BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
1
Benchmark Professional Identity and Credentials
Nancy Jones
School of Mental Health Counseling, Liberty University
Author Note
Nancy Jones
I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Nancy Jones. Email:
nljones7@liberty.edu
Abstract
In this paper, I will provide information on the counseling licensing laws and challenges
that are faced with licensure portability, and how these two relate to professional identity. It is
unfortunate, that there are issues that hinder and prolong the acceptance of licensure between
the states. It can be a hardship for a counselor to provide for themselves and their family if they
should need to relocate. The laws that govern counselors along with the code of ethics are the
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
2
qualities that make a phenomenal counselor. Focusing on your ability and specialty rather than
your credentials is a better way to identify yourself as a counselor. Social workers and other
helping professionals have a standard for licensing which is the same throughout all states. This
paper will show that I am aware of the challenges/barriers that may hinder my ability to be a
successful professional counselor and I have identified the strategies to combat these
challenges/barriers. It will also show I have the knowledge to become a successful LMHC
Licensed Mental health counselor.
Keywords: Licensure, barriers, portability, advocacy, laws, counselors, professional
Benchmark Professional Identity and Credential Paper
The Importance of Professional Identity
The importance of professional identity is first understanding what counseling means.
Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and sculpting your
professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong among all
elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
3
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
4
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
5
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
6
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
7
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach
the goal, I am ready for it.
The importance of professional identity is first understanding what counseling means.
Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and sculpting your
professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong among all
elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
8
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
9
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
10
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
11
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
12
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
13
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
14
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
15
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
16
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
17
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
18
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
19
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
20
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
21
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
22
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
23
7 The importance of professional identity is first understanding what counseling means.
Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and sculpting your
professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong among all
elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
24
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
25
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
26
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
27
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
28
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
29
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
30
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
31
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
32
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
33
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
34
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
35
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
36
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
37
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
38
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
39
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it.
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
40
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
41
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
42
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
43
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
44
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
45
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
46
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
47
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
48
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
49
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
50
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
51
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
52
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
53
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
54
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
55
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
56
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
57
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
58
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
59
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
60
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
61
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
62
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
63
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
64
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
65
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
66
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
67
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
68
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
69
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
70
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
71
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
72
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
73
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
74
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
75
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
76
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
77
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
78
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
79
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
80
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
81
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
82
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
83
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
84
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
85
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
86
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
87
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
88
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
89
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
90
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
91
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
92
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
93
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
94
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
95
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
96
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
97
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
98
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
99
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
100
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
101
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
102
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
103
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
104
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
105
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
106
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
107
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
108
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
109
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
110
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
111
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
112
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
113
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
114
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
115
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
116
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
117
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
118
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
119
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
120
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
121
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
122
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
123
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
124
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
125
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
126
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
127
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
128
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
129
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
130
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
131
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
132
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
133
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
134
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
135
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
136
The importance of professional identity is first understanding what counseling means. Knowing
your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and sculpting your professional
identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong among all elements, the
mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise measurements, proper
curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the difference between what
a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career. “counseling is a
professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and groups to accomplish
mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this gives the client a clear
and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer. It is the ability to
empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the counselors' ability to be
effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers that the counselor may
need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of mentorship, continuing
education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
137
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
138
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
139
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
140
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
141
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
142
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
143
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
144
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
145
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
146
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
147
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
148
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the
goal, I am ready for it. The importance of professional identity is first understanding what
counseling means. Knowing your role as a counselor is extremely important to developing and
sculpting your professional identity. Look at it like a sculpture. For the sculpture to stand strong
among all elements, the mixture to create the masterpiece needs to be prepared with precise
measurements, proper curing time, and seal coated with the proper technique. Knowing the
difference between what a counselor is and isn’t can be detrimental to the counseling career.
“counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse, individuals, families, and
groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA 2010). this
gives the client a clear and concise picture of who the counselor is and what they have to offer.
It is the ability to empower others. Building a strong professional identity will ensure the
counselors' ability to be effective in their career as a mental health counselor. There are barriers
that the counselor may need to address. These barriers can be conquered with the use of
mentorship, continuing education, and guidelines that have been put in place by the ACA
American Counseling
Association for the professional counselor.
The Necessary Components of Professional Identity
Characteristics of a strong professional identity are composed of role transition,
socialization, and identity work. Role transition means that as counselors evolve as individuals,
their identity in their professionalism also evolves. Socialization means that where they
individual works may shape their identity. Identity work means the individuals' identity will be
built in parts as they grow. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
149
The construction of professional identity uses the components which are self-image,
social recognition, job satisfaction, social relations, attitude towards change, professional
competence, and expectation about the future profession. Self-image is the way counselors see
themselves. The way the counselor was brought up and how they view the world. Social
recognition happens with time. The professional will acquire this as they move from different
settings and experiences with others. The experiences with their co-workers, clients,
procedures an life events. Job satisfaction is determined by what the professional is willing to
accept as a sufficient place to work. They will need to determine if they are driven by salary,
workload, work environment, status, and benefits. Social relations in a department are
determined by the ability to work with or without their colleagues. Some professionals desire
to work alone which is unfortunate because a team is what makes the therapeutic environment
a success. Attitude toward change. Not everyone is subject to change. As the world evolves, so
will the issues and needs of the community. Resources and access to resources will change as
well. Being able to adapt to change is an important skill. Professional competence is the ability
to work at a professional level with counseling competency. This skill needs to be nurtured and
maintained throughout the counselor's career. Expectation about the future of professions
refer to how and where the counselor sees themselves. Along with how to set goals and obtain
what they will need to do to accomplish those goals. [ CITATION Ros20 \l 1033 ]
The Challenge for Professional Identity
With licensure, there can be a challenge moving to other states. This is because “In the
United States, professional counselors are licensed for independent practice in all 50 states;
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
150
however, each state has a different standard for counselor licensure” [ CITATION Ger16 \l 1033
]. This can be a problem for a counselor, especially if the move is not well planned.
Virginia was the first state to establish a counselor licensure law. [ CITATION Ger16 \l
1033 ]. The states differ in licensure because it took over 33 years for all 50 states to gain
licensure, so they all have different qualifications and requirements. This happened with (ACES)
Association for Counselor Education and Supervision with particular standards, CACREP has a
different set of standards, the American Personnel Guidance Association and the American
Counseling Association as well. Delegates could not come together when the ACA, CACREP,
American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB), Chi Sigma Iota, NBCC, and the
Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) to unify in a training model for all states to follow.
Professional Identity Plan
What are your motivators to becoming a professional counselor?
One of my motivating factors for becoming a mental health counselor is the lack of
LMHCs in my community. I suffered as a child because counseling was not available or
acceptable in my culture. In 2023 counseling is more accepted and recognized as being helpful
opposed to being shameful. However, there is a shortage of counselors in my community,
especially for African American children/teens. Children have suffered tremendously during
COVID. They were abruptly confined to their homes with just the Internet to communicate with
their peers, teachers, friends, and family member. Then they were forced to return to school
and adapt once again without counseling, guidance, and/or support. Many people lost loved
ones, remember loved ones dying alone, and were unable to pay their respects the way they
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
151
were used to doing it. All of this has affected society in an upsetting and uncomfortable
manner. The land needs healing. I am motivated to do my part, one state at a time.
My second motivator for being a counselor is the damaging effects society has on the
LGBTQ+ community. I want to be a voice for those that feel they have no voice. I want to be the
light of empowerment and sustainability.
What will you do to establish your identity as a counselor?
I will maintain my commitment to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics. I pride myself on
being fair and a justly individual. I will maintain up-to-date credentials, engage in continuing
education, gain knowledge on different cultures, maintain self-care, continue to evaluate my
worldview, and continue to be present and open-minded. I will engage in a counseling session
for my self-awareness and self-care.
Identify potential challenges that may present barriers to your success.
The potential barrier I feel that may be a barrier to my success is not being licensed or
able to obtain licensure in another state. I have goals to practice in several different states.
However, I plan to educate myself on the different licensure needed in the states I plan to work
in. Licensing is available in all 50 states [ CITATION Ann19 \l 1033 ]. I don’t feel I will have
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
7
any problems with the stages of licensing in other states. Whatever it takes to reach the goal, I
am ready for it.
State and website: New York State
https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/mental-
healthcounselors/license-requirements
What are the academic training The specific requirements for licensure are contained in Title 8, Article 163, Section 8402 of requirements: the
New York State Education Law andthe Commissioner of Education. To be licensed as a Mental Health Counselor in New Section 52.32 and Subpart 79-9 of the
Regulations of
(include the number of hours in York State you must: program; specific course
content/titles, and number of hours be of good moral character; in practicum/internship)
be at least 21 years of age;
• meet education requirements;
• meet experience requirements;
• meet examination requirements; and
• complete coursework or training in the identification and reporting of child
abuse offered by a New York State approved provider;
• registered by the Department as licensure qualifying;
• accredited as a clinical mental health counseling program of 60 semester hours
by the Commission on the Accreditation of Counseling Related Education
Programs
(CACREP) or another acceptable accrediting agency; or
• determined by the Department to be the substantial equivalent of such a
registered or accredited program.
What are requirements for post- In addition to verifying the required course content, the Department must determine if the
master’s supervised clinical applicant completed a supervised internship in mental health counseling and psychotherapy as part of the degree
program. This evaluation requires information that is not on the experience: transcript, so the applicant must ask the Chair or Director of the
academic department to (i.e., number of client contact hours, complete and submit a Certification of Supervised Internship and Practicum (Form
2INT). or MFT, number of relational hours); Failure to submit this form will delay the evaluation of the applicant's education and his/her
number of total hours; number of eligibility for a limited permit and admission to the licensing examination.this form is not required for graduates of
60 semester hour CACREP accredited clinical Please note that supervision hours; specific mental health counseling or NYS registered licensure
qualifying MHC programs. requirements of supervisor)
In addition to the professional education requirement, every applicant for Mental Health
Counseling licensure or a limited permit must complete coursework or training in the
identification and reporting of child abuse in accordance with Section 6507(3)(a) of the
Education Law. See additional information and a list of approved providers for this training.
To meet the experience requirement for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor, you must
submit documentation of completion of a supervised experience of at least 3,000 clock
hours providing Mental Health Counseling in a setting acceptable to the Department. The
supervised experience must be obtained after completion of the master’s degree program
required for licensure.LMH
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
153
What examination(s) are required: To meet the examination requirement for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor in New
What is licensure title:
(e.g., LPC, LCPC, LMHC, LMFT, etc. –
York State, you must pass the "National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination
(NCMHCE)," administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The
National Counselor Examination (NCE) from NBCC is not acceptable for licensure.
LMHC Licensed mental Health Counselor
State and website: New York State
https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/mental-
healthcounselors/license-requirements
please write out the full title as well A limited permit allows an individual who has submitted an Application for Licensure (Form
as initials): 1licensure as a Mental Health Counselor except the examination and/or experience ) and who, in the determination of the Department, has
satisfied all the requirements for
requirements to practice Mental Health Counseling under the appropriate supervision
while meeting the requirements.
Limited permits are only issued for specific practice sites in New York State under a qualified
supervisor acceptable to the Department. The setting must be authorized to employ
licensed professionals and provide services that are restricted under Title VIII of the
Education Law. Appropriate supervision and allowable practice sites are the same as those
for the experience requirements specified above. Effective January 1, 2006, one must be
licensed or otherwise exempt to practice Mental Health Counseling or supervise a permit
holder.
Is license tiered and if so, what are A limited permit until fully licensed titles
and requirements (e.g., LPC, LPC-S):
What is the scope of practice (i.e., Education Law defines the scope of practice of occupational therapy as: what can and cannot be
done by a
licensed professional): The functional evaluation of the client and the planning and utilization of a program of
purposeful activities to develop or maintain adaptive skills, designed to achieve maximal
Identify two counseling organizations you
wish to join.
physical and mental functioning of the patient in his
daily life tasks.
Your scope of practice sets the outside parameters of
your practice. Your scope of competence is, most
likely, a subset of your scope of practice. Your scope
of competence is comprised of those aspects of
occupational therapy in which you are competent.
Competence is based on the application of
knowledge, performance skills, interpersonal
abilities, critical reasoning skills and ethical reasoning
skills, as demonstrated in the performance of one's
professional role(s).
It is your responsibility to limit your practice to areas in which you have been trained and
educated, and with which you are familiar and competent.
A professional's scope of competence changes over time. You may, in fact, lose some areas
of competence as you acquire others. It is your professional and ethical responsibility to
know and respect your limits. Ongoing training and education will allow you to expand the
depth and breadth of your practice, within the statutory confines of the definition of your
profession. The reference to "occupation" in "occupational therapy" is taken in the context
of a person's use of time, energy, interest and attention. This encompasses a wide range of
learning and performance activities.
Amityville School District
New York State Office of Mental Health and Wellness
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
154
Reflections on Turnitin Results
I don’t understand how 50% of my paper has an overall similarity. There are so many
words that are similar just based on the questions. Some of my responses requires the exact
wording. Many of my own words show up as matches. As I thought about it, these words are
used by everyone.
Turnitin is used to deter writers from plagiarism. I don’t agree with it. I feel it is not
accurate. Many of us will have similar if not the same feelings, thoughts and opinions.
Conclusion
Licensure can be difficult when moving to a state that has requirements that are
different form the state where the original license was obtained. The best practice is to plan for
the licensure change. Do the research to save the frustration, it can be time consuming.
Professional identity will assist with challenges that counselors face daily or sporadically.
Enhancing professional identity can be an asset to being a phenomenal counselor.
Reference:
Anna Elliott, L. B., Gregory M. Elliott, B. J., Johnson, V., Lopez, A., & Elizabeth D. Horn, K. R.
(2019). Interstate Licensure Portability: Logistics and Barriers for Professional
Counselors. The Professional Counselor, 252-266.
BENCHMARK PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDNTIALS
155
Association, A. C. (2014). ACA Code of Ethics. Alexandria.
Lawson, G., & heather C. Trepal, R. W. (2016). Advocating for Educational Standards in
Counsling Licensure Laws. The American Counseling Association, 162-176.
Montemayorr, R. N., Elizondo-Leal, J. A., Ramirez, Y. A., & Lopez, X. C. (2020). Understanding the
dimensions of a strong-professional identity: a study of faculty developers in medical
education. MEDICAL EDUCATION ONLINE, 1-7.
Simmons, R., Lilley, S., & Kuhnley, A. (2020). Introduction to Counseling: Integration of Faith,
Professional Identity and Clinical Pracice. Dubuque: Kendall Hunt.
