refer to the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) and Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs), which are cited on the Board’s Laws and Rules.

Competency Exam:

See Summary of exam requirements for additional requirements for the licensing exam testing and timelines. You are eligible to request to take the exam once you have been notified by the Board that your application has been approved using the Request Form.

Apply for Licensure:

Registered Associate:

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly via email to: lpct.board@mhra.oregon.gov.
Create an online account for submitting the application - Applicant Portal. Use this account to apply as a Registered Associate.
Associate Registration Plan
Degree Program Direct Client Contact Hours - this form is used for pre-degree supervised work experience. Note, this form must be sent to the Board by the University.
Other documents may be required depending on your situation.

Please note, certain documents can be emailed to lpct.board@mhra.oregon.gov, mailed to the Board Office, or uploaded to the Applicant Portal.

The Registered Associate is the first level of licensure in Oregon. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing a competency examination are required. For information on how to upgrade your Registered Associate to the LPC review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors & Therapists
3218 Pringle Road SE, Suite 120
Salem, OR 97302

Phone: 503-378-5499

Email: lpct.board@mhra.oregon.gov

Pennsylvania has two levels of licensing: Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as an Associate Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

During the application process all new applicants for health care practitioner licenses must obtain a fingerprint-based FBI background check for review as part of your application.

You must pre-register for fingerprinting services through IdentoGO and use the service code provided during your application process to ensure the Board receives your results. IdentoGo accepts these identification documents.
Additionally, you will need to obtain a Self-Query from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) which is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. See the NPDB for additional information. Once you receive the “Response to your Self-Query”, you will need to upload it to your online application.

Exams:

In order to obtain the next level of licensure, the Licensed Professional Counselor, the Pennsylvania Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors accepts the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) or the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRC), administered by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). Refer to the exam section on the Board’s resource page on Pennsylvania’s licensure requirements.

Apply for Licensure:

Associate Professional Counselor (APC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to st-socialwork@pa.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

Pennsylvania Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors
PO Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649

Create an account on the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) website to complete and submit your application with the corresponding required fee.
Upload a curriculum vitae/resume for each qualified supervisor who will be providing direct supervision throughout your supervised clinical experience.
Upload a supervision plan which includes the name of each employer and location where client contact and supervision will occur. Please include a detailed job description for your duties at each location.
Complete 3 hours of approved training by the Department of Human Services (DHS) on the topic of child abuse recognition and reporting. A list of DHS-approved child abuse education providers can be found on the Department of State Website.

The Associate Professional Counselor (APC) is the first level of licensure in Pennsylvania. To be able to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing a competency examination are required. For information on how to upgrade from the Associate Professional Counselor (APC) to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Pennsylvania Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors

Physical Address:
2525 N. 7th St.
Harrisburg, PA 17110

Mailing Address:
PO Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649

Toll Free: 1-833-DOS-BPOA (1-833-367-2762)

Email: st-socialwork@pa.gov– reserved for receipt of documentation

General Questions: Create a Ticket

Rhode Island has two levels of licensing: Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. For additional information see the licensure requirements on the State of Rhode Island Department of Health for links and resources. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

As part of the application process, candidates will complete the affidavit and respond to the prompts related to criminal conviction and disciplinary questions.

Exams:

For second-level licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, applicants are required to pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE). This exam is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Alternatively, the Board may accept another examination approved by the Board that determines the applicant’s qualifications for licensure as a clinical mental health counselor.

Upon receipt of your completed license application, the Board will register you with NBCC for the next scheduled exam. You will receive notification of exam admittance, location, and directions from NBCC prior to the exam date. Results are sent to the Board and then released to you by the Board.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate:

Complete the application and submit the required fee.
Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Rhode Island Board of Mental Health Counselors and
Marriage & Family Therapists
3 Capitol Hill, Room 105
Providence, RI 02908-5097

Core Curriculum Coursework Requirement Form (part of the application)

The Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate is the first level of licensure in Rhode Island. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing the NCMHCE are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate to Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Rhode Island Board of Mental Health Counselors and Marriage & Family Therapists
3 Capitol Hill, Rm 105
Providence, RI 02908-5097

Phone: 401-222-5960

Email: doh.elicense@health.ri.gov

South Carolina has two levels of licensing Licensed Professional Counselor Associate and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists and Psycho-educational Specialist website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

During the application process you will need to complete the Verification of Lawful Presence Form (form must be notarized) and upload to your application. You will also be asked questions regarding your personal history and background.

Exams:

All licensure candidates must take and pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Both examinations are administered by National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Once your educational experience and application have been approved, you will be sent instructions on how to apply for the exam.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor Associate:

Complete and submit the online application with the required fee.
Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional
Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists
Synergy Business Park
Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Dr.
Columbia, SC 29210

The following documents will need to be uploaded to the application (Acceptable file types are jpeg, gif, png, pdf and/or tiff.):
A copy of your Social Security Card
A copy of a valid state issued ID, driver's license, passport or federal issued ID with intact picture.
LPC Plan for Clinical Supervision of Post-Master’s Clinical Experience in Professional Counseling. The Plan for Clinical Supervision of Post-Master's Clinical Experience in Counseling Form may be submitted along with the Associate license application or submitted once you have obtained employment; however, it must be effective once you have passed your exam and your Associate license has been issued.

An associate cannot begin providing counselor services until a completed supervision plan is submitted to and received by the Board.

The Licensed Professional Counselor Associate is the first level of licensure in South Carolina. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade the Licensed Professional Counselor Associate to the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, Addiction Counselors and Psycho-Educational Specialists
Synergy Business Park
Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Dr.
Columbia, SC 29210

Phone: 803-896-4658

Email: Contact.Counselor@llr.sc.gov

South Dakota has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health (LPC-MH). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and Family Therapists website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

During the application process you will need to complete the Legal Questionnaire (found in the Application for Plan of Supervision and in the Application for Licensure).

Exams:

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), you will need to take the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The passing score is required prior to approval of your Plan of Supervision.

Request that your score for the exam is submitted directly to the Board.

Please note, the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) is required for the second level of licensure, the LPC-MH.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to SDBCE@midwestsolutionssd.com. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and
Family Therapists
PO Box 340
1351 N. Harrison Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501

Submit ATTACHMENT 1: Proposed Supervisor for Plan of Supervision Application. This form must accompany the Application for Plan of Supervision and requires acknowledgment and signature of your proposed supervisor(s).
Submit the Application for Plan of Supervision - Professional Counselor with the corresponding fee. The application must be notarized. The Plan of Supervision must be approved prior to accrual of supervision hours.
A quality color, recent photograph (i.e. passport photo)
Application for Licensed Professional Counselor - This is an application for applicants who have completed a Plan of Supervision and are now applying for licensure.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the first level of licensure in South Dakota. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health (LPC-MH), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing the NCMHCE are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health (LPC-MH) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

South Dakota Board of Examiners for Counselors & Marriage and Family Therapists
PO Box 340
1351 N. Harrison Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501

Phone: 605-224-1721

Fax: 888-425-3032

Email: SDBCE@midwestsolutionssd.com

Tennessee has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Tennessee Board for Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital and Family Therapists and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) OR a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to complete the following:

All applicants applying for initial licensure in Tennessee (not renewal or reinstatement) will be required to obtain a criminal background check (CBC) through the State of Tennessee selected vendor, IdentoGO. You may register online or be telephone.
Additionally, you will need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate as part of the application process and complete the Notarized Declaration of Citizenship Form.

Exams:

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), you will need to take and pass both the National Counselor Examination (NCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP), you will need to take and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE), (both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)).

The Tennessee Jurisprudence Exam for Professional Counselors is required for both LPC and LPC-MHSP licensure.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Tennessee Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital & Family Therapists and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists
665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd floor
Nashville, TN 37243

Submit the paper application or apply through the online Licensure and Regulatory System and pay the corresponding fees.
Passport-style photograph taken within the last twelve months.
Complete the Course Work Summary Worksheet
Two letters of recommendation from Licensed Mental Health Professionals.
Mandatory Practitioner Profile Questionnaire
Verification of Supervised Post-Masters Experience: Verification of completion of a minimum of two (2) years supervised post- master’s experience. A minimum of two (2) years of supervised post-master equaling one thousand (1000) total clinical hours one hundred (100) total hours of supervision.
Proof of supervisor’s qualifications.

Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP):

Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

Tennessee Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital & Family Therapists and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists
665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd floor
Nashville, TN 37243

Submit the paper application or apply through the online Licensure and Regulatory System and pay the corresponding fees.
Passport-style photograph taken within the last twelve months.
Complete the Course Work Summary Worksheet
Two letters of recommendation from Licensed Mental Health Professionals.
Mandatory Practitioner Profile Questionnaire
Verification of Supervised Post-Masters Experience: Verification of completion of a minimum of two (2) years supervised post-master’s experience. The post-masters supervised experience must consist of a minimum of three thousand (3000) hours of direct clinical experience which is completed under supervision (minimum of 150 contact hours), and which is completed no sooner than two (2) years nor more than four (4) years following the beginning of supervised clinical practice.
Proof of supervisor’s qualifications.

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is one level of licensure in Tennessee. To be eligible to apply for the other level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing both the NCE and the NCMHCE are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Tennessee Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marital & Family Therapists and Licensed Clinical Pastoral Therapists
665 Mainstream Drive, 2nd floor
Nashville, TN 37243

Phone: 615-741-5735

Toll Free: 800-778-4123

Email: unit1hrb.health@tn.gov

Texas has two levels of licensing: Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-Associate) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Texas Behavioral Health Council - State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-Associate) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, candidates will need to provide a self-query report from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) in a sealed envelope sent to the Board from NPDB or a "certified" electronic version can be uploaded to the application, or emailed to npdb@bhec.texas.gov.

Applicants for licensure are required to undergo electronic fingerprinting. After submitting the online application, instructions will be emailed for fingerprinting.

Exams:

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), is required for licensure.

If you took the NCE or the NCMHCE outside of Texas, please contact NBCC to request a copy of your scores be sent to the Council.

If you need to schedule an exam, please visit NBCC as the state licensing board does not administer or schedule the exam.

Students must also pass the Texas Jurisprudence Exam for Professional Counselors prior to applying for license.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-Associate):

Order official transcripts or your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to transcripts@bhec.texas.gov. If sending via, have the transcripts sent directly:

BHEC LPC Transcripts
1801 Congress Ave., Ste 7.300
Austin, TX 78701

Review the LPC Associate Application User Guide for instructions on submitting the online application.
Complete the Application for initial LPC-Associate (formerly Intern) license via the Online Licensing System.
Upload the Practicum Documentation Form. (May be completed by a faculty or administrative member of the counseling program or the site where the practicum hours were gained. A letter from the University is also acceptable.)
Upload the Supervisory Agreement Form. (Completed and signed by both applicant and potential board-approved supervisor.)

The Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-Associate) is the first level of licensure in Texas. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-Associate) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
1801 Congress Ave., Ste. 7. 300
Austin, Texas 78701

Phone: 512-305-7700

Toll Free: 800-821-3205

Contact Form

Utah has two levels of licensing: Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC) and Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Utah Division of Professional Licensing-Clinical Mental Health Counseling website. Below are steps necessary to apply for licensure as an Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, candidates will need to provide:

Driver’s License Number, State ID Card, or valid government issued documentation showing evidence of lawful presence in the United States.
The application includes questions about your legal and professional background. Any questions with “Yes” answers will require additional documentation or explanation. The application requires a signed affidavit.

The Division of Professional Licensing requires applicants of Clinical Mental Health Licensure to submit fingerprints for a search through the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Applicants must complete and submit all other requirements for initial licensure first. After applying, you will receive an email with the necessary instructions and a fingerprint authorization form along with a list of approved vendors.

Exams:

To be eligible for the second level of licensure, the Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), you will need to take and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Refer to board website for exam information.

Apply for licensure:

Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC):

Order official transcripts of your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to b8@utah.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts directly to:

Utah Division of Professional Licensing
PO Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741

Submit the completed application and fees via Utah’s online application system or apply manually using the paper application.
Clinical Supervisor Association Form (part of the application). A supervisor must be approved by the Division before you can begin accruing hours.
Please note, as part of the second level of licensure (CMHC), you will be required to provide verification of completing 2 hours of continuing education in suicide prevention. You may request a letter from the Registrar's Office.

The Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC) is the first level of licensure in Utah. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing the NCMHCE are required. For information on how to upgrade your Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC) to Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Utah Division of Professional Licensing

Mailing Address:
PO Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741

Physical Address:
Heber M. Wells Building
160 East 300 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84111

Phone: 801-530-6628

Toll Free: 866-275-3675

Email: b8@utah.gov

Vermont has one level of licensing: Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation - Allied Mental Health website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to complete the Public Disclosure Form.

Additionally, you will be required to take the Vermont State Jurisprudence (Statutes & Rules) examination. Once your application is reviewed, you will receive further instructions on completing the exam.

Exams:

Vermont requires applicants to pass both the National Counselors Examination (NCE), and the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). In order to qualify for the exam, you must submit your application for licensure post-graduation. Once your application has been approved by the Board you will be sent information on how to apply for the exams.

Exams must be completed within 5 years of the date of your application.

Apply for licensure:

Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC):

Submit the completed application (instructions) and fee via the online services system.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to SOS.OPRLicensing2@vermont.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

Office of Professional Regulation: Allied Mental Health
89 Main Street, 3rd Floor
Montpelier, VT 05620-3402

Register on the roster of non-licensed non-certified psychotherapists before beginning supervised practice – supervision hours will not be accepted if you are not on the roster. (The Roster application is found within Allied Mental Health in the Online Licensing System.)
Submit the Supervision Report, to be completed by your clinical supervisor.
Verification of Supervisor Licensure is only required if the supervisor is NOT licensed in Vermont.

Post-Graduate Experience Requirement:

Completion of a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised work in clinical mental health counseling during a minimum of two (2) years of post-master’s experience, including at least 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. Of the 3,000 supervised practice hours required for mental health licensure, 2,000 must be direct hours.

For additional information on how to apply for your Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) review the Mental Health Counselor Application Instructions.

State Agency Contact Information:

Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation: Allied Mental Health
89 Main Street, 3rd Floor
Montpelier, VT 05620-3402

Phone: 802-828-1505

Contact Form

Virginia has two levels of licensing: Licensed Resident in Counseling and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Virginia Board of Counseling website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Licensed Resident in Counseling after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you need to complete ethics and criminal conviction questions and will be asked to provide a digitally certified copy of a self-query from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB).

Exams:

A Licensed Resident Counselor can take the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) or the National Counselor Examination (NCE) at any point during the residency without Board pre-approval. Both examinations are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

The score must be received directly from the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Resident in Counseling:

Complete the application using the online system by following the directions in the Online Application Handbook. For more information about the requirements review the LPC Licensure Process Handbook or the Application Instructions for a Licensed Resident in Counseling.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred. Transcripts must be electronically sent directly to the Board at coun@dhp.virginia.gov via a secured electronic transcript service used by the University.
Verification of Required Coursework Form - This form can be completed by the University or completed by the applicant and reviewed by the University for accuracy.
Verification of Degree and Internship Form - This form will need to be completed by the University and returned to the applicant for inclusion in the application.
Locate an approved supervisor in the Approved Supervisor Registry. If the proposed supervisor is not listed in the Approved Supervisor Registry, please review the next steps in the LPC Licensure Process Handbook.
Create a Supervisory Contract outlining expectations and responsibilities. The Board has provided a sample supervisory contract.

The Licensed Resident in Counseling is the first level of licensure in Virginia. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Resident in Counseling to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Virginia Board of Counseling
9960 Mayland Dr., Suite 300
Henrico, Virginia 23233-1463

Phone: 804-367-4610

Fax: 804-767-6225

Email: coun@dhp.virginia.gov

Washington has two levels of licensing: Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). For additional information on the licensure process visit the Washington State Department of Health - Mental Health Counselor website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

Washington State law authorizes the Department of Health (DOH) to obtain a fingerprint-based background check with the Washington State Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If this is required for your application, you will be contacted by DOH, and it is your responsibility to complete the required steps to submit this background check.

As part of the application, you will be required to answer the Personal Data Questions. If there is a positive answer to the professional liability claims history question, you must send an explanation of the nature of the case, data and summary of care given, copies of the original complaint, and the settlement or final disposition. If the case is pending, you must indicate status.

Exams:

Passing score on either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), is required to be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, the Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Register to take the exam directly through the NBCC. Arrange to have exam scores sent directly to the Board from the NBCC.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate:

Order official transcripts or your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Mental Health Counselor Association
              P.O. Box 47877
              Olympia, WA 98504-7877

Complete and submit the application (either by paper application or through Secure Access Washington (SAW) website) and corresponding required fee.
Approved Supervisor Declaration (part of the application)

The Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate is the first level of licensure in Washington. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing a competency examination are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate to Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Mail your application with initial documentation to:

Department of Health
PO Box 1099
Olympia, WA 98507-1099

Send other documents not sent with the initial application to:

Mental Health Counselor Associate Credentialing

PO Box 47877
Olympia, WA 98504-7877

Phone: 360-236-4700

Fax: 360-236-4818

Email: hsqa.csc@doh.wa.gov

The District of Columbia has two levels of licensing: Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the DC Board of Professional Counseling website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to complete the following and submit via the online portal: Criminal Background Check
National Practitioner Databank (NPDB) Self-Query Report dated no more than thirty (30) days prior to submission of the application

Exams:

Pass the National Counselor Exam (NCE), or if successfully passed prior to application, the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE) or the Clinical Rehabilitation Counselor exam (CRCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Applicants may contact the NBCC for registration and arrange to forward scores directly to the Board electronically.

Apply for Licensure:

Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC):

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to dclgpc@dc.gov.

In the online portal, you will submit:
A complete application with fee (refer to Application Checklist for LGPC – Graduate Professional Counselor by Examination)
Social security number on application form or sworn affidavit and supporting documentation to reflect legal status in the United States.
Submission of one (1), recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches in size)
One (1) photo of a government issued ID
Coursework Completion Form – LGPC. You may be required to provide course descriptions to the Board if requested.

The Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) is the first level of licensure in Washington DC. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

DC Health
2201 Shannon Place SE
Washington, DC 20020

Phone: (202) 442-5955

Fax: (202) 442-4795

Email: dcbopc@dc.gov

West Virginia has two levels of licensing: Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling (WBVEC) website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, candidates will need to provide their Social Security Number. In addition, candidates will complete the affidavit and respond to the prompts related to criminal conviction and disciplinary questions.

Exams:

Applicants may submit scores from the National Counselor Examination (NCE), the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE), or the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRCC). Contact the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) or the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) directly to register for one of the exams.

Request official copy of exam scores be sent directly to the Board.

Initial applicants should file the “Licensure Packet” for review. Once approved, you will receive an approval letter to take the exam and the exam registration form. Exam approval letters are valid for one year.

Apply for Licensure:

Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC):

Complete and submit a notarized Six-Page Licensure application and non-refundable application fee, payable to WVBEC.
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred. The official transcripts can be mailed or emailed directly from the registrar to the Board, or if you have obtained a transcript from the institution, you can send it in your packet as long as the seal has not been broken on the envelope.

The Licensure Packet will consist of:

Completed Supervisor Registration Form and Contract (part of the application)
Current Job Description provided to you by your employer
Two (2) completed Professional Recommendation Forms. This form is to be completed by a master’s level licensed mental health professional.
Three personal references letters. (The letters can be from an individual willing to state you are of good moral character and merit the public trust. The individual cannot be a relative.)
A completed Transcript Review Sheet (TRS) along with course descriptions from graduate institution(s).
A copy of the Instructional sheet with items marked complete and signed by the applicant
Photo taken within the last 12 months and attached to the application prior to notary signature.

The Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) is the first level of licensure in West Virginia. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (PLPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling
815 Quarrier Street, Suite 212
Charleston, WV 25301

Phone: 304-558-5494

Wisconsin has two levels of licensing: Professional Counselor Training License and Licensed Professional Counselor. For additional information visit professional counselor information on the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services - Professional Counselor website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for Professional Counselor Training License after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

Prior to starting the application process, if you have been convicted of a felony, misdemeanor, or other violations of federal or state law in Wisconsin or any other state, you will need to complete the Application for Predetermination. The form will seek a determination from the Board as to whether your conviction record will disqualify you from obtaining a particular license before submitting a licensure application and meeting all credentialing requirements.

Exams:

To be eligible for the second level of license, Licensed Professional Counselor, you will need to take and pass the following:

Passing scores on the National Counselor Exam (NCE), the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE) or the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Exam (CRCE). Contact the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) or the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) directly to register for one of the exams.

Apply for Licensure:

Professional Counselor Training License:

Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to dsps@wisconsin.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Counseling and
              Social Work Examining Board
              PO Box 8935
              Madison, WI 53708-8935

Application and corresponding fee via LicensE system
(instructions and requirements)
Submit the Professional Curriculum Requirements Form 1960
Verification of a position, or an offer for a position, as a professional counselor in a supervised clinical professional counseling practice in which the applicant will receive training and supervision equivalent to the training and supervision received in a supervised clinical professional counseling practice. Completion of Professional Counselor Supervisor Approval Form (Employer Affidavit).

Please note: The Professional Counselor Trainee License is valid for 48 months and may be renewed at the discretion of the Board.

The Professional Counselor Training License is the first level of licensure in Wisconsin. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor, additional supervised clinical experience hours are required. For information on how to upgrade your Professional Counselor Training License to Licensed Professional Counselor review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Wisconsin Examining Board of Marriage & Family Therapists, Professional Counselors and Social Workers

Mailing Address:
PO Box 8935
Madison, WI 53708

Physical Address:
4822 Madison Yards Way
Madison, WI 53705

Phone: 608-266-2112

Email: dsps@wi.gov

Wyoming has two levels of licensing: a Provisional Professional Counselor (PPC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For additional information see the licensure requirements on the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board website. Below are the steps necessary to apply for licensure as a Provisional Professional Counselor (PPC) after graduating from the University of Phoenix Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program.

Clearances:

As part of the application process, you will need to complete and submit the following:

Proof of Lawful Presence
2 copies of the FD-258 - Two Fingerprint Cards. Fingerprints must be completed within six (6) months of the date they are submitted to the Board.

Exams:

To be eligible for the second level of license, Licensed Professional Counselor, you will need to take and pass the following:

Passing scores on the National Counselor Examination (NCE), or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE). Contact the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) directly to register for one of these exams.

Request the testing Agency send your official exam score to Wyoming Board office. This can be mailed to the address above or emailed to WyoMHPLB@wyo.gov.

Apply for Licensure:

Provisional Professional Counselor (PPC):

Submit a completed application with original signature and fee
Order official transcripts for your counseling course work once your degree has been conferred and have the transcripts sent electronically to WyoMHPLB@wyo.gov. If sending via mail, have the transcripts sent directly to:

              Wyoming Mental Health Professionals Board
              2001 Capitol Ave, Room 127
              Cheyenne, WY 82002

Submit a copy of Professional Disclosure Statement – Requirements
Submit Supervision Agreement– Board approval required prior to collecting hours

The Provisional Professional Counselor (PPC) is the first level of licensure in Wyoming. To be eligible to apply for the second level of licensure, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), additional supervised clinical experience hours and passing examination scores are required. For information on how to upgrade your Provisional Professional Counselor (PPC) to Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) review the Board’s website.

State Agency Contact Information:

Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board
2001 Capitol Ave, Room 127
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Phone: 307-777-3628

Fax: 307-777-3508

Email: wyomhplb@wyo.gov

The University has determined that its Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Counseling Mental Health (MSC/CCMH) program does NOT meet the requirements for licensure in the following states. Please click on the links below for State Agency Contact Information for the applicable state licensing board:

Alabama, American Samoa, Arkansas, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Florida, Guam, Kentucky, Marshall Islands, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Palau, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands

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Clinical mental health counseling State licensure requirements

See below for important information about state licensure

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Clinical mental health counseling
State licensure requirements