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South Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners
Frequently Asked Questions
Can people be counselors without a license?
No they cannot. A mandatory practice law has been in effect since July 1, 2007. No one is allowed by law to do professional counseling for a fee without a mental health license or if they fall into these categories as outlined in this Statute http://legis.state.sd.us/statutes/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=36-32-12. Someone who has been practicing professional counseling as defined in Statute 36-32-1(5) for at least 10 years may be eligible for the LPC by Exemption as outlined in Statute http://legis.state.sd.us/statutes/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=36-32-13.2.
No they cannot. A mandatory practice law has been in effect since July 1, 2007. No one is allowed by law to do professional counseling for a fee without a mental health license or if they fall into these categories as outlined in this Statute http://legis.state.sd.us/statutes/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=36-32-12. Someone who has been practicing professional counseling as defined in Statute 36-32-1(5) for at least 10 years may be eligible for the LPC by Exemption as outlined in Statute http://legis.state.sd.us/statutes/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&Statute=36-32-13.2.
Is the information I hear in my agency or from my peers accurate information about licensing?
Not necessarily. Only the licensing board office has the most current and accurate information -
to be safe, call them.
How do I get the LPC?
In brief, you must have at least a 48 masters degree in counseling from an accredited
institution, 2000 hours post-graduate supervised experience, 100 hours supervision with a
board approved supervisor, and pass the National Counselor Examination.
How do I get the LPC-MH?
In brief, you must first hold the LPC, have completed at least 2000 hours of Direct Client Contact, 100 hours of supervision with a board approved supervisor, complete the necessary coursework, and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination.
How do I get the QMHP?
Call the SD Division of Mental Health in Pierre at 605/773-5991.
How do I reach the SD Social Work or Psychology board?
Call their board in Spearfish at 605/642-1600.
How do I file a complaint against a counselor?
First, either go the List of Licensees on our website to see if the counselor is
licensed or call the board office and we'll check to see if they hold our license.
If not, we will refer you to other licensing boards. And if so, we will explain
our complaint procedure and provide you with the necessary form to complete. Also,
the Complaint Form can be found on our website.
How do I know whether the continuing education program I want to attend is
approved to meet my renewal requirements?
Look in the promotional material for the mention of approval entities like NBCC, APA,
NASW, CCRC, AAMFT, or BCE. If still in question, call the sponsor and question them
whether they have the required approval.
Can I attend a seminar and ask the Board for approval afterwards?
Yes; if you submit the form, required information and fee within 30 days after the
continuing education program, the Board will consider approval of the individual
counselor's request for continuing education hours.
What if I don't renew my license on time?
There's an automatic $50 late penalty and quite possibly other issues. Contact the
board office immediately to find out what's required.
