How to Find Free NBCC Approved CEs for Counselors: A Comprehensive Guide

As a Counselor, meeting your licensure requirements can sometimes feel like an endless task, especially when it comes to Continuing Education (CE) credits. With busy schedules and tight budgets, finding affordable, high-quality educational resources is a top priority.

Thankfully, not all CE credits have to come at a steep cost. In fact, there are several ways to access free NBCC-approved CEs that not only keep your license active but also enhance your skills and knowledge.

This guide is designed to help you discover the best strategies and resources for locating free NBCC-approved CEs for Counselors. Whether you’re searching for webinars, special events, or top-notch online courses, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll introduce you to Agents of Change Continuing Education, a trusted platform offering over 150 ASWB and NBCC-approved courses, including two excellent free courses for Counselors.

Did you know? Agents of Change Continuing Education offers Unlimited Access to 150+ ASWB and NBCC-approved CE courses for one low annual fee to meet your state’s requirements for Continuing Education credits and level up your career.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals with Continuing Education, learn more here about Agents of Change and claim your 5 free CEUs.

1) What Are NBCC Approved CE Credits?

Continuing Education (CE) credits are a crucial part of professional development for mental health professionals, including Counselors, Social Workers, and other licensed practitioners. These credits help ensure that professionals stay up to date with new research, best practices, and ethical standards in their field.

The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) is a widely recognized body that approves Continuing Education programs specifically for Counselors, guaranteeing that the courses meet stringent criteria and contribute meaningfully to a professional’s development.

The Importance of NBCC Approval

Not all CE courses are created equal, and that’s where NBCC approval comes in. NBCC-approved courses are vetted to ensure that they meet specific educational standards and are relevant to the work of professional Counselors. This ensures that the credits you earn count toward your licensure renewal and provide the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance your practice.

Regulatory Assurance: NBCC approval ensures that courses meet most states’ licensure renewal requirements.
High-Quality Content: NBCC-approved courses are created by experts in the field and are tailored to address both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Credibility: Completing NBCC-approved CE credits shows your commitment to ongoing professional development, which can enhance your reputation with clients and employers.

Why Do Counselors Need CE Credits?

CE credits are more than just a bureaucratic requirement—they are an essential part of maintaining competence and ensuring that you continue to provide the highest standard of care to your clients. The mental health field constantly evolves, with new research, technologies, and therapeutic techniques emerging regularly. CE courses help Counselors stay current and adapt to these changes effectively.

Key Reasons for Continuing Education

Stay Updated: With the rapid development of new therapeutic approaches, research findings, and technology, CE credits keep you informed.
Ethical Standards: Ethics courses are often required and ensure that you are aware of the latest guidelines for handling sensitive situations in a responsible way.
Expand Skills: Many CE courses focus on specialized skills, such as trauma-informed care, mindfulness practices, or multicultural counseling techniques, that help you better serve your clients.

How NBCC Approval Works

For a course to be NBCC-approved, it must meet strict guidelines that focus on the relevance of the course content, the qualifications of the instructor, and the learning objectives. Providers seeking NBCC approval must submit detailed applications, which are reviewed by NBCC to ensure they meet these rigorous standards.

Content Relevance: Courses must address topics that are directly applicable to the counseling profession, such as therapeutic techniques, ethics, or client care.
Qualified Instructors: Only courses taught by professionals with significant expertise in the counseling field will receive NBCC approval.
Learning Outcomes: Courses must have clear, measurable objectives that ensure participants walk away with new knowledge or skills that are directly applicable to their work as Counselors.

Types of NBCC-Approved CE Courses

NBCC-approved courses come in various formats, allowing you to tailor your continuing education to fit your learning style and schedule. Whether you prefer self-paced learning or live webinars, there’s something for everyone.

Workshops and Conferences: These are typically live, in-person or virtual events where you can engage with instructors and peers in real time. They often offer hands-on practice and opportunities for networking.
Online Courses: These self-paced courses offer flexibility, allowing you to complete them on your schedule. Platforms like Agents of Change Continuing Education offer a wide selection of NBCC-approved online courses.
Webinars: Many organizations host live webinars that allow you to interact with the instructor while earning CE credits. These are usually shorter than full-day workshops but still offer valuable insights.
Ethics and Legal Compliance Courses: Given the sensitive nature of counseling work, many states require specific ethics courses. These cover vital topics like confidentiality, boundary setting, and the ethical use of new technologies like AI in counseling.

Benefits of NBCC Approved CEs

As a Counselor, earning NBCC-approved CE credits isn’t just about ticking a box—it offers real benefits that enhance both your personal and professional life. Here’s why they’re worth the effort:

Career Advancement: Completing recognized and accredited CE courses adds weight to your resume and may open doors to new job opportunities or promotions.
Enhanced Client Care: Staying up to date on the latest therapeutic approaches allows you to offer your clients the most effective, evidence-based care possible.
Professional Networking: By attending workshops, webinars, and conferences, you can build connections with other professionals, which could lead to future collaborations or referrals.
Convenience and Flexibility: Platforms like Agents of Change Continuing Education make it easy to earn NBCC-approved CE credits on your own schedule through a wide variety of online courses.

How to Ensure a Course Is NBCC Approved

To make sure that the courses you take are NBCC-approved, always check the provider’s credentials before enrolling. The course description should clearly state that it is NBCC-approved, and the provider should have an NBCC provider number, which you can verify on the NBCC website.

Steps to Verify NBCC Approval

Check the Provider: Only courses from NBCC-approved providers count toward your CE credits. Reputable providers like Agents of Change Continuing Education clearly list their NBCC approval.
Look for the NBCC Logo: The official NBCC logo should be prominently displayed on the course page or materials.
Contact NBCC or the Provider: If you’re unsure about a course, you can always contact NBCC or the course provider to confirm the approval status.

By focusing on NBCC-approved CE credits, you can ensure you get the highest quality education available while staying compliant with licensure renewal requirements. This not only helps you maintain your professional standing but also improves the care you provide to your clients.

Learn more about Agents of Change Continuing Education. We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals with their Continuing Education and want you to be next!

2) How to Find Free NBCC Approved CEs for Counselors

Finding free NBCC-approved Continuing Education (CE) credits can be a challenge, but with the right approach and resources, it’s absolutely possible. Whether you’re a Counselor looking to fulfill licensure requirements or simply seeking to expand your professional knowledge without breaking the bank, there are plenty of strategies to help you secure free CEs.

In this section, we’ll cover several methods for locating legitimate, high-quality, and free NBCC-approved CEs, ensuring you’re never stuck in a bind when your renewal deadline looms.

1. Use Reputable Online Platforms

One of the most efficient ways to find free NBCC-approved CEs is through established online platforms that specialize in continuing education for mental health professionals. These platforms often host free courses or webinars periodically, and many of them include NBCC-approved offerings.

Key Platforms for Free NBCC CEs

Agents of Change Continuing Education: This platform offers over 150 ASWB and NBCC-approved courses, and they also provide two free NBCC-approved courses specifically for Counselors. These include:
- Powerful Home-School Partnerships, which explores the role of Social Workers and Counselors in fostering strong school-family connections.
- ChatGPT and AI for Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals, which covers the ethical use and future implications of AI in mental health practice.
NBCC Foundation: The NBCC Foundation itself occasionally offers free or reduced-cost CE courses. These can be an excellent way to access high-quality education directly from the source.
Psychotherapy Networker: Known for offering CE credits through both free and paid webinars, this platform is widely respected for its thought-provoking content.

By regularly checking these sites, you can stay updated on newly available free courses that are NBCC-approved and relevant to your counseling practice.

2. Leverage Professional Associations

Professional associations are a valuable resource for finding free CE opportunities. Many organizations provide free or discounted access to NBCC-approved CEs as a benefit to their members. If you’re a member of one of these associations, you could be missing out on free CE opportunities that are already included with your membership.

Associations Offering Free CEs

American Counseling Association (ACA): The ACA offers webinars and courses to its members, many of which are NBCC-approved. Membership also grants you access to various free resources throughout the year, including webinars that focus on current issues in mental health.
National Association of Social Workers (NASW): Though primarily catering to Social Workers, many NASW courses are NBCC-approved and applicable to Counselors. They frequently offer free CE webinars to members, especially on ethics and policy changes, which are key areas for mental health professionals.
Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT): While not all courses are free, ABCT often offers discounts and occasional free webinars to members, many of which are NBCC-approved. Membership is required to access most of these opportunities.

Benefits of Leveraging Associations

Access to Exclusive Content: Some free webinars and courses are only available to association members.
Networking Opportunities: Associations often hold conferences and workshops where members can earn CE credits while expanding their professional network.
Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Associations regularly host events and trainings on new developments, making it easier to stay current in your field.

3. Take Advantage of Special Events, Webinars, and Conferences

Many professional organizations and educational platforms host special events like webinars, virtual conferences, and workshops, often providing free access to NBCC-approved CE credits.

While these events may be time-sensitive, they’re an excellent way to earn credits while learning from experts in the field. Some of these opportunities are also recorded and made available later, offering flexibility for those unable to attend live.

Where to Find Free CE Events

LinkedIn Events: LinkedIn is a treasure trove for finding free professional events, including those offering NBCC-approved credits. Follow industry leaders, professional groups, and relevant companies to stay informed about upcoming webinars and conferences.
NBCC Website: The NBCC website occasionally lists events and conferences where participants can earn free or discounted CE credits. Keep an eye on their updates to see what’s available.

Benefits of Attending Live Events

Live Interaction: Webinars and conferences give you the opportunity to ask questions and engage with presenters in real time.
Group Learning: These events often involve group discussions, allowing you to hear diverse perspectives and insights from other professionals.
Free Networking: Conferences and webinars are great networking opportunities, helping you build relationships with others in the field.

4. Seek Out University-Hosted Free Webinars

Many universities with strong mental health or psychology programs host free webinars, often providing NBCC-approved CE credits. These webinars are usually taught by university professors or researchers and cover cutting-edge topics in counseling and therapy. While they can be harder to find, the quality of content is typically exceptional.

Universities Known for Hosting Free Webinars

Johns Hopkins University: Renowned for their mental health programs, they occasionally host free online events and webinars that offer CE credits.
University of Pennsylvania’s Positive Psychology Center: This university frequently offers online sessions on positive psychology, trauma-informed care, and cognitive behavioral therapy, some of which provide NBCC-approved CEs.
University of California, Berkeley: They often offer free or low-cost online courses and webinars in psychology, counseling, and mental health, many of which include NBCC-approved CE credits.

Advantages of University-Based Webinars

Expert Instructors: Courses are typically taught by university faculty or leading experts in their fields, ensuring high-quality content.
Access to Cutting-Edge Research: Universities often focus on the latest research, giving you access to fresh perspectives and new developments in the field.
Reputation: Completing CE courses from well-known universities adds credibility to your professional portfolio.

5. Leverage Your Workplace for Free CE Opportunities

Don’t overlook your workplace as a source of free NBCC-approved CE credits. Many mental health organizations offer free or discounted continuing education opportunities to their employees, often partnering with accredited providers to deliver the training.

How Your Workplace Can Help

In-House Training: Some organizations host NBCC-approved training sessions, workshops, or lunch-and-learn events that offer free CEs to staff.
Sponsorships for External Training: Your employer may sponsor you to attend external training or conferences where you can earn CE credits.
Access to Educational Resources: Employers might offer subscriptions to online platforms like Agents of Change Continuing Education, which offer free and paid NBCC-approved courses.

While the search for free NBCC-approved CEs for Counselors may seem daunting at first, there are numerous strategies and resources to make this task easier. By leveraging reputable online platforms, professional associations, webinars, and even your workplace, you can collect CE credits without the financial burden.

Keep these resources in mind as you plan your professional development, and always ensure the courses you choose meet NBCC requirements to make your continuing education count.

We’ve helped thousands of Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals with Continuing Education, learn more here about Agents of Change and claim your 5 free CEUs!

3) Highlight: Two Free NBCC Approved Courses from Agents of Change Continuing Education

Now, let’s talk about some courses you can take today—completely free! Agents of Change Continuing Education offers over 150 courses for Counselors and other mental health professionals, and two of their top-rated NBCC-approved courses are free.

1. Powerful Home-School Partnerships

This course explores the critical role Social Workers and Counselors play in fostering partnerships between home and school environments. For Counselors working in school settings or with families, this course is a must! It dives deep into how these partnerships influence student outcomes and how professionals can nurture stronger, more collaborative relationships.

Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the significance of home-school collaboration
- Strategies for building strong partnerships between families and schools
- The role of the Counselor in bridging gaps

You can access the Powerful Home-School Partnerships course here.

2. ChatGPT and AI for Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals

AI is becoming increasingly relevant across professions, and mental health is no exception. In this forward-thinking course, you’ll learn about the practical and ethical implications of using AI tools like ChatGPT in counseling practice. The course also provides hands-on workshops and discussions about the future of AI in mental health fields.

Key Takeaways:
- Ethical considerations of AI in mental health care
- Practical applications of AI in counseling and therapy
- The role of ChatGPT in streamlining administrative tasks and providing client support

This cutting-edge course can be accessed for free here.

4) FAQs – Finding Free NBCC-Approved CEs for Counselors

Q: How can I be sure that a course is NBCC-approved before enrolling?

A: To ensure a course is NBCC-approved before enrolling, always check the course details provided by the education platform. Reputable providers will explicitly state that their courses are NBCC-approved, and they will display their NBCC provider number.

You can verify this information on the NBCC’s official website by searching for the provider or course. Look for the official NBCC logo on course pages and ensure that the course description mentions NBCC approval. If in doubt, contact the provider directly or the NBCC to confirm the course’s status before registering.

Q: What happens if I accidentally take a non-NBCC-approved course? Can I still use it for licensure renewal?

A: In most cases, non-NBCC-approved courses will not count toward licensure renewal for Counselors. Each state has its own specific requirements, but NBCC-approved CE credits are typically mandatory.

If you accidentally take a non-NBCC-approved course, you should check with your state licensing board to see if there’s any flexibility in accepting it. However, to avoid this situation in the future, always verify NBCC approval before enrolling in any course to ensure it meets your licensing renewal requirements.

Q: Are free NBCC-approved courses lower in quality than paid ones?

A: Not at all! Free NBCC-approved courses can be just as high-quality as paid ones, as long as they come from reputable, accredited providers. Platforms like Agents of Change Continuing Education offer both free and paid courses, and the free options still meet NBCC’s rigorous standards.

Experts in the field design the content, and the free offerings are often used to showcase the platform’s educational quality or to make important topics more accessible. As long as the course is NBCC-approved, you can trust its quality, regardless of cost.

5) Conclusion

In conclusion, finding free NBCC-approved CEs for Counselors is not only possible but can be a valuable way to enhance your professional skills while meeting licensure requirements. By exploring reputable platforms like Agents of Change Continuing Education, taking advantage of special events, and leveraging your membership in professional associations, you can easily access high-quality, NBCC-approved courses at no cost.

Continuing education is an essential aspect of maintaining your Counselor license and ensuring that you provide the best possible care to your clients. The strategies we’ve outlined, from university-hosted webinars to professional associations, offer a variety of ways to meet your CE requirements while expanding your knowledge base.

Free courses, like those provided by Agents of Change, are especially helpful, giving you the flexibility to pursue meaningful learning opportunities without worrying about financial constraints.

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► Learn more about the Agents of Change Continuing Education here: https://agentsofchangetraining.com

About the Instructor, Meagan Mitchell: Meagan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been providing Continuing Education for Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals for more than 8 years. From all of this experience helping others, she created Agents of Change Continuing Education to help Social Workers, Counselors, and Mental Health Professionals stay up-to-date on the latest trends, research, and techniques.

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Disclaimer: This content has been made available for informational and educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or clinical advice, diagnosis, or treatment