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MAC alumni handbook

(Table of Contents)
Chpt 1: Introduction
Chpt 2: Counselor credentials in WA
Chpt 3: Licensed mental health counselor
Chpt 4: Licensed marriage and family therapist
Chpt 5: Other counseling credentials in WA
Chpt 6: Supervision options for licensure
Chpt 7: Examination options for licensure
Chpt 8: Continuing education requirement

Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology ("MAC")

The MAC Alumni Handbook:
Chapter 3:  Licensed mental health counselor 

The "Licensed mental health counselor" licensure (LMHC) is the target credential of the MAC Program. Although few insurance companies currently reimburse counseling provided by a LMHC, the number is growing and LMHC will be an increasingly important certification in the future. LMHCs in private practice typically receive $60 to $80 per hour in Thurston County and $80 to $100 per hour in Pierce and King Counties. Most LMHCs, however, find employment in community–based agencies and programs — restricting private practice involvement, if any, to part–time activities. Even where alumni work by-the-hour in an agency, licensure makes them more marketable for career change and/or advancement.

The LMHC credential requires the following:

• Specific coursework in counseling psychology -- the MAC program was specifically designed to meet all of the educational requirements for certification as a MHC (regardless of the combination of electives that you choose).

• A clinical internship -- the MAC program requires a 600-hour internship, which meets this state requirement

• 36 months or 3,000 hours of post-graduate experience under approved supervision -- see the MAC website discussion of certification supervision

• The passing of a state-approved examination -- see the MAC website discussion of licensure exams

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