Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)
Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)
Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)
Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) : Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (100% Online, No GRE Required)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) : Online Psychology Degrees (Bachelors and Masters. Flexible. Affordable. And achievable.)
The Chicago School : M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online Programs. CACREP Accredited.)How Many Years Does it Take to Become a Licensed Counselor
If you find yourself searching "how long does it take to become a licensed counselor?" or similar phrases, you're not alone. Many people are interested in entering the mental health field but are unsure about the time commitment required to earn a counseling license.
On average, it takes about seven to eight years to become a licensed counselor. This timeline includes a four-year undergraduate degree, typically in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field, and a two- to three-year master's degree in counseling or a related discipline. After your academic requirements are complete, you must also accrue supervised clinical experience, which usually takes one to two years.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Online Psychology Degrees
Bachelors and Masters NECHE Accredited |
✔ Online
No application fee or GRE/GMAT scores required |
With our unique programs - from child and adolescent development to forensic psychology - you'll be prepared for a wide variety of careers in case management, research, human resources, youth services and social services. Learn More |
| The Chicago School
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required. |
This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Is a Master’s Degree Required to Become a Licensed Counselor?
Yes, a master's degree is typically required to become a licensed counselor. This advanced degree provides the intensive training necessary to understand and address a range of mental health issues effectively. Master's programs in counseling usually cover core topics like theories of counseling, human development, ethical issues in counseling, and specialized courses based on one's preferred counseling focus, such as family counseling, substance abuse, or mental health. Your master's degree will also likely include a practicum or internship requirement.
Are Accelerated Master’s in Counseling Degrees Available?
Yes, some universities do offer accelerated master's in counseling programs. These programs allow motivated students to complete their degrees more quickly, often within 18 months to two years. They are typically intensive, with a full load of courses each semester and often during the summer as well. While this option can speed up your path to licensure, it's essential to consider whether you can manage the fast pace and high workload.
What Are the Steps to Become a Licensed Counselor>
Becoming a licensed counselor involves several key steps after obtaining a bachelor's degree:
Earning a Master’s Degree in Counseling
The first step is to earn a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field. This usually involves two to three years of full-time study, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in counseling. Coursework typically includes areas like counseling techniques, psychological assessment, ethics, and specialized areas of counseling. You'll want to make sure that your program is accredited, as this will simplify the process of getting your license to practice after you complete your education.
Complete Counseling Practicum or Internship
Before you can become licensed, you'll need to complete a certain amount of supervised clinical experience, typically during a practicum or internship. The exact requirements can vary by state and specific licensure, but generally, you can expect to need between 2,000 and 4,000 hours of supervised experience. During your practicum and/or internship experience, you'll work closely with a licensed counselor to hone your skills, preparing you to practice on your own.
Pass Counseling Licensure Exam
After you've completed your degree and your supervised experience, you'll need to pass a state licensure exam. The specific exam will depend on your state and the type of counseling license you're pursuing. Common exams include the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). When selecting a master's program, it's smart to ask about how you'll be prepared for your licensing exams.
Apply for Licensure
Once you've passed your exam, you can apply for counseling licensure in your state. The application will typically require proof of your education, supervised experience, and exam results. You may also need to undergo a background check.
Each state has their own counseling licensure requirements, so be sure to check out our guide on the counseling licensure requirements by state.
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) - Online Psychology Degrees (NECHE Accredited)
The Chicago School - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Tips for Accelerating Your Counseling Licensure Process
Fast-tracking your counseling licensure process can be an enticing option, particularly for individuals eager to start their professional journey. Here are some tips to accelerate your process:
Plan Ahead
Planning is crucial for an accelerated process. Understand the licensure requirements in your state before starting your master’s program. This ensures that you’re not only meeting the academic requirements but also preparing for any required exams and supervised hours.
Accelerated Master’s Programs
Consider enrolling in an accelerated master’s program, which typically condenses a traditional two to three-year program into 18 months to two years. Be prepared for a more intense workload, though. If you choose to go this route, be sure to ask about how many hours per week you’ll need to invest in your internship or practicum in order to meet state requirements.
Maximize Practicum or Internship Hours
Some programs may allow you to accrue more than the minimum required hours of supervised experience. If you can manage the extra workload, this could help you complete your requirements more quickly.
Exam Preparation
Start preparing for your licensure exam well in advance. Regular study throughout your program, rather than cramming at the end, can help you pass your licensing on the first try.
Start the Licensure Application Early
Some states allow you to start the licensure application process before you’ve completed all requirements. Check with your state licensing board to see if this is an option.
Remember, while speeding up the process can be beneficial, it’s also essential not to rush your learning and hands-on experience. The goal is to become a competent, effective counselor who can best serve your future clients.
Becoming a licensed counselor is a journey that requires substantial time and commitment, but the reward of helping others make it well worth it. With patience, perseverance, and dedication, you can join the ranks of licensed counselors making a positive impact on their clients’ lives.
List of Programs
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters 🗗 Bachelors
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Lamar University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Rivier University 🗹 Online
University of New Haven 🗹 Online
East Central University 🗹 Online 🗖 Bachelors
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗖 Bachelors 🗗 Masters
