Top 10 Clinical Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a clinical supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers and clients that the individual has obtained the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to provide high-quality services. Certification can also be used as a way to differentiate oneself from other job seekers who do not have such qualifications. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities for advancement in the field of clinical supervision and allow supervisors to access more specialized or advanced positions. Finally, certifications may increase earning potential as employers are often willing to pay higher salaries for qualified professionals.

This article reviews the top certifications for Clinical Supervisors and explains how they can help further a clinical supervisor's career.

What are Clinical Supervisor Certifications?

Clinical supervisor certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of healthcare professionals who have specialized training and experience in providing clinical supervision to other healthcare professionals. The purpose of this certification is to ensure that those providing clinical supervision are highly qualified and competent in their field. Clinical supervisors provide guidance and mentorship to medical staff, helping them develop the skills necessary to provide quality care to patients. They also help develop and monitor patient care plans, evaluate performance, coordinate communication between medical staff and other health professionals, and promote professional growth within the healthcare setting.

By obtaining clinical supervisor certification, healthcare professionals can demonstrate their commitment to providing the highest level of care for their patients. Certification also helps employers recognize these individuals as highly qualified clinicians who can effectively manage their team of medical staff while ensuring quality patient care. Additionally, having this certification may increase job prospects for those seeking employment in leadership roles within the healthcare industry.

Pro Tip: Make sure to do your research when selecting a clinical supervisor certification program. Look for programs that are accredited by the appropriate professional organizations and make sure the program meets the requirements of your state's licensing board. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on training or a combination of online and in-person instruction.

Related: What does a Clinical Supervisor do?

Top 10 Clinical Supervisor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Clinical Supervisors today.

1. Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS)

Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) is a certification program offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of clinical supervision. The CCS credential signifies that an individual has met the standards for clinical supervision established by NBCC and has demonstrated knowledge, skills, and experience in providing effective supervision to counselors-in-training.

The CCS credential requires a minimum of two years of post-master’s degree supervised counseling experience, as well as successful completion of the CCS examination. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral interview. The written portion covers topics such as ethical considerations, legal issues, supervisory roles and responsibilities, assessment techniques, and evaluation strategies. The oral interview assesses an individual’s ability to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

In order to be eligible for the CCS credential, individuals must hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or related field from a regionally accredited institution; have completed at least two years of post-master’s degree supervised counseling experience; have current licensure or certification in professional counseling; and have successfully completed the CCS examination.

The cost for taking the CCS examination is $260 USD ($195 USD for NBCC members). Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CCS certificate within four weeks.

2. Certified Professional Clinical Supervisor (CPCS)

Certified Professional Clinical Supervisor (CPCS) is a certification offered by the Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competence in the field of clinical supervision. The CPCS certification is an internationally recognized credential that denotes excellence in clinical supervision.

The CPCS certification requires applicants to demonstrate mastery of the core knowledge, skills, and abilities related to providing effective clinical supervision. To qualify for the CPCS certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and pass an examination.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to complete the application process and obtain the CPCS certification. During this time, applicants must complete all required coursework or continuing education credits, submit their official transcripts, and take and pass the CPCS examination.

The cost of obtaining the CPCS certification varies depending on several factors including location, type of program chosen, and any additional fees associated with taking the exam or submitting documents. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $150-$400 USD to obtain the CPCS certification.

3. Certified Advanced Clinical Supervisor (CACS)

Certified Advanced Clinical Supervisor (CACS) is a credential granted by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). The CACS credential is designed to recognize therapists who have achieved advanced levels of clinical supervision. It is a voluntary certification that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing clinical supervision.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for CACS certification. Applicants must first meet the eligibility criteria, which includes having at least five years of experience as a marriage and family therapist and three years of clinical supervision experience. They must also complete an approved course on advanced clinical supervision, pass a written exam, and submit documentation of their supervised practice hours.

The cost of obtaining the CACS credential varies depending on the applicant’s location and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 in total fees for application materials, exam fees, and other related costs.

In addition to demonstrating mastery in the field of clinical supervision, those with the CACS credential are eligible for higher salaries than non-certified supervisors. They may also be more attractive candidates for leadership positions within marriage and family therapy organizations or programs.

4. National Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NCCMHC)

National Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NCCMHC) is a credential awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NCCMHC is a specialized certification that recognizes mental health counselors who have met the highest standards of practice in their field.

To become an NCCMHC, an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements and complete an approved clinical mental health counseling program. After completing the program, applicants must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), which is administered by NBCC. Once these requirements are met, an individual can apply for the NCCMHC credential.

The process of becoming an NCCMHC can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on how quickly you complete your educational and examination requirements. The cost of obtaining the credential varies depending on your state's fees for taking the NCMHCE, but generally ranges from $200-$400.

5. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

A Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is a mental health professional who has earned a graduate degree in counseling, such as a Master of Science in Counseling or a Doctorate of Psychology. LPCCs are licensed by their state to diagnose and treat mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and other psychological disorders.

To become an LPCC, you must first complete the educational requirements for licensure. This typically includes earning a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in counseling psychology or a related field. You must also complete supervised clinical experience and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

Once you have met all of the educational requirements for licensure, you will need to apply for your license through your state's licensing board. The application process varies from state to state but generally requires submission of transcripts, proof of supervised clinical experience, and payment of fees. Once your application is approved by the licensing board, you can begin practicing as an LPCC.

The cost to become an LPCC varies depending on the type of program you choose and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $15,000-$30,000 for a master’s degree and $20,000-$50,000 for a doctorate degree. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the NCMHCE exam and applying for licensure that may add up to several hundred dollars.

6. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a mental health professional who has been trained to provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. LMFTs are trained in the areas of family systems, communication strategies, problem solving skills, and conflict resolution. They help clients identify and address issues that may be causing distress in their relationships or daily lives.

In order to become an LMFT, one must first earn a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from an accredited institution. After completing the degree program, applicants must pass the state licensing exam for marriage and family therapists. The exam is administered by the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB).

The cost of becoming an LMFT varies depending on the state you live in. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1,000 for application fees as well as any additional fees associated with taking the state licensing exam. It can also take up to two years to complete all of the requirements necessary to become licensed.

7. Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)

A Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) is a professional who has completed specialized training in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders. CSACs are certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) to provide counseling services to individuals, families, and groups affected by substance abuse.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To become a CSAC, an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the NBCC. These include having at least a bachelor’s degree in counseling or related field from an accredited university, two years of supervised clinical experience in substance abuse counseling, and passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Once these requirements are met, applicants must then take and pass the NBCC’s Substance Abuse Professional Certification Exam (SAPCE).

The cost of becoming a CSAC varies depending on where you live and what type of program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 for tuition and fees associated with completing the certification process. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the NCMHCE and SAPCE exams.

8. American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor (AAMFT-AS)

The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor (AAMFT-AS) is a credential that recognizes marriage and family therapists who have achieved a high level of professional competency in the field of marriage and family therapy. This credential is awarded by the AAMFT, the leading authority on marriage and family therapy in the United States.

In order to become an AAMFT-AS, applicants must meet certain educational, experience, and training requirements as outlined by the AAMFT. These include: 1) having at least two years of postgraduate clinical experience; 2) being a licensed marriage and family therapist; 3) completing an approved supervisor training program; 4) obtaining letters of recommendation from two supervisors or colleagues; 5) passing the AAMFT exam; 6) submitting a portfolio demonstrating knowledge, skills, and abilities related to supervision; 7) participating in continuing education activities related to supervision; 8) maintaining professional liability insurance coverage for supervision activities.

It typically takes about one year to complete all the requirements for becoming an AAMFT-AS. The cost for obtaining this credential varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the AAMFT. If you are already a member, then there is no additional fee required to obtain your credential. However, if you are not currently a member of the AAMFT then there is an application fee that must be paid before applying for your credential.

Once all of these requirements have been met, applicants can submit their application materials online through the AAMFT website. After review by the Credentialing Committee, successful applicants will be notified via email and will receive their official certificate in approximately four weeks time.

9. National Board for Certified Counselors Approved Clinical Supervisor (NBCC-ACS)

The National Board for Certified Counselors Approved Clinical Supervisor (NBCC-ACS) is a credential that recognizes mental health professionals who have met the standards of excellence in providing clinical supervision to counselors. The NBCC-ACS credential is an important step in helping counselors become qualified and competent clinicians.

To obtain the NBCC-ACS credential, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university;

2. Have a minimum of two years post-master’s/post-doctoral supervised experience in professional counseling;

3. Have completed at least 100 hours of clinical supervision training;

4. Hold a current, active license as a professional counselor; and

5. Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

The application process for the NBCC-ACS credential takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks to complete and requires applicants to submit documentation verifying their qualifications as well as an application fee of $150 USD. Once approved, the credential is valid for five years and can be renewed by submitting an updated application form and fee prior to its expiration date.

10. International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium Approved Clinical Supervisor (IC&RC-ACS).

The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium Approved Clinical Supervisor (IC&RC-ACS) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of practice in clinical supervision. It is a voluntary certification program developed by the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) to recognize and promote quality clinical supervision across multiple disciplines.

The IC&RC-ACS credential requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge, experience, and competency in providing clinical supervision. This includes having a minimum of two years of supervised experience as a professional counselor or social worker, completing at least 25 hours of specialized training in clinical supervision, and passing an examination.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the IC&RC-ACS credential. The cost varies depending on the provider; however, it usually ranges from $200-$400 for application fees, plus any additional costs associated with completing the required training courses or examinations.

Do You Really Need a Clinical Supervisor Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals and what kind of clinical supervisor you are hoping to become. If you are a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, social worker, or counselor, then having a Clinical Supervisor Certificate may be beneficial in helping you obtain the necessary credentials for licensure in your chosen field. A Clinical Supervisor Certificate demonstrates that you have achieved a certain level of competency and expertise in the areas of clinical supervision, including working with diverse populations and addressing ethical issues that may arise while supervising other professionals.

In addition to providing evidence of proficiency in the area of clinical supervision, obtaining a Clinical Supervisor Certificate can also be beneficial if you are looking for employment opportunities within the mental health field. Having this certificate can demonstrate to employers that you have an understanding of the complexities associated with providing supervision to other professionals and that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage such situations. Furthermore, if you are seeking promotion or an increase in salary within an organization where clinical supervision is part of your job description, having a Clinical Supervisor Certificate could provide additional evidence that you possess the necessary qualifications for such advancement.

Ultimately, whether or not it is necessary for you to obtain a Clinical Supervisor Certificate depends on your current career goals and aspirations. However, having this certification can provide tangible evidence that demonstrates your commitment to excellence in the area of clinical supervision and can help open doors within your chosen field.

Related: Clinical Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Clinical Supervisor Certifications

1. What is a clinical supervisor certification?

Answer: Clinical supervisor certification is a credential that recognizes an individual's expertise and knowledge in providing clinical supervision to mental health professionals. It is a recognition of the individual's ability to provide quality supervision and mentorship in a variety of settings.

2. What are the prerequisites for obtaining a clinical supervisor certification?

Answer: Prerequisites for obtaining a clinical supervisor certification vary by organization, but typically include training in supervision, current licensure as a mental health professional, experience providing clinical supervision, and passing an exam or assessment.

3. How long does it take to obtain a clinical supervisor certification?

Answer: The time it takes to obtain a clinical supervisor certification varies depending on the organization offering the credential, but typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years.

4. What are the benefits of obtaining a clinical supervisor certification?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a clinical supervisor certification include increased job opportunities, higher wages, greater credibility among colleagues and clients, and improved practice management skills.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my clinical supervisor certification?

Answer: Yes, most organizations require that certified supervisors maintain their credentials by completing continuing education credits each year or every two years depending on the organization’s requirements.