Licensed Mental Health Counselor License in New York
Quick Answer
To become a licensed counselor in NY, 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
Licensed Mental Health Counselor license in New York
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Salary in New York
Entry Level
$43,160
Median
$62,070
Experienced
$101,910
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 Mental Health Counselor in New York.
- 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).
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Licensing in New York: What to Know
Mental health counselors use assessment instruments, provide mental health counseling and psychotherapy, clinical assessment and evaluation, treatment planning and case management, prevention, discharge, and aftercare services. After identifying and evaluating mental health problems and related huma Licensed as 'Licensed Mental Health Counselor' in NY. Education: Degree required. Exam: Third-party exam required. Background: No criminal record prohibitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Licensed Mental Health Counselor license in New York?
- 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 Mental Health Counselor license in New York?
- You need to pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Licensed Mental Health Counselor requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.