The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is an examination managed by NBCC. The examination consists of 10 simulated clinical mental health counseling cases that are designed to sample a broad area of competencies, not merely the recall of isolated facts. The cases assess clinical problem-solving ability, including identifying, analyzing, diagnosing and treating clinical issues. Each case is divided into approximately five to eight sections that are classified as either information gathering or decision-making. The areas covered by the exam are listed here.
The NCMHCE is primarily used for two purposes: national certification as a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) and state counselor licensure. For information about taking the examination for national certification as a CCMHC, please click here. To determine if your state board uses the NCMHCE for licensure purposes, click here.
Some individuals may be interested in this examination for the purpose of potential employment within the military or the military health systems. Eligibility for a particular position is not guaranteed.