Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS)
The
Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS) credential is a mark of distinction for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) who are committed to developing the next generation of counselors. Becoming a CPCS demonstrates your dedication to mentoring future counselors and showcases your expertise
in clinical supervision. With licensure requiring at least 70 hours—and ideally 100 hours—of clinical supervision, the CPCS certification plays a vital role in addressing the shortage of qualified clinical supervisors and helping bridge this critical gap in the field.
Why Become a CPCS?
The CPCS certificate program prepares you for the complex supervisor environment, and allows you to shape the next generation of mental health professionals. You’ll mentor trainees, teaching them that professionalism in counseling is a way of life, not just a set of skills. You'll also stay at the forefront of the field, ensuring your supervisees meet clinical hours and understand the ethical and legal frameworks governing client care.
As a CPCS, you'll be directly involved in developing future counselors, ensuring they’re well-equipped to navigate the complexities of counseling and the legal responsibilities tied to their work. If you're passionate about mentoring and committed to high standards in counseling, becoming a CPCS is a meaningful step in your career, demonstrating your dedication to clinical supervision.
Lead the way for future counselors. Become a CPCS today!
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Upcoming CPCS Training Dates
Pre-Requisites and Requirements for Professional Counselor Supervisor Certification
STEP 1
Licensed in GA as an LPC for a MINIMUM of 3 years prior to attending training for the CPCS credential.
Rule 135-5-.02
NOTE: Time as an APC/restricted license does not count towards the 3 years.
STEP 2: Complete Required Training Courses.
You must be licensed (unrestricted license such as LPC/LMHC, etc.) for at least three (3) years before beginning any supervision-related coursework.
- Take a 30-Hour Clinical Supervision Training Course.
- Coursework taken before you have been licensed for a minimum of three (3) years with an unrestricted license, will NOT be accepted.
- CE workshops or training programs approved by LPCA of Georgia, are recommended for faster processing.
- Please Note: Courses from NBCC approved providers and CE Broker providers are subject to additional compliance review before they can be accepted for CPCS Certification. This additional review may delay the processing of your application.
- All CEs must be from the same trainer/same company.
- All Training MUST be earned within 2 years from the date of the application.
- Trainings (CEs) MUST be SYNCHRONOUS. GA Licensing Rule 135.9
- Check the list of CE providers/workshops that are NOT accepted or recognized for CPCS certification.
- CCALP recommends 1 year (12 sessions) of documented supervision of supervision by a qualified trainer (recommended, not required).
STEP 3: Submit the CPCS Application
Start your application and take the exam.
*Please note: application fees are non-refundable. Ensure the accuracy of your application prior to submitting.*
STEP 4: Take and Pass the CPCS Exam
Once both your application and passing exam score have been submitted, your file will be reviewed by CCALP. After approval, you will receive an email with your certification dates and a printable wall certificate.
The CPCS credential is valid for three years. To continue providing supervision, you must complete the recertification process every three years.
Annual Maintenance Fee
The Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) is required annually for individuals holding an active credential. Only one AMF is required per person, regardless of the number of credentials held. The AMF supports the long-term sustainability and advancement of the certifications through marketing, promotion, exhibiting, and ongoing credential recognition efforts.
CPCS Inactivation Request
CPCS Inactivation
Did you know you can inactivate (or re-activate) your CPCS certification at any time. Please complete the CPCS Inactive Request below in order to change your CPCS credential status to inactivate.
Directions to change your status
- Submit the CPCS Inactive Application Form, to change from "active" to "inactive" status. There is no cost to change your CPCS status to Inactive.
- The Application contains several attestation statements that you will need to affirm.
- You will receive an email with verification of CPCS inactivation.
Please Note
Once you place your CPCS credential on Inactive status, you may no longer practice as a CPCS Clinical Supervisor for counselors seeking Professional Counselor licensure under the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists (the Board).
Pursuant to Georgia Composite Board Rule 135-5-.02(5)(iv), you must immediately discontinue using the CPCS credential on all communications and professional materials, including business cards, letterhead, email signatures, websites, online directories, social media profiles, marketing materials, and any other public listings.
Additionally, LPCA of Georgia is required to notify the Georgia Composite Board that your CPCS supervisor status has been changed to Inactive.
If your CPCS credential expires while on Inactive status, you must complete the required CPCS recertification process before your credential can be returned to Active status.
CPCS recertification is required every three (3) years based on your most recent CPCS issue date. When you are ready to reactivate your credential, please review the CPCS Recertification Guidelines and complete the recertification process.