To Become A Licensed Professional Counselor

1. Take the National Counselor Examination.(Often, this will be offered at your graduate school.) The NCCB is also accepted
2. Complete the Application through Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR). There are additional forms that must be completed regarding your education and other personal information.
3. Submit your application, test scores and all supplemental information to the IDFPR, along with your $150 fee.
4. Depending upon the backlog at the IDFPR, you will receive your license in 2-4 weeks. (If your school is not CA-CREP approved, the wait time may be longer.)

To Become a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

1. Apply through IDFPR, submitting proof of your completed supervised hours and NCE (or NCCB) scores, along with your check for $150.
   
2. You will hear whether you are approved to sit for the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) within 6-8 weeks.
3. If you are approved, register and take the NCMHCE. (Note If you have not previously taking the NCE or the NCCB, you will be required to take one of those exams as well. 
4. Schedule your exam @ Pearson VUE
   
5. Wait 2-4 weeks for license from IDFPR