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Both are NBCC exams used for counselor licensure, and the right one depends on
your state. The short version: the NCE is a multiple-choice test of counseling knowledge,
while the NCMHCE uses clinical case simulations.
NCE vs NCMHCE at a glance
| NCE | NCMHCE | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 200 multiple-choice questions | Clinical case simulations |
| Measures | Broad counseling knowledge | Clinical decision-making (assessment, diagnosis, treatment) |
| Awarding body | NBCC | NBCC |
| Common use | NCC certification & licensure (many states) | Clinical licensure (LPC/LMHC) in many states |
Which one should you take?
- Start with your state board. Some states require the NCMHCE for clinical
licensure; others accept the NCE. Your board’s requirement decides it. - Choose the NCE for the National Certified Counselor credential and in states that
accept it for licensure. - Choose the NCMHCE where clinical licensure specifically requires the
case-simulation exam.
Confirm with your licensing board first — then prepare with timed, scenario-based practice.
Unlock 1,400+ NCE practice questions across 11 full-length simulators — $19.99 lifetime →
Sources & references
The exam facts on this page are drawn from official certifying-body materials, reviewed 2026-06-18 by the DrCertifications exam-prep team (10+ years in exam preparation and publishing).