NBCC Supports the Counseling Compact

Through the Counseling Compact, the counseling community is on the threshold of significant change in the areas of licensure portability and continuity of client care. The Compact is a contract among states that will allow professional counselors who are licensed and residing in a Compact member state the privilege to practice in other Compact member states.

Portability of counseling licensure has a direct benefit to the clients counselors serve. The privilege to practice across state lines will expand the reach of each counselor and help to address the increasing need for mental health services. For military personnel and spouses, the Compact will alleviate some of the stress from relocating, allowing them to continue their services without interruption.

State legislators and regulators are committed to protecting the public and require that health professionals, including counselors, complete proper training through credible degree programs prior to practice. The Compact states retain the ability to regulate practice in their states. The states communicate and exchange information, including verification of licensure and disciplinary sanctions. 

The Compact will go into effect once it is enacted by law in at least 10 states. Currently, nine states have signed on to the Compact: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Maryland, Florida, Utah, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Maine, with legislation pending in 11 additional states. You can check the legislation status of your state on the National Center for Interstate Compacts.

NBCC is working with professional partners, state associations, and counselors across the United States to promote Compact legislation moving forward. We celebrate the success of counselors and state associations who have advocated for the Compact and licensure portability. Learn more and get engaged.