Counselor License in Washington
Quick Answer
To become a licensed counselor in WA, 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
Counselor license in Washington
Counselor Salary in Washington
Entry Level
$45,450
Median
$64,220
Experienced
$100,210
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Counselor in Washington.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State 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).
Counselor Licensing in Washington: What to Know
Individuals must have a master's or doctoral degree in mental health counseling from an approved school. Individuals must have a minimum of 2 calendar years of full-time marriage and family therapy, 1,000 hours of which must be direct client contact. Either a counseling practicum or internship or bo Licensed as 'Mental Health Counselor' in WA. Education: Degree required. Exam: Third-party exam required. Background: No criminal record prohibitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Counselor license in Washington?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years (including supervised experience), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Counselor license in Washington?
- You need to pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Counselor requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.