Which States Require the NCMHCE?

When I was preparing for my counseling licensure, one of the biggest questions I had was, "Does my state require the NCMHCE, or is the NCE enough?" If you’ve found yourself asking this same question, trust me, you’re definitely not alone. Let’s break down clearly which states require the NCMHCE exam, so you can confidently plan your licensing journey.

Why State Requirements Matter

The tricky part about counseling licensure exams is that each state sets its own rules. Some states specifically require the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), while others accept either the NCMHCE or the National Counselor Examination (NCE).

The NCMHCE is typically required in states emphasizing clinical mental health counseling licensure (such as LMHC or LPC licenses), particularly those that prioritize diagnosis and treatment planning competencies.

States That Typically Require the NCMHCE

Here's a quick reference of some of the states that generally require the NCMHCE specifically for clinical counseling licensure:

  • Florida
  • New York
  • California
  • Massachusetts
  • Washington
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Ohio
  • Oregon
  • Virginia

(Note: This list is illustrative, not exhaustive, and state requirements can occasionally change. Always verify with your state licensing board directly.)

States Allowing Either the NCMHCE or NCE

Many states are flexible, allowing counselors to choose between the NCE and NCMHCE. Examples include:

  • Texas
  • Colorado
  • Georgia
  • Arizona
  • Pennsylvania

In these states, your choice often depends on your counseling specialty, your professional goals, or the type of setting you plan to work in.

How to Confirm Your State’s Requirements

Because rules can vary and occasionally change, always confirm directly with your state’s counseling licensure board or the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Usually, this information is clearly provided on your state board's website.

Quick Tips for Verifying State Requirements:

  • Visit your state board’s official website.
  • Contact the board directly for clarification.
  • Check with NBCC for updated state-by-state details.

Understanding your state’s exact requirements helps you streamline your path toward licensure and ensures you're preparing for the right exam. Once you know exactly what’s needed, you can focus fully on studying and confidently planning your next steps.

You’ve totally got this—good luck, future counselor!

Back to blog