National
National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
An independent, not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to maintain a certification system and a registry of counselors who have met the standards of the profession.
Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC)
An independent not-for-profit organization which sets the standard for quality rehabilitation counseling services in the U.S. and Canada.
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB)
An alliance of governmental agencies responsible for the licensure and certification of counselors throughout the United States. AASCB collects, interprets, and disseminates information on legal and regulatory matters, and works to further cooperation among individuals and associations involved in providing counseling services to the public. Furthermore, AASCB publishes materials for training programs and member boards.
Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
An independent agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit master’s degree programs in mental health counseling, school counseling, student affairs, career counseling, college counseling, community counseling, marital, couples and family counseling/therapy, doctoral degree programs and counselor education and supervision.
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE)
Accredits graduate programs in Rehabilitation Counselor Education. Is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
State
Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS)
Licenses Marriage and Family Therapists, Social Workers and Educational Psychologists in California. The BBS will also regulate Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors in California.
The California Registry for Professional Counselors and Paraprofessionals (The Registry)
Promotes the advancement of counseling practice in California by certifying counselors, who have met the standard that most states hold for licensure. This certification is a voluntary credential and is not a license to practice in California.
