Master’s in counseling degrees in California - explore online and on-campus options

Your program must meet California’s statutory requirements, including at least 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units), the required counseling content areas, and specific practicum rules.

Qualifying degrees must include at least 6 semester units (or 9 quarter units) of supervised practicum/field study and a minimum of 280 hours of face-to-face counseling with individuals, families, or groups.

BBS publishes a “Schools with LPCC Programs” list (including California schools and online programs designed to meet California-specific requirements). Because curricula can change, BBS recommends verifying details directly with the school, and applicants remain responsible for meeting all licensure requirements.

In most cases, you cannot accrue supervised experience hours in California without APCC registration, except under the 90-day rule. The APCC application includes fingerprinting (Live Scan in California) and a criminal background check.

You must complete 3,000 total supervised hours over at least 104 weeks (minimum), following BBS supervision rules.

Associates must take the California Law & Ethics Exam annually to renew their registration until they pass it.

Before BBS can approve you for the clinical exam, you must complete 6 hours of suicide risk assessment/intervention training and (for applications on or after July 1, 2023) 3 hours of telehealth training that includes law and ethics.

After you’ve completed supervised experience and passed Law & Ethics, submit your licensure application. Once BBS approves it, you can register for and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE).

After passing the NCMHCE, you’ll complete BBS’s license issuance steps and pay the required fee.