Counseling Degrees & Licenses in Iowa
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“Counseling doesn’t have to be mental health-related. It can be someone to talk to about your career, a life transition, or the meaning of life. Counseling is a place even just to gather tools to help us navigate our society and be our most authentic selves.”
Laura Boddicker, PhD, Assistant Professor of Counseling, Loras College
Pursuing a counseling career in Iowa can be a rewarding professional choice. The state of Iowa features several accredited master’s-level counseling degree programs, including several areas of emphasis such as clinical mental health counseling, rehabilitation counseling, and school counseling.
Mental health professionals entering the Iowa workforce in the coming years are likely to find ample opportunities to contribute to strengthening the state’s mental health system. The Iowa mental healthcare system has been beset with significant issues in recent years.
Prominent concerns include a very low number of available psychiatric treatment beds per capita, a statewide shortage of psychiatrists and other licensed professionals, a meager network of community treatment options, and a redirection of many untreated individuals into the law enforcement system that ultimately saturates this system and does little to fulfill their mental health treatment needs. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness Iowa, the state ranks as 47th in psychiatrists, 44th in mental health workforce availability, and 51st (including the District of Columbia) for ratio of state psychiatric beds to residents. Money, or lack thereof, also tends to exacerbate these issues further.
The issue of funding is partially connected to certificate of need laws. Iowa is among the majority of states with such laws. This type of law, originally justified as likely to control costs, instead can stifle market competition and thereby drive up costs while lowering the quality of available care. The medical monopolies that more easily develop in response to this law price the poor and vulnerable out of the market for anything other than woefully inadequate care.
Iowa will continue to need newly trained mental healthcare professionals not just to resolve its workforce shortage but also to address the substantial mental health impacts of the Covid pandemic.
Read on to discover how to join various counseling careers in Iowa, including detailed information about academic programs and licensing.
Meet the Expert: Laura Boddicker, PhD, LMHC, CRC
Dr. Laura Boddicker is a core counselor education faculty member and an assistant professor of counseling at Loras College. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from Upper Iowa University, followed by a master’s degree in rehabilitation and mental health counseling and a doctorate in counselor education, all from the University of Iowa.
As a certified rehabilitation counselor and licensed mental health counselor in Iowa, she brings over 12 years of experience in the mental health and rehabilitation field. Her professional journey has encompassed roles in mental health and vocational counseling, as well as case management. Throughout her career, her primary focus has been working with individuals facing physical and mental health disabilities, aiming to enhance their level of functioning and overall quality of life.
She is an active member of the American Counseling Association and the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision. Within the latter, she is honored to serve as the Chair for the New Faculty Interest Network, contributing to the development and support of new faculty members.
CounselingSchools.com: What do you wish the public understood about mental health counselors in Iowa?
Dr. Boddicker: When it comes to mental health counselors, we are a different profession than social workers, psychologists, or psychiatrists. As we’re moving away from the stigma of seeing a mental health counselor, the most important thing for people to know is that counselors create a space to talk, explore, and be vulnerable that we don’t typically get in the outside world. As counselors, we build a healthy relationship with our clients where there is vulnerability and trust, and they can use that in their daily lives.
Also, counseling doesn’t have to be mental health-related. It can be someone to talk to about your career, a life transition, or the meaning of life. Counseling is a place even just to gather tools to help us navigate our society and be our most authentic selves.
CounselingSchools.com: What advice would you give to aspiring mental health counseling students in Iowa?
Dr. Boddicker: When choosing a career in counseling, people often underestimate the depth that goes into graduate school. It’s not just writing papers. There’s a lot of growth that occurs that requires us to confront our own biases and issues that need to be addressed. It’s really important to do your own work. There has to be a lot of mental flexibility to recognize our biases and figure out how to work through them. Sometimes, you may find that you have issues with this certain population so it is your job to figure out how to navigate and continue to work with them knowing that you have a different belief
Also, as a counseling student, you will be provided feedback, so be prepared to receive feedback from multiple people. Know that it can often be a challenge and you’re not going to be perfect, but that’s the development of being a counselor. It’s it’s wiping everything down and building that foundation to be an effective counselor.
Accredited Counseling Degree Programs in Iowa
Buena Vista University offers a master of science in education in two fields: clinical mental health counseling and professional school counseling. Both programs feature a hybrid format, including online coursework and a four-day, in-person summer residency focused on clinical skills development.
The clinical mental health counseling program comprises 60 credits with both formal coursework and an internship requirement. Students must pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) to become eligible to begin their internship placements. Upon graduation, students seeking to become certified clinical mental health counselors must also pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
The professional school counseling option is 48 credits and emphasizes the development of practical skills such that graduates can promptly enter the workforce. The curriculum aligns with the American School Counselor Association model and provides graduates with the education necessary for school counseling licensure within Iowa.
- Location: Storm Lake, IA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP); North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
The Drake University School of Education offers a master of science in counseling degree with an option to choose one of three specializations: clinical mental health counseling, rehabilitation counseling, and school counseling. The curriculum is designed specifically for working professionals; classes are offered on evenings and weekends. Students complete a set of core courses and courses specific to their specialization.
The clinical mental health counseling specialization is a 60-credit program consisting of 33 credits of core courses and 27 credits of specialization courses. Program requirements allow graduates to become eligible for mental health counseling licensure in Iowa.
In additional to the 33 required core credits, the clinical rehabilitation counseling specialization also features 27 credits of specialized coursework. Graduates may choose from a variety of career options, including working in community agencies, substance abuse treatment, hospitals, state agencies, or private practice. The National Rehabilitation Institute, which has been in operation at Drake University since 1976, distinguishes this rehabilitation program from others. The institute performs research and provides various training opportunities.
The school counseling program also has 60 total credits. However, it may be necessary to take two additional courses for those not licensed teachers if they did not take these courses during their undergraduate education.
- Location: Des Moines, IA
- Duration: 2.5 to three years; students must complete within five years of acceptance
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
Loras College offers two master of arts degrees for aspiring counselors: a master of arts in clinical mental health counseling and a master of arts in school counseling. Both programs are designed for working professionals as well as recent graduates.
The master of arts in clinical mental health counseling is a 60-credit program with nine elective coursework credits. Coursework meets the requirements for licensure in the tri-state area of Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Students may also complete additional training to become certified alcohol and drug counselors. Each course is held one morning per week, always ending before noon.
The master of arts in school counseling is a 39-credit program consisting of 21 credits of core coursework and 18 credits of clinical coursework. A practicum and internship fulfill a majority of the required clinical coursework hours. Loras College is the only program to offer a school counseling program in the tri-state area. Evening classes are offered in a flexible format, made for both working adults and recent college graduates. Each class is held one night per week, approximately two-and-a-half hours, starting at 4 p.m. or later.
- Location: Dubuque, IA
- Duration: Two to four years
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); the school counseling program is approved by the Iowa Department of Education
Mount Mercy University offers a master of arts degree in marriage and family therapy (MA-MFT). This 60-credit program features evening classes and is the only COAMFTE-accredited MA-MFT program in Iowa. The coursework includes general ed, elective courses, and clinical coursework consisting of three successive practica. Both the university and this program emphasize a student culture focused on service, leadership, and social responsibility. The program combines hands-on clinical experience with classroom learning, featuring on-campus evening courses and an on-site clinic.
Students interested in state licensure must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical training following graduation and pass the national MFT examination. Accrual of necessary clinical hours typically requires approximately two years. The total time investment to complete both the degree and obtain licensure is thus four years.
- Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on the Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE)
The University of Iowa College of Education offers a 60-credit master of arts degree in counseling in three areas: clinical mental health, rehabilitation, and school counseling. All three subprograms require the completion of comprehensive examinations. The clinical mental health and rehabilitation counseling programs can be completed in four semesters in as little as 20 months.
The master of arts in clinical mental health counseling features traditional coursework and supervised clinical experience. Training placements are made in settings that meet CACREP accreditation standards and align with students’ educational goals. Graduates may work in several settings, including government agencies, hospitals, employee assistance programs, substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. Graduates may also seek certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors and seek licensure in Iowa.
The rehabilitation option features a combination of coursework and clinical training, similar to the clinical mental counseling program. The main difference in these subprograms is the target populations graduates will work with. Rehabilitation counselors assist clients with various aspects of their lives, including wellness, employment, and independent living skills. Graduates may seek certification from the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC).
The school counseling option trains counselors to work in K-12 settings. The curriculum consists of core counseling coursework, and a 100-clock-hour practicum and a 600-clock-hour internship. Such placements provide students with direct clinical practice experience, must occur in an approved setting, and be supervised by an experienced licensed school counselor. Students who enter without a teaching license are required to complete additional coursework. Successful graduates may seek licensure as school counselors within Iowa.
- Location: Iowa City, IA
- Duration: 20 months to two years
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
The University of Northern Iowa College of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a 60-credit master of arts degree in counseling with two areas of emphasis: clinical mental health counseling or school counseling.
Both emphases feature core courses, a practicum, and an internship requirement. Students may additionally select a thesis or non-thesis option. Students who prepare a thesis complete a six-credit research course and ultimately complete 66 credits.
The school counseling curriculum is designed following national standards for the school counseling profession. Students may enter the program without a teaching certificate or experience, but such individuals must complete two additional credits of coursework to fulfill state department requirements.
All students must also pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE). Exam content is based on eight CACREP core curriculum areas. Successful thesis option graduates must complete a thesis and offer a successful oral defense of their research.
- Location: Cedar Falls, IA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
How Much Do Counselors Earn in Iowa?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2023—the latest data available as of December 2024.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salaries
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 71,730 | 540 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $106,600 | $87,360 |
| 10th percentile | $48,820 | $50,970 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $96,100 | $86,300 |
| 90th percentile | $168,870 | $123,640 |
Marriage and Family Therapist Salaries
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 63,340 | 130 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $68,730 | $40,600 |
| 10th percentile | $39,090 | $24,080 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $58,510 | $37,980 |
| 90th percentile | $104,710 | $66,100 |
Rehabilitation Counselor Salaries
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 84,750 | 1,760 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $48,430 | $40,930 |
| 10th percentile | $31,390 | $30,120 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $44,040 | $36,670 |
| 90th percentile | $73,710 | $57,820 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselor and Advisor Salaries
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 327,660 | 3,260 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $66,990 | $57,610 |
| 10th percentile | $40,140 | $38,930 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $61,710 | $53,470 |
| 90th percentile | $100,050 | $79,290 |
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 397,880 | 2,680 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $60,080 | $61,770 |
| 10th percentile | $36,700 | $38,570 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $53,710 | $59,000 |
| 90th percentile | $89,920 | $82,620 |
All Other Counselors
| United States | Iowa | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 35,580 | 110 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $52,360 | $49,770 |
| 10th percentile | $33,300 | $33,420 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $46,130 | $42,090 |
| 90th percentile | $79,880 | $85,660 |
Counseling Professional Associations & Resources in Iowa
- Iowa Behavioral Health Association (IBHA)
- Iowa School Counselor Association (ISCA)
- Iowa Psychological Association (IPA)
- Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA)
- Iowa Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (IAMFT)
- Iowa Rehabilitation Association (IRA)
Mental Health Counseling (LMHC) Licenses in Iowa: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Department of Public Health Board of Behavioral Science | Iowa issues temporary Mental Health Counselor (MHC) licenses to candidates who still need to complete supervised work experience. Candidates must:
To apply for a full MHC license, candidates must:
|
Iowa requires licenses to be renewed every two years on even-numbered years. The period to renew a license runs from October 1st of an even-numbered year till September 30th of the next even-numbered year. During that period, counselors must submit their renewal application, pay the $120 fee, and complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
School Counseling Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Board of Education Examiners |
Iowa Board of Education Examiners issues a Professional Services license for school counselors. For an initial license, applicants must:
A Class G license may be issued to applicants who have not met the internship or practicum requirements. After two years of full-time work, school counselors can convert their license from an initial one to a standard one. |
The initial Professional Services license must be renewed every two years. Applications can be submitted online and no continuing education is required. Standard licenses are valid for five years and must be renewed online. Counselors renewing standard licenses will need to complete four renewal credits per cycle. These credits can be earned through education, testing, certification, or mentoring. |
Substance Abuse Counseling Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Board of Certification (IBC) | The Iowa Board of Certification (IBC) issues Temporary Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (tCADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), International Alcohol and Drug Counselor (IADC), and International Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (IAADC) certifications. To earn a tCADC certification, applicants must:
CADC certificate applicants must choose to either apply through the education or experience track. The requirements include:
IADC certificates are reciprocal with other states that use IC&RC certification. The requirements include:
IAADC certification requirements include:
| The IBC requires certificate holders to renew every two years. To renew, counselors must:
|
Rehabilitation Counseling Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
Iowa Department of Public Health Board of Behavioral Science | Iowa issues temporary Mental Health Counselor (MHC) licenses to rehabilitation counselors who still need to complete supervised work experience. Candidates must:
To apply for a full MHC license, candidates must:
|
Iowa requires licenses to be renewed every two years on even-numbered years by September 30th. Counselors must submit their renewal application up to 60 days before the expiration date, pay the fee, and complete 40 hours of continuing education including three hours in ethics. |
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Board of Behavioral Science |
The Iowa Board of Behavioral Science issues licenses for Behavior Analysts and Assistant Behavior Analysts. The requirements are:
|
Behavior analyst licenses in Iowa run concurrently with the BCBA certification. Both the certification and license must be renewed before the certification expires. To renew, the applicant must meet the renewal requirements set forth by the BACB. The fee to renew is $120. |
Marriage and Family Therapy Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Department of Public Health Board of Behavioral Science |
Iowa issues temporary Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) licenses to candidates who still need to complete supervised work experience. Candidates must:
To apply for a full MFT license, candidates must:
|
Iowa requires licenses to be renewed each even-numbered year. The period to renew a license runs from October 1st of an even-numbered year till September 30th of the next even-numbered year. During that period, counselors must submit their renewal application, pay the $120 fee, and complete 40 hours of continuing education requirements. |
Child (Pediatric) Behavioral Therapy Licenses in Iowa
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Department of Public Health Board of Behavioral Science | Iowa issues temporary Mental Health Counselor (MHC) licenses to child therapists who still need to complete supervised work experience.Candidates must:
To apply for a full MHC license, candidates must:
|
Iowa requires licenses to be renewed every two years on even-numbered years. The period to renew a license runs from September 1st of an even-numbered year till September 30th of the next even-numbered year. During that period, counselors must submit their renewal application, pay the $120 fee, and complete 40 hours of continuing education. |
Bernd Geels
WriterBernd Geels is a Berlin, Germany-based freelance writer and artist. He holds an undergraduate degree in atmospheric science and two graduate degrees. He completed his most recent graduate degree in international environmental studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in 2011. He is interested in healthcare, climate change, marine conservation, indigenous science and refugee issues. You can reach him directly at [email protected].
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt CounselingSchools.com, Kimmy Gustafson’s expertly crafted articles delve into the world of counseling and mental health, providing valuable insights and guidance to readers since 2020. In addition to feature pieces and interviews, she keeps the state licensing tables current. Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.