How to Become a Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Alaska for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Mental health is a cause for concern in Alaska, which is why the state is home to numerous mental health service providers, including psychologists. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI, 2021), 43.1% of Alaskan adults had shown signs of depression or anxiety in 2021, with 26.5% failing to receive the necessary treatment. Interestingly, Alaska is ranked second in the country when it comes to access to mental health (America’s Health Rankings, 2022). This means the demand for psychologists exceeds the already ample supply in the state.

Besides the high demand for mental health specialists, professional and aspiring psychologists opt to pursue a career in The Last Frontier due to the quality of its mental health institutions and postsecondary education. Psychology schools in the state designed their undergraduate and doctoral programs to help any student become a licensed professional counselor Alaska health facilities employ. Some also offer a psychology degree online accredited option for distance learners. So, how exactly does one become a licensed counselor in the state?

Our research team detailed the steps on how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska, accounting for the educational requirements, supervised experience hours, and the license application process. Our team has also prepared information regarding the psychology market in The Last Frontier to inform learners of the industry they will soon enter after graduating and gaining the LPC licensure Alaska mental health professionals should have.

How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska Table of Contents

Overview of the Counseling Industry in Alaska
How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska: Educational Requirements
How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska: License Application and Renewal Process
List of Top Psychology Programs in Alaska for 2025
Is a professional counselor license in Alaska worth it?
What are the legal and ethical considerations for practicing counselors in Alaska?
What are the top skills and qualities needed to succeed as a licensed counselor in Alaska?
What is the role of marriage and family therapists in Alaska's evolving counseling landscape?
What are the challenges and opportunities for counselors addressing Alaska’s mental health crisis?
How can counselors and social workers collaborate to enhance client care in Alaska?
How can I become a behavior analyst in Alaska?
How can telehealth expand access to counseling services in Alaska?
How can school counseling support academic and mental health outcomes in Alaska?
What are the latest updates in Alaska LPC license requirements?
How do I get started with becoming a licensed counselor in Alaska?
What differentiates psychologist licensure from counselor licensure in Alaska?
How can counselors integrate addiction recovery services into their practice in Alaska?
Are there financial incentives and support programs available for counselors in Alaska?
What are the differences between marriage and family therapy and other counseling careers in Alaska?

Overview of the Counseling Industry in Alaska

Depression and anxiety have been prevailing concerns in Alaska, even though their collective incidence rate has slightly dropped of late. Data from KFF (2023) show that the share of Alaskan adults with depression and/or anxiety symptoms is 32.2%, significantly lower than the aforementioned NAMI findings two years prior and slightly lower than the national average of 32.3%. However, 32.2% is still a large percentage, so the state continues to welcome new talent.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023e), The Last Frontier employs 1,270 mental health counselors, 450 guidance counselors, 110 clinical and counseling psychologists, 100 rehabilitation counselors, 70 counselors (all other types), and 60 school psychologists. Regarding job openings, the employment portal Indeed.com posted 507 open jobs related to counseling. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate in Alaska is 3.9% (BLS, 2023d), just a smidgen higher than the national rate of 3.8% (BLS, 2023f). This underscores the importance of knowing how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska. Being licensed grants one access to a broader spectrum of jobs and higher job grades.

The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB, 2023) managed to record the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) passing rate of only one institution in Alaska from 2020 to 2022—the University of Alaska Anchorage—and the said school garnered a rate of 100%. This implies the high quality of education found in the school.

Psychologists and counselors enjoy decent pay in the region. On average, clinical and counseling psychologists receive $99,880 per year, while school psychologists take home $86,510 (BLS, 2023e). As for professional counselors, mental health counselors receive $68,770; guidance counselors take home $67,430; rehabilitation counselors receive $64,790; and counselors (all other types) make $43,180. Interestingly, the mean Alaskan counselor salaries are generally higher than the US averages, with mental health counselors earning $56,230 (BLS, 2023c), guidance counselors receiving $64,200 (BLS, 2023a), and rehabilitation counselors making $46,020 (BLS, 2023b) nationally.

Being a licensed AK mental health counselor grants one access to roles with even higher salaries.

How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska: Educational Requirements

The first stage of how to become a licensed mental health counselor in Alaska is to earn an undergraduate degree and then a graduate degree in the discipline. Schools in the state offer various forms of counseling psychology programs, some with various specializations, to help build a strong foundation in psychology and its practices and applications and train students to pass a standardized exam by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), one of the most important Alaska professional counselor license requirements. Those who would have trouble affording a program can look for the cheapest online psychology degree in the state, which, besides having lower tuition, removes the expenses for rent, transportation, and frequent commercial dining.

Earn an Undergraduate Degree

Even though not explicitly stated, it is implied by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors that a candidate should earn an undergraduate degree in psychology or any related field. Certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees are furnished by the postsecondary institutions in the state, with the first two offering focused education for a short time while the latter provides a well-rounded education and a more reliable foundation in counseling psychology. As such, a four-year bachelor’s degree is usually the ideal option, albeit the priciest and longest among the three.

Data from Zippia (2023) reveal that 48% of licensed professional counselors in the United States have a master’s degree, 42% have a bachelor’s degree, 5% have an associate degree, 4% have doctorate degrees, and 1% earned other degrees. The bachelor’s degree is evidently the most popular undergraduate option.

Earn a Graduate Degree

What can you do with a masters in psychology in Alaska, particularly for aspiring counselors? While psychology licenses in other US states typically require a doctorate degree, the journey of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska compels students to complete at least 60 graduate semester hours (Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development of Alaska, 2023). This applies to accredited master’s degrees in counseling or related fields like psychology, social work, family and marital therapy, and applied behavioral science.

Earning a doctorate from an accredited program enables a candidate to proceed to the next stage, completing the requisite supervised experience.

It is important to note that Alaska prioritizes graduates of accredited programs. As such, aspirants are advised to choose a program that received accreditation from any of the following organizations:

Candidates may take an unaccredited program, but its coursework should cover at least eight subject areas, which enforces mastery and promotes a diverse knowledge base.

Accomplish the Required Supervised Experience

The journey of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska leads students to commit at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience in the professional counseling field, of which a minimum of 1,000 hours will be devoted to direct counseling with communities, couples, or individuals and at least 100 hours of in-person guidance of a supervisor approved by the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors (Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development of Alaska, 2023). Remote supervision is possible under certain circumstances, subject to the board’s approval. The duration of the supervised experience should be at least two years.

How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska: License Application and Renewal Process

The next phase of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska is formally applying for a license. Aside from filing an application, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam before receiving their licenses. Our research team gathered the necessary details to obtain licensure.

Pass the NCE or the NCMHCE

After completing the requisite education and supervised experience, licensure candidates should take and pass any of the two standardized exams administered by the NBCC—the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)—depending on one’s specialization and preferred certification. Some students take both exams to increase their chances of being licensed.

According to the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA, nd), the NCE is a multiple-choice test with 200 items focusing on the theoretical aspect of counseling. It covers the principles, practices, skills, and applications involved in the field. Candidates can get certified as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) by passing the exam.

The NCMHCE, on the other hand, contains 10 clinical simulations that test an individual’s ability to evaluate, diagnose, manage, and treat various mental conditions. Considered harder than the NCE by some, this test is more concentrated on one’s clinical skills and knowledge. In passing the exam, candidates can gain certification as a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC).

Besides the two given exams, the NBCC accepts passage of another standardized test for professional counselors that carries equal value as the NCE or the NCMHCE.

To apply for the exams, candidates must communicate with the NBCC, which will formalize the schedule of their tests and inform them of any additional requirements on the day of the exam. Exam passers will then file for a criminal justice report with the Department of Public Safety, Alaska State Troopers, who will verify if the candidates do not have criminal records.

License Application

With the process of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska in mind, candidates can begin the application process by filling out an application form, which can be accessed on the Alaska Board’s website. The application comes with a fee of $450. It should be submitted to the Board of Professional Counselors with official transcripts, two recommendation letters from licensed counselors, a document verifying the completion of the supervised experience hours, verification of passing an NBCC exam, and an approved criminal justice report with no hits. It is important to note that only candidates 18 years of age and above will be licensed.

When all the requirements have been submitted and approved, the Alaska Board will issue a professional license, valid for two years, and expires on the last day of one’s birth month. The Board does not have any agreement of Alaska LPC reciprocity with other states, but counselors who gained licensure in other states may apply for licensure in Alaska.

Maintaining the License

The next stage of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska is to maintain the license. The Alaska Board mandates licensed counselors to complete 40 continuing education units, of which a minimum of 20 hours should be devoted to completing seminars, workshops, and synchronous courses and three credit hours to a professional ethics course (Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development of Alaska, 2023). Renewal applications to be submitted on or after November 1, 2023, should also complete at least three units in suicidality and another three in cultural competency. The continuing education units should be completed within the two years before renewal.

License Renewal

The final stage of how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska is to renew one’s license. To give counselors time to prepare the requirements, the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors sends a renewal notification 30 days prior to license expiration to the most recent address listed on one’s profile with the Board. Counselors should submit an accomplished license renewal application form—available on the Alaska Board website— verification of completing the continuing education units, and a renewal fee of $250 for licenses first issued on or prior to October 31, 2022, or a fee of $125 for licenses first issued on or after November 1, 2022 (Alaska Board of Professional Counselors, 2023).

List of Top Psychology Programs in Alaska for 2025

In knowing how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska, a candidate understands the value of selecting a program that aligns with one’s goals, needs, and budget. As such, our research team evaluated the psychology programs offered across The Last Frontier according to several key merits and identified five of the most notable ones available.

1. University of Alaska Anchorage Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology

The Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology at the University of Alaska Anchorage has an EPPP pass rate of 100% from 2020 to 2022 and provides instruction for clinical practice, research, and community-based exercises. Students can expect diverse courses and activities that include research, mental illness prevention, condition evaluation, community work, social action, and clinical service. The program also actively trains students to score high in career-related standardized exams and prepares them for licensure, with a licensure rate of 71% from 2013 to 2023.

Program Length: 8 to 10 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $513 (in-state); $1079 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 115
Accreditation: American Psychological Association, Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities

2. University of Alaska Anchorage Master of Science in Clinical Psychology

The Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at the University of Alaska Anchorage features two tracks: Clinical and Behavioral Analysis. The Clinical track prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, while the Behavioral Analysis track trains students to score well in the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam. Having a comprehensive approach to the discipline, the school has a special program dedicated to care for families and young children, which MS students can participate in, and provides scholarships and assistantships as financial aid. UAA also offers a BS, BA, minors in psychology and a Ph.D. in Clinical-Community Psychology.

Program Length: 2 years
Tracks/concentrations: ClinicalBehavioral Analysis
Clinical
Behavioral Analysis
Cost per Credit: $513 (in-state); $1,079 (out-of-state)
Required Credits to Graduate: 48 to 51
Accreditation: American Psychological Association, Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities

3. Alaska Pacific University Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at Alaska Pacific University explores the different modalities involved in professional counseling and has a strength-based approach to psychology. Flexibly designed, the program offers a balance of online courses and on-campus intensives, allowing students to sharpen their clinical skills across various settings and human lifespan stages. Aside from this program, APU offers a BA in Counseling Psychology and a PsyD in Counseling Psychology.

Program Length: 2.5 to 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $650
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Northwest Commission of Colleges and Universities

4. University of Alaska Fairbanks Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology

The Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at the University of Alaska Fairbanks features rigorous instruction and concentrates on cultural diversity in the context of health. Offering in-person, online, and hybrid classes, the program helps students develop critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills as they participate in group activities and diverse practicum experiences. The school also provides academic advising and maintains a student organization devoted to psychology.

Program Length: 4 years
Tracks/concentrations: N0ne
Cost per Credit: $289
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

5. University of Alaska Southeast Bachelor of Arts in Social Science (Psychology Track)

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Science at the University of Alaska Southeast has a Psychology concentration that explores the quantitative methods involved in the discipline and touches on areas like clinical, cognitive, social, and personality psychology. Besides taking up psychology, students are advised to add two secondary concentrations to expand their skills and knowledge base. The other Social Science concentrations are Anthropology, History, Political Science, and Sociology.

Program Length: 4 years
Tracks/concentrations: None
Cost per Credit: $284 (in-state lower division courses); $282 (in-state upper division); $800 (out-of-state lower division); $848 (out-of-state upper division)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Is a professional counselor license in Alaska worth it?

Alaska may be known for providing its locale fairly easy access to counselors and other mental health service providers. Still, a recent report shows a 55.6% incidence rate of untreated youth depression. This signals the explicit need for counseling and psychological services in the state and underscores what one can do with a degree in counseling psychology. As such, knowing how to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska can bring an aspirant a slew of advantages.

Gaining licensure in The Last Frontier grants a counselor access to many prestigious, high-paying positions, with the state’s low population implying that the competition for those roles might not be as challenging as in busier, more populous states. Alaska’s high demand for counseling and relatively decent unemployment rate enable professionals and new graduates to find jobs without too much trouble. Moreover, the specializations gained from one’s studies widen the job spectrum for new counselors in the state.

What are the legal and ethical considerations for practicing counselors in Alaska?

Counselors in Alaska must navigate a rigorous legal and ethical framework that governs client confidentiality, informed consent, and mandatory reporting. They are required to maintain strict boundary-setting practices that protect both client welfare and professional integrity. Additionally, adhering to state-specific regulations and professional codes is essential for managing dual relationships, ensuring accurate documentation, and mitigating malpractice risks. Proactive engagement with legal updates and ethical training helps counselors to remain compliant while effectively responding to crises in diverse community settings. For further insights into various professional roles, review our article on the different types of counselors.

What are the top skills and qualities needed to succeed as a licensed counselor in Alaska?

While becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alaska requires meeting educational and supervised experience requirements, developing key skills and qualities is just as crucial for long-term success in the counseling field. Here are some of the top skills and personal attributes that contribute to a successful career as a counselor:

Empathy and Compassion: Understanding and relating to clients’ emotions, challenges, and perspectives is essential for building trust and offering effective support.
Active Listening: Listening attentively without interrupting and truly hearing what clients are communicating—both verbally and nonverbally—helps counselors better understand their clients' needs.
Cultural Competency: Alaska is home to diverse populations, including Indigenous communities. Culturally sensitive counseling practices are important for effectively addressing the needs of all clients.
Strong Communication Skills: Being able to articulate thoughts clearly and explain complex psychological concepts in understandable ways is critical for client success and collaboration with colleagues.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Counselors often help clients navigate difficult life decisions or overcome mental health challenges, requiring creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Emotional Resilience: Working in mental health can be emotionally taxing. Successful counselors develop emotional resilience to manage their own well-being while helping others.
Ethical Judgment: Adhering to ethical guidelines, maintaining confidentiality, and making responsible decisions are paramount to the profession.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust techniques and approaches depending on client needs and changes in the counseling environment is crucial for ongoing effectiveness.

What is the role of marriage and family therapists in Alaska's evolving counseling landscape?

Marriage and family therapists (MFTs) play a unique and crucial role in Alaska’s mental health ecosystem, addressing relational challenges that intersect with broader psychological issues. Unlike other counseling professions, marriage and family therapy focuses on the dynamics within families and intimate relationships, facilitating improved communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving strategies. Given the growing recognition of systemic approaches to mental health, as well as the unique cultural and geographic contexts of Alaska, MFTs provide essential perspectives alongside other counseling professionals.

One of the significant advantages of pursuing a career as an MFT in Alaska is the opportunity to address compounded relational and cultural issues, such as those experienced by indigenous communities and remote families. Additionally, the state’s mental health crisis has highlighted the importance of specialized care for families dealing with challenges related to substance abuse, intergenerational trauma, and economic instability. These factors underscore the increasing demand for highly skilled MFTs who can serve both rural and urban populations effectively.

For individuals considering this rewarding career path, understanding how to become a marriage and family therapist in Alaska is essential. This journey typically involves obtaining a relevant graduate degree, completing supervised clinical experience, and applying for state licensure through a rigorous process. Each step of this pathway ensures that aspiring MFTs develop the expertise needed to foster lasting change within Alaskan families and communities.

What are the challenges and opportunities for counselors addressing Alaska’s mental health crisis?

Alaska’s unique geographic, cultural, and economic landscape presents both significant challenges and unique opportunities for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). Addressing these factors is critical for effectively supporting mental health needs across the state, especially given the high rates of anxiety, depression, and untreated mental health conditions.

Challenges

Geographic Isolation: With a vast territory and low population density, many Alaskans live in remote areas with limited access to in-person counseling services. This isolation often exacerbates mental health struggles, creating an urgent need for innovative solutions like telehealth.
Cultural Diversity: Alaska is home to numerous Indigenous communities, each with distinct traditions, languages, and approaches to mental health. Counselors may encounter difficulties in bridging cultural gaps without sufficient training in culturally sensitive practices.
Workforce Shortages: Despite Alaska ranking second for access to mental health services, the demand for LPCs still outpaces the supply. This creates an environment where counselors face high caseloads and may encounter burnout if adequate support systems aren’t in place.
Economic Barriers: For many Alaskans, financial constraints and lack of insurance can make counseling services inaccessible, particularly for underserved populations. LPCs often need to navigate systemic barriers to ensure clients receive necessary care.

Opportunities

Telehealth Expansion: Alaska has been a pioneer in using telehealth to connect counselors with clients in remote locations. This approach continues to evolve, providing LPCs with opportunities to develop their skills in virtual counseling platforms and reach underserved populations.
Collaboration with Indigenous Leaders: By working closely with Indigenous communities and leaders, counselors can integrate traditional practices with modern therapeutic techniques, fostering trust and improving mental health outcomes.
Specialized Training Programs: LPCs in Alaska can benefit from state-specific training on cultural competence, trauma-informed care, and crisis intervention to address the unique needs of their communities.
Addressing the Grief and Loss Crisis: Given the prevalence of suicide and sudden loss in Alaska, counselors specializing in grief therapy are in high demand. An aspiring LPC may explore the steps on how to become a grief counselor to build expertise in this critical area.

How can counselors and social workers collaborate to enhance client care in Alaska?

Counselors can leverage the complementary expertise of social workers to address clients’ multifaceted needs through integrated service delivery. Interprofessional collaboration allows for the pooling of insights from counseling practices and social work strategies, especially for clients facing complex social, economic, or cultural challenges. Understanding each profession’s unique pathways—such as reviewing how to become a social worker in Alaska—can help define clear roles, streamline referral processes, and promote holistic treatment models that benefit both practitioners and clients in Alaska.

How can I become a behavior analyst in Alaska?

The path to behavior analysis requires a focused academic track and specialized supervised experience distinct from traditional counseling. Applicants must complete a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis or a related field accredited by recognized bodies, followed by targeted practicum hours in behavioral intervention settings. This licensure process emphasizes data-driven techniques to assess and modify behavior, ensuring interventions are both ethical and measurable. For detailed guidance on the prerequisites, curriculum, and examination process, refer to how to become a behavior analyst in Alaska.

How can telehealth expand access to counseling services in Alaska?

Telehealth is emerging as a critical tool in Alaska’s vast and often remote regions, enabling counselors to reach underserved communities efficiently. By integrating secure digital platforms, professionals can offer timely consultations and continuous care while adhering to state-specific privacy and regulatory guidelines. This approach not only minimizes travel barriers but also supports flexible scheduling and improved client engagement. Counselors are advised to invest in specialized training on telehealth best practices and secure digital infrastructure to enhance service delivery. For a streamlined path to licensure that embraces innovative practice methods, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in Alaska.

How can school counseling support academic and mental health outcomes in Alaska?

School counselors in Alaska play a critical role in bridging educational success with robust mental health support. Their contributions include early identification of student challenges, implementation of targeted intervention strategies, and fostering a resilient academic environment. By collaborating with educators and community stakeholders, these professionals enhance student engagement and create proactive support systems that address local needs. For professionals aiming to diversify their impact within educational settings, exploring becoming a school counselor in Alaska offers a strategic pathway to further promote student well-being and academic achievement.

What are the latest updates in Alaska LPC license requirements?

Regulators and professional boards periodically refine licensure criteria, making it essential for counselors to monitor changes that affect both initial certification and ongoing practice standards. Recent updates include modifications to continuing education categories, adjustments in documentation standards for supervised practice, and enhanced guidelines for telehealth service delivery in remote areas. To remain compliant and ensure uninterrupted licensure, professionals are advised to routinely review state notices and consult key resources such as the Alaska LPC license requirements. Staying informed about these updates not only helps in maintaining best practices but also supports a proactive approach to risk management and professional development in Alaska’s evolving mental health landscape.

How do I get started with becoming a licensed counselor in Alaska?

To initiate the process of becoming a licensed counselor in Alaska, it is crucial to understand the prerequisites and steps involved. This includes meeting the educational requirements, completing the necessary supervised experience, and passing the required exams. For detailed information on how to become a licensed mental health counselor in Alaska, aspiring counselors can refer to reputable resources that outline the pathway to licensure and a successful counseling career in the state.

What differentiates psychologist licensure from counselor licensure in Alaska?

Psychologist licensure in Alaska follows a distinct pathway that emphasizes doctoral-level education, advanced clinical training, and specialized examinations unique to the field of psychology. This process requires candidates to complete an extensive research and practicum component and often involves a more rigorous evaluation of clinical competencies compared to the master’s-level focus utilized for counselor licensure. Such differentiation underscores the importance of choosing an educational trajectory aligned with one’s professional aspirations. For detailed requirements on the psychology track, explore how to become a psychologist in Alaska.

How can counselors integrate addiction recovery services into their practice in Alaska?

Counselors in Alaska can expand their service offerings by incorporating targeted strategies to address substance abuse, which remains a significant concern in the region. By undertaking specialized training in evidence-based treatments—such as motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy tailored for addiction—professionals can effectively support clients facing compounding mental health and substance use challenges. Collaborating with community organizations and engaging in integrated care models further enhances treatment outcomes across diverse settings. For professionals looking to diversify their practice, exploring careers in addiction recovery can offer additional insights and opportunities.

Are there financial incentives and support programs available for counselors in Alaska?

Counselors in Alaska may access several state-sponsored financial incentives aimed at alleviating the burdens of advanced education and initial practice costs. These include loan forgiveness programs for professionals serving in rural or underserved regions and scholarships specific to mental health and counseling. Additionally, grants and subsidized continuing education opportunities are available through state agencies and professional organizations to promote career development. Prospective counselors are encouraged to explore these resources to enhance their professional journey and ensure long-term financial stability, while reviewing options at good colleges for psychology in Alaska for institutions that integrate financial aid opportunities within their academic offerings.

What are the differences between marriage and family therapy and other counseling careers in Alaska?

When considering a career in counseling, it’s important to understand the specific pathways and professional distinctions between various types of therapists. One of the most frequently asked questions is, how to become a marriage and family therapist (MFT) in Alaska, and what sets this career apart from other counseling professions like Licensed Professional Counseling (LPC) or clinical psychology?

Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) is a specialized field focused on helping individuals, couples, and families address relational and psychological issues. Here are a few key differences and considerations for those contemplating whether MFT is the right path:

Specific Focus on Relationships and Family Dynamics: Marriage and family therapists specialize in treating relational issues within families and couples, including issues such as communication problems, conflict resolution, and family dynamics. This differentiates them from general therapists or LPCs, who may treat a broader range of mental health issues without a specific focus on family systems or relationships.
Different Educational Pathways: To become an MFT, professionals typically need to earn a master’s or doctoral degree in marriage and family therapy or a related field, followed by specialized clinical training. This contrasts with the more general degrees pursued by those looking to become LPCs or clinical psychologists.
Licensing and Certification Requirements: In Alaska, the process to become a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) differs from the process to become an LPC. While both require a graduate degree, MFT licensure typically involves completing supervised clinical hours specific to family and couples therapy, as well as passing an MFT-focused exam.
Focus on Preventative and Long-Term Care: Marriage and family therapy often involves long-term therapeutic work aimed at improving relationships over time. MFTs may work with clients in ongoing sessions to resolve deep-seated family issues or help prevent the escalation of relational problems.

Key Insights

High Mental Health Needs: In Alaska, 43.1% of adults showed signs of depression or anxiety in 2021, with 26.5% not receiving necessary treatment. Despite high access to mental health services, the demand for psychologists and counselors remains significant.
Promising Job Market: Alaska employs a diverse range of mental health professionals, including 1,270 mental health counselors and 450 guidance counselors. The state also posted 507 open jobs related to counseling recently.
Competitive Salaries: Mental health counselors in Alaska earn an average of $68,770 per year, which is higher than the national average of $56,230. Other counseling roles also offer competitive salaries compared to national averages.
Quality Education: The University of Alaska Anchorage has a 100% pass rate for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and a high licensure rate, indicating strong educational programs.
Educational Requirements: Becoming a licensed professional counselor in Alaska requires a graduate degree in counseling or a related field, completion of 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
License Maintenance: Licensed counselors in Alaska must complete 40 continuing education units every two years, including specific hours in professional ethics, suicidality, and cultural competency.

FAQ

1. What educational qualifications do I need to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska?

To become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska, you need to earn an undergraduate degree, followed by a graduate degree (master’s or doctorate) in counseling or a related field. The graduate program should include at least 60 semester hours of coursework.

2. How much supervised experience is required for licensure in Alaska?

You need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience in professional counseling, including at least 1,000 hours of direct counseling and 100 hours of in-person supervision by a licensed professional.

3. What exams do I need to pass to become a licensed counselor in Alaska?

You must pass either the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

4. How do I apply for a professional counselor license in Alaska?

To apply, you need to submit a completed application form, official transcripts, two recommendation letters, documentation of supervised experience, verification of passing an NBCC exam, a criminal justice report, and an application fee of $450 to the Alaska Board of Professional Counselors.

5. How often do I need to renew my counselor license in Alaska?

Counselor licenses in Alaska need to be renewed every two years. The renewal process includes submitting a renewal application, verification of continuing education units, and a renewal fee.

6. What continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal?

You must complete 40 continuing education units every two years, including at least 20 hours of seminars, workshops, or synchronous courses, three hours in professional ethics, three hours in suicidality, and three hours in cultural competency.

7. Are there any special requirements for out-of-state licensed counselors to practice in Alaska?

Alaska does not have reciprocity agreements with other states. Out-of-state counselors must apply for licensure in Alaska by meeting the state’s educational and supervised experience requirements and passing an NBCC exam.

8. What are the job prospects for licensed professional counselors in Alaska?

The job prospects are promising due to high demand for mental health services. Licensed counselors can expect competitive salaries and access to various high-paying positions in the state.

9. What are the benefits of becoming a licensed professional counselor in Alaska?

Benefits include access to high-paying roles, a broad spectrum of job opportunities, and the ability to meet the significant demand for mental health services in the state. Additionally, the relatively low competition due to Alaska’s smaller population can be advantageous.

10. Which institutions offer top psychology programs in Alaska?

Notable institutions include the University of Alaska Anchorage, Alaska Pacific University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and University of Alaska Southeast. These schools offer various undergraduate and graduate programs in psychology and counseling.

References:

Alaska Board of Professional Counselors (2023, September 12). Professional Counselor License Renewal. Alaska Board of Professional Counselors
America’s Health Rankings (2022). 2022 Annual Report. America’s Health Rankings
AMHCA. Frequently Asked Questions. AMHCA
ASPPB (2023). 2023 PsychologyLicensingExam Scores by Doctoral Program. ASPPB
BLS (2023a, April 25). 21-1012 Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors. BLS
BLS (2023b, April 25). 21-1015 Rehabilitation Counselors. BLS
BLS (2023c, April 25). 21-1018 Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors. BLS
BLS (2023d, September 21). Economy at a Glance Alaska. BLS
BLS (2023e, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Alaska. BLS
BLS (2023f, September 1). THE EMPLOYMENT SITUATION — AUGUST 2023. BLS
Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development of Alaska (2023, August). Statutes and Regulations Professional Counselors. Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development of Alaska
KFF (2023, February). Mental Health in Alaska. KFF
NAMI (2021, February). Mental Health in Alaska. NAMI
Zippia (2023, July 21). BEST COLLEGES AND MAJORS FOR LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS. Zippia