Home Compare CPCE vs NCMHCE

Exam Comparison

CPCE vs NCMHCE

Comparing the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. Both fall under Behavioral Health. Both are covered by the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app.

CPCE Overview → NCMHCE Overview →

CPCE vs NCMHCE: At a Glance

Detail CPCE NCMHCE
Full Name Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination
Governing Body CCE NBCC
Number of Questions 160 80
Time Limit 4 hours 2 hours 30 minutes
Passing Score Set by individual program Scaled (set by NBCC exam committee)
Exam Fee Varies by institution $295 USD
Category Behavioral Health Behavioral Health
C3RT App Behavioral Health Exam Prep Behavioral Health Exam Prep

Content Areas Compared

CPCE Domains

  • Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
  • Social and Cultural Diversity
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Career Development
  • Counseling and Helping Relationships
  • Group Counseling and Group Work
  • Assessment and Testing
  • Research and Program Evaluation

NCMHCE Domains

  • Assessment and Diagnosis
  • Counseling and Psychotherapy
  • Administration, Consultation and Supervision
  • Core Counseling Attributes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CPCE and NCMHCE?

The CPCE (Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination) is administered by CCE and consists of 160 questions. The NCMHCE (National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination) is administered by NBCC and consists of 80 questions. Both are Behavioral Health credentials.

Can I take both the CPCE and the NCMHCE?

Yes, the CPCE and NCMHCE are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (CCE and NBCC respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.

Which should I take first, CPCE or NCMHCE?

The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The CPCE is offered by CCE with a passing score of Set by individual program, while the NCMHCE is offered by NBCC with a passing score of Scaled (set by NBCC exam committee). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.

Does C3RT cover both the CPCE and the NCMHCE?

Yes. Both the CPCE and NCMHCE are covered in the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app for iOS and Mac.

The Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) is administered by CCE. The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is administered by NBCC. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.