LicenseCompass

Licensed Professional Counselor License in Colorado

Quick Answer

To become a licensed counselor in CO, you need a master's degree in counseling, pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). Most states also require supervised clinical experience.

Exam
NCE (National Counselor Examination)
Timeline
2-4 years (including supervised experience)

Requirements

Licensed Professional Counselor license in Colorado

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
Military and spouses are exempt from licensure requirements

Licensing Agency

Department of Regulatory Agencies~Division of Professions & Occupations~Board of Licensed Professional Counselors

Licensed Professional Counselor Salary in Colorado

Entry Level

$40,570

Median

$59,190

Experienced

$98,030

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NCE (National Counselor Examination)

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 2-4 years (including supervised experience).

Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Colorado: What to Know

The Colorado State Board of Professional Counselor Examiners regulates Licensed Professional Counselors in the state. Board activities include the review of licensure applications and complaints and enforcement of disciplinary actions against violators of the Mental Health Practice Act or Board Rule Licensed as 'Licensed Professional Counselor' in CO. Education: Degree required. Exam: Third-party exam required. CE: Continuing education required to maintain license.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Licensed Professional Counselor license in Colorado?
The process typically takes 2-4 years (including supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Licensed Professional Counselor license in Colorado?
You need to pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Licensed Professional Counselor requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.