How to become a Counselor in Michigan

Learn how to earn your counseling licensure in MI

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

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in Michigan. 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 Michigan counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the Michigan Board of Counseling at (517) 335-0918 to make sure you are on the right track.

I'm a High School Graduate...

Michigan counseling certification requires all candidates to have acquired a minimum of a master's level education. As a high school graduate, you are showing a great amount of motivation that will serve you well on your way toward becoming a Michigan Professional Counselor. However, right now you will want to continue your momentum and learn how you can begin earning a college degree.

Your next step should be to learn how you can enroll in an Associate's degree program or Bachelor's degree program.

Click on the links below to browse schools offering programs in psychology or counseling.

Once you have enrolled in a program, take advantage of your school's career services department and learn how you can find employment or volunteer opportunities that are related to the counseling career path.

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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 schools offering counseling programs in Michigan.

Step Two:

Once your masters degree has been completed, you will need to earn 3000 hours of supervised work experience over at least a 2 year period. You will also need a minimum of 100 direct, supervised hours by a qualified supervisor.

More details about the hourly requirements and supervisor qualifications can be found on the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth.

Step Three:

After completing your supervised work experience, you can download the Michigan counseling license application and submit the application to the Michigan Board of Counseling. Make sure you include all additional, necessary forms and fees.

You can download the application from the following Michigan Board of Counseling webpage.

Step Four:

The Board will review your application and will notify you when you have been approved to take the National Counselor Examination administered by the National Board for Certified counselors.

More information about the Michigan counseling licensure examination can be found on the NBCC website.

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