Section 1375.10  Definitions

 

"Act" means the Professional Counselor and Clinical Professional Counselor Licensing and Practice Act [225 ILCS 107].

 

"Board" means the Professional Counselor Licensing and Disciplinary Board.

 

"Clinical Supervision", "Supervision" or "Face-to-Face Supervision" means the review of counseling and case management that is live, interactive, and visual.  Video supervision is considered clinical supervision if the session is synchronous and permits verbal and visual interaction during supervision.  All supervision shall be conducted in a confidential manner in accordance with the American Counseling Association's ACA Code of Ethics and Mental Health and the Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act [740 ILCS 110].

 

"Division" means the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Professional Regulation.

 

(Source:  Repealed at 24 Ill. Reg. 7335, effective May 1, 2000; new Section added at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.20  How to Obtain a Permanent License as a Professional Counselor After Receiving a Temporary License (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 24 Ill. Reg. 7335, effective May 1, 2000)

 

Section 1375.30  Application for Licensure by Examination as a Professional Counselor

 

a)         Each applicant seeking original licensure under Section 35 of the Act shall file an application with the Division, on forms provided by the Division.  The application shall include:

 

1)         Certification of education from a master's degree program or doctoral degree program in counseling, psychology or rehabilitation counseling from a college, university or school that is a regionally accredited institution of higher education and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or certification of education and an official transcript from a similar master's degree or doctoral degree program in accordance with Section 1375.45.

 

2)         The required fee set forth in Section 1375.205.

 

3)         If originally licensed in another jurisdiction, certification of licensure, on forms provided by the Division, from the state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States in which an applicant was originally licensed and the state in which the applicant predominantly practices and is currently licensed, if applicable, stating:

 

A)        The time during which the applicant was licensed in that jurisdiction, including the date of the original issuance in that jurisdiction;

 

B)        A description of the examination in that jurisdiction; and

 

C)        Whether the file on the applicant contains any record of disciplinary actions taken or pending.

 

b)         Proof of holding one of the following certifications (based upon examination) shall be sufficient evidence of meeting the educational requirements set forth in Section 1375.45(a).

 

1)         Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRC); or

 

2)         National Certified Counselors (NCC).

 

c)         When the accuracy of any submitted documentation or the relevance or sufficiency of the coursework or experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure shall be requested to:

 

1)         Provide such information as may be necessary; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to explain such relevance or sufficiency, clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

d)         Applicant shall provide proof of passage of the examination in accordance with Section 1375.60.  The applicant shall have the examination scores submitted to the Division directly from the testing entity or from the state of original licensure.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.40  Professional Experience for Licensure as a Professional Counselor after December 31, 1998 (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375.45  Required Education for Professional Counselor License

 

a)         The educational requirements for licensure as a licensed professional counselor are as follows:

 

1)         Certification of completion of a master's degree program or a doctoral degree program in counseling, psychology, or rehabilitation counseling from a college, university or school that is a regionally accredited institution of higher education and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or certification of education and an official transcript from a similar master's degree program or doctoral degree program in accordance with this Section;

 

2)         The programs, wherever they may be administratively housed, must be clearly identified and labeled as offering counseling, rehabilitation counseling, psychology programs, or similar degree programs.  Such a program must specify in institutional catalogues and brochures its intent to educate and train counselors;

 

3)         The program is an organizational entity within the institution;

 

4)         The program has an integrated, organized sequence of study;

 

5)         The program must be at least 2 academic years in length and require an individual to graduate from a program with a minimum of 48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours with a minimum of one course ("course" is defined as 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours equivalent) in each of the areas listed in this subsection (a)(5).  The definition of a minimum of one course means that the objectives and content of one course cannot be used to meet the objectives and content of another course.  (See Appendix A (Course Descriptions) for a definition of the subject content for each core area with examples of course titles that relate to each of the core content areas.)

 

A)        Human Growth and Development

 

B)        Counseling Theory

 

C)        Counseling Techniques

 

D)        Group Dynamics, Processing and Counseling

 

E)        Appraisal of Individuals

 

F)         Research and Evaluation

 

G)        Professional, Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Relating to Professional Counseling

 

H)        Social and Cultural Foundations

 

I)         Lifestyle and Career Development

 

J)         Practicum/Internship

 

K)        Psychopathology and Maladaptive Behavior

 

L)        Addictions

 

M)       Family Dynamics;

 

6)         Through June 30, 2026, individuals that graduated from a program that requires at least 39 semester hours but less than 48 semester hours may take additional classes post-degree in a regionally accredited counseling program that issues degrees acceptable for licensure under this Part, or as approved by the Board.  Programs that require less than 39 semester hours of education to receive a degree will not be accepted for the purpose of licensure.

 

7)         Beginning July 1, 2026, individuals applying for licensure shall graduate from a program with a minimum of 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours with a minimum of one course ("course" is defined as a minimum of 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours equivalent) in each of the core areas listed in subsection (a)(5).  Individuals graduating from a program that requires at least 39 semester hours but less than 60 semester hours may take additional classes post-degree in a regionally accredited counseling program that issues degrees acceptable for licensure under this Part, or as approved by the Board.  Programs that require less than 39 semester hours of education to receive a degree shall not be acceptable for the purpose of licensure.  Programs with evidence of fewer than 7 of the 13 required core areas listed in subsection (a)(5) will not be accepted for the purposes of licensure.

 

8)         The program has faculty responsible for the program and has a sufficient number of full-time instructors to make certain that the educational obligations to the student are fulfilled;

 

9)         The program has an identifiable body of students who are matriculated in that program for a degree;

 

10)       The program has a one-year residence.  Residence requires completion of courses at a single institution's program.  One year's residence is defined as 24 semester hours taken on a full-time or part-time basis at the institution accumulated within the time frame and course of study of the program.  Beginning July 1, 2026, one year's residence semester hour requirement is 30 semester hours.

 

b)         For the purpose of this Section, course shall be defined as an integrated, organized course of study that encompasses a minimum of one school semester or equivalent hours.  No student designed courses, self-study courses, independent study courses, workshops, or continuing education courses may be used to satisfy the core courses.

 

c)         Upon recommendation of the Board, the Division determined that all master's degree and doctoral programs in professional counseling or rehabilitation counseling that are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), the Council on Rehabilitation Education (CORE) and doctoral programs in psychology approved by the American Psychological Association and the Council for the National Registry of Health Service Providers are approved programs.

 

d)         Individual Program Requirements:

 

1)         Individuals applying for licensure as a professional counselor who have not graduated from a program listed in subsection (c) shall submit their official transcripts and program materials to the Division for evaluation by the Board to determine if they meet the requirements of this Section.

 

2)         Individuals applying for licensure who are deficient in any of the content areas set forth in subsection (a)(5) may complete any content area deficiencies in a graduate counseling, rehabilitation counseling, psychology, or similar degree program.  No student designed courses, self-study courses, independent study courses, workshops, or continuing education courses may be used to satisfy the core courses.  The applicant will be required to submit proof to the Division that the applicant has passed such courses.  The proof shall include syllabi, course descriptions and official transcript.

 

e)         The Board may, as a means of assisting it in the review of foreign country training or licensure, require an applicant to submit educational training credentials and transcripts and/or evidence of licensure to an approved education credentialing service or similar service approved by the Board for evaluation at the cost to the applicant.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.50  Approved Professional Counseling Programs (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375.60  Examination – Professional Counselor

 

a)         The examination administered by the Division for licensure as a professional counselor shall be the National Counselor Examination (NCE) of the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).  The passing score on the examination shall be the passing score established by the testing entity.

 

b)         The Division also shall accept passage of the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination of the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC).  The passing scores on the examinations shall be the passing scores established by the testing entity.

           

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375.70  Application for Licensure by Endorsement as a Professional Counselor

 

a)         Each applicant seeking licensure under Section 70 of the Act shall file an application with the Division on forms provided by the Division.  The application shall include:

 

1)         Certification of completion of a master's degree program or a doctoral degree program in counseling, psychology, or rehabilitation counseling from a college, university or school that is a regionally accredited institution of higher education and recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or certification of education and an official transcript from a similar master's degree program or doctoral degree program in accordance with Section 1375.45;

 

2)        Successful completion of the professional counselor examination set forth in Section 1375.60;

 

3)         The required fee set forth in Section 1375.205;

 

4)         Certification, on forms provided by the Division, from the state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States in which the applicant was originally licensed and the state or jurisdiction in which the applicant is currently licensed, if applicable, stating:

 

A)        The time during which the applicant was licensed in that jurisdiction, including the date of the original issuance of the license;

 

B)        A description of the examination in that jurisdiction; and

 

C)        Whether the file on the applicant contains any record of disciplinary actions taken or pending.

 

b)         When the accuracy of any submitted documentation or the relevance or sufficiency of the coursework or experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure shall be requested to:

 

1)         Provide such information as may be necessary; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to explain such relevance or sufficiency, clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.80  Restoration of License as a Professional Counselor

 

a)         Any professional counselor whose license has expired or has been placed on inactive status for five years or less may have the license restored by filing the form provided by the Division and paying the fees required by Section 1375.205.  Individuals seeking restoration of a license are to submit proof of completing the continuing education requirements pursuant to Section 1375.220.  Continuing education must be completed during the 24 months preceding application for restoration.

 

b)         Any professional counselor seeking restoration of a license that has been expired or placed on inactive status for more than five years shall file an application, on forms supplied by the Division together with the fee required by Section 1375.205.  Individuals seeking restoration of a license are required to submit proof of having met the continuing education requirements pursuant to Section 1375.220.  Continuing education must be completed during the 24 months preceding application for restoration.  The applicant shall also submit either:

 

1)         Certification of active practice in another jurisdiction.  Such certification shall include a statement from the appropriate board or licensing authority in the other jurisdiction that the licensee was authorized to practice during the term of said active practice; or

 

2)         An affidavit attesting to military service as provided in Section 60(d) of the Act; or

 

3)         Proof of passage of the National Counselor Examination or the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination during the period the license was lapsed or on inactive status.

 

c)         A professional counselor who is seeking restoration of a license after disciplinary action must complete all requirements of the disciplinary order and submit a petition for restoration to the Department for adjudication through the hearing process established under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1110.  The petition must contain evidence demonstrating rehabilitation to warrant the public trust as provided in Section 1375.227.

 

d)         When the accuracy of any submitted documentation or the relevance or sufficiency of the coursework or experience is questioned by the Division because of a lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking restoration of a license shall be required to:

 

1)         Provide such information as may be necessary; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to explain such relevance or sufficiency, clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.  Upon recommendation of the Board and approval by the Division, an applicant shall have the license restored.

 

(Source:  Amended at 49 Ill. Reg. 8346, effective June 5, 2025)

 

Section 1375.100  Temporary License as a Clinical Professional Counselor (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 24 Ill. Reg. 7335, effective May 1, 2000)

 

Section 1375.110  How to Obtain a Permanent License as a Clinical Professional Counselor After Receiving a Temporary License (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 24 Ill. Reg. 7335, effective May 1, 2000)

 

Section 1375.120  Application for Licensure by Examination as a Clinical Professional Counselor

 

a)         Each applicant seeking original licensure pursuant to Section 35 of the Act shall file an application with the Division, on forms provided by the Division.  The application shall include:

 

1)         The applicant will be required to meet the educational requirements set forth in Section 1375.145(a); individuals applying for licensure as a clinical professional counselor may submit one of the following certifications (based on examination), in lieu of the documents required in Section 1375.45(a):

 

A)        Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRC); or

 

B)        Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselors Certification (CCMHC);

 

2)         Verification of meeting the experience requirements as set forth in Section 1375.130;

 

3)         The fee required in Section 1375.205; and

 

4)         Certification of licensure, if applicable, on forms provided by the Division, from the state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States in which an applicant was originally licensed and the state in which the applicant predominantly practices and is currently licensed, if applicable, stating:

 

A)        The time during which the applicant was licensed in that jurisdiction, including the date of the original issuance in that jurisdiction;

 

B)        A description of the examination in that jurisdiction; and

 

C)        Whether the file on the applicant contains any record of disciplinary actions taken or pending.

 

b)         An applicant may begin gaining the required experience upon completion of the degree requirements.  Verification of the date of completion of the degree, when different from the date of graduation, shall be certified to the Division by the applicant's educational institution.

 

c)         When the accuracy of any submitted documentation or the relevance or sufficiency of the coursework or experience is questioned by the Division or the Board because of lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking licensure shall be requested to:

 

1)         Provide such information as may be necessary; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to explain such relevance or sufficiency, clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.

 

d)         Proof of passage of the examinations in accordance with Section 1375.150.  The applicant shall have the examination scores submitted to the Division directly from the testing entity or from the state of original licensure.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.130  Professional Experience for Licensure as a Clinical Professional Counselor

 

Supervised clinical professional counseling experience shall be obtained as set forth in this Section:

 

a)         A person holding a master's degree in counseling, rehabilitation counseling, psychology or similar degree program shall have completed the equivalent of 2 years of full-time satisfactory supervised experience working as a clinical counselor in a professional capacity under the direction of a qualified supervisor subsequent to obtaining the degree.

 

b)         A person holding a doctorate in counseling, rehabilitation counseling, psychology or similar degree program shall have completed the equivalent of 2 years of full-time satisfactory supervised experience working as a clinical counselor in a professional capacity under the direction of a qualified supervisor at least one year of which is subsequent to obtaining the degree.  Internships required as part of the doctoral degree may count toward professional experience.

 

c)         A qualified supervisor means any person who is a licensed clinical professional counselor, licensed clinical social worker, licensed clinical psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, or licensed psychiatrist as defined in Section 1-121 of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code.  (Section 10 of the Act)  If supervision took place outside Illinois, the supervisor shall be a master's level or doctoral level counselor engaged in clinical professional counseling, clinical social work, clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, or psychiatry.  The supervisor shall hold an active license if the jurisdiction in which the supervisor practices requires licensure.  Supervised experience obtained while the clinical counselor applicant is situated in Illinois must be supervised by an Illinois licensed qualified supervisor in accordance with this subsection (c).  An Illinois licensed clinical professional counselor must complete the supervision CE required in Section 1375.220 to be a qualified supervisor.  When a clinical counseling applicant is obtaining supervised experience while physically located in Illinois, the qualified supervisor must be licensed in Illinois, even if the services are being provided to persons located outside of Illinois via telehealth.

 

d)         One year of supervised clinical professional counseling experience shall be 1680 clock hours obtained in not less than 48 weeks.  At least 50% of those hours must consist of direct face to face service to clients, which includes using telehealth methods where there is synchronous audio-visual communication with the client.  Part time experience shall be counted toward the experience requirement.

 

e)         For purposes of this Section, supervised clinical professional counseling experience shall be experience obtained under a qualified supervisor as defined in Section 10 of the Act and subsection (c) and entail the provision of clinical professional counseling as defined in Section 10 of the Act.

 

1)         The supervisor shall have met face-to-face, as defined in Section 10 of the Act, with the applicant at least one hour each week.  The supervision means the review of counseling and case management.

 

2)         The experience shall have been evaluated by the supervisor as satisfactory or better.

 

f)         Supervision may be on an individual or group basis.  When group supervision is provided the number of supervisees may not exceed five.

 

g)         The clinical professional counseling activities must be performed pursuant to the supervisor's order, control, oversight, guidance and full professional responsibility.

 

h)         A qualified supervisor may be provided at the applicant's place of work or may be hired or contracted by the applicant to provide clinical supervision. (See Section 10 of the Act.)

 

i)          The following activities are not acceptable clinical supervision:

 

1)         Peer supervision.

 

2)         Administrative supervision.  For example, clinical practice performed under administrative rather than clinical supervision of an institutional director or executive.

 

3)         A primarily didactic process wherein techniques or procedures are taught in a classroom, workshop or seminar.

 

4)         Consultation, staff development, or orientation to a field or program, or role-playing of family interrelationships as a substitute for current clinical practice in an appropriate clinical situation.

 

j)          Supervised clinical professional counseling experience may be earned upon completion of the degree requirements.  Verification of the date of completion of the degree, when different from the date of graduation, shall be certified to the Division by the applicant's educational institution.

 

k)         Supervised clinical professional counseling experience may be gained as a volunteer, as defined in Section 10 of the Act, when the volunteer holds a licensed professional counselor license.

 

l)          When providing clinical professional counseling services as set forth in Section 10 of the Act a licensed professional counselor who is obtaining the required supervised clinical professional experience shall always operate and represent themselves as a designee, supervisee or an employee of the qualified supervisor and may not work as an independent contractor as defined by Internal Revenue Service regulations (see 26 CFR 31.3121(d)-1).  The licensed professional counselor may not hold an ownership interest in the business organization providing the clinical counseling services.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.135  Clinical Professional Counselor Licenses for Clinical Psychologists and Clinical Social Workers

 

An individual who holds an active license as a clinical psychologist in Illinois pursuant to the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act [225 ILCS 15] or as a clinical social worker pursuant to the Clinical Social Work and Social Practice Act [225 ILCS 20] shall be issued a license as a clinical professional counselor without examination as provided in Section 45(d) of the Act upon payment of the fee required in Section 60(a) of the Act.

 

Section 1375.140  Approved Clinical Professional Counseling Programs (Repealed)

 

(Source:  Repealed at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375.145  Required Education for Clinical Professional Counseling Programs

 

a)         The educational requirements are identical to those found in Section 1375.45.

 

b)         For the purposes of this Section, an individual holding an active professional counselor license meets the education requirements of this Section.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.150  Examination – Clinical Professional Counselor

 

a)         The examination for licensure as a clinical professional counselor shall be the National Counselor Examination (NCE) of the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

 

b)         The passing score on the examination shall be the passing score established by the testing entity.

 

c)         The Division also shall accept passage of the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination of the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC).

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.160  Licensure by Endorsement as a Clinical Professional Counselor

 

a)         Each applicant seeking licensure as a clinical professional counselor pursuant to Section 70 of the Act shall file an application with the Division on forms provided by the Division.  The application shall include:

 

1)         Proof that applicant has met the educational requirements set forth in Section 1375.45;

 

2)         When applicant has completed an approved master's degree program as provided for in Section 1375.45, proof of completion of the equivalent of 2 years full-time satisfactory supervised employment or experience working as a counselor in a professional capacity under the direction of a qualified supervisor, subsequent to the degree, as defined in Section 1375.130 on forms provided by the Division;

 

3)         When applicant has completed an approved doctoral degree program as provided in Section 1375.45, proof of completion of the equivalent of 2 years of full-time satisfactory supervised experience working as a counselor in a professional capacity under the direction of a qualified supervisor, as defined in Section 10 of the Act, at least one year of which is subsequent to the degree on forms provided by the Division;

 

4)         Successful completion of the examinations in accordance with Section 1375.150;

 

5)         The required fee set forth in Section 1375.205; and

 

6)         Certification of licensure, if applicable, on forms provided by the Division, from the state, territory, or jurisdiction of the United States in which an applicant was originally licensed and the state in which the applicant predominantly practices and is currently licensed, if applicable, stating:

 

A)        The time during which the applicant was licensed in that jurisdiction, including the date of the original issuance in that jurisdiction;

 

B)        A description of the examination in that jurisdiction; and

 

C)        Whether the file on the applicant contains any record of disciplinary actions taken or pending.

 

b)         An individual who has been licensed at the independent level in another United States jurisdiction for 5 consecutive years without discipline is not required to submit proof of completion of the education, the supervised employment or experience required in subsections (a)(1) and (2) or (3).  Individuals with 5 consecutive years of experience must submit certification of licensure from the jurisdiction in which the applicant practiced and must comply with all other licensing requirements including the payment of fees.  (See Section 70 of the Act.)

 

c)         The Division, upon recommendation of the Board, shall issue a license if a review of the application indicates that the applicant meets all the requirements of this Part and the Act.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.170  Restoration of a License as a Clinical Professional Counselor

 

a)         Any clinical professional counselor whose license has expired or has been placed on inactive status for five years or less may have the license restored by filing the form provided by the Division, paying the fees required by Section 1375.205, and submitting proof of completing the continuing education requirements pursuant to Section 1375.220.  Continuing education must be completed during the 24 months preceding application for restoration.

 

b)         For any licensed clinical professional counselor seeking to restore a license that has expired or been placed on inactive status for five years or less and who has had no disciplinary action taken against their license in this State or in any other jurisdiction during the entire period of licensure, the following requirements are suspended:  proof of fitness, certification of active practice in another jurisdiction, and the payment of a renewal fee.  An individual may not restore their license in accordance with this subsection more than once.

 

c)         Any person seeking restoration of a license that has been expired or placed on inactive status for more than five years shall file an application, on forms supplied by the Division, together with the fee required by Section 1375.205 and submit proof of completing the continuing education requirements pursuant to Section 1375.220.  Continuing education must be completed during the 24 months preceding application for restoration.  The applicant shall also submit either:

 

1)         Certification of active practice in another jurisdiction.  Such certification shall include a statement from the appropriate board or licensing authority in the other jurisdiction that the licensee was authorized to practice during the term of said active practice; or

 

2)         An affidavit attesting to military service as provided in Section 50(d) of the Act; or

 

3)         Proof of passage of the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) examination or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NCMHC) examination during the period the license was lapsed or on inactive status.

 

d)         A licensee who is seeking restoration of a license after disciplinary action must complete all requirements of the disciplinary order and submit a petition for restoration to the Department for adjudication through the hearing process established under 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1110.  As part of the petition the licensee shall submit evidence demonstrating rehabilitation to warrant the public trust as provided in Section 1375.227.

 

e)         When the accuracy of any submitted documentation or the relevance or sufficiency of the coursework or experience is questioned by the Division because of a lack of information, discrepancies or conflicts in information given or a need for clarification, the applicant seeking restoration of a license shall be required to:

 

1)         Provide such information as may be necessary; and/or

 

2)         Appear for an interview before the Board to explain such relevance or sufficiency, clarify information or clear up any discrepancies or conflicts in information.  Upon recommendation of the Board and approval by the Division, an applicant shall have the license restored.

 

(Source:  Amended at 49 Ill. Reg. 8346, effective June 5, 2025)

 

Section 1375.200  Renewals

 

a)         Every license issued under the Act shall expire on March 31 of odd numbered years.  The holder of a license may renew the license preceding the expiration date at a time determined by the Division by paying the fee set forth in Section 1375.205 and completing 30 hours of continuing education in accordance with Section 1375.220.

 

b)         It is the responsibility of each licensee to notify the Division of any change of address.  Failure to receive a renewal form from the Division shall not constitute an excuse for failure to pay the renewal fee or to renew one's license.

 

c)         Practicing or offering to practice on a license that has expired or is in inactive status shall be considered unlicensed activity and shall be grounds for discipline pursuant to Section 80 of the Act.

 

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375.205  Fees

 

The following fees shall be paid to the Division for the administration of the Act and are not refundable:

 

a)         Application Fees

 

1)         The fee for application for a license as a professional counselor or a clinical professional counselor is $150.

 

2)         The fee for application as a continuing education sponsor is $500.  State colleges, State universities, and State agencies are exempt from payment of this fee.

 

b)         Renewal Fees

 

1)         The fee for the renewal of a license as a professional counselor or a clinical professional counselor is $120 for the renewal period.

 

2)         The fee for renewal as a continuing education sponsor is $250 for the renewal period.

 

c)         General Fees 

 

1)         The fee for the restoration of a license other than from inactive status is $50 plus payment of all lapsed renewal fees, but not to exceed $300.

 

2)         The fee for a certification of a licensee's record for any purpose is $20.

 

3)         The fee to have the scoring of an examination authorized by the Division reviewed and verified is $20 plus any fees charged by the applicable testing service.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.210  Inactive Status

 

a)         Licensed professional counselors and clinical professional counselors who notify the Division, on forms provided by the Division, may place their licenses on inactive status and shall be excused from paying renewal fees until they notify the Division in writing of the intention to resume active practice.

 

b)         Any licensed professional counselor and clinical professional counselor seeking restoration from inactive status shall do so in accordance with this Part.

 

c)         No professional counselor or clinical professional counselor whose license is on inactive status shall use the title "licensed professional counselor" or "licensed clinical professional counselor".  Any person violating this subsection shall be considered to be practicing without a license and shall be subject to the disciplinary provisions of the Act.

 

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)

 

Section 1375. 215  Applicant and Licensee Address of Record, Email Address of Record, and Licensee Change of Name Information

 

All applicants and licensees shall:

 

a)         provide a valid address and email address to the Division, which shall serve as the address of record and email address of record, respectively, at the time of application for licensure or renewal of a license; and

 

b)         inform the Division of any change of address of record or email address of record within 14 days after such change either through the Division's website or by contacting the Department's licensure maintenance unit.  (Section 11 of the Act)

 

(Source:  Added at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.220  Continuing Education

 

a)         Continuing Education (CE) Hours Requirements

 

1)         A licensee shall complete 30 hours of CE during the 24 months preceding renewal.

 

2)         At least 3 of the CE hours must include content related to ethics in the practice of counseling.  It is recommended that licensees review the American Counseling Association's 2014 ACA Code of Ethics and Section 1375.225 (Unprofessional Conduct).  Additionally, CE must be obtained as set forth in 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130 Subpart E.

 

3)         Upon the second renewal of a clinical professional counselor license, 9 of the required 30 CE hours shall be in clinical supervision training.  This is a one-time (lifetime) requirement.

 

4)         One CE hour shall equal 50 minutes of attendance.  After completion of the initial CE hour, credit may be given in one-half hour increments.

 

5)         A renewal applicant shall not be required to comply with CE requirements for the first renewal of an Illinois license.

 

6)         Professional counselors or clinical professional counselors licensed in Illinois but residing and practicing in other states or jurisdictions shall comply with the CE requirements set forth in this Section.

 

7)         Continuing education credit hours used to satisfy the CE requirements of another jurisdiction may be applied to fulfill the CE requirements of this Section as set forth in subsection (e).

 

b)         Approved Continuing Education

 

1)         CE hours shall be earned by verified attendance (e.g., certificate of attendance or certificate of completion) at or participation in a program or course (herein after "course") that is offered or sponsored by an approved continuing education sponsor who meets the requirements set forth in subsection (c), except for those activities provided in subsections (b)(2), (3) and (4).

 

2)         CE hours may be earned for successful completion of courses in person or remote.  Remote courses may be live or recorded and may include a course by mail, computer, pre-recorded online course/program, live online course, etc. that are offered by an approved sponsor who meets the requirements set forth in subsection (c). Each course shall include an examination.

 

3)         CE hours may be earned through postgraduate training programs (e.g., extern, residency, or fellowship programs) or completion of professional counseling related courses that are a part of the curriculum of a college, university, or graduate school.  Courses that are part of the curriculum of a university, college, or other educational institution shall be allotted CE credit at the rate of 15 CE hours for each semester hour or 10 CE hours for each quarter hour of school credit awarded.

 

4)         CE hours may be earned for verified teaching in the field of counseling in an accredited college, university, or graduate school and/or as an instructor of continuing education programs given by approved sponsors.  Credit shall be allotted at the rate of 1.5 hours for every hour taught and only for the first presentation of the program (i.e., credit shall not be allowed for repetitious presentations of the same program).  A maximum of 10 hours of CE credit may be obtained in this category per prerenewal period.

 

5)         CE hours may be earned for authoring papers, publications, dissertations, or books and for preparing presentations and exhibits in the field of counseling.  The preparation of each published paper, book chapter, or professional presentation dealing with professional counseling or clinical professional counseling may be claimed for up to 10 hours of credit.  A presentation must be before an audience of professional counselors.  10 credit hours may be claimed for only the first time the information is published or presented.

 

6)         A maximum of 8 hours of CE may be earned per renewal period for clinical supervision received or provided on a regular basis with a set agenda. Clinical supervision shall be documented with a letter from the supervisor indicating the start and end dates in which the supervision occurred, the site where supervision was provided, the number of hours of participation and the name and license number of the supervisor.  The letter shall be signed by the supervisor and the supervisee and shall be proof of clinical supervision received and provided.

 

7)         A maximum of 6 hours of CE may be earned per renewal period for leadership activities.  These activities include, but are not limited to, officer of a state or national counseling organization; editor of a professional counseling journal; member of a national counselor certification board; member of a national ethics disciplinary review committee; chair of a major counseling conference or convention; active member of a counseling committee producing a substantial written product.  The leadership shall be documented in a letter of confirmation on the organization's letterhead and shall include the start and end dates of leadership, the name of the organization and the position held.

 

c)         Approved CE Sponsors and Programs

 

1)         Sponsor, as used in this Section, shall mean:

 

A)        National Board for Certified Counselors or its affiliates;

 

B)        American Counseling Association or its affiliates;

 

C)        Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor or its affiliates;

 

D)        American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy or its affiliates;

 

E)        Employee Assistance Professional Association (EAPA) and Employee Assistance Society of North America (EASNA) or its affiliates;

 

F)         Social Work Continuing Education Sponsors approved by the Division in accordance with the rules for the administration of Clinical Social Work and Social Work Practice Act [225 ILCS 20], 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1470.95;

 

G)        American Psychological Association or its affiliates;

 

H)        Illinois Counseling Association or its affiliates;

 

I)         Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association or its affiliates;

 

J)         American Medical Association or its affiliates;

 

K)        Marriage and Family Therapy Continuing Education Sponsors approved by the Division in accordance with the Marriage and Family Therapy Licensing Act [225 ILCS 55] and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1283.110;

 

L)        Clinical Psychologist Continuing Education Sponsors approved by the Division in accordance with the Clinical Psychologist Licensing Act [225 ILCS 15] and 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1400.85;

 

M)       Accredited colleges, universities, State agencies; and

 

N)        Any other person, firm, or association that has been approved and authorized by the Division pursuant to subsection (c)(2) to coordinate and present continuing education courses.

 

2)         An entity seeking approval as a CE sponsor pursuant to subsection (c)(1)(N) shall submit an application, on forms supplied by the Division, along with the fee set forth in Section 1375.205. (State agencies, State colleges, community colleges, and State universities in Illinois shall be exempt from paying this fee.)  The application shall include:

 

A)        Certification:

 

i)          That all courses offered by the sponsor for CE credit shall comply with the criteria in subsection (c)(3) and all other criteria in this Section;

 

ii)         That the sponsor shall be responsible for verifying full-time continuous attendance at each course and provide a certificate of attendance as set forth in subsection (c)(9);

 

iii)        That, upon request by the Division, the sponsor shall submit evidence (e.g., certificate of attendance or course material) as is necessary to establish compliance with this Section.  Evidence shall be required when the Division has reason to believe that there is not full compliance with the statute and this Part and that this information is necessary to ensure compliance;

 

B)        A copy of a sample course with faculty, course materials and syllabi.

 

3)         All courses shall:

 

A)        Contribute to the advancement, extension and enhancement of the professional skills and scientific knowledge of the licensee in the practice of professional counseling or clinical professional counseling;

 

B)        Foster the enhancement of general or specialized counseling or clinical counseling practice and values;

 

C)        Be developed and presented by persons with education and/or experience in the subject matter of the course;

 

D)        Specify the course objectives, course content and teaching methods to be used; and

 

E)        Specify the number of CE hours that may be applied to fulfilling the Illinois CE requirements for license renewal.

 

4)         Each CE course shall provide a mechanism for evaluation of the course and instructor by the participants.  The evaluation may be completed on-site immediately following the course presentation or an evaluation questionnaire may be distributed to participants to be completed and returned by mail or electronically.  The sponsor and the instructor, together, shall review the evaluation outcome and revise subsequent courses accordingly.

 

5)         An approved sponsor may subcontract with individuals and organizations to provide approved courses.  All advertising, promotional materials, and certificates of attendance must identify the licensed sponsor and the sponsor's license number.  The presenter of the course may also be identified but should be identified as a presenter.  When a licensed sponsor subcontracts with a presenter, the licensed sponsor retains all responsibility for monitoring attendance, providing certificates of attendance and ensuring the course meets all of the criteria established by the Act and this Part, including the maintenance of records.

 

6)         All courses given by approved sponsors shall be open to all licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical professional counselors and not be limited to members of a single organization or group.

 

7)         To maintain approval as a sponsor pursuant to subsection (c)(2), each sponsor shall submit to the Division by March 30 of each odd-numbered year a renewal application, the fee set forth in Section 1375.205 and a list of courses offered within the last 24 months.  The list shall include a brief description, location, date, and time of each course given by the sponsor and by any subcontractor.

 

8)         Certification of Attendance.  It shall be the responsibility of a sponsor to provide each participant in a course with a certificate of attendance or participation.  The sponsor's certificate of attendance shall contain:

 

A)        The name, address and license number of the sponsor;

 

B)        The name and address of the participant;

 

C)        A brief statement of the subject matter;

 

D)        The number of hours attended in each course;

 

E)        The date and place of the course; and

 

F)         The signature of the sponsor or person responsible for the CE course.

 

9)         The sponsor shall maintain attendance records for not less than 5 years.

 

10)         The sponsor shall be responsible for assuring that no renewal applicant shall receive CE credit for time not actually spent attending the course.

 

11)         Upon the failure of a sponsor to comply with any of the requirements of this Section, the Division, after notice to the sponsor and hearing before and recommendation by the Board (see 68 Ill. Adm. Code 1110), shall thereafter refuse to accept for CE credit attendance at or participation in any of that sponsor's CE courses until such time as the Division receives assurances of compliance with this Section.

 

12)         Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section, the Division or Board may evaluate any sponsor of any approved CE course at any time to ensure compliance with requirements of this Section.

 

d)         Certification of Compliance with CE Requirements

 

1)         Each renewal applicant shall certify, on the renewal application, full compliance with the CE requirements set forth in subsections (a) and (b).

 

2)         The Division may require additional evidence demonstrating compliance with the CE requirements (e.g., certificate of attendance).  This additional evidence shall be required in the context of the Division's random audit.  It is the responsibility of each renewal applicant to retain or otherwise produce evidence of compliance.

 

3)         When there appears to be a lack of compliance with CE requirements, an applicant shall be notified in writing and may request a hearing with the Board.  At that time the Board may recommend that steps be taken to begin formal disciplinary proceedings as required by Section 10-65 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act [5 ILCS 100].

 

e)         Continuing Education Attended in Other Jurisdictions

 

1)         If a licensee attended or is seeking CE hours offered in another jurisdiction not given by an approved sponsor for which the licensee will be claiming credit toward full compliance in Illinois, the applicant shall submit an individual course approval request form, along with a $25 processing fee, prior to participation in the course.  The course shall be reviewed using the criteria set forth in subsection (c)(3).

 

2)         If a licensee fails to submit an out of state CE approval form prior to participation in the course, late approval may be obtained by submitting the approval request form with the $25 processing fee plus a $50 per CE hour late fee not to exceed $300.  The Board shall review and recommend approval or disapproval of the program using the criteria set forth in subsection (c)(3).

 

3)         CE completed remotely whether live or asynchronous (e.g., self-study, book-study, or computer/online based course) is not eligible for out-of-state CE credit.  Instead it must be provided by an approved CE provider as set forth in subsection (b)(2).

 

f)         Restoration of Nonrenewed License.  Upon satisfactory evidence of compliance with CE requirements and the provisions of Section 1375.80 or 1375.170, the Division shall restore the license upon payment of the required fee as provided in Section 1375.205.

 

g)         Waiver of CE Requirements

 

1)         Any renewal applicant seeking renewal of a license without having fully complied with these CE requirements may file with the Division a renewal application along with the required fee set forth in Section 1375.205; a statement setting forth the facts concerning noncompliance; and request for waiver of the CE requirements based upon those facts.  A request for waiver shall be made prior to the renewal date.  If the Division, upon the written recommendation of the Board, finds that good cause has been shown for granting a waiver, the Division shall waive enforcement of CE requirements for the renewal period for which the applicant has applied.

 

2)         Good cause shall be determined on an individual basis by the Board and is defined as an inability to devote sufficient hours to fulfilling the CE requirements during the applicable pre-renewal period because of:

 

A)        Full-time service in the armed forces of the United States of America during all or a substantial part of the pre-renewal period;

 

B)        A temporary incapacitating illness documented by a licensed physician.  A second, consecutive request for a CE waiver pursuant to this subsection (g)(2)(B) shall be prima facie proof that the renewal applicant has a physical or mental illness, including, but not limited to, deterioration through the aging process or loss of cognitive or motor skills that results in the licensee's inability to practice professional counseling or clinical professional counseling with reasonable judgment, skill or safety, in violation of Section 80(a)(18) of the Act, and shall be grounds for denial of the renewal application or other disciplinary or non-disciplinary action; or

 

C)        Any other similar extenuating circumstances.

 

3)         Any renewal applicant who, prior to the expiration date of the license, submits a request for a waiver, in whole or in part, pursuant to the provisions of this Section shall be deemed to be in good standing until the final decision on the application is made by the Division.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.225  Unprofessional Conduct

 

The Division may suspend or revoke a license, refuse to issue or renew a license or take other disciplinary action, based upon its finding of unethical, dishonorable, or unprofessional conduct within the meaning of Section 80 of the Act, which is interpreted to include, but is not limited to, the following acts or practices:

 

a)         Counseling Relationships

 

1)         Practicing, condoning, facilitating, collaborating with or engaging in discrimination against prospective or current clients, students, employees, supervisees, or research participants based on age, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spiritually, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status/partnership, language preference, socioeconomic status, immigration status, or any basis proscribed by law.

 

2)         Engaging in any action that violates or diminishes the civil or legal rights of clients.

 

3)         Engaging in the sexual exploitation of clients, client's romantic partners, client's family members, students, or supervisees.

 

4)         Engaging in or condoning sexual harassment, including but not limited to, deliberate or repeated comments, gestures, or physical contacts of a sexual nature that occur in connection with professional activities or roles.

 

5)         Bringing personal or professional biases into the counseling relationship.  Through an awareness of the impact of stereotyping and discrimination (i.e., biases based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexual preference), counselors guard the individual rights and personal dignity of the client in the counseling relationship.

 

6)         Engaging in any type of sexual or romantic intimacies with clients, client's romantic partners, or client's family members.  Counselors shall not provide counseling services to persons with whom they have had a sexual relationship, including the person's romantic partners, or their family members.

 

7)         Engaging in any type of sexual or romantic intimacies with former clients, former clients' romantic partners, or former clients' family members within five years of professional contact.

 

8)         Engaging in any nonprofessional relationships with clients, former clients, clients' romantic partners, or clients' family members should be avoided, except when the interaction is potentially beneficial to the client.  All potentially beneficial relationships must be documented in case notes, and conducted with full client consent.  When unintentional harm occurs to the client, or former client, or to an individual significantly involved with the client or former client, due to the nonprofessional interaction, the counselor must show evidence of an attempt to remedy that harm.

 

9)         Failing to offer all pertinent facts regarding services rendered to the client prior to administration of professional services.  The purpose of informed consent is to ensure a client's complete access to information pertaining to professional services.  Examples include, but are not limited to, the purposes, goals, techniques, procedures, limitations, potential risks, and benefits of services; the counselor's qualifications, credentials, and relevant experience; and continuation of services upon the incapacitation or death of a counselor.  Counselors must take steps to ensure that clients understand the implications of diagnosis, the intended use of assessments and reports, billing arrangements, length of treatment, and utilization of consultants.  The client's signature indicating receipt of pertinent information is strongly encouraged.

 

b)         Confidentiality

 

1)         Failing to inform clients at the onset of the counseling relationship of the limits of confidentiality.  These limitations include but are not limited to:  limitations mandated by the law, requirements to protect clients or identified others from serious and foreseeable harm, or when the counselor is a defendant in a civil, criminal, or disciplinary action arising from the counseling.

 

2)         Revealing facts, data, or information relating to a client or examinee, except as allowed under Section 75 of the Act or under the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act [740 ILCS 110] or any other federal or State laws pertaining to confidentiality.

 

3)         Failing to take appropriate steps to protect the privacy of a client and avoid unnecessary disclosures of confidential information.  The right to privacy belongs to clients and may be waived.  A written waiver shall be signed by the client and the information revealed shall be in accordance with the terms of the waiver.

 

c)         Scope of Practice/Professional Responsibility

 

1)         Performing, or pretending to be able to perform, professional services beyond one's scope of practice and one's competency, as defined by education, training, supervised experience, State and national professional credentials, and appropriate professional experience.

 

2)         Abandoning or neglecting clients and/or failing to refer and/or make appropriate arrangements for the continuation of treatment, when necessary, during interruptions, such as vacations or illness, and following termination.

 

3)         Failing to use techniques/procedures/modalities that are grounded in professionally accepted theory and/or have an empirical or scientific foundation.  Counselors who do not use these tools, must define the techniques/procedures/modalities as "unproven" or "developing"; explain the potential risk and ethical considerations of using the techniques/procedures/modalities; and take steps to protect clients from possible harm.

 

4)         Failing to establish and maintain client records and case notes, including failing to inform clients of issues related to the difficulty of maintaining the confidentiality of electronically transmitted communication.  Records must be maintained for at least 7 years.  In the case of a minor, records must be maintained 7 years after the minor turns 18.

 

5)         Failing to inform clients of the benefits and limitations of using information technology applications in the counseling process and in business/billing procedures.  These technologies include but are not limited to computer hardware and software, telephone, the internet, online assessment instruments, and other communication devices.

 

6)         Advertising shall not be deceptive, misleading, or false.  Counselors should claim or imply only professional credentials possessed and are responsible for correcting any misrepresentations of their credentials by others.  Professional credentials include highest relevant degrees, accreditation of graduate programs, national voluntary certifications, government-issued certifications or licenses, professional membership, or any other credential that might indicate to the public specialized knowledge or expertise in professional counseling.

 

7)         Submission of fraudulent claims for services to any person or entity including, but not limited to, health insurance companies, health service plans, or third-party payors.

 

8)         Knowingly offering or providing services to a client when the counselor's ability to practice is impaired.  Failing to seek assistance for problems that reach the level of professional impairment, and, if necessary, limiting, suspending, or terminating professional responsibilities until such time it is determined that it is safe to resume work.  Causes of impairment may include, but are not limited to, the abuse of mood-altering chemicals and physical or mental problems and offering professional services when the counselor's personal problems or conflicts may harm a client or others.

 

d)         Supervision

 

1)         Permitting a supervisee or intern under the counselor's supervision or control to perform, or permitting the supervisee or intern to hold themself out as competent to perform, professional services beyond the supervisee's or intern's level of education, training, and/or experience.

 

2)         Allowing a supervisee to violate the rights of clients; permitting a supervisee to violate confidentiality standards or client privacy; or failing to provide clients with professional disclosure information and inform them of how the supervision process influences the limits of confidentiality, including who will have access to records of the counseling relationship and how these records will be used.

 

3)         Participating in any form of sexual or romantic contact with supervisees.  Nonprofessional relationships with supervisees that might impair the supervisor's objectivity and professional judgment should be avoided and/or the supervisory relationship terminated.

 

e)         Evaluation, Assessment, and Interpretation

 

1)         Failing to have appropriate education and training for each specific assessment, failing to recognize the limits of the counselor's competence, and failing to perform only those functions for which the counselor is prepared. In particular, counselors using technology-assisted test interpretations must be trained in the construct being measured and the specific instrument being used prior to using a technology-based application.

 

2)         Failing to fully inform prospective research participants or their authorized representative of potential serious aftereffects of the research or failing to remove the aftereffects as soon as the design of the research permits.

 

f)         The Division hereby incorporates by reference the "2014 Code of Ethics", 2014, approved by the American Counseling Association, 2461 Eisenhower Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia  22314, with no later amendments or editions.

 

g)         Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors are responsible for professional conduct consistent with every standard set forth in this Part.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.227  Rehabilitation

 

Upon written application to the Division for restoration of a license or for any other relief following discipline, the Division shall consider, but is not limited to, the following in determining if the person is sufficiently rehabilitated to warrant the public trust:

 

a)         The seriousness of the offense that resulted in the disciplinary action being considered;

 

b)         The length of time that elapsed since the disciplinary action was taken;

 

c)         The profession, occupation, and outside activities in which the applicant has been involved;

 

d)         Any counseling, medical treatment, or other rehabilitative treatment received by the applicant;

 

e)         Continuing education courses or other types of courses taken to correct the grounds for the disciplinary action being considered;

 

f)         The results of a professional competency examination designated by the Division and paid for by the applicant;

 

g)         Written reports and oral testimony by peer-review committees or other persons relating to the skill, knowledge, honesty, integrity and contriteness of the applicant;

 

h)         Restitution to injured parties;

 

i)          Future plans of the applicant;

 

j)          Involvement of the applicant's family and friends in the applicant's rehabilitation process;

 

k)         A written report of a physical or mental examination given by a practitioner selected by the Division and paid for by the applicant;

 

l)          Any other information evidencing rehabilitation that would bear upon the applicant's request for relief or restoration of a license;

 

m)        Whether the order imposing discipline was appealed and, if so, whether a reviewing court granted a stay or delay of imposition of the discipline;

 

n)         The date and disposition of any other petition for restoration filed since the last sanction was imposed; and

 

o)         Compliance with any probationary terms imposed.

 

(Source:  Added at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

 

Section 1375.230  Granting Variances

 

The Director of the Division of Professional Regulation (Director) with the authority delegated by the Secretary may grant variances from this Part in individual cases when the Director finds that:

 

a)         The provision from which the variance is granted is not statutorily mandated;

 

b)         No party will be injured by the granting of the variance; and

 

c)         The rule from which the variance is granted would, in the particular case, be unreasonable or unnecessarily burdensome.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

Section 1375.APPENDIX A   Course Descriptions

 

The following counselor education course content areas are defined and subject areas outlined; however, this is not an exhaustive list and many other courses may fall within each of the core content areas.

 

a)         Human Growth and Development:  Courses in this area cover one or more of the various stages of the human growth cycle and include information about theories of development such as physical, social, cognitive, moral, and creative development, etc. Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Human Growth and Development, Developmental Psychology, Child Psychology, Child Development, Adolescent Psychology, Adolescent Development, Life Span Development, and Adult Development.

 

b)         Counseling Theory:  Courses in this area cover the major theories of counseling psychotherapy.  These courses shall be general theory courses.  A course devoted to one type of counseling/therapy is considered a Counseling Technique core course.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Theories of Counseling, Introduction to Psychotherapy, and overview courses in Behavior, Cognitive, Humanistic and Psychodynamic Theories.

 

c)         Counseling Techniques:  Courses in this area cover the theoretical foundations and professional skill training enabling the counselor to understand presenting problem, best practice recommendations, and effective, empirically supported intervention strategies.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Rational Emotive Therapy, Behavior Modification, Marital/Couples Counseling, Crisis Counseling, Counselor Interviewing Skills, Pre-Practicum in Counseling, Introduction to Rehabilitation Counseling, Grief Therapy, Substance Abuse Counseling, Stress Management, etc.

 

d)         Group Dynamics, Processing and Counseling:  Courses in this area teach the theories, principles, and techniques of group counseling and group psychotherapy.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Group Counseling, Group Counseling and Dynamics, Group Therapy, Group Dynamics, Theories of Group Practice, etc.  Courses that use a group format with a focus on the professional development of the counselor are not considered a group course.

 

e)         Appraisal of Individuals:  Courses in this area cover assessment of the various attributes of a person through standardized tests.  These courses also include an overview of statistical procedures relevant to test standardization and interpretation.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Individual Appraisal, Group Testing, Standardized Testing, Individual Intelligence Testing, Personality Assessment, Introduction to Psychological Measurements, Tests and Measurements, etc.

 

f)         Research and Evaluation:  Courses in this area cover statistical principles, research designs, methods, techniques and tools used in performing and interpreting research in counseling.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Methods of Research, Statistics, Research Design, Research in Counseling, Research Techniques, etc.

 

g)         Professional, Legal, and Ethical Responsibilities:  Courses in this area cover such topics as professionalism in counseling, federal and State laws relevant to counselors, and ethics with an emphasis on the Code of Ethics of the American Counseling Association.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Ethics and Legal Issues in Counseling, Ethics and Legal Issues in Psychology, Ethics and Legal Issues in Psychotherapy, Ethics and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling, Ethics and Legal Issues in Rehabilitation Counseling, etc.

 

h)         Social and Cultural Foundations:  Courses in this area shall include an overview of multicultural issues.  The course may not focus on only one cultural group or counseling population.  Courses in this area cover topics such as aging, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spirituality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status/partnership, language preference, and socioeconomic status.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Multicultural Counseling, Cultural Differences in Counseling, Cultural Differences in Psychology, Cultural Differences in Rehabilitation Counseling, etc.

 

i)          Lifestyle and Career Development:  Courses in this area cover the lifelong processes and the influences that lead to work values, occupational choices, career path/patterns, decision-making style, and integration of self- and career-identity with patterns of work adjustment.  The course is designed around the concepts of career development.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Career Counseling, Career Development, Theories of Vocational Choice, Theories of Vocational Counseling, etc.

 

j)          Practicum/Internship:  Provides practical experience in counseling for the purpose of developing both individual and group counseling skills.  These courses shall include a minimum of 700 clock hours on-site, with a minimum of 280 hours of direct, face-to-face client contact.  These experiences allow students to perform some of the counseling activities that a licensed counselor would be expected to perform.  Supervision is required on an ongoing basis during the practicum. 

Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Internship – Community Counseling, Internship – Mental Health Counseling, Internship – Art Therapy, Internship – Pastoral Counseling, and Internship – Rehabilitation Counseling.

 

k)         Psychopathology and Maladaptive Behavior:  Courses in this area cover general principles of etiology, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and cultural factors of mental and emotional disorders.  Emphasis is placed on mental status assessment and diagnostic categories as organized in the American Psychiatric Association. (2022).  Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5^th ed., test rev.) (or current edition).  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Abnormal Psychology, Psychopathology, Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, Mental Health Rehabilitation Counseling.

 

l)          Addictions:  Courses in this area provide an overview of assessment and treatment methods available for clients and their family members struggling with substance-related disorders and/or behavioral/process addiction issues.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Substance Abuse Counseling, Psychology of Addiction, Addictions Counseling, Addictive Disorders, and Behavioral/Addictions Process.  Psychopharmacology is not considered a course in substance abuse.

 

m)        Family Dynamics:  Courses in this area cover family systems theory and its applications, prevention approaches for working with families, and specific problems that impede family function.  Examples of acceptable courses include, but are not limited to, Family Therapy, Family Counseling, Family Systems Theory, and Family Dynamics.

 

(Source:  Amended at 48 Ill. Reg. 8776, effective June 4, 2024)

Section 1375.APPENDIX B   Education, Experience and Examination History

 

a)         Licensed Professional Counselor

Through December 31, 1998:

 

1)         Certification of education from a master's or doctoral degree program in counseling, psychology or rehabilitation counseling from a college, university or school recognized by the educational accrediting authority in the jurisdiction in which it is located, or certification of education and a transcript from a similar master's or doctoral degree program approved by the Divison in accordance with Section 1375.50(a) of this Part; or

 

2)         Certification of a baccalaureate degree from a college, university or school recognized by the educational accrediting authority in the jurisdiction in which it is located and 5 years of full time satisfactory supervised experience as a professional counselor as defined in Section 1375.30(a)(1)(B).

 

b)         Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

Prior to January 1, 1999, the examination for licensure as a clinical professional counselor shall be the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

 

(Source:  Amended at 35 Ill. Reg. 7586, effective May 13, 2011)