How do I apply for Lmhc in MA?
Christopher Anderson
Published Feb 27, 2026
How do I apply for Lmhc in MA?
4 Steps to Getting Your LMHC in Massachusetts
- Earn a master’s degree in mental health counseling or a related field (60 credits).
- Complete post-master’s supervised clinical work (2 years minimum).
- Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) licensing board examination.
How long does it take to get Lmhc in Massachusetts?
Before you can apply for the LMHC License, you must meet this Massachusetts state requirement for post-master’s work experience. It takes about 2 years of full-time work to reach 3,360 hours.
How much do Lmhc make in Massachusetts?
LMHC Salary in Massachusetts
| Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $112,995 | $54 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,919 | $42 |
| Average | $74,271 | $36 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,040 | $27 |
How long does it take to process Lmhc application?
4-6 weeks
The application fee must accompany the completed application. Application processing generally takes 4-6 weeks. If all licensure requirements have been met, notification will be sent, and the initial licensure fee will be assessed.
How hard is the Lmhc exam?
The format of the NCMHCE is unlike any test you have probably ever taken and, unfortunately, 40 to 45 percent of test-takers fail the exam. So, in short, yes, you do need to study for the NCMHCE.
Can a Lmhc diagnose in Massachusetts?
The primary counselor type licensed in the state of Massachusetts is the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), who are authorized to render professional services including diagnosis and treatment, counseling and psychotherapy, and applying psychoeducational techniques to individuals, couples, families, groups.
What degree do I need to be a mental health counselor?
Complete a bachelor’s degree in a behavioral, social science, or psychology field. Earn a master’s degree in mental health counseling. Complete graduate and postgraduate internship experience for certification/licensure requirements. Pass any required counseling exams for licensure.
What is the difference between an Lmhc and an LCSW?
An LMHC focuses solely on a patient’s mental health, whereas an LCSW helps clients with their mental health and other areas of their lives. LCSWs also work on finding ways to change an individual’s environment to adapt to their needs.
What is the difference between Lmhc and Lcsw?
How do I study for the Lmhc exam?
Knowing when you’re ready You’ve been eating, drinking and breathing nothing but NCMHCE test-preparation materials, and now you’re wondering if you can stop this madness and finally sit for the test. Many test-takers ask me how long they should study before evaluating their readiness.
What is passing score for NCE?
What is a passing score on NCE exam? There are 200 questions on the NCE exam. The cutoff score to be considered as passing is in the high 90s.
Can Lmhc practice independently in Massachusetts?
Are Mental Health Counselors required to have a license to practice? A license is required in order to practice counseling independently. You may practice without a license under the supervision of a licensed mental health provider.
