1. Program Definition and Services 

Counseling and mental health services in Michigan encompass a wide range of interventions aimed at promoting mental health wellness, including psychotherapy, diagnosis, treatment planning, and prevention techniques. These services are provided to individuals, couples, families, and groups across various settings, such as private practices, community clinics, and hospitals. 

2. Regulations 

Key regulations governing counseling and mental health services include: 

• Michigan Public Health Code: Defines the practice of counseling and outlines licensing requirements for professionals. 

• Michigan Administrative Code: Specifies standards for professional conduct and ethics. 

• HIPAA and Confidentiality Laws: Ensure client confidentiality and privacy. 

3. Licensing or Certification 

To operate as a counseling and mental health provider in Michigan, professionals typically need to be licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The process involves obtaining a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) license first, which allows practice under supervision while accumulating the required experience for full licensure. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Michigan Board of Counseling, part of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), is responsible for issuing counseling licenses. 

5. Application Process 

The application process involves submitting forms through the Michigan Professional Licensing User System (MiPLUS). This includes applying for an LLPC license to begin supervised practice, followed by applying for an LPC license after completing the required experience and passing the necessary examinations. 

6. Required Documentation 

• Official Transcripts: Verifying completion of a master's or doctoral degree in counseling from an accredited institution. 

• Certification of Counseling Education: Form submitted by the educational institution. 

• Supervised Experience Verification: Documentation of 3,000 hours of post-degree counseling experience. 

• Examination Scores: Passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). 

• Professional Disclosure Statement: Required for licensure, detailing practice information and client rights. 

• Background Check: Mandatory as part of the application process. 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The approval timeline varies depending on the completeness of the application and specific requirements. Generally, it can take several months to complete the entire process. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

Prospective counselors must first complete their education and then apply for an LLPC license to begin supervised practice. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly mandated as a pre-application requirement, counselors must complete a practicum or internship as part of their graduate program. This provides essential clinical experience before entering supervised practice. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Continuing Education: LPCs must complete continuing education requirements for license renewal. 

• Ethical Standards: Providers must adhere to the American Counseling Association's Code of Ethics.