How to become a certified counselor in Washington, WA

To become a certified counselor in Washington, WA, there are several steps that need to be taken. First, an individual must obtain a bachelor's degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or counseling. After completing their undergraduate degree, they must then enroll in a master's degree program in counseling or a related field. During their graduate studies, they will need to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours and pass a comprehensive exam.

Once they have completed their graduate studies, they can apply for licensure with the Washington State Department of Health. This process involves submitting an application, providing proof of education and clinical experience, and passing a background check. After obtaining their license, counselors can then pursue certification through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

To become certified by the NBCC, counselors must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and meet other eligibility requirements, such as completing a certain number of continuing education hours. Certification is not required to practice counseling in Washington, but it can enhance a counselor's professional credentials and job opportunities.