How to become a Counselor in Alabama

Learn how to earn your counseling licensure in AL

Click on the link that best describes your current situation...

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in Alabama. Most requirements such as earning your Master's degree, completing 3000 hours of supervised experience and passing the NCE examination have been and will continue to be mandatory in the Alabama counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling at (205) 458-8716 to make sure you are on the right track.

I'm a High School Graduate...

You're in the right place. This is a great time to start mapping out your future career. Most people wait until they are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree before seriously considering their career options.

First things first, you will want to get the ball rolling with regard to higher education. Begin requesting information from schools offering undergraduate programs in psychology.

Click on the links below to browse schools offering programs you are currently qualified to begin!

Now begin learning when and where you can become involved with organizations offering counseling related work environments. One way you can acquire experience in order to learn whether a career in counseling is right for you is by volunteering. The following are a couple links to volunteer organizations in Alabama.

Experience and formal education are the two most important prerequisites for making good decisions about your future career. So get out there! Contact schools and volunteering organizations today!

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I've already received my Bachelor's degree...

Once you have your bachelor's degree, you will need to find a school offering a master's or doctoral degree program in counseling.

Step One:

Click on the links below to contact schools offering Master's or PhD programs in counseling or related field.

Or request information from additional Alabama Counseling Schools.

Step Two:

You must first apply for certification as an associate licensed counselor (ALC). Follow the instructions on the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling website to acquire the correct application.

Step Three:

Once you have acquired your Associate Licensed Counselor title, you can begin the minimum of 3000 hours of supervised professional experience and 100 hours of counseling with a supervisor present. This is a process that can take one to three years depending on the individual and will prepare you for the National Counselor Exam. You will find more information regarding this process on the following Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling webpage.

Step Four:

The Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling accepts the National Counselor Exam (NCE) as it's regulated exam. Once all work experience is met you can apply for eligibility to start the testing process. The questions counting towards your score and the scoring process is quite different from a standard test.

You can find a comprehensive outline of the exam, request a preparation guide, find information about registration, test dates and contents for the NCE on the National Board for Certified Counselors website.

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