Licensure FAQ

Capella University has developed these Frequently Asked Questions to provide general information to new and prospective learners regarding introductory licensing and certification issues.

• What is licensure and why is it important to me?
• What steps do I need to take if I want to pursue licensure?
  
  
  • Step One: How do I know that licensure is for me?
  • Step Two: What do I need to do to prepare for licensure?
• What are the resources for researching licensure?
• Who can I contact with additional questions about licensure?
   

What is licensure and why is it important to me?

In the area of mental health care, there are many factors to consider if you plan to pursue a professional graduate degree. One very important area is professional licensure. Licensure or certification is necessary to practice as a psychologist, a marriage and family therapist, or a professional counselor. In many cases, the state licensing board will review your educational background before granting you permission to take the licensing exam. I t is essential to verify that your program meets your state's educational requirements prior to starting your studies.

At Capella University , we offer degree programs that help prepare learners to become practitioners in several professional areas: clinical or counseling psychology, school psychology, mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. However, we cannot ensure any learner will obtain a state license. We strongly urge learners to research their state licensing requirements. To assist you in your research we have provided some guidelines and resources, listed below. Since licensing requirements differ from state to state and change over time, learners who wish to become licensed are responsible for knowing and complying with the licensing requirements for the state(s) in which they plan to practice.

The information below is intended as a resource only. We do not maintain the Web sites mentioned and are not responsible for the accuracy of the content.

What steps do I need to take if I want to pursue licensure?

Step One: How do I know that licensure is for me?

Determine if licensure is a factor in your program decision by reviewing your educational goals and career interests. Answering the following questions will help to determine whether licensure is necessary for you:

1. What are you specifically planning to do with your graduate degree?
2. What type of work do you intend to do or with what types of people do you want to work?
3. For what type of employers or in what type of work setting do you see yourself working?
4. What are the job requirements and credentials you need to meet your goals? Refer to professional resources provided below (or provide direct links)
5. In what state(s) or Canadian province(s) do you want to work?
6. Does the state or province in which you want to work require a license or certification? Refer to contact information provided below (or provide direct links)

Step Two: What do I need to do to prepare for licensure?

1. Review Licensure FAQs


2. Research state specific licensure information:
   
   1. Licensed Psychologist (LP)
   2. National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE)
   3. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, LCPC, LMHC)
   4. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
3. Visit the board's Web site and carefully review the state laws and rules. Find the following information:
   
   1. Specific program accreditation required (i.e., APA, ASPPB, NASP, CACREP, COAMFTE, state approval, and other approval requirements)
   2. Degree required (MS, PhD, specialist certificate)
   3. Number of credits required (semester and/or quarter credits)
   4. Specific course content required (list of courses required)
   5. Number of practicum/internship hours required
   6. Residency requirements (on-campus, face-to-face time)
4. Compare state licensure requirements with Capella's corresponding educational program requirements.


5. AFTER obtaining and reviewing the licensure requirements, it is essential that you personally contact the state board to clarify any questions or concerns. DO NOT ASSUME ANYTHING!

What are the resources for researching licensure?

Licensed Psychologist

Licensure contacts by state

School Psychologist

Licensure contacts by state

Licensed Professional Counselors

Licensure contacts by state

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists

Licensure contacts by state

Who can I contact with additional questions about licensure?

Call 1-888-227-2736 to speak with a Capella University enrollment counselor who will be able to help answer any licensure-related questions or direct you to the most appropriate resources.