Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Licensure

The Walden University Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (“CMHC”) program is designed to prepare graduates to practice as a licensed professional counselor (“LPC”) or licensed mental health counselor (“LMHC”) in many states. However, the requirements for licensure as a LPC or LMHC varies greatly from state to state. Each state board that is responsible for regulating the practice of professional or mental health counseling has its own academic requirements, and issues its own license to practice as a LPC or LMHC in that state.

Walden CMHC graduates may apply for licensure as a professional counselor, such as the LPC or LMHC, in most states. However, each state issues its own credential for an individual to be permitted to practice as a licensed professional or mental health counselor in that state. While Walden can provide general information relating to the state-by-state educational requirements for mental health or professional counseling licensure or certification, it remains the student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all current requirements relating to field education experiences, licensing or certification, authorization or endorsement for the state in which she or he resides.

Walden makes no representations or guarantee that completion of its coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain state licensure, certification, authorization, endorsement, or other state credential. Licensure eligibility determinations are ultimately determined by the appropriate state board that issues the credential to practice.

Prospective students enrolling in licensure-leading programs are advised that relocation to another state may impact the student’s ability to complete field experiences and/or to obtain professional licensure, certification or other credential in the state to which they relocate. Prospective students are advised to carefully review, evaluate and understand the current requirements of the applicable licensure board in the state in which they intend to relocate.

Please refer to the chart below for state professional licensure eligibility status for Walden’s MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Please remember that licensure eligibility determinations are ultimately determined by the appropriate state board that issues the credential to practice, and prospective students should visit their state board’s website for the most updated and accurate information.

*“Additional coursework or other requirements” can include courses and/or additional face-to-face instructional hours required by the applicable state as part of professional licensure requirements, which are not included within the standard program of study. Students may add these additional courses or instructional hours to their Walden program of study at an additional cost. Costs for the additional courses may vary, depending on the requirements and may be covered by student financial aid. Students should always check with their state board to verify course and face-to-face instructional hour requirements.

October 11, 2018