Professional Counselors License in Missouri
Quick Answer
To become a licensed counselor in MO, 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)
- Background Check
- Required
Requirements
Professional Counselors license in Missouri
Professional Counselors Salary in Missouri
Entry Level
$35,630
Median
$56,640
Experienced
$80,160
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Professional Counselors in Missouri.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCE (National Counselor Examination)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years (including supervised experience).
Professional Counselors Licensing in Missouri: What to Know
An applicant shall; have received a approved master, doctoral or specialist degree, pass the National Counselor Examination administered by the NBCC, and complete a three semester hour graduate course in diagnosis systems. Licensed as 'Professional Counselors' in MO. Education: Degree required. Exam: Third-party exam required. Background: No criminal record prohibitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Professional Counselors license in Missouri?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (including supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Professional Counselors license in Missouri?
- You need to pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Professional Counselors requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.