How to become a licensed therapist in West Virginia, WV

To become a licensed therapist in West Virginia, WV, individuals must first obtain a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution. After completing their degree, they must accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, with at least 1,500 hours of direct client contact. During this time, they must also pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for licensure through the West Virginia Board of Examiners in Counseling. The application process includes submitting transcripts, proof of clinical experience, and passing a criminal background check. Once licensed, therapists must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their license. It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the type of therapy license an individual is seeking, such as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).