Counseling FAQs

What is the NCE?

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is a licensing exam that is required for counselor licensure in many states. This article will explore what you should know about this exam before taking it. The NBCC describes the NCE as follows: "The purpose of the NCE is to assess knowledge, skills, and abilities viewed as important for providing effective counseling services. The NCE is comprised of 200 multiple choice questions and is scheduled for a 4-hour period."

How to Pass the NCE Exam?

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) measures an examinee’s knowledge and understanding of the core concepts and principles required for safe and effective counseling practices. The NCE can be challenging, but there are simple steps that can help you prepare.

How Long is the NCMHCE Exam?

The length of time allotted for the National Clinical Mental Health Examination is 3 hours and 15 minutes. The exam consists of 10 simulated clinical mental health counseling cases. Each case study includes 5-10 sections. Each section contains prompts for information gathering and decision making. The exam covers the following: Assessment and Diagnosis; Counseling and Psychotherapy; and Administration, Consultation, and Supervision.

How to Pass the NCMHCE Exam?

The National Counselor Mental Health Exam can be challenging. In order to prepare for the NCMHCE there are a number of different study tools available, including meeting with a coach or attending a live online workshop. If you prefer to work at your own pace, there are also self-study packages that include study volumes and practice exams. This article will explain which study strategies are right for you based on how much time you have available, etc.

What is a LPCC License?

LPCC stands for licensed professional clinical counselor. LPCCs who have obtained licensure treat clients who are facing behavioral disorders. The National Counselor Exam (NCE) is one requirement for becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). To become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), you must first graduate from an accredited program or a program housed within a regionally accredited institution. Counselors are eligible to take the NCE once they complete their master’s degree or when they have satisfied most of the requirements.

Counselor vs Therapist?

There are many different types of mental health professionals. The terms "counselor" and "therapist" are often used interchangeably, which makes sense because there are many similarities. Counselors and therapists both treat a wide variety of conditions in many different settings. For example, counselors and therapists may treat children with anxiety and depression in a school-based setting. Other counselors and therapists may specialize in the treatment of developmental disorders and provide services in the client’s home or in an office with other mental health professionals.

How Much Do Counselors Make?

The median annual salary for counselors was $47,500 in 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many educational paths to becoming a counselor, all with varying time commitments. In order to become a licensed mental health counselor, you will need to obtain an undergraduate degree, as well as a master’s degree in Counseling or Counseling Psychology. Some mental health counselors also hold doctorate degrees.