How to become a Counselor in New York

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in New York. Most of these requirements, such as earning your Master’s degree, completing 3000 hours of supervised experience and passing the NCE examination, are likely to continue to be mandatory in the New York counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the New York Professional Licensing Services at (518)-474-3817 ext. 592 to make sure you are on the right track.

I’m a High School Graduate

In a fast-paced, career-oriented state such as New York, gaining first-hand knowledge of what you must do to expedite your journey into a career is of great importance. Knowing when and how to advance your education to meet New York counseling certification requirements is a huge part of the process. So, use the momentum you have to learn more about your educational options and keep moving forward to stay ahead of the pack!

The next step is 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.

Already Received Bachelor’s Degree

Once you have your bachelor’s degree, you should consider finding a school that offers a master’s or doctoral degree program in counseling. Request information from additional schools offering counseling programs in New York to get started.

Step One:

Once your master’s degree has been completed, earn 3000 hours of supervised counseling experience. Regular face to face contact with your qualified supervisor is an important component of this requirement.

Details about the requirements and supervisors can be found on the following New York Department of Education website.

Step Two:

Download the New York counseling license application and submit the application along with all supporting documents and required fees to the New York State Education Department.

You may download the application off the following webpage.

Step Three:

After your application has been evaluated and approved, the New York Education Department can notify you and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) of your eligibility to register with the NBCC in order to sit for the exam.

New York requires that you pass the NBCC administered National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination. Information about this examination is available on the NBCC website.

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