New York's licensed counselors help clients manage mental health conditions, support students in New York schools, and provide therapy for couples and families. But counselors need to meet licensure requirements to work in New York.
Want to become a licensed counselor in New York? You'll need a master's degree in counseling to start the process. Our guide walks through how to earn your mental health counselor, school counselor, or marriage and family therapist license in New York.
Typical Requirements to Become a Counselor in New York
Below is a high-level overview of the process for becoming a licensed or certified counselor in New York. Each counseling role has its own requirements, but most pathways include these six steps:
Earn a bachelor's degree.
Complete a master's degree in counseling or a related field.
Finish supervised experience requirements (hours vary by credential).
Pass any required licensing or certification exams.
Apply for state licensure or certification.
Complete continuing education to maintain your credential.
Popular Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
New York Counselor Licensure Requirements
In New York, counseling licensure types include:
Licensed mental health counselor (LMHC)
Licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT)
Professional school counselor (PSC)
The New York State Education Department (SED) Office of the Professions oversees LMHC and LMFT licensure, while the Office of Teaching Initiatives manages school counselor licensing.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Counselor in New York?
The time it takes to earn New York counseling licensure depends on the type of credential you're seeking. It takes about 6-8 years to become an LMHC or LMFT, which includes earning a bachelor's and master's degree and completing supervised experience requirements. It generally takes about six years to become a PSC. Your timeline will extend if you earn a doctoral degree in any of these disciplines.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in New York
Out-of-state license reciprocity guidelines vary by license type. The following table offers a high-level overview of the New York's licensing standards:
| License | Is Reciprocity Available? | Reciprocity Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| LMHC | Yes (licensure by endorsement) | Hold an equivalent license issued by another state, with at least five years of licensed practice in the 10-year period preceding your application |
| LMFT | Yes (licensure by endorsement) | Hold an equivalent license issued by another state, with at least five years of licensed practice in the 10-year period preceding your application |
| PSC | Yes, if you obtained your current license in the United States | Request a review of your credentials through the SED's TEACH Online Services system |
Salary Expectations for Counselors in New York
Licensed counselors benefit from strong demand, with 17% projected job growth from 2024-2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). New York counselors report median salaries ranging from around $60,000 to $71,000, depending on their job title.
Nationally, counselors in the graduating class of 2024 earned a starting salary of around $55,580, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. According to the BLS, the average nationwide salary for mental health counselors was $64,440 in May 2025.
| Counseling Career | Median Annual Wage | Total Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage and Family Therapist | $64,430 | 770 |
| Mental Health Counselor | $59,450 | 26,770* |
| School Counselor | $71,610 | 23,380 |
Source: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
*Total employment figures include substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
Professional Organizations for Counselors in New York
New York Mental Health Counselors Association: Offering student, individual, and organizational memberships, this professional association offers advocacy services, professional development programs, and valuable administrative tools for active practitioners.
New York State School Counselor Association: Functioning as part of the American School Counselor Association, the NYSSCA provides advocacy and curriculum resources while advancing the school counselor profession in New York through professional periodicals.
American Counseling Association of New York: The ACA of New York supports both emerging and established counselors with multiple membership tiers, live and virtual events, continuing education programs, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Licensure
It typically takes at least eight years to become a licensed counselor with only a master's degree. Earning a doctoral degree will add three to four years to this timeline.
