Become a Counselor in Rhode Island

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the Rhode Island Board of Mental Health Counselors at (401) 222-1057 to make sure you are on the right track.

I’m a High School Graduate

Rhode Island counseling certification requires candidates to possess a master’s level of education. However, as a high school graduate researching licensure requirements, you are showing great motivation. Right now, you should be continuing your momentum and learn how you can start toward earning your college degree. In addition, regardless of the profession you end up in, a college degree is always a prerequisite.

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 can start looking for a school offering a master’s or doctoral degree program in counseling. To gain the necessary educational qualifications you can get in touch with schools offering counseling programs in Rhode Island.

Step One:

You are also required to have 2 years of supervised counseling experience after receiving your degree. During this time, you should have at least 2000 hours of direct client counseling experience.

More details and information about qualifying supervisors can be found in the rules and regulations section of the Rhode Island Board of Mental Health website.

Step Two:

Next, you can submit your Rhode Island counseling licensure application to the Rhode Island Board of Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists. You should include all supporting documents and fees along with your application.

You can download the application off the following Rhode Island Board’s webpage.

Step Three:

After the Board has reviewed and approved your counseling license application, they should notify the National Board of Certified Counselors of your eligibility to take the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam. You should then receive information about the date and location of your exam.

More information regarding the examination contents, dates, locations, etc. is available on the NBCC website.

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