Below are basic guidelines for those wishing to earn their counseling certification in Oregon. Most of these requirements, such as earning your Master’s degree, completing 3200 hours of supervised experience and passing the NCE examination, are likely to continue to be mandatory in the Oregon counseling licensure process. However, it is wise to contact the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors at (503)-378-5499 to make sure you are on the right track.
I’m a High School Graduate
Whether you are looking to become a counselor in Portland, Bend or anywhere else in the state, Oregon counseling certification requires candidates to possess a master’s level of education. Reaching this level of education requires starting with an Associate’s degree program or Bachelor’s degree program.
Click on the links below to browse schools offering programs in psychology or counseling.
Once you have enrolled in a program, take advantage of your school’s career services department and learn how you can find employment or volunteer opportunities that are related to the counseling career path.
Already Received Bachelor’s Degree
Once you have your bachelor’s degree, you should look for a school offering a master’s or doctoral degree program in counseling. You can request information from additional schools offering counseling programs in Oregon to get started.
Step One:
Earn at least 3 years of supervised work experience under a qualified supervisor. One of these years can be completed while working towards your master’s degree. 2400 of the total hours need to be in direct client contact.
More details about hourly requirements and approved supervisors can be found on the following Oregon State Department of Health webpage.
Step Two:
Next, download the Oklahoma counseling license application and submit the application, along with all other supporting forms and required fees, to the Oregon board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists.
You may download the application from the following Oregon Board’s webpage.
Step Three:
Once the Board has evaluated your application and approved your qualifications, you should be notified of your eligibility to sit for the National Counselor Examination. After passing the national exam, Oregon requires counseling licensure candidates to take a state law and rules exam administered by the state.
Information about the national exam can be found on the NBCC website.