COUNSELOR, PROFESSIONAL License in Wisconsin
Quick Answer
To become a licensed counselor in WI, 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, PROFESSIONAL license in Wisconsin
COUNSELOR, PROFESSIONAL Salary in Wisconsin
Entry Level
$44,660
Median
$62,470
Experienced
$98,290
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, PROFESSIONAL in Wisconsin.
- 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).
COUNSELOR, PROFESSIONAL Licensing in Wisconsin: What to Know
Individuals who wish to practice professional counseling or who wish to use the title "professional counselor" must be licensed as a professional counselor or hold a temporary license or professional counselor training certificate, pursuant to s. 457.04(6) and s. 457.13 of the Wisconsin Statues. Thi Licensed as 'COUNSELOR, PROFESSIONAL' in WI. 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, PROFESSIONAL license in Wisconsin?
- 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, PROFESSIONAL license in Wisconsin?
- You need to pass the NCE (National Counselor Examination). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare COUNSELOR, PROFESSIONAL requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.