Forensic Psychology (MA) Program

Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) Licensure and Scope of Practice in the State of Massachusetts

Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) are qualified to provide services to individuals, groups, and /or families. They apply theories, principles, and methods of counseling and psychotherapy to define goals and develop plans of action aimed toward the prevention, treatment, and resolution of mental and emotional dysfunction and intra- or interpersonal difficulties. The practice of mental health counseling includes, but is not limited to, the assessment, diagnosis, and non-medical treatment of mental and emotional disorders, the application of psychoeducational techniques and measures aimed at the prevention of such disorders, and consultation to individuals, couples, families, groups, organizations, and communities.

Graduates of the M.A. Forensic Psychology program will have fulfilled all the educational requirements to qualify for LMHC licensure in Massachusetts. Before they can apply for licensure, however, they must complete an additional 3,360 hours (about two years) of supervised, post-master’s work experience and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Examination (NCMHE), a written examination administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The postgraduate work experience must consist of direct, face-to-face clinical service with individuals, couples, groups, or families at sites or institutions that provide such services.  Academic school counseling, vocational guidance services, industrial or organizational consulting services, teaching, and conducting research are excluded and will not count toward the post-master’s experience requirement.

Applicants for licensure in Massachusetts will be granted permission to sit for the NCMHE only after the Board of Registration has approved their course of academic study.

Updated 10/18/07