How to Become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa
To become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa, you need a 60-credit master's degree in mental health counseling (CACREP-accredited preferred), 3,000 supervised clinical hours including 1,500 direct client contact hours, 110 supervision hours (with 24 hours of direct observation), and passing the NCMHCE or NCE exam. The process typically takes 2–3 years post-graduation through the Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board.
Iowa's Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) play a vital role in addressing mental health needs across the state. If you're considering a career in counseling, understanding Iowa's specific licensure requirements is essential for planning your educational and professional journey.
The Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board (formerly the Iowa Board of Behavioral Science, changed July 1, 2024) regulates mental health counselor licensure in the state. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of becoming an LMHC in Iowa, from education requirements to examination options and career outlook.
Table of Contents
- Education Requirements for Iowa LMHCs
- Temporary vs. Full Licensure Pathways
- Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
- Examination Requirements and Options
- Application Process and Fees
- Licensure by Endorsement for Out-of-State Counselors
- Continuing Education and License Renewal
- Career Outlook and Salary Data for Iowa LMHCs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Education Requirements for Iowa LMHCs
The foundation of becoming an LMHC in Iowa starts with completing the right graduate program. Iowa requires a master's degree or higher in mental health counseling from a regionally accredited institution, with specific coursework and credit hour requirements.
Degree and Credit Hour Requirements
Your graduate program must include a minimum of 60 semester hours (or equivalent quarter hours) of coursework. Students who entered a program before July 1, 2010, may qualify with 45 semester hours, though most current applicants will need the full 60 credits.
The degree must be from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.
CACREP Accreditation
Programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) are strongly preferred and streamline the licensure process. CACREP-accredited mental health counseling programs meet Iowa's educational standards automatically.
If you graduated from a non-CACREP program, the Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board will review your transcripts to determine if your coursework is content-equivalent. You may need to submit your credentials to the Center for Credentialing and Education for equivalency evaluation.
Required Coursework Areas
Your graduate program must include coursework in all of the following areas:
- Social and Cultural Diversity: Understanding diverse populations and multicultural counseling
- Professional Orientation and Ethical Practice: Counselor identity, ethics, and professional standards
- Career Development: Career counseling theories and interventions
- Human Growth and Development: Lifespan development theories and applications
- Group Work: Group dynamics, leadership, and therapeutic group processes
- Research and Program Evaluation: Research methods and outcome assessment
- Assessment: Testing, measurement, and appraisal techniques
- Psychotherapy: Counseling theories and therapeutic techniques
- Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: DSM diagnosis and intervention planning
- Practicum and Internship: Supervised field experience
Practicum and Internship Requirements During Graduate School
Your graduate program must include hands-on clinical training:
Practicum: A minimum of 100 hours completed over at least 10 weeks, including at least 40 hours of face-to-face client counseling. You'll receive an average of at least one hour per week of triadic or individual supervision, with a formal evaluation at completion.
Internship: A minimum of 600 total hours, including at least 240 hours of face-to-face client-supervised counseling experience.
Temporary vs. Full Licensure Pathways
Iowa offers two types of LMHC licenses, each serving different stages of your professional development.
| License Type | When to Apply | Practice Restrictions | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary LMHC | After completing a master's degree, before supervised hours | Must practice under approved supervision | 3 years (renewable in some cases) |
| Full LMHC | After completing all supervised hours and passing the exam | Can practice independently | 2 years (renewable) |
About the Temporary License
The temporary license allows you to begin working as a counselor under supervision immediately after completing your graduate degree. It's issued for three years and may be renewable in certain circumstances. However, the temporary license is not mandatory due to the license exemption provided in Iowa Code Chapter 154D.4.2.b, though many employers require it.
Iowa does not issue temporary licenses to candidates who have already met the experience requirements but still need to take the examination. In these cases, you should complete the exam before your temporary license expires.
Supervised Clinical Experience Requirements
Accumulating supervised clinical experience is a critical component of Iowa LMHC licensure. This post-graduate supervision ensures you develop the practical skills necessary for independent practice.
Total Hour Requirements
You must complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised postgraduate work experience in mental health counseling over at least two years. Of these hours:
- 1,500 hours must be direct client contact
- 110 hours of direct supervision equitably distributed throughout the supervised clinical experience
- 24 hours must include live or recorded direct observation of client interaction
- A maximum of 50 hours can be obtained through group supervision (meaning at least 60 hours must be individual)
Important 2024 Update: Iowa House File 2515, signed in April 2024, reduced supervision hour requirements from the previous 200 hours to 110 hours and removed the mandatory live observation requirement (now 24 hours can be either live or recorded).
Supervisor Qualifications
Your supervisor must meet one of the following criteria:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Iowa with at least three years of post-licensure clinical experience
- Approved by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a supervisor
- An alternate supervisor possessing qualifications equivalent to an LMHC with at least three years of post-licensure clinical experience, including other mental health professionals licensed to practice independently
Supervision Format and Methods
Following 2021's HF 891, Iowa no longer requires supervision to be completed in person as a condition for licensure. The board allows flexible supervision delivery methods:
- In-person supervision: Optional but not required
- Telephone supervision: Permitted
- Electronic methods: Video conferencing and other digital platforms allowed
- Direct observation: The required 24 hours of client interaction observation can be conducted either live or through recorded sessions
This flexibility recognizes geographic challenges in rural Iowa and modern telehealth practices while maintaining quality supervision standards.
Supervision Plan
Before beginning your supervised experience, you must develop a written supervision plan with your supervisor. This plan outlines the structure, goals, and methods of supervision throughout your clinical experience.
When Experience Can Begin
You cannot begin accruing supervised experience hours until you've completed all required coursework (with the possible exception of a thesis). Make sure your degree requirements are finished before counting any clinical hours toward licensure.
Alternative: CCMHC Credential
If you hold a current Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) credential issued by the NBCC, this meets both the educational and experience requirements for Iowa licensure.
Examination Requirements and Options
Passing a national examination is required for full LMHC licensure in Iowa, though not for the temporary license. Iowa accepts multiple examination options, allowing you to choose the best fit for your preparation and career goals.
Exam Options
You may choose from the following examinations:
| Exam | Format | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) | 11 case studies with 130-150 multiple-choice questions | 255 minutes | Clinical practice focus with scenario-based application |
| National Counselor Examination (NCE) | 200 multiple-choice questions | 3.5 hours | General counseling knowledge assessment |
| Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRC) | Multiple-choice | Varies | Rehabilitation counseling specialization |
About the NCMHCE
The NCMHCE is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and is designed to assess knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for clinical mental health counseling practice. The exam uses realistic case studies to evaluate your ability to apply counseling knowledge in practical scenarios.
The current format, launched in fall 2022, includes 11 case studies with multiple-choice questions. Each case presents a clinical scenario with questions covering professional practice, assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and counseling interventions.
Registration and Fees
You'll receive registration information when you submit your licensing application. If taking the NCMHCE or NCE through NBCC, the exam fee is $275. Register through the NBCC website, and plan for approximately a four-week waiting period after registration.
When registering, designate the Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board as a recipient of your exam scores so they're sent directly upon completion.
Application Process and Fees
Navigating Iowa's LMHC application process requires careful attention to documentation and timelines. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) handles all applications through its online portal.
Application Timeline
| Step | Timeline | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Complete Graduate Degree | 2–3 years | Earn a 60-credit master's in mental health counseling |
| 2. Apply for Temporary License (Optional) | Immediately after graduation | Submit application, transcripts, and supervision plan ($120 fee) |
| 3. Complete Supervised Hours | 2+ years | Accrue 3,000 hours with 110 supervision hours from an approved supervisor |
| 4. Pass Examination | Before the temp license expires | Take and pass the NCMHCE, NCE, or CRC exam ($275) |
| 5. Apply for Full License | Within 30 days of completing hours | Submit supervision report and application ($120 fee) |
| 6. Board Review | ~3 weeks | Wait for application review and approval |
Required Documents
Your application package must include:
- Official transcripts sent directly from your educational institution to the Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board
- Supervision Report form attesting to completed work experience (for full license)
- Exam scores sent directly from NBCC or the testing agency
- Criminal background check as required by the board
- Supervision plan (for temporary license applications)
Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary License Application | $120 | Non-refundable |
| Full License Application | $120 | Non-refundable |
| Examination (NCMHCE/NCE) | $275 | Paid directly to NBCC |
| Equivalency Evaluation (if needed) | Varies | Paid to the evaluation agency |
| License Renewal (every 2 years) | $120 | With continuing education completion |
International Education
If you received your education or training in another country, contact the International Educational Research Foundation to have your credentials evaluated for equivalency.
Licensure by Endorsement for Out-of-State Counselors
Iowa offers a streamlined licensure process for mental health counselors already licensed in other states. This endorsement pathway recognizes your existing credentials while ensuring you meet Iowa's standards.
Endorsement Requirements
To qualify for licensure by endorsement, you must:
- Hold a current, active mental health counseling license in another U.S. state or jurisdiction
- Meet requirements similar to Iowa's educational and experience standards
- Provide official verification of your license directly from your state's licensing board
- Submit documentation demonstrating you met comparable supervision requirements
Verification Process
The Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board requires official verification of your out-of-state license. Web-based verification is acceptable in some instances. If you cannot provide direct evidence of supervision on Iowa's prescribed form, the board may consider alternative documentation, including materials supplied by your state of licensure.
Past Licensure
If you previously held a counseling license but it's no longer active, you must still provide verification and explain the circumstances. The board will evaluate whether you remain eligible for Iowa licensure.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Maintaining your Iowa LMHC license requires ongoing professional development through continuing education.
Renewal Requirements
Iowa LMHC licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew, you must complete:
- 40 hours of continuing education during each two-year renewal period
- 6 hours must focus on ethics (mandatory component)
- Continuing education courses should relate to mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, or related fields
How to Earn CE Credits
You can fulfill continuing education requirements through:
- Workshops, conferences, and symposiums
- Academic courses (one academic semester equals 15 CE hours)
- Presenting professional programs
- Conducting scholarly research
- Publishing in refereed journals
- Distance-learning conferences or courses
- Home-study courses (up to 20 hours through these alternative methods)
Exemption for New Licensees
The continuing education requirement is waived for newly licensed LMHCs during their initial licensing period. However, any CE hours you accrue during this time may carry over to your next renewal period.
Career Outlook and Salary Data for Iowa LMHCs
Mental health counseling offers rewarding career opportunities with strong earning potential in Iowa. Understanding salary expectations and job growth projections helps you make informed decisions about your career path.
Iowa LMHC Salary Data (2024)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 Occupational Employment Statistics, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Iowa earn competitive salaries:
| Percentile | Iowa Annual Salary | National Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $43,840 | $39,090 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,170 | $47,170 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $60,880 | $59,190 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,830 | $76,230 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $89,840 | $98,210 |
Iowa mental health counselors earn slightly above the national median, with the state employing approximately 3,030 counselors in this field. The mean annual wage in Iowa is $65,960, translating to an average hourly wage of $31.71.
Factors Affecting Salary
Your earning potential as an Iowa LMHC depends on several factors:
- Experience level: Entry-level counselors typically start near the 10th percentile, while experienced clinicians can reach top-tier salaries
- Practice setting: Private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, and schools offer different compensation structures
- Geographic location: Urban areas like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids often provide higher salaries than rural communities
- Specialization: Counselors with expertise in high-demand areas (substance abuse, trauma, couples therapy) may command higher rates
- Additional credentials: National certifications like CCMHC or specialized training can increase earning potential
Job Growth and Demand
The mental health counseling field is experiencing strong growth nationwide, driven by increased awareness of mental health needs and expanded insurance coverage. Iowa mirrors these national trends with growing demand for qualified LMHCs across diverse practice settings.
Employment Settings
Iowa LMHCs work in varied environments:
- Community mental health centers
- Private practice (solo or group)
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Schools and universities
- Correctional facilities
- Veterans Affairs facilities
- Employee assistance programs
- Telehealth platforms
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an LMHC in Iowa?
The complete process typically takes 4–6 years from starting your graduate program. This includes 2–3 years for your master's degree and a minimum of 2 years (but often 2–3 years in practice) to accumulate the required 3,000 supervised clinical hours while working. If you begin with your temporary license immediately after graduation and work full-time in a clinical setting, you can achieve full licensure in approximately 4–5 years total.
What's the difference between temporary and full LMHC licensure in Iowa?
A temporary license allows you to practice under supervision while accumulating the required 3,000 clinical hours. It's valid for three years and may be renewable. A full license permits independent practice without supervision and is issued after you complete all supervised hours and pass the required examination. Only the full license allows you to practice independently and bill insurance as the primary provider.
Do I need a CACREP-accredited degree for Iowa LMHC licensure?
No, CACREP accreditation isn't strictly required, but it's strongly preferred. CACREP-accredited programs automatically meet Iowa's educational requirements, streamlining the application process. If you graduate from a non-CACREP program, the board will review your transcripts to determine if your coursework is content-equivalent. You may need to submit additional documentation or have your credentials evaluated by the Center for Credentialing and Education.
How much do mental health counselors make in Iowa?
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the median annual salary for mental health counselors in Iowa is $60,880. Entry-level counselors (10th percentile) earn around $43,840, while experienced counselors (90th percentile) can earn $89,840 or more. Salaries vary based on experience, location, practice setting, and specialization.
Can I practice counseling with a temporary license in Iowa?
Yes, you can practice counseling with a temporary license, but you must work under approved supervision. The temporary license allows you to gain the clinical experience needed for full licensure while providing services in various settings. However, some employment opportunities and insurance panels may require full licensure.
What's the difference between the NCE and NCMHCE exams?
The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is a 200-question multiple-choice exam covering general counseling knowledge. The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) uses 11 case studies with 130-150 questions focused on clinical application and decision-making. The NCMHCE is more scenario-based and assesses your ability to apply counseling knowledge in realistic clinical situations. Both exams are accepted for Iowa licensure, so choose based on your strengths and preparation style.
How many supervision hours do I need for Iowa LMHC licensure?
You need 110 hours of direct supervision equitably distributed throughout your 3,000 hours of work experience. This includes 24 hours of live or recorded direct observation of your client interactions. A maximum of 50 hours can be group supervision, meaning at least 60 hours must be individual supervision. These requirements were updated in 2024 (HF 2515), reducing from the previous 200-hour requirement.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Iowa?
Yes, Iowa offers licensure by endorsement for counselors licensed in other states. You must hold a current, active license in good standing and meet requirements similar to Iowa's standards. The board will review your credentials and may require official verification from your current state's licensing board. If your previous state's requirements differ significantly from Iowa's, you may need to provide additional documentation or complete supplemental requirements.
What does the Iowa LMHC application process cost?
The total cost to become an Iowa LMHC includes: $120 for a temporary license application (if applicable), $275 for the NCMHCE or NCE exam (paid to NBCC), $120 for a full license application, and potential costs for transcript evaluation if you have a non-CACREP degree. Additional costs include your graduate education ($40,000-$80,000 typical range) and potential continuing education expenses ($200-$500 annually).
How often do I need to renew my Iowa LMHC license?
Iowa LMHC licenses must be renewed every two years. To renew, you must complete 40 hours of continuing education during the two-year period, including six hours focused on ethics. The renewal fee is $120. Licenses are renewed on a schedule based on your initial license issue date, so track your specific renewal deadline carefully to avoid practicing with an expired license.
Key Takeaways
- Iowa requires a 60-credit master's degree in mental health counseling from a regionally accredited institution, with CACREP-accredited programs strongly preferred for streamlined licensure.
- You must complete 3,000 supervised clinical hours over at least two years, including 1,500 hours of direct client contact and 110 hours of supervision (with 24 hours of direct observation and a maximum of 50 hours of group supervision).
- The Iowa Behavioral Health Professionals Board (formerly Iowa Board of Behavioral Science as of July 2024) regulates LMHC licensure and accepts either the NCMHCE, NCE, or CRC exam.
- Iowa offers both temporary licenses (for accumulating supervised hours) and full licenses (for independent practice), with application fees of $120 each.
- Mental health counselors in Iowa earn a median salary of $60,880 annually (2024 BLS data), with top earners making $89,840 or more.
- Continuing education requires 40 hours every two years, including six mandatory ethics hours, to maintain your active license.
Ready to Start Your Mental Health Counseling Career in Iowa?
Explore accredited mental health counseling programs that meet Iowa's licensure requirements and match your career goals.
Find Iowa Counseling Programs
Additional Resources for Iowa LMHC Applicants
- Iowa Psychologist Licensing Requirements
- Iowa Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Mental Health Counselor Career Guide
- Licensed Professional Counseling Careers Overview
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health, and Mental Health Counselors are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
