Introduction

This article aims to provide an overview of the definitions and roles of mental health counselors according to the guidelines from North Carolina, the American Counseling Association (ACA), and a recognized clinical mental health counseling textbook.

North Carolina Guidelines

According to the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (NCBLCMHC):

This board oversees the licensing of various categories of mental health counselors, including:

• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associates (LCMHCAs)
• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (LCMHCs)
• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisors (LCMHCSs)

> “Unless exempt for licensure under NC GS Article 24 § 90–332.1, any person engaged in the practice of counseling in the state of North Carolina must be actively licensed by the Board.” — NCBLCMHC

It is important to note that this board does not certify psychologists or social workers, as their professional roles differ from those of counselors. Individuals with a mental health-related degree can become LCMHCAs after passing the licensure exam in North Carolina.

What is Counseling?

As per NC General Statutes § 90–330(a)(3), the practice of counseling in North Carolina entails representing oneself publicly as a clinical mental health counselor who provides a variety of counseling services, including:

1. Counseling — Supporting individuals, groups, and families in understanding and addressing mental disorders through a combination of clinical principles, methods, and psychotherapeutic techniques aimed at setting goals and planning actions that align with the client's needs.
2. Appraisal Activities — Administering and interpreting tests to evaluate personal characteristics.
3. Consulting — Analyzing scientific data to provide guidance to individuals, groups, or organizations.
4. Referral Activities — Identifying issues that require referral to other specialists.
5. Research Activities — Conducting research involving human subjects.

American Counseling Association (ACA)

The ACA is a professional and educational nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the counseling profession. Established in 1952, it is the largest association exclusively representing professional counselors across various settings.

> “Counseling — a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (ACA, 2014).

Key ethical principles that guide professional behavior include:

• Autonomy: Supporting individuals' rights to direct their own lives.
• Nonmaleficence: Avoiding actions that may cause harm.
• Beneficence: Promoting mental health and well-being for individuals and society.
• Justice: Ensuring fair and equitable treatment.
• Fidelity: Upholding commitments and trust in professional relationships.
• Veracity: Maintaining honesty in professional interactions.

Textbook Insights

In the publication "Introduction to Counseling: Integration of Faith, Professional Identity, and Clinical Practice," the following definition of counseling is presented:

> “Counseling — a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals” (Lilley, et al., 2020).

Additionally, the emergence of neuroscience is noted as an evolving trend within counseling practices.

Conclusion

A significant aspect many overlook is the specialization of counselors in career guidance. The distinctions between a life coach and a counselor include:

• Counselors are accredited by recognized licensing bodies.
• Life coaches may vary in qualifications, with some lacking formal training.
• Counselors must renew their licenses annually.
• The field of counseling has undergone an identity development process.

It is noteworthy that many professionals, including those earning substantial incomes, often seek the support of counselors to maintain alignment with their life goals and realities.

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References

1. ACA Code of Ethics. (2014). Retrieved from https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/ethics/2014-aca-code-of-ethics.pdf?sfvrsn=fde89426_9
2. Counseling | North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors. (n.d.). Retrieved June 3, 2023, from https://www.ncblcmhc.org/boardinfo/counseling
3. Simmons, R. T., Lilley, S., & Kuhnley, A. (2020). Introduction to Counseling: Integration of Faith, Professional Identity, and Clinical Practice. Kendall Hunt.
4. What is a Counselor? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.counseling.org/about-us/what-is-a-counselor