Fastest Way To Become a Counselor in North Dakota in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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In North Dakota, more than 2,280 people are currently employed as counselors, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Still, many who want to enter the field find the licensing process slow and difficult to navigate.

This article explains the fastest way to become a licensed counselor in North Dakota in 2025. It covers the required education, supervised experience, and exams you’ll need to complete. With a clear, step-by-step overview, you’ll know exactly what to do to get started in the field as soon as possible.

Key Benefits of Becoming a Counselor in North Dakota

• North Dakota’s counselor job growth is steady but modest. Demand varies regionally, suggesting careful consideration of local opportunities before committing.
• The average counselor salary in North Dakota is around $50,000, lower than national averages, which may impact long-term financial goals.
• North Dakota offers accessible licensure paths and affordable education, but prospective counselors should weigh these benefits against limited urban client bases.

Table of Contents

1. What is the fastest way to become a licensed counselor in North Dakota?
2. What counseling careers can you pursue in North Dakota with only a bachelor’s degree?
3. Are there accelerated counseling degree programs in North Dakota?
4. Are online counseling programs in North Dakota faster than traditional ones?
5. What challenges do fast-track counseling students face?
6. How do employers in North Dakota view fast-track counselors?
7. What specialized certifications can boost your counseling career in North Dakota?
8. What are the continuing education and professional development requirements for counselors in North Dakota?
9. Are fast-track and online counseling programs in North Dakota more affordable?
10. Is there a demand for counselors in North Dakota?
11. How much do counselors get paid in North Dakota?
12. Is taking the fast route to become a counselor in North Dakota worth it?
13. Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Way to Become a Counselor in North Dakota

What is the fastest way to become a licensed counselor in North Dakota?

The fastest path to counselor licensure in North Dakota involves carefully managing each step of the state’s licensing process, which is governed by the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners. Efficient navigation through academic, application, supervision, and examination requirements can help reduce delays.

Key steps to expedite licensure include:

• Earn Your Degree: Completing the required graduate degree in counseling or a closely related field.
• Submit Application Early: Submitting the Application for Licensure early, along with all supplemental documents such as transcripts, reference letters, and jurisdiction verifications, to avoid waiting for quarterly board meetings that can extend processing times.
• Check Forms and References: Ensuring all forms are accurately completed and references are prompt to minimize administrative bottlenecks.
• Plan Supervised Hours Wisely: Strategically planning the 800 hours of direct client therapy and 100 hours of supervision, selecting supervisors experienced with licensure candidates and readily available to provide guidance.
• Prepare for the Exam: Passing a board-approved counseling exam on the first attempt by utilizing local resources and exam preparation workshops offered by universities or the North Dakota State Board of Counselor Examiners.

Understanding North Dakota counseling licensure requirements thoroughly and staying organized throughout the process is essential. Candidates who maintain proactive communication with supervisors and the licensing board typically experience fewer delays. For those weighing the investment involved, it may be helpful to review how much does it cost to become a counseling psychologist, which provides financial insights relevant to pursuing a counseling career.

What counseling careers can you pursue in North Dakota with only a bachelor’s degree?

In North Dakota, pursuing counseling jobs in North Dakota with a bachelor’s degree opens doors to several entry-level roles that contribute meaningfully to mental health and social services. While these positions do not typically allow for independent clinical counseling, they offer valuable practical experience and a foundation for future advancement.

• Substance abuse counseling assistant or technician: Employed mainly in treatment and rehabilitation facilities, individuals with a bachelor’s in psychology, social work, or related fields can support licensed counselors, though direct counseling usually requires supervision or further certification.
• Behavioral health technician: Community organizations and hospitals often hire bachelor’s-level staff to assist with client interventions, observation, and support of licensed therapists in behavioral health settings.
• Case manager or mental health advocate: Nonprofit and social service agencies recruit bachelor’s-prepared professionals to coordinate client care, connect individuals to resources, and advocate for vulnerable populations, including youth and those with disabilities.

Employers may prefer candidates with relevant experience, supervised training, or certifications such as Non-Violent Crisis Intervention or Mental Health First Aid to strengthen eligibility for these roles. Although the scope of practice is limited without a master’s degree or licensure, working in these positions can serve as a strategic step toward graduate education and eventual licensure as a professional counselor.

For those interested in exploring further, resources on licensed professional counselor career paths provide detailed guidance on advancing within the field. Given the shortage of counselors in many counties in the U.S., particularly in rural counties as shown below, pursuing counseling-related jobs with a bachelor's degree will be beneficial.

Are there accelerated counseling degree programs in North Dakota?

For prospective students seeking the fastest counseling master's programs North Dakota offers, accelerated degree options exist but remain limited and competitive. These programs aim to shorten the traditional two- to three-year timeline while maintaining educational quality and clinical preparedness.

• The University of Mary: Offers an accelerated Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that can be completed in as little as 20 months. The 60-credit program includes 43 core credits and 17 specialization credits, with focuses in addiction counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and school counseling. Courses are primarily online with weekly sessions either on-site in Bismarck or via video conferencing.
• The University of Jamestown: Features an accelerated clinical counseling program with eight-week courses, allowing students to take two courses simultaneously. This format is designed to meet the demands of counseling education efficiently, though specific minimum duration or tuition details are not widely published.
• North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota: Both provide CACREP-accredited counseling master’s programs that adhere to a standard two- to three-year timeline without dedicated accelerated tracks, focusing on comprehensive training rather than speed.

While accelerated counseling degree programs North Dakota offers can appeal to those eager for a quick path to licensure, some experts caution about the challenges of compressing practicum and internship requirements. The depth of clinical training is crucial, especially in rural areas dependent on well-prepared counselors.

Students interested in alternative or supplemental certifications might explore a list of best online graduate counseling certificate programs to enhance their qualifications. To put this into perspective, take a look at the chart below highlighting the top institutions in the US that awarded the most mental health counseling degrees.

Are online counseling programs in North Dakota faster than traditional ones?

Online counseling programs in North Dakota can offer more adaptable scheduling compared to traditional campus-based routes, which may help some students complete their degrees more efficiently. However, this flexibility does not equate to a faster program in terms of required coursework or professional standards.

Key factors that can accelerate progress through online programs include:

• Asynchronous Learning: Students can access lectures and complete assignments at times that fit their personal schedules, avoiding fixed class hours.
• Multiple Enrollment Periods: Several start dates throughout the year allow students to begin their studies without waiting for a typical semester to start.
• Continuous Enrollment Options: Year-round course availability, including summer terms, enables learners to maintain steady progress without traditional academic calendar breaks.

Despite these advantages, all counseling candidates in North Dakota must fulfill state requirements such as practicum and internship hours and complete a minimum of 60 semester credits. These obligations set a minimum timeframe that applies regardless of whether a program is online or campus-based. Thus, while online programs can eliminate some logistical challenges like commuting and rigid scheduling, they do not reduce the fundamental academic and experiential standards needed for licensure.

What challenges do fast-track counseling students face?

Students opting for accelerated counseling programs in North Dakota encounter several notable challenges that can impact their educational experience and professional preparation. These fast-track pathways demand a careful balance of intensity and quality to ensure readiness for the counseling profession.

• Higher Academic Demands: To fulfill North Dakota's minimum requirement of 60 semester-credits for a counseling master’s degree in a shorter period, students often face heavier course loads, which may increase stress and reduce time for deep comprehension of complex counseling theories.
• Condensed Fieldwork Opportunities: Completing the required practicum hours (100) and internships (600) within a limited timeframe can restrict hands-on learning and meaningful client engagement, potentially hindering skill development.
• Reduced Professional Development Time: The accelerated schedule may limit chances for networking, mentorship, and personal growth—elements essential for building resilience and professional competence.
• Exam Preparation Challenges: Despite the shortened timeline, students must still pass demanding national licensure exams, such as the National Counselor Examination, with less time available for thorough review and case study analysis.
• Potential for Early Burnout: The pressure of managing coursework, practicum responsibilities, and exam prep simultaneously can lead to fatigue or dissatisfaction, though some students may flourish by honing time management and adaptability under these conditions.
• Differing Perspectives: Critics caution that fast-track programs might compromise depth of skill and professional maturity, while advocates emphasize their role in addressing workforce shortages and providing accessible options for motivated, nontraditional learners.

How do employers in North Dakota view fast-track counselors?

If you’re exploring whether employers in North Dakota value fast-track counselors, it’s important to understand how they balance high standards with an openness to nontraditional paths. Here’s what many employers consider:

• Strict State Standards: North Dakota requires all counselors—fast-track or not—to hold a 60-credit master’s degree, complete at least 700 practicum or internship hours, and gain extensive supervised clinical experience.
• Concerns About Clinical Depth: Some employers worry that accelerated programs might squeeze these experiences into too short a timeline, raising questions about whether candidates have had enough real-world exposure to complex mental health situations.
• Breadth of Client Experience: Hiring managers often value a wide range of clinical experiences, including work with diverse populations and various mental health concerns—areas that longer, traditional programs may cover more thoroughly.
• Recognition of Determination: Many employers appreciate the drive and time management skills fast-track grads demonstrate, especially if they balance school with other professional or family responsibilities.
• Relevant Prior Experience: Candidates who come from related fields like education, social work, or healthcare often bring practical, transferable skills that benefit clients—particularly in North Dakota’s rural or underserved areas.
• Commitment to Growth: Employers value candidates who actively pursue ongoing training, additional certifications, and strong supervision, proving they’re serious about maintaining high professional standards.

In the end, while some may question whether fast-tracked graduates have enough depth of experience, North Dakota employers ultimately care most about practical competence, ethical practice, and a genuine dedication to serving the community.

What specialized certifications can boost your counseling career in North Dakota?

Pursuing targeted certifications can strategically expand your clinical expertise and open additional career pathways in North Dakota. Specialized credentials, such as certifications in substance abuse counseling, not only enhance your professional profile but also demonstrate a commitment to continuously advancing your skills in niche areas. Interested candidates should ensure that any certification program meets state regulatory standards and addresses the specific demands of the local community. For more detailed guidance on this specialized path, see how to become a substance abuse counselor in North Dakota.

What are the continuing education and professional development requirements for counselors in North Dakota?

Licensed counselors in North Dakota must fulfill state-mandated continuing education requirements to sustain licensure and enhance clinical practices. These requirements include completing targeted courses, workshops, and seminars addressing current ethical standards, innovative treatment modalities, and emerging mental health trends. Many professionals further advance their expertise through specialized certification programs, ensuring they remain responsive to evolving community needs. For tailored guidance on expanding your credentials, review how to become a school counselor in North Dakota and consider integrating ongoing professional development into your career strategy.

Are fast-track and online counseling programs in North Dakota more affordable?

Fast-track and online counseling programs in North Dakota can offer cost advantages compared to traditional, campus-based options, though affordability depends on personal situations and program specifics. These formats often provide financial benefits, but students should weigh potential trade-offs such as workload intensity and program pacing.

• Shortened Program Length: Accelerated online tracks may reduce the number of semesters needed to graduate, lowering total tuition expenses and allowing quicker entry into the workforce.
• Tuition Pricing: For example, the University of North Dakota charges approximately $680 per credit for online counseling courses, with a full master’s degree costing around $15,109 for families earning between $48,000 and $75,000 annually, which can be less than comparable traditional programs.
• Flexible Scheduling to Maintain Income: Online formats often enable students to work while studying, helping offset education costs by sustaining employment and income throughout the program.
• Savings on Housing and Commuting: Distance learning eliminates relocation and daily travel expenses, a significant factor in rural states like North Dakota, reducing living costs during study.
• Access to In-State Tuition and Financial Aid: Many institutions extend in-state tuition rates to online students and offer financial aid regardless of delivery method, but applicants should carefully review eligibility criteria and any additional fees.

While these programs can be more affordable, some students may experience added stress from condensed schedules or heavier course loads. A North Dakota counselor who transitioned from teaching noted that the flexibility to work and remain in her community was key to managing both finances and family life during her accelerated online degree, despite the challenges of balancing responsibilities.

This highlights that affordability extends beyond tuition to include personal circumstances and support systems. A closer look at graduate debt levels can also help prospective students understand the financial realities of entering the counseling field.

Is there a demand for counselors in North Dakota?

If you’re wondering whether there’s strong demand for counselors in North Dakota, the outlook is encouraging, especially for those ready to serve where the need is greatest. Here’s what you should know:

• Above-Average Job Growth: Counseling jobs in North Dakota, including mental health and behavioral disorder roles, are projected to grow by 13% from 2022 to 2032. This growth outpaces national averages and reflecting an ongoing need for qualified professionals.
• Key Specialties in Demand: Mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral disorder counselors are particularly sought after due to increased mental health awareness and the continuing opioid crisis across the region.
• Critical Rural Gaps: Many rural and frontier communities struggle to recruit and retain counselors, creating service gaps and long wait times. For counselors willing to work in these areas, job opportunities and community impact are substantial.
• School Counseling Opportunities: School counseling remains a priority in North Dakota, with local labor data consistently highlighting it as an in-demand field—providing job stability and the potential for incentives in high-need districts.
• Targeted Specialization Pays Off: While the overall workforce is relatively small, counselors who specialize in areas like substance abuse or school-based services can position themselves for greater job security, higher salaries, and meaningful contributions to local communities.

Prospective counselors should weigh these trends when planning their careers, as understanding where the greatest needs exist can make all the difference in building a stable and rewarding practice in North Dakota.

For those wondering about the quickest path into this profession, exploring what is the most affordable CACREP-accredited counseling online program may offer a streamlined route to licensure and employment in North Dakota.

How much do counselors get paid in North Dakota?

Curious about what counselors make in North Dakota? Salaries vary widely depending on your role, experience, and work setting, here’s how the numbers stack up:

• Average Salary Range for LPCs: Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in North Dakota typically earn around $76,092 per year, with most salaries falling between $61,900 and $84,600. Top earners can make up to $106,866 annually.
• Potential for Higher Earnings: Some reports suggest average LPC salaries may reach $101,436, especially for those in private practice, with advanced certifications, or in high-demand specialties.
• School Counselor Pay: School counselors generally earn less than other specializations, with an average salary of about $60,760. Entry-level positions may start near $37,820, rising to $77,250 for experienced professionals—around 10% below the national average for this field.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counselors: These roles typically see salaries ranging from $52,512 to $68,156, with a state average around $59,975. Those working in medical centers or federal agencies can earn significantly more, sometimes topping $115,000.
• Factors That Influence Pay: Where you work, the local cost of living, and whether your position is in a rural or urban area can all impact earnings. Additional certifications, years of experience, and supervisory roles also boost salary potential.

For anyone exploring a counseling career in North Dakota, keeping these figures and factors in mind can help you plan strategically for both financial stability and long-term growth in this vital field.

For individuals wondering what can I do with a counseling degree, understanding these salary dynamics is essential to making informed decisions about their professional path. Additionally, below are the average lifetime earnings of some mental and behavioral health professionals.

Is taking the fast route to become a counselor in North Dakota worth it?

Taking the accelerated route to become a counselor in North Dakota can be a smart move for motivated individuals eager to enter the field early. The state’s licensure framework allows candidates to earn an associate-level credential during their final graduate semester, giving them a head start on paid, supervised client work before graduation. This not only speeds up the process of meeting licensure requirements but also helps build practical skills and professional connections within North Dakota’s behavioral health community.

Starting supervised practice sooner can position counselors to advance to full licensure more quickly and specialize in areas of need, such as rural mental health. Employers often value this initiative, especially in regions with persistent provider shortages. While balancing coursework, supervision, and high-need client work requires resilience, those who embrace the fast track often find it a meaningful way to make an impact sooner. For aspiring counselors committed to serving North Dakota’s communities, the early start can be well worth the effort.

What Counselors in North Dakota Say About Their Careers

• Choosing the fast track to become a counselor in North Dakota was one of the best decisions I made. The job stability here is impressive, with steady demand in both rural and urban areas, and the average salaries provide a comfortable living. It’s rewarding knowing my career can grow alongside the community I serve. Michael
• Working as a counselor in North Dakota brings unique challenges, especially in remote regions, but it also offers incredible opportunities to make a real difference. The close-knit communities value mental health support deeply, which makes every success feel profoundly impactful. I’m grateful for the rapid path that got me here and the chance to serve where it truly counts. Aisha
• North Dakota offers excellent professional development options for counselors, including workshops and collaboration with local universities. Pursuing my counseling career quickly allowed me to start attending these valuable trainings sooner, enhancing my skills and confidence. It’s fulfilling to continuously grow in a state that supports lifelong learning. Daniel

Other Things You Should Know About the Fastest Way to Become a Counselor in North Dakota

How long does it usually take to become a counselor in North Dakota?

Becoming a counselor in North Dakota typically involves completing a bachelor’s degree followed by a master’s program in counseling or a related field. The bachelor’s degree usually requires four years of study, while the master’s program often takes two to three years, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment. Some accelerated programs might shorten this timeline, but it is important to consider the depth and quality of training required for licensure.

The North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners mandates specific supervised experience after graduation, which can extend the process beyond academic completion. Thus, while the educational component generally spans six to seven years, the full path to licensure may take longer when accounting for practical requirements.

What’s the shortest online path to becoming a counselor in North Dakota?

The shortest online path to becoming a counselor in North Dakota typically involves enrolling in a regionally accredited Master’s in Counseling program that meets the state’s licensure requirements. North Dakota requires candidates to complete a graduate program with specific coursework and supervised practicum hours, so accelerated online programs offering these components can reduce the timeline to about two to three years.

However, while some programs advertise one-year completions, these often lack the necessary clinical hours or state approval, making them less viable for licensure. Prospective counselors should verify that the program aligns with North Dakota’s Board of Counselor Examiners standards to avoid delays in certification.

What is the difference between a therapist and a counselor in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, the terms "therapist" and "counselor" often overlap but have distinct differences rooted in education, licensing, and work settings. Counselors typically hold a master's degree in counseling or a related field and must obtain licensure from the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners, focusing on mental health, school, or clinical counseling roles.

Therapists may have broader qualifications, including social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy degrees, and are licensed through different boards such as the Board of Social Work Examiners or Psychology Board. Job duties vary, with counselors emphasizing guidance and support, while therapists may provide deeper clinical treatment. Understanding these nuances is essential for career planning in the state.

Can life coaches in North Dakota work in mental health without a license?

In North Dakota, life coaches are not licensed mental health professionals and therefore cannot provide counseling or therapy services legally reserved for licensed counselors, psychologists, or social workers.

While life coaches may offer guidance and support focused on personal development or goal achievement, they must avoid diagnosing or treating mental health disorders. The North Dakota Century Code restricts mental health treatment to credentialed practitioners to protect public safety, emphasizing a clear boundary between coaching and therapy.

Life coaches should maintain ethical practices by referring clients with serious mental health issues to licensed professionals. Although coaching can complement mental health care, it cannot substitute for therapeutic intervention under state law.

References:

• BLS. (2025). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: North Dakota. data.bls.gov.
• CareersinPsychology.org. (2023, September 22). North Dakota Counselor licensing, certification and education requirements. careersinpsychology.org.
• counseling.org. (n.d.). Licensure requirements for professional counselors. counseling.org.
• Data USA. (n.d.). Mental Health Counseling. datausa.io.
• NDCA. (n.d.). Home. ndcounseling.org.
• NDESPB. (n.d.). School Counselor Licensure. nd.gov.
• onlinecounselingprograms.com. (2025, January 2). How to become a counselor (LPC and LPCC) in North Dakota. onlinecounselingprograms.com.
• Salvia, B. M. Z. V. (2025, May 27). How to become a Counselor in North Dakota (ND): Licensure & degrees. counselingschools.com.
• University of Jamestown Accelerated. (n.d.). Clinical counseling | Education That Moves You Forward. accelerated.uj.edu.
• University of Mary Online. (n.d.). MS, Clinical Mental Health Counseling. online.umary.edu.
• University of North Dakota. (n.d.). Counseling Master’s. und.edu.