Policy on Add-on Licensure Coursework

Policy on Add-On Licensure Coursework

Gardner-Webb counseling students frequently inquire about completing additional coursework to support application for additional counseling related licensures. While we do not offer licensure-only programs, it is possible for graduates of one of our counseling programs to complete the additional educational requirements necessary for seeking licensure in both school and clinical mental health counseling. Previous GWU counseling graduates may apply for consideration at any point post-graduation, consistent with the deadlines listed below. In order to honor these deadlines, currently enrolled students may apply to be considered for the add-on licensure coursework of their choice during the final semester of their degree program. If approved, add-on licensure coursework may begin only after graduation. Completion of the add-on courses does not result in the awarding of an additional degree. It merely allows for the opportunity to seek the licensing credential associated with that degree program.

The process for pursuing add-on licensure coursework is as follows:

Applicant completes the Intent Form (page 20, School of Psychology and Counseling Graduate Student Handbook) and submits form to the Director of Graduate Counseling Programs by February 15th (to begin courses in summer or fall) or September 15th (to begin courses in spring);
Director consults with the Coordinator of the program from which applicant graduated to confirm applicant graduated in good standing;
Director consults with the Coordinator of the program in which applicant wishes to take add-on courses to determine whether applicant’s request can be accommodated at this time;
If appropriate, applicant will be invited to participate in an interview with program faculty;
If interview process is successful, applicant will be asked to submit an application to the Graduate School for special student status and to submit a current criminal background check (if graduation from the counseling program occurred one year or more from the desired start date);
Notification of final admission decision will come from the Graduate School.

LPCA Licensure Add-On

LPCA Licensure Add-On – 21 Credit Hours

Individuals who complete this add-on sequence and pursue licensure will have the opportunity to seek careers in a variety of settings including, but not limited to, mental health agencies, non-profit organizations providing therapeutic services, college counseling centers, and potentially private practice settings. The LPCA (Licensed Professional Counselor Associate) licensure is the first tier of state licensure in NC and is a restricted license that requires supervision before one is eligible to apply for unrestricted licensure status as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The courses outlined below supplement courses completed by GWU School Counseling graduates and meet the NCBLPC educational requirements for licensure as an LPCA. Completion of these courses does not guarantee licensure. Students enrolled in add-on courses are also responsible for meeting all additional licensure requirements (exams, supervision, etc.) found on the NCBLPC website (www.ncblpc.org).

Individuals interested in licensure in states outside of NC should consult licensing requirements for that state to guide selection of elective courses to complete.

Required Courses (21 Credit Hours)

CEDU 646	Couples and Family Counseling (Elective)	3
CEDU 647	Child and Adolescent Counseling (Elective)	3
CEDU 655	Psychodiagnostics and Treatment Planning	3
CEDU 670	Practicum in Clinical Mental Health Counseling	3
CEDU 690	Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling	3
CEDU 691	Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling	3 each semester
CEDU 699	Professional Development of the Mental Health Counselor	3

Please note that CEDU 646 and 647 are based on completion of GWU’s current 48-hour School Counseling Program. If you graduated from an earlier GWU counseling program, it is your responsibility to consult with the Department of Public Instruction to confirm that these courses will meet your needs. Admission to courses not included on the above list will be considered consistent with current transient credit policy.

School Counseling Licensure Add-On

School Counseling Licensure Add-On – 12 Credit Hours

Individuals who complete this add-on sequence and pursue licensure will have the opportunity to seek employment as Professional School Counselors in a variety of educational settings. The courses outlined below supplement courses completed by GWU Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates and meet the NC Department of Public Instruction educational requirements for licensure as a School Counselor. Completion of these courses does not guarantee licensure. Students enrolled in add-on courses are also responsible for successful completion of the appropriate licensing exam (PRAXIS II: School Guidance and Counseling: 570).

Individuals interested in licensure in states outside of NC should consult licensing requirements for that state.

Required Courses (12 Credit Hours)

CEDU 618	Comprehensive Developmental School Counseling Programs	3
CEDU 675	Practicum in School Counseling	3
CEDU 695	Internship in School Counseling	3
CEDU 696	Internship in School Counseling	3

Please note that these add-on licensure requirements are based on completion of GWU’s current 60-hour Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. If you graduated from an earlier GWU counseling program, it is your responsibility to consult with the licensing board to confirm that these courses will meet your needs. Admission to courses not included on the above list will be considered consistent with current transient credit policy.