PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
Abstract
Developing and maintaining a professional identity is an important aspect of the counseling field.
The integration of this identity is imperative to the profession of counseling, as it ensures
continued education, advocacy, and improvement for future professionals. Integrating the
definition of counseling, as well as the interpersonal attitudes, values, and understanding the
activities of the profession may be the basis of a professional identity, but the lack cohesive
education and licensure requirements across state lines hinders the development and growth
within the profession.
Keywords: professional identity, counseling, education and licensure requirements
2
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
Professional Identity and Credential
The journey of recognizing one’s personal identity as a counselor is of upmost
importance as it is imperative to a sense of belonging, allegiance, competency, and allows one to
understand the specifics regarding the profession and professional framework of a counselor.
The prominence of developing and maintaining a professional identity, as well as the essential
characteristics and challenges of developing and maintain one’s professional identity will further
be discussed. While an identity is formed through the integration of the values of the profession,
it is also difficult to develop and maintain this identity due to the struggles that one may face
through identifying as a counselor and obtaining the proper licenses and certifications to practice
as a licensed counselor (Simmons et al., 2020).
Summary
The Importance of Professional Identity
Identifying and obtaining a professional identity is an important first step in any career,
however it is extremely important within the field of professional counseling. Not only does it
allow a sense of belonging and cohesiveness, but it also ensures that one is able to advocate,
provide guidance through research and study, and support the wellbeing of clients, as well as
defending the people who are served through this specific mental health field (Simmons et al.,
2020). It is also crucial to have and hold a professional identity as it is an important piece in the
journey of not only maintaining the current path of the career field, but ensuring it is evolving for
future professionals, and a lack of an identity can and will play a negative role in the up-and-
coming leaders within the profession (McKinney et al., 2018).
Incorporating one’s professional identity is imperative as it not only allows a
professional the ability to explain their career field, but it also incorporates a sense of
3
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
community, improves allegiance, aids in proficiency, and provides a structure to both the person
and the professional community. When considering what plays a role in the making of a
professional identity, it is important to recognize that it is only developed after the attitudes,
values, and activities of the profession are integrated into one’s character. Becoming involved in
professional associations, understanding the rules and regulations of a profession, as well as
ensuring there is a standardization of core values and training, enhances the ease and ability of
obtaining this identity, and maintain it throughout one’s career (Simmons et al., 2020).
The Necessary Components for Professional Identity
Regarding the importance of professional identity in the mental health field, and more
specifically in the field of counseling, understanding the definition of counseling is the first step.
According to the American Counseling Association (2010), “Counseling is a professional
relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental
health, wellness, education and career goals.” After comprehending this definition, counselors
must also have the awareness that the client holds the ability to internally find success through
counseling (Simmons et al., 2020). Holding this belief and ensuring it is integrated into one’s
personal self allows for the interpersonal psychological component that is imperative to the
development of this identity (McKinney et al., 2018).
After having a grasp on the interpersonal side of developing a professional identity, the
next important parts is having an understanding of the historical and philosophical framework of
counseling. Understanding how the field of counseling was originally developed, and the
contributors and growth that the career field has gone through not only provides knowledge, but
also provides a sense of appreciation of the work that is being done, and that will continue to be
done in the future. With the importance of understanding how the field of counseling was
4
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
formed, the significance of the role of counselors, and identifying the methods in which it is
similar and unique from other mental health professions, as well has the pride that comes with
being a counselor and becoming involved in professional associations and knowledgeable about
the specific ethics and laws that apply to the career field are all important aspects to the
development of one’s professional identity (McKinney et al., 2018).
The Challenges to Professional Identity
Once an understanding of the importance and the necessary components required to
identity and develop a professional identity, one must recognize that there will be challenges to
this process. While a lack of a professional identity may cause failure to feel included, the
inability to relate to other mental health professionals, and cause issues once it is time to enter
the professional world (McKinney et al., 2018), the failure to accurately identify what it means to
be a counselor to the public, it should also be noted the lack of cohesiveness in both educational
programs and licensing requirements are detrimental to the development of this identity
(Simmons et al., 2020).
Due to the common usage of the word “counselor” and the non-clinical roles this term is
used in, the identity associated with this title has suffered. Using the term therapist, instead of
mental health counselor, as so many professionals due, has shown a lack of professional identity
in one’s field, and therefore hindered the growth and knowledge of just what role professional
counselors play in the field of mental health. While this may be common in current
professionals, a healthy development and acceptance of the title, through personal reflection and
mindfulness (Simmons et al., 2020).
Another challenge faced in the field, is the lack of cohesiveness in not only education
programs across the country, but the licensing requirements which have been shown to greatly
5
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
differ across state lines. It has been noted that merely the definition of the term counselor and the
titles of the licenses that differ not only cause an issue in one’s professional identity, but also in
the ability to move or transfer practice from one location to another. The differences in the
education requirements, such as which specific courses are required, if an accredited program,
such as a CACREP program is the standard, and the different exam and supervisor requirements
all cause a variety of issues. The failure to begin practicing upon moving to a new location can
cause financial stress, due to the delay in completing an in-depth application, the extra exam
costs that may have not been required in a prior state, as well as compiling licensure
documentation and more supervised and unpaid clinical hours can cause undue stress on new and
seasoned professionals alike (Elliot et al., 2019).
Professional Identity Development Plan
After reflecting and meditating on why this specific career path was chosen, something
that stuck out from the beginning, has always been the desire to serve others. As someone who
has struggled and obtained assistance from professionals currently in the field and seeing the
difference between someone who is dedicated to enabling the client to reflect and recognized that
the ability to be better is within oneself, is something that is valued and respected. Being able to
make an impact and change in someone’s life and play a role in helping someone become better
for themselves, and those around them, is something that is held in a high regard, and a reason
why this path was chosen.
Being involved in professional organizations is something that I currently do in my
current career field. I know that getting involved in professional organizations that are related to
the specific area I want to work in, such as the International Association of Addictions and
Offender Counselors, will help me better have an understanding on the current happenings and
6
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
up and coming research dedicated specifically to addictions and recovery. Finding a mentor,
speaking with others who are currently in the field, and finding a shadowing opportunity, while I
am still pursuing my education, is something that I aim to obtain, which will further allow me the
ability to recognize who I want to be and the group of people I want to help.
A barrier I foresee in my future, in the educational realm, is the ability to complete
shadowing opportunities as I wish. As a current full-time, active-duty member of the Air Force, I
have worried that I will not be able to obtain the opportunities I wish to have, due to my work
schedule. Despite this worry, I have spoken with my leadership, and ensured they are aware of
my future goals and plans and have mentioned the opportunity to shadow. If I am not given the
time from work, I will take the time off as chargeable leave, and pursue what I know will be best
for my future on my own. I will also continue to advocate for myself and my plans and goals,
and ensure that my wishes are respected, and that the mission can still be accomplished if I am
not present.
7
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State Credential Plan
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
What are the academic training
requirements:
(include the number of hours in
program; specific course content/titles,
and number of hours in
practicum/internship)
Mental Health Practice:
If the educational program is not accredited by one of the
following organizations:
a. The Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and
Family Therapy Education
b. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and
Related Educational Programs,
c. The Council on Rehabilitation Education, The
Council on Social Work Education,
d. The American Psychological Association for a
doctoral degree program enrolled in by a person who
has a master's degree or its equivalent in psychology.
Then evidence must be provided showing it meets the
following requirements:
1. At least 60 graduate semester hours, if less than 60
hours, additional hours can be attained to equal 60.
8
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
Additional hours must be graduate
2. A mental health-focused supervisor practicum or
internship, including 300 clock hours or direct client
contact under a qualified supervisor, at minimum.
3. Mental health practice must be the emphasis of the
program, and coursework in theories and techniques,
professional ethics, assessment techniques, human
growth and development, research and evaluation, and
social and cultural diversity. A single course cannot
be used to fulfill more than one area.
4. Coursework must meet the following requirements: at
least 9 semester or 12 quarter hours in theories and
techniques, at least 3 semester or 4.5 quarter hours in
each of the following: professional ethics, assessment
techniques, human growth and development, research
and evaluation, and social and cultural diversity.
9
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
What are requirements for post-
master’s supervised clinical experience:
(i.e., number of client contact hours, or
MFT, number of relational hours);
number of total hours; number of
supervision hours; specific requirements
of supervisor)
In general, supervisors must focus on the raw data provided
by the applicant directly to the supervisor through either
written clinical materials, direct observation of the applicant,
and/or recordings by either audio or video. The supervisee
must be able to explain the diagnosis and treatment of clients,
discuss client cases, and ethical principles, as well as be
provided oversight and guidance regarding client services.
Supervisors must also ensure they are not supervising more
than 6 supervisees at one time.
Regarding specific mental health practice supervision, review
of client records, case conferences, direct observation or
video observation must also be included, as well as a
minimum of 1 hour per week of face-to-face evaluations
between supervisor and supervisee.
Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP)
are required to obtain 3,000 hours of supervised experience;
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) are required to
obtain 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and half of these
hours must have had direct client contact, while the other half
10
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
included a review of client records, direct observation or
video observation; Licensed Independent Mental Health
Practitioner (LIMHP) are required to obtain 3,000 hours of
experience by a supervised licensed physician, licensed
psychologist or a LIMHP.
What examination(s) are required:
Mental Health Practitioner or Independent Mental Health
Practitioner:
1. The National Board of Certified Counselor's National
Counselor Examination (NBCC/NCE);
2. The National Board of Certified Counselor’s National
Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination
(NBCC/NCMHCE);
3. The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor
Examination (CRC);
4. The Examination for Professional Practice in
Psychology (EPPP); or
5. Any other examination determined by the Board to be
equivalent.
11
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
What is licensure title:
(e.g., LPC, LCPC, LMHC, LMFT, etc. –
please write out the full title as well as
initials):
Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP)
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP)
Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)
Is license tiered and if so, what are titles
and requirements (e.g., LPC, LPC-S):
Provisionally Licensed Mental Health Practitioner
(PLMHP)
oSubmit an official transcript, directly from issuing
institution, used to ensure completion of a master’s,
doctoral, or a master’s degree equivalent
oDegree must have been completed at a program that
meets requirements in 172 NAC 94-007
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP)
oSubmit documentation of education requirements being
met, as listed in 172 NAC 94-007
oDocumentation of required supervised experience, as
required in Neb. Rev. Stat. § 38-2122. These hours
12
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
must have been earned while holding a PLMHP license
oThe examination Entity or another state licensing board
or agency must submit documentation of passing the
examination listed in 172 NAC 94-010.
Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner
(LIMHP)
oMust hold a PLMHP lor LMHP license
oCompleted application, as provided by the Nebraska
Department of Health and Human Services
oThe examination Entity or another state licensing board
or agency must submit documentation of passing the
examination listed in 172 NAC 94-010.
oProof of completed supervised experience verified by
an affidavit signed by a supervisor, as stated in Neb.
Rev. Stat §38-2124
13
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
What is the scope of practice (i.e., what
can and cannot be done by a licensed
professional):
As defined by the Nebraska Revised Statute 38-2115, “mental
health practice is the facilitation of treatment, assessment,
psychotherapy, counseling or equivalent activities to
individuals, couples, families, or groups for behavioral,
cognitive, social, mental, or emotional disorders, including
interpersonal or personal situations. It does not include the
practice of medicine, psychology, prescribing drugs or
electroconvulsive therapy, or the treatment of physical
disease, injury, or deformity. Major mental illness or disorder,
except in consultation with a qualified physician or
psychologist. The measuring of personality or intelligence for
diagnosis or treatment planning, the usage of psychotherapy
with individuals who have suspected major mental or
emotional disorders, or the usage of psychotherapy to treat
the concomitants of organic illnesses. This practice does
include the initial assessment or organic mental or emotional
disorders for the purpose of referral or consultation (Nebraska
Legislature, 2021).”
14
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
State and website:
Nebraska:
https://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/He
alth_and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/
Chapter-094.pdf
Identify two counseling organizations
you wish to join.
National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse
Counselors (NAA-DAC)
Association for Humanistic Counseling (AHC)
Summary and Reaction to Turnitin Report
Upon obtaining the Turnitin Report, I was presently surprised to see that it stated 40% of
the paper was like other papers. However, after reviewing the actual report, I saw that the
similarity came from other student submissions amongst a variety of universities. I did not have
any word for word statements, except for what had been cited accordingly. This report just
shows that I was able to accurately pull the same information that is required from this paper,
just as students have in the past.
Conclusion
Developing and maintaining a professional identity is a crucial part of becoming a
counselor. Understanding the importance of why a professional identity is vital, while also
understanding the specific components of the professional identity are the two start points at
developing something so important. Also having a grasp on the challenges that may come along
with this process will not only provide one with insight into just how the profession can improve,
15
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
but also be a motivator on advocating for the career field not only currently, and but in the future
as well.
16
PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY AND CREDENTIAL
References
American Counseling Association. (2010).IConsensus definition of
counseling.Ihttps://www.counseling.org/about-us/about-aca/20-20-a-
vision-for-the-future-of-counseling/consensus-definition-of-counseling
Elliott,IA., Bohecker,IL., Elliott,IG.IM., Townsend,IB.IJ., Johnson,IV., Lopez,IA., Horn,IE.ID., &
Roach,IK. (2019). Interstate licensure portability: Logistics and barriers for professional
counselors.IThe Professional Counselor,I9(3), 252-
266.Ihttps://doi.org/10.15241/ae.9.3.252
McKinney,IR., West,IE., Fye,IM., Bradley,IR., & Storlie,IC.IA. (2018). CHI sigma iota chapter
faculty advisors’ experiences of professional counselor identity.IJournal of Counselor
Leadership and Advocacy,I5(1), 56-
70.Ihttps://doi.org/10.1080/2326716x.2017.1422995
Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. (2021).IProfessional and organizational
licensureI(172 NAC
94).Ihttps://www.nebraska.gov/rules-and-regs/regsearch/Rules/Health_
and_Human_Services_System/Title-172/Chapter-094.pdf
Nebraska Legislature. (2021, July 21).INebraska Revised Statute 38-
2115.Ihttps://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=38-
2115
Simmons,IR.IT., Lilley,IS.IC., & Kuhnley,IA.IM. (2020).IIntroduction to counseling: Integration
of faith, professional identity, and clinical practice. Kendall Hunt Publishing Company.
17
