How to become a Counselor in Vermont

Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in Vermont. Most of these requirements, such as earning your Master’s degree, completing 3000 hours of supervised experience and passing the Clinical Mental Health Counseling examination, are likely to continue to be mandatory in the Vermont counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the Vermont Allied Mental Health Practitioner’s Board at (802) 828-2390 to make sure you are on the right track.

I’m a High School Graduate

As a high school graduate researching Vermont counseling certification requirements, you are way ahead of the curve. You’re setting yourself up for an expedited journey into a professional counseling career. A good place to start is by learning how you can begin advancing your current level of education. Vermont counseling certification requirements state that all licensure applicants must possess a master’s degree.

You can either begin with enrolling in an associate’s degree program or enroll immediately in a four year bachelor’s degree program.

Click on the links below to browse schools offering psychology and counseling degree programs!

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

Getting closer! A master’s degree is the minimum level of education required for Vermont counseling certification. Your next step should be to contact schools offering master’s programs in counseling, or a related field to find out how you can enroll in a program that interests you. Request information from additional schools offering counseling programs in Vermont to get started.

Make sure the schools you contact provide the appropriate experience requirements for Vermont counseling licensure. Information regarding supervision requirements can be found on the following Allied Health Practitioner’s Board webpage.

Step One:

Once the graduation requirements have been met, the Vermont Allied Mental Health Practitioner’s Board recommends that you apply for licensure. Download a Vermont counseling certification application and send the application, as well as all supporting forms (a letter documentation of the completion of a 1000 hour practicum) and required fees, back to the Vermont Practitioner’s Board.

You can find a checklist and instructions for completing your application packet in the downloadable application document. Download the application here.

Step Two:

After the Board has reviewed your application and all requirements have been met, you should be notified of your eligibility to sit for the appropriate exams. Vermont requires that you take and pass both the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and the National Counselors Examination (NCE). Information about both exams can be found on the NBCC website.

Step Three:

Complete 3000 hours of supervised work experience over a time period of no less than 2 years. In addition, 2000 of these hours should be direct practice. More details about supervision requirements and supervisor qualifications can be found on the application and in the rules section of the following Vermont Office of Professional Regulation webpage.

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