Top 11 Mental Health Counselor Certifications

Certifications are important for mental health counselors in the job market because they demonstrate that a person is qualified and competent to work as a mental health counselor. Certifications provide assurance to employers that a potential employee has met certain standards and has the necessary skills to provide counseling services. Additionally, certifications can help mental health counselors stand out from other applicants, as this allows them to be more competitive when searching for positions. Lastly, certifications can also help increase earning potential since many employers are willing to pay more for certified professionals.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Mental Health Counselors and explain how they can help to advance a mental health counselor's career.

What are Mental Health Counselor Certifications?

Mental health counselor certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a mental health counselor has met the standards and qualifications of their profession. It is generally obtained through an accredited organization, such as the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Mental health counselors provide counseling services to individuals, couples, families and groups who are dealing with various mental health issues. They help clients identify underlying problems and develop strategies to cope with them. As such, certification in this field demonstrates a commitment to providing quality care and knowledge of ethical practices.

Having a mental health counselor certification can help increase employment opportunities in the field. It may also be required for licensure in some states. Additionally, it can demonstrate expertise and credibility to potential employers or clients. Certification can give mental health counselors access to continuing education courses or specialized training programs that can help keep them up-to-date on the latest developments in their field.

In summary, mental health counselor certification helps demonstrate commitment to the profession, provides access to continuing education programs, and increases job prospects by showing expertise in the area of mental health counseling.

Pro Tip: Mental health counselor certification can be obtained by taking an accredited course from a professional institution such as the American Counseling Association (ACA). It is important to research the requirements and standards of each program before committing to any particular certification. Additionally, it is helpful to seek out advice from current mental health professionals who have already completed their certification in order to gain insight into the process.

Related: What does a Mental Health Counselor do?

Top 11 Mental Health Counselor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Mental Health Counselors today.

1. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who has been trained and certified to provide counseling services. An LPC has a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field and must pass an examination administered by the state in which they practice. The LPC credential is recognized in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

It typically takes two to three years of graduate-level study to become an LPC. During this time, students must complete coursework related to mental health assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy techniques, and ethics. They must also complete supervised clinical hours before they can be eligible for licensure.

In order to obtain an LPC license, applicants must submit proof of their educational credentials and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). This exam tests knowledge of counseling theories and techniques as well as ethical considerations. Once the exam is passed, applicants must submit an application for licensure with their state board of professional counselors.

The cost of becoming an LPC varies from state to state but typically includes fees for the NCMHCE exam as well as application fees for licensure. In addition, some states require continuing education credits to maintain licensure status.

2. National Certified Counselor (NCC)

National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have met the highest standards of professional counseling. The NCC credential is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). To become an NCC, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and adhere to NBCC's ethical standards.

It typically takes between two and three years to complete the process of becoming an NCC. The first step is to obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a regionally accredited college or university. Once you have earned your master’s degree, you must then complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in counseling over at least two years. You must also pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Finally, you must submit an application to NBCC for review and approval.

The cost of becoming an NCC varies depending on your individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1,000-$2,000 in fees for application materials, exams, supervision costs and other related expenses.

3. Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC)

Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) is a professional certification that recognizes the advanced knowledge and skills of mental health counselors. This certification is offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The CCMHC credential demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of practice in clinical mental health counseling and provides evidence of expertise in the field.

To become certified, applicants must have at least a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university, as well as 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. Additionally, applicants must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) administered by NBCC.

The process to become certified typically takes 6-12 months after all requirements are met. Applicants must submit an application form with required documents and fees to NBCC. After submitting the application, it will be reviewed by NBCC and applicants will be notified if they meet all eligibility requirements. Once approved, applicants can register for the NCMHCE exam. After passing the exam, they will receive their certification card within 4-6 weeks.

The cost to become certified varies depending on which certification package you choose. The basic package costs $395 plus applicable taxes and fees; however, there are other packages available that include additional benefits such as study materials or practice exams for an additional fee.

4. Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) is a professional counselor who specializes in helping individuals with physical, mental, developmental, and emotional disabilities achieve their goals for employment, independent living, and overall quality of life. CRCs provide counseling services to individuals with disabilities to help them develop job-seeking skills and strategies; identify appropriate work settings; understand their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); and develop career plans. They also provide support for individuals as they transition from school to work, or from one job to another.

To become a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), an individual must have at least a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university. Additionally, they must complete an internship of at least 600 hours under the supervision of a qualified professional in the field. Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for certification through the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC). The CRCC administers the CRC examination which consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as ethics and legal issues, assessment techniques, counseling theories and techniques, vocational evaluation methods, case management principles and practices, rehabilitation technology applications, transition planning strategies, and more.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the individual's circumstances but typically includes application fees ($200-$300), exam fees ($250-$400), renewal fees ($50-$100), and other associated costs such as travel expenses for attending workshops or conferences. The entire process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years depending on how quickly an individual completes their educational requirements and internship hours.

5. Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (BCCMHC)

Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (BCCMHC) is a certification that recognizes mental health counselors who have met the highest standards of practice in the field. The certification is awarded by the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), an independent, nonprofit organization that specializes in professional credentialing.

To become board certified, applicants must meet specific educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university, plus two years of post-master's supervised clinical experience. In addition, applicants must pass an exam administered by CCE to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

The process of becoming board certified typically takes several months to complete. First, applicants must complete an application form and submit it to CCE along with supporting documents such as transcripts and proof of supervised clinical experience. Once the application is approved, applicants can register for the exam and pay the associated fee (currently $385). After passing the exam, applicants will receive their board certification from CCE.

The cost of becoming board certified varies depending on individual circumstances but typically ranges from $500-$1000. This includes fees for the application, registration for the exam, and any other associated costs such as travel expenses or study materials.

6. Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

A Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) is a mental health professional who has completed an accredited master's degree program in counseling, psychology, or a related field, as well as additional specialized training and supervised clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. LMHCs provide individual, family, and group counseling services to clients with mental health issues. They also provide psychotherapy and other interventions to help individuals cope with life stressors and improve their overall mental health.

It typically takes two years to complete a master’s degree program in counseling or psychology and three years of supervised clinical experience to become an LMHC. After completing the educational requirements, applicants must pass a national licensing exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

The cost of becoming an LMHC varies depending on the type of program chosen and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, tuition for a master’s degree program can range from $10,000-$50,000 per year. In addition to tuition costs, students may also be responsible for fees associated with taking the NBCC exam which can range from $200-$400.

7. Master Addiction Counselor (MAC)

A Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals with advanced knowledge and experience in the field of addiction counseling. This certification is designed to provide recognition for those who have achieved a higher level of expertise in the practice of addiction counseling.

To become a MAC, an individual must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of experience as an addiction counselor, completing at least 45 hours of continuing education in addiction-related topics, and passing the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) exam. Additionally, applicants must submit letters of recommendation from two professionals in the field of addiction counseling and demonstrate their commitment to ethical practice.

The process to become a MAC typically takes several months to complete. The first step is to apply for the NBCC exam and pay the associated fee. Once approved, applicants must then register for and take the exam within one year. After passing the exam, applicants can then submit their application materials to become certified as a MAC.

The cost to become a MAC varies depending on where you live and what type of program you are applying through. Generally speaking, the cost can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on fees associated with taking the NBCC exam and submitting your application materials.

8. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is a mental health professional who specializes in providing counseling services to couples, families, and individuals. LMFTs are licensed by their state’s licensing board and must meet certain educational and clinical experience requirements. LMFTs provide therapeutic services that focus on the entire family system, helping them to identify patterns of behavior and communication that can lead to improved relationships.

In order to become an LMFT, individuals must complete a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field from an accredited college or university. They must also complete post-graduate supervised clinical experience as well as pass a written exam administered by the state licensing board. The amount of time it takes to become an LMFT varies from state to state but typically ranges from two to four years.

The cost of becoming an LMFT depends on the individual's educational path. Costs may include tuition for graduate school, fees for licensing exams, fees for supervision hours, and other related expenses such as books, materials, etc. It is important to research the costs associated with each step of the process before beginning the journey towards becoming an LMFT.

9. National Board for Certified Counselors Diplomate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (NBCC-DMHCP)

The National Board for Certified Counselors Diplomate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (NBCC-DMHCP) is a professional certification that recognizes the highest level of clinical mental health counseling expertise. It is awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), an independent, nonprofit organization that sets standards for professional counselors.

To become certified as an NBCC-DMHCP, candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. The requirements include:

• A master’s degree or higher in counseling from an accredited institution;
• A minimum of two years of supervised experience in clinical mental health counseling;
• Completion of at least 45 hours of continuing education related to counseling within the past five years;
• Passing scores on the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

The process typically takes several months to complete. Candidates must apply to take the NCMHCE, register with NBCC, and submit all required documentation before they can be approved to take the exam. Once approved, they must schedule and take the exam within one year or their application will be denied. After passing the exam, candidates must submit additional documentation and complete a formal application process before they can receive their certification.

The cost to become certified as an NBCC-DMHCP varies depending on the state where you are applying. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 for registration fees and test preparation materials.

10. American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor (AAMFT-ASP)

The American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor (AAMFT-ASP) is a credential that recognizes marriage and family therapists who have met the highest standards of professional practice. The AAMFT-ASP credential is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in their clinical work, supervision, and teaching.

To become an AAMFT-ASP, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having a master’s degree or higher in marriage and family therapy from an accredited university, completing at least two years of postgraduate supervised clinical experience in marriage and family therapy, being licensed as a marriage and family therapist in their state or province, and meeting the continuing education requirements as set forth by AAMFT.

Once these eligibility requirements are met, individuals can apply for the AAMFT-ASP credential through the AAMFT website. The application process includes submitting official transcripts from all universities attended, providing proof of licensure as a marriage and family therapist in their state or province, submitting documentation of completion of at least two years of postgraduate supervised clinical experience in marriage and family therapy, providing three letters of recommendation from supervisors or colleagues who are familiar with the applicant’s work as a marriage and family therapist, completing an online application form including a personal statement outlining why they wish to become an approved supervisor, and paying the $200 fee for processing the application.

Once all documents have been submitted and reviewed by the AAMFT Credentialing Committee, applicants will be notified whether they have been approved for the AAMFT-ASP credential. If approved, applicants will receive their certificate within four weeks of notification.

The cost to apply for the AAMFT-ASP credential is $200 USD. This fee covers processing costs associated with reviewing applications.

11. International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium Advanced Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor Certification (IC&RC AADAC).

The International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Advanced Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor Certification (AADAC) is a credential that recognizes the highest level of professional practice in the field of addiction counseling. This certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide effective substance abuse treatment services.

To qualify for AADAC certification, applicants must complete a minimum of 180 hours of formal education in addiction-related topics, pass an IC&RC written examination, and have at least two years of supervised work experience in the field. The process typically takes 12-18 months to complete.

In order to apply for AADAC certification, applicants must first submit an application packet to IC&RC that includes documentation of their educational background, supervised work experience, and other relevant information. Once the application has been reviewed and approved by IC&RC, applicants will be eligible to take the written exam.

The cost for AADAC certification varies depending on the applicant's country or region of residence; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Mental Health Counselor Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes, if you are interested in becoming a mental health counselor. Mental health counselors provide a valuable service to those suffering from mental illness and other emotional issues. A certificate in mental health counseling is essential for professionals who wish to practice in this field.

Having a certificate demonstrates that you have completed the necessary education and training required to practice as a mental health counselor. Most states require certification or licensure before an individual can begin practicing as a mental health counselor, and having the appropriate credentials is often necessary before being hired by an employer. Additionally, many organizations prefer to hire certified counselors because they know they meet minimum standards of professional knowledge and competence.

A certificate program also provides an opportunity to gain specialized knowledge in areas such as substance abuse, trauma, family dynamics, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other topics related to mental health counseling. In addition, courses may cover legal issues related to providing services as well as ethical considerations when dealing with clients who have sensitive information about their lives. By completing a certificate program, you will be better prepared to handle the unique challenges encountered in the field of mental health counseling.

Finally, having a certificate can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within your current organization. Having additional qualifications demonstrates that you are committed to your profession and willing to work hard towards achieving success within it. As such, those with certificates are often given preference over those without them when employers are making hiring decisions.

In summary, obtaining a mental health counselor certificate is essential for anyone interested in pursuing this career path. It not only meets state requirements for licensure or certification but can also help you stand out from other applicants when searching for jobs or promotions within your current organization. Additionally, completing a certificate program provides an opportunity to gain specialized knowledge that will help prepare you for any challenges encountered while working as a mental health counselor

Related: Mental Health Counselor Resume Examples

FAQs About Mental Health Counselor Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a mental health counselor?

Answer: To become a mental health counselor, you typically need to have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and pass a state-approved licensing exam. You may also need additional certifications or credentials depending on the state you live in.

2. Are there any continuing education requirements for mental health counselors?

Answer: Yes, most states require that mental health counselors complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their licensure and certifications. The number of hours required varies by state.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a mental health counselor?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a mental health counselor can vary depending on the state you live in, your educational background, and other factors. It typically takes between two and four years to complete the necessary training and coursework required for certification.

4. Are there different levels of certification for mental health counselors?

Answer: Yes, there are different levels of certification available depending on the type of counseling practice you plan to pursue and the area of specialization you choose. Some common certifications include Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), and National Certified Counselor (NCC).

5. What is the difference between licensure and certification for mental health counselors?

Answer: Licensure is an official government recognition that allows an individual to legally practice as a mental health counselor within their jurisdiction, while certification is an optional credential from private organizations that demonstrates additional professional knowledge or experience in specific areas of counseling practice such as substance abuse or marriage counseling.