NCE case studies

NCE · Put your knowledge to work in context.

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is a 200-item multiple-choice examination designed to assess the knowledge, skills and abilities judged important for providing effective counseling services. It is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), a private certifying body rather than a government licensing agency, so this page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NBCC. The exam serves two distinct audiences. For licensure candidates, the NCE is a requirement in many states, and it can be taken on its own as part of the state licensure process. The NCE case studies are 5 cases and about 3,353 words.

A Father's Demand, a Minor's Disclosure

You are an LPC in solo private practice. Dana, 15, was referred by her school counselor after three panic attacks in class during the past month.

740 words, about 4 min 2

The Son in the Interpreter's Chair

You are an English-speaking counselor at a community mental health center. Fatima, 58, was referred by her primary care physician for "depression and unexplained pain." She resettled from Somalia three years ago, speaks Somali at home, and has limited English.

544 words, about 3 min 3

Passive Ideation Before a Two-Week Absence

Marcus, 34, has been your client for 14 months for major depressive disorder. His PHQ-9 was 9 three months ago and is 18 today.

680 words, about 3 min 4

A 7-Year-Old, an English-Normed Test, and an Eligibility Deadline

You are an LPC at a nonprofit clinic. Your graduate training in assessment consists of one course and supervised administration of the BDI-II and a career interest inventory.

701 words, about 4 min 5

Screening Failure in an Eight-Week Process Group

You co-facilitate an eight-week interpersonal process group at a university counseling center with seven members. At screening you learn that Priya is a resident assistant and that Jordan, another applicant, is a first-year student on Priya's residence hall floor whom Priya supervises and evaluates.

688 words, about 3 min