Licensure Clinical Counseling

Expand Your Opportunities with Licensure

Make the most of your degree from Capella University by earning your license. In most U.S. states and Canadian provinces, a professional license may be necessary for:

• Access to employment: Allows you to work with clients.
• Earning compensation: Permits access to insurance billing and eligibility for malpractice insurance.
• Protecting the public: Allows states to regulate the profession by establishing and enforcing standards relating to competency and ethical behavior. State regulations vary regarding professional licensure and salary benefits.
• Ensuring competent professionals: Guarantees members of the profession are current in their knowledge and are competent by requiring continuing education course work.

Do I Need a License?

Knowing your career goals and your state's requirements is key to understanding which license, if any, you need. Capella offers degree programs that help prepare you to meet state licensing prerequisites.

Your enrollment counselor can help you decide how this program aligns with your professional goals and help you understand your state's unique requirements. However, we cannot guarantee licensure, certification, or endorsement.

Capella Licensure Support

Capella's licensure team is up-to-date on the licensing requirements in all 50 states. We have successfully established relationships with state licensing boards and licensing offices.

Capella's licensure team supports all graduates through the license application process. This type of specialized support is available during your program, after graduation, and throughout your career.

The Licensing Process

Each state licensing board, agency, or office creates rules or regulations that provide the specific details governing the profession, including licensing requirements. This process is defined by your state but typically involves some or all of the following:

• Documenting how you have met specific educational components
• Proving your fitness to practice
• Demonstrating completion of any required clinical fieldwork experience
• Successful examination(s) completion
• Licensure application and fees

It is crucial to understand the licensing process in your state. Your enrollment counselor is a valuable resource as you research your state’s requirements. Contact us or call 866.933.5970 for more information.

State Licensure Requirements

Licensing requirements include the following for most states:

• Completion of degree: Capella can help you complete this step, which includes coursework, clinical supervised fieldwork (practicum/internship), and national or state test (sometimes, this must be taken after graduation and license application is approved).
• Application for license: This is between each individual applicant and the board or licensing office. Capella supports all graduates by verifying completion of the degree and/or specific coursework.
• Post-graduate fieldwork: Includes completion of 1-4 years of fieldwork under a board-approved supervisor.
• Application for full license: After you successfully complete your post-graduate fieldwork, you will be issued a full license that must be kept current through continuing education coursework.

Each state and province has different licensing requirements that are governed by a specific group or agency such as a board. To understand your state's requirements, start by contacting your enrollment counselor. Additionally, you will want to do your own research on your state's requirements. The following resources may be helpful:

• Professional licensure terms [PDF] (80.02KB)
• Understanding statutes, regulations, and rules [PDF] (73.63KB)

Miscellaneous Requirements

Many states have "fitness to practice" requirements. For example, if you have a medical condition that limits your ability to practice with reasonable skill and safety, chemical substance use within the past 2 years, past or current diagnosis of a sexual disorder, or criminal convictions, you may be prevented from obtaining a license.

Reciprocity and Transferring of Licenses

Most states have rules that address reciprocity and the transfer of licenses from another state, although some will require you to meet their state's educational requirements as if you were a new applicant. As you relocate and seek new opportunities, Capella's licensure resources and support will be available to help you make the most of your degree.