Overarching Guidelines to Consider
If you’ve been in the field of mental health for a while, it’s likely you have received awards, honors, certifications, and at least one license to practice in addition to your academic degrees.
All those post-nominal credentials can be confusing to the general public and maybe even to you.
Just in case you didn’t know . . . there is etiquette and a preferred order to list your qualifications so that your business card and letterhead don’t look like alphabet soup.
To complicate matters, the proper way to list your credentials varies from country to country.
Here are some overarching guidelines for mental health professionals in the United States to remember:
- In mental health, you should never list more than three credentials after your name on your business card.
I know you’ve worked hard for them but just don’t do
it.
Wrong: Ashley R. Dorr, MA, LCAT, CAC-II,
ATR-BC
Right: Ashley R. Dorr, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
- If you do have more than three credentials, you can still can include as many as you wish in the following circumstances:
- When you are being introduced for a presentation you are giving,
- In the appropriate areas of your resume/vita i.e. under the section noting education you can include Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD) or Master in Business Administration (MBA), and
- In legal and legislative settings.
- You have the option of spelling out your credentials or using post-nominals for all or some; however, you should not spell them out and use post-nominals. [Thanks, Chris Swenson, for the reminder!]
Wrong: Chris Swenson, MS, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family
TherapistRight: Chris Swenson, MS, LMFT or
Chris Swenson, MS
Licensed Marriage and Family
Therapist - Legal documents (like progress notes and contracts) only require that you include the credential(s) required by the state to practice in your discipline.
- Use consistent punctuation across all credentials.
Wrong: Angela Koenig, M.Ed., LPC
Right: Angela Koenig, MEd, LPC
- When post-nominal letters are used, do not use courtesy titles such as Dr., Ms., Miss, Mr., or Mrs..
Wrong: Ms. Jennifer Whitlock, MEd, LPC, ACS
Right: Jennifer Whitlock, MEd, LPC, ACS or
Ms. Jennifer Whitlock
Credentials to Exclude
Many of you have chosen mental health as a second career choice.
In doing so, your clinical work is quite possibly informed by a lengthy and successful training/work history that includes your experience in other fields such as human resources, business, education, information technology, medicine, and/or law.
Such academic and work histories are not typically recognized by licensing and certifying bodies in mental health as qualifying you for clinical, educational and/or supervisory work in mental health.
Although you may have worked hard in those other areas, it’s important to remember that it can be considered unethical and illegal to include degrees alongside your name that are not directly related to the work you do in the field of mental health.
Language commonly associated with such practices includes “misrepresentation of credentials,” “deceptive advertising,” “fraud” and “false advertising.”
How to List Your Credentials
First – Highest Degree Earned
The first credential listed after your name on your business card should always be the highest degree earned (not an honorary degree) in your field.
That’s because this is considered to be a permanent credential that cannot be taken away from you except under highly unusual circumstances.
Wrong: Melissa Gressner, BS, MA, PsyD
Right: Melissa Gressner, PsyD
Second – Credentials That are Required
The second credential that should be noted is your license or other state requirements that enable practice in the field of mental health.
Typically, this credential permits you to practice or practice in a more advanced capacity as in independent practitioner and in a training/supervisory capacity.
Wrong: Megha Pulianda, LPC-I, MS
Right: Megha Pulianda, MS, LPC-I
Third – National Certifications
The third credential to be listed should be any national certifications that are voluntarily sought and awarded by accredited / legitimate certifying bodies.
(Remember . . . not all credentials are equal.)
These credentials are typically listed in the order of difficulty to obtain and begin with the most difficult.
Certifications such as NCC, CAC, and CBT are included in this category.
Wrong: Christine J. Harris, MS, CBT, LMFT
Right: Christine J. Harris, MS, LMFT, CBT
Fourth – Outstanding Achievements
The fourth type of credential that can be added to your business card / letterhead includes any type of awards and honors that recognize your outstanding achievements
Wrong: Perry Little, PhD, AP-LS Fellow, RDT
Right: Perry Little, PhD, RDT, AP-LS Fellow
Fifth – Additional Skills
And, the last type of credential that you may consider adding to your business card is any other mental health-related certifications that recognize additional skills that you have earned.
But, remember – only three credentials total!
Otherwise, it starts to look like alphabet soup!
Final Thoughts on Listing Mental Health Credentials
Have I forgotten to address something related to listing your credentials or confused you in some way?
I don’t claim to be the all-knowing style guide on this issue but I’m happy to help if I can!
Let me know if you’ve still got questions.
And, if you do notice that you’ve been doing it all wrong, then just bite the bullet and go have some new business cards printed up!
That’s better than colleagues and clients thinking that you’re a little confused about displaying the credentials you’ve earned!
[updated September 28, 2021]
Great information and clarification.
Thank you…
Thanks, Kim! I hope you’ll be back often to join the conversation and to tell your peers about my blog!
Tamara,
Thanks so much for this very simplistic and easy to understand description of how to list our credentials.
I have actually never heard this before and I greatly appreciate this information; I will look to share this with others.
I have heard from a marketing standpoint that the general public doesn’t even know what all that alphabet soup stuff stands for. Therefore, it is better to list out what you do to solve their problems rather than just a bunch of processes or titles. Do you have any thoughts on that?
Hi, Chris! It’s great to have your voice here in the mix!
You are so welcome for the information!
I actually wrote it because I have some very dear colleagues who continue to include their credentials either out of order or include things that are not credentials at all.
They are really smart and bright clinicians . . . who just don’t have a clue that they are appearing less than professional when they do those things.
I figure if they don’t know . . . then there are likely many others that don’t know either.
Besides . . . I remember not knowing . . . and not wanting to ask others . . . and trying to figure it out on my own.
That just sucks!
And, as for “alphabet soup,” I think a couple of things:
(1) The general public really doesn’t have a clue what all that stuff means and
(2) By including the entire alphabet after our names, we end up looking like we are working overtime to prove we know something (and it’s not very convincing!).
Sometimes less is more.
I am both an LPC Intern and LCDC-I. I’m NCC too. Do I sign
Julie L.Estrada, MA, LPC Intern, LCDC-I, NCC
Supervised by Wendy Dagenais, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Or
Julie L.Estrada, MA, LPC Intern, LCDC-I, NCC
Supervised by Wendy Dagenais, LPC-S
I realize I have 4 things to my name. What should I do?
Hi, Julie! Thanks for dropping in today to chat.
First of all, I love that you include “supervised by . . . .”
I imagine that your State Board likely requires that – and I wish that all states did.
It is a marker for the general public that indicates an additional level of professionalism and garners additional credibility for you.
I suggest you drop the MA because an LPC Intern (or for that matter and LCDC Intern or someone carrying NCC) has, by definition, earned her Master’s degree.
In other words, it is redundant.
I hope you’ll be back often to chat!
Thanks for doing this! I now have my full LPC and soon LCDC.
I’m thinking I will be writing
Julie Estrada, LPC, LCDC, NCC. I dropped the MA as suggested. Is that correct? or should I do Julie Estrada, LPC, NCC, LCDC. I’ve seen some people do it that way, but I’m thinking licenses take precedence over certifications. So, I’m leaning toward the first option.
Hi, Julie! Welcome to PPIO! You are correct – licenses will alway trump certifications and registrations so . . . Julie Estrada, LPC, LCDC, NCC is perfect!
Thanks for dropping in! Hope you’ll point your colleagues to Private Practice from the Inside Out for any support they need!
Ouch! It looks like I have one to many so I guess I’ve been doing it wrong. Funny; it did not look like alphabet soup until you mentioned it (chuckle!). Thanks so much for the valuable info. I will certainly rethink my new info on my business cards. I enjoy the helpful advice given on your blog. Keep up the good work!!
Awwww, Janie! Thank you for the encouragement!
I appreciate your voice in this community and am so glad you find it helpful.
I totally get how those hard-earned credentials didn’t look like alphabet soup to you; just remember that your colleagues and your clients may feel differently.
What’s most important is that that business card serve both you and your clients well!
This was super helpful but I am still confused. With my new telahealth position I have independent practice licenses for 5 states (Social Work in ND, SD, MN, IA, and NE), I also have a masters in Chemical Dependency and working on my LADC for this (in all 5 states as well). I am also certified in DBT and will be in TF-CBT. Help….
OK, Sheila, let’s see if I can help you tackle this. Spell out every single credential you have right here so that I can understand . . . and I’ll try to help!
This is an interesting subject. I have chosen to use all my credentials in my email, but after reading this, I am going to take some of them out of the way my name appears in someone’s email box. I think it is appropriate to include the credentials in the signature on the email. Most of the time that email is used to communicate with other professionals who won’t get lost in the alphabet soup, so that is my reasoning related to that choice. Does anybody else have thoughts on that?
Hi, Lauren! Thanks for dropping in to join this discussion!
It is interesting, isn’t it?!
Your business card and letterhead should reflect the three credentials of your choice as noted in this post.
And, I believe that your email signature should reflect the same because it is simply an extension of your letterhead.
I am in the process of designing my first business cards, brochures, etc. and wondered how/if I should include both my NJ and NY licenses – which are different names – LPC and LMHC respectively. Also, through my graduate program, I earned 2 Master’s Degrees, M.Ed and MA (both in Counseling Psychology). I can’t recall if one is a “higher degree” than the other – Leaning toward the M.Ed. And I’m an NCC. If I included it all, it would be:
Michele Smith, M.Ed, MA, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Maybe 2 separate cards for each State?
Hi, Michele! It’s great to have your voice in the community here!
Here’s more to consider in making this decision . . . .
Did the Master’s Degrees come from the same university?
If so, the rule is that you only list one degree per school so . . . you may just have to pick one!
If I had to pick between your two degrees for my business card, I would take into account what it is you want to do with them.
For example, an MEd is a terminal degree for counselors while a MA is not a terminal degree for psychologists and, as such your MA might carry less weight in the field of counseling but would likely qualify you to teach psychology classes to undergrads.
So . . . consider what you want to do with those different degrees.
As for your licenses, you also choices.
Sure you could carry two different cards – one for each state with each license – but, I know from experience, that’s a hassle!
If you decide not to carry two different cards, you still have two choices.
You could list one degree and both licenses on the face of your business card – especially if you are practicing in both states.
But, a different (and maybe really cool?) option might be to create a two-sided business card – one for each state / degree / license.
What if someone obtained an LMHC and then a PsyD? And are not yet licensed as a psychologist? Would they write LAST NAME, PsyD, LMHC or LAST NAME, LHMC, PsyD? Or would they completely drop off the LMHC since the doctorate is a higher degree (despite being slightly different fields — counseling vs psychology — and one degree having a license associated with it).
Hi, Marina! Thanks so much for dropping in to ask this question!
A PsyD is an academic degree that has been earned.
An LMHC is a license (rather than a degree) that has been earned.
So . . . the proper way to write this would be “Marina Last Name, PsyD, LMHC.”
Hope that helps and that you’ll be back often to join the conversations!
Thank you so much! This is helpful!
You’re so welcome, Marina! I hope you’ll be back often to join the conversations here at Private Practice from the Inside Out!
Hi Tamara,
Great post! I appreciate the simplicity with which you broke everything down, and course, the examples! How would one with two doctorate degrees list their credentials? I have a Psy.D and will soon be starting my JD. I work in the forensic arena, so both will be applicable to mental health. Thanks Tamara. Looking forward to your reply.
Natasha S.
Natasha, can you tell me more about your work so I can better address this?
Hi Tamara,
I am a Clinical Psychologist working in the forensic arena. My JD will compliment my Psy.D.; I just don’t know which comes first, the chicken, or the egg!…LOL. Thanks again for your help Tamara, I look forward to your reply.
Natasha
Hi, Natasha!
I love that you have asked this question!
The short answer is that assuming one degree did not take you longer to complete than the other, it’s a judgement call!
I would lean toward ordering based on who you are marketing your services to.
If the legal profession is hiring you, then I would suggest putting the JD first because that would carry more clout with judges, attorneys, etc. facilitating the appearance of having more in common, indicating you “know the language,” etc.
Hello Tamara and thanks for your blog. I have a question about listing non clinical credentials, that concern listing my MBA behind my name with my MSW and LMSW. Why is this illegal or unethical?
Hi, LaTrece!
Assuming that you are in the United States, there are laws against false advertising and ethical mandates that address misleading the general public.
As several in this discussion have noted, the general public is mostly unfamiliar with post-nominal letters associated with our advanced degrees and credentials.
While you may be knowledgable about what “MBA” stands for and what it entails to obtain that degree, that is not necessarily the case for everyone.
And, because a degree in business does not qualify you for the clinical / educational / research work that a licensed social worker provides, the general assumption is that the degree is either irrelevant or can be misleading; after all, the general public might assume that any post-nominal letters attached to your business card for social work would be confirming your skills / ability to perform your work as a social worker.
However, should you take issue with anything that I have stated here, I would encourage you to consult with an attorney in your own state about this issue.
I am not an attorney and not providing legal advice.
Should you do so, feel free to drop back in and let us know where you are and what you learned from that consultation.
I’m happy to continue the conversation.
I am graduating with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in Tn. I also have an MBA from a different school. Would it be NAME, MS-CMHC, MBA?
Then when licensed LPC-MHSP, MBA? Thank you
Sonya, thank you so much for asking this!
You will not include your MBA at all on any of your mental-health related business cards or marketing materials because it is not mental health related.
I know you worked hard for it and it can serve you well.
But, it would be like going to work in a corporate 500 company and including your license as a mental health professional.
It’s just not relevant to your job.
Hope this helps!
This is so timely for me as I have a question. My name is Chandra Dixon and my business is Chandra Dixon, LLC. So on my business card how do I include the business with my credentials?
Chandra Dixon, LLC then my name and credentials below?
Chandra Dixon, MEd, LPCA? Just name with LLC? It is all confusing as I want to disclose I have a LLC.
This is a really great question, Chandra, that lots of us have struggled to figure out.
I’m so glad you’re asking it!
To me, it seems redundant and just clutters up the face of your business card so I would opt to list only your name and credentials and not bother to include your business name.
After all, whether someone had your business name or your personal name, when they referenced it in speaking with another colleague or searched for it online, all relevant information would likely show up.
On the other hand, if the name of your practice was Whop-a-Doodle Counseling, I would include the name of the counseling practice as well as your credentials and contact info on your business card.
Many Credentials in Mental Health are Questionable – http://nationalpsychologist.com/2012/11/many-credentials-in-mental-health-are-questionable/101808.html
Hi Tamara,
Thank you so much for this post—I have been looking for something just like what you have written for clarification for a while now without much luck (until now)!
However I do have a follow-up question and was hoping you may have some information….I have been a practicing LCSW for a few years now in one state (still active license, I will be inactivating it rather than letting it lapse in a few months). I just moved to a new state where the equivalent is referred to as LISW (instead of LCSW) and I now technically hold both LISW and LCSW licenses. Since starting my job hunt, I’ve been uncertain—should I just stop using the LCSW after my name and use only the LISW? Both? Any suggestions or resources would be greatly appreciated—I’ve checked with NASW as well and haven’t found anything….
Thank you!!
Hi, MEA! Welcome to Private Practice from the Inside Out!
This is a terrific question, too!
Because you are placing your LCSW on inactive status, I would not continue to list it on business cards, when signing notes, etc. Simply because there is no need.
However, you are wise to keep the credential AND I do recognize that you have worked long and hard to get it; if you are so inclined, you could include on your website and other printed materials in your bio some reference to placing your license on “inactive status due to relocation.”
Best wishes on your journey!
How would I list licenses in two states? I currently hold an LPCA in NC, and am about to receive an LPCA in SC. I live 100 yards from the state line and will likely be practicing in both states. I really don’t want to carry two separate cards, but I also want it to be clear that I am licensed in both states. They both carry the same letters though, so I’m unsure how to indicate my dual licensure.
Hi, Angela! I am licensed as an LPC in both TX and CO and list my own with just one LPC after my name.
However, if it is important to you to designate the two states you might write it as “Angela Hathaway, LPC (NC & SC)” or on a business card rather than listing the credential on the same line as your name, you could include a line UNDER your name that says “LPCA in NC & SC.”
There would be no point to write LPCA twice.
“
I am a newly licensed social worker in NY and PA. LMSW and LSW respectively. My graduate degree is an MSW. My question is; do I include my degree on my cards? In other words, do I put Last name, MSW, LMSW (or LSW) or only put the LMSW/LSW?
Diana! Welcome to Private Practice from the Inside Out and congrats on your new license! That’s awesome!
Thank you for asking this question; it’s one that many of us struggle with in the beginning.
Social Workers typically do not include their degrees once they are licensed because your degree is required for licensure.
So Diana Last Name, LMSW or LSW is the correct way to show up on your business card.
I hope you’ll drop back in often to chat!
Thank you for your reply! This makes total sense to me but I was confused because I’ve seen many books and articles that list peoples names with MSW, LMSW/LCSW after their names.
Diana, if your license requires a Master’s degree, MSW, LCSW is redundant.
Hi, so would I do Victoria Last Name LSW instead of Victoria Last Name MSW, LSW?
Yes! It would be Victoria Last Name, LSW.
That’s because adding the MSW adds nothing assuming your LSW required a master’s degree.
It’s not that adding MSW would be wrong; it’s just that it’s not necessary.
I have an MFT (no license), an LPC (my license) and an MA in clinical psychology.
How do I list my credentials? I think I would sign:
Elizabeth McKernan, MFT, LPC
Is this correct? Omitting MA?
Thank You!
Yes, Elizabeth! That’s exactly what I would do.
This post is helpful. How would you list the following credentials: MS, LPC, NCC and CCMHC? Do you choose either NCC or CCMHC to use?
Thanks!
Vicky, thank you for asking this question about how to list your credentials.
Because NCC is a prerequisite for the specialty of CCMHC, you would drop NCC.
Anyone identifying as a CCMHC is assumed to also hold the NCC credential.
To list them both would be like listing your Bachelors degree once you have obtained your Masters degree.
Hi Tamara,
Thanks for this great post! I’m a new therapist starting out and curious about which credentials to list after my name. I’m and LAC (same as LCPC in my state) and I also have my NCC. Would using “MA” be redundant or should I include it as it creates distinction between an MA program as opposed to an MS?
Is this correct:
Lindsey Mason, MA, LAC, NCC
Hi, Lindsey! Congrats to you and welcome to this great big new adventure!
I would drop the “MA.”
It’s not necessary.
Your license and your certification both carry the weight and infer that you have an advanced degree already.
HI, What does PA mean here please?
Jane Doe, LMHC, CAP, CRC, PA
Thank you!!
Possibly Physician’s Assistant although it’s certainly possible for it to mean something entirely different.
This was a great tool to verify if I was signing my credential correctly on documentation.
When I receive my NCC, I will drop off the LCDC.
One thing you may need to be aware of is that in some states you may not use the”LPC-I” abbreviation (as in Texas). According to the rules, LPC-Intern must be spelled out in its entirety. When I was still in the Master’s program, our career counseling instructor made sure to clarify that for us. Now I understand why.
Actually, Mark, you would keep any licensure relevant to mental health (including your LCDC) and drop the certification.
Licenses trump certifications.
And, thank you for noting that every state requires something a little different for licensure.
In many states including my own and “intern” is assumed to be still in graduate or undergraduate training – not necessarily the case in Texas!
It’s important to do your research when moving from one state to the next.
I have a question. I have a Master of Health Administration in addition to my MS. Out here, most of the LPC and LCPC have MA. It is considered a higher level of education here, so it should be listed. In addition to being a practitioner, I am our biller, do our credentialing, all of the office work, and am both our privacy officer and director of Inclusion and Diversity. So….my MHA is totally relevant. Although I have my Certified HIPAA Compliance Officer cert, it means nothing to the general public. Obviously I won’t use the CHCO in my title. So I’m thinking
Becki Benson, MS, MHA, LPC, NCC
Thoughts?
Hi, Becki! I apologize for not seeing your inquiry until now.
Do not list both degrees.
In fact, there is not a need to list any degree because both your license and your certification assume (and require) degrees.
However, if it is important to you to include one of your degrees – because you will not want to include more than 3 credentials – you get to list the one that represents the role that you fulfill.
If your work is more clinical, the the degree to include would be your MS; if your work is primarily administrative, then you would include your MHA; and, if your work is truly 50-50, then you get to choose with of the two you would prefer to identify with.
But, definitely choose one or the other and not both.
Thank you for this post. I am licensed in two states- LPC in MO and in NC our credentials were recently changed from LPC to LCMHC and I hold the NCC. Both licenses are active. How do I list these? Susan Underhill MA, LCMHC, LPC, NCC? Should I remove the NCC? I really don’t like all of the letters and alphabet soupiness.
Oh, Susan! Wouldn’t it be lovely if the counseling profession could / would make a stronger attempt at uniformity?!
It would all be so much easier and one step closer to portability across state lines!
But, in the mean time, I would suggest that you begin by dropping the “MA.”
I say this because each of your licenses and your certification already indicate that you have at minimum a Masters level degree.
The next thing I would suggest is that following each of your licenses that you put the state in parentheses, for example “LPC (MO) and LCMHC (NC) or if you are only practicing in one state, use that one state’s license and your national certification.
Obviously, if you are practicing in both, then that would not be an option – unless you would want to have two different business cards, websites, etc. – one for each state.
Did that help?
Yes that helps a ton! Thank you so much for the guidance!
And yes portability and consistency would be great! The irony here is that in an attempt at that, NC changed and now it’s inconsistent for me when it was consistent before. Oh well. Hope it’s a step in the right direction!
Ugh! I have heard this before, too, Susan.
I’m not sure what changed for those professionals in NC; however, I have heard that those trying to relocate and get credentialed in their new locations while states are “in transition” to reciprocity will be the most frustrated.
One therapist I worked with noted that she researched the requirements for the new state, pulled all the required documentation together and sent it in with her application, and then discovered that literally in the few days between when she mailed the paperwork and it arrived . . . requirements had changed!
Oy! That makes me grateful for my own transition from TX to CO was as painless as it was!
Great information. I’m an LPC in Virginia and decided to do a career change. I’m now a School Counselor. I continue to have an active LPC but am not practicing at the moment. I also have my NCC. I don’t want to list my LPC because i’m not doing any clinical work, but i’ve been told that i should.
Do I list it as:
Sylvia Bowman, LPC, NCC
or
Sylvia Bowman, MS, LPC, NCC
Hi, Sylvia! You are asking a good question.
Thank you for bringing it here!
Your license as a professional counselor doesn’t mean that you are practicing anywhere; it simply indicates that you are qualified to do so.
Many LPCs never use their licenses for clinical work – choosing instead to teach or simply work in educational settings as a school counselor.
And, either way you have presented is an acceptable way to note your training and qualifications.
Thanks so much for this information! I think it’s important as a professional to be able to document my credentials in a professional manner. Your resource helps simplify a confusing process.
Hi, Kevin! You are so welcome! Let me know when I can be of service to you, Kevin!
I noticed you didn’t use any social work examples. I am a doctoral candidate, I have my MSW and my provisional license LCSWA. Can I include doctoral candidate or DSW candidate?
Thanks,
Tye
Hi, Tye! That’s such a great question – thank you for taking time to ask it here.
You absolutely can include your candidacy!
I would not list it along with the other acronyms, though.
Instead, I would list it on a separate line under your name and credentials on a business card.
For example, Tynatta Pettit, MSW, LCSWA on one line.
And, then Doctoral Candidate on the next.
Or, in a letter of introduction I would simply reference your candidacy i.e. “Dear Ms. Jones, my name is Tye Pettit. As a a doctoral candidate, I would like to apply for . . . .”
Congrats to you on gaining those advanced credentials, Tye!
You’ve obviously put in the work for a strong foundation in our field.
Best wishes on your journey!
I hope you’ll be back often to join the conversations here!
I have a Masters in School Counseling how do I write that behind my name? also I am working towards the LPC through NBCC.
I am also teaching Substance Abuse classes but I do not have any certification in that do I list anything behind my name for that?
Hi, Celia! Tell me more about your Master degree – is it Master of Arts degree? A Master of Education degree? Master of Science? Something else?
From what I understand you have earned some type of Master degree in the field of School Counseling.
And, certifying bodies like the National Board for Certified Counselors oversee certain certifications.
Professional licenses are administered by individual states at this time.
Certifying bodies and licensing bodies are different and totally separate from each other.
To be clear, are you credentialed by NBCC as an NCC or something different?
And, finally teaching a class or group of classes does not in and of itself qualify you for any type of credential.
Let me know what type of Master degree you obtained in School Counseling and whatever certifications you may have obtained from NBCC and then I’ll help you with those credentials!
How do I get removed from the notifications email list for this post? I asked a question about a year ago, and it was answered. I no longer need to see responses to this post. There is no unsubscribe link in the email. The link on the website doesn’t work. I have tried using the “contact” page and got no response, but I am STILL getting emails. How do I make it stop???
Angela, you only receive notification of additional comments on a post if you have requested to do so. I believe I have removed you from future notifications. Please let me know if that is not the case.
Good morning!
I have 2 bachelors, BA and BSN, would my credentials be listed as BA, BSN, RN?
Thanks!
Hi, Ashley! Happy to help you out but can you please let me know what it is you do for a profession and what each of these degrees is in?
I have a question! So I just changed from PLLC to S-Corp. I am LMSW. I own the S-Corp and I do not have any employees under me yet. For my email signature how should I list my “title” since I’m multirole. Technically CEO, owner, therapist, etc. I want it to look professional.
Oh, this is an interesting dilemma, isn’t it, Caitlyn!? I think you have multiple options. But, I think I would let my credential show that I am a therapist and lead with
Caitlyn Witek, CEO
Licensed Master Social Work
4444 Johnson Court
City, State, USA
Phone #
As an alternative, you could have to different email signatures to choose from – one emphasizing your CEO role and a separate one emphasizing your clinical role.
Both could be considered correct.
How would you recommend displaying credentials from more than one state, when both are used regularly and are different? For example, I practice in both Maryland and Virginia. In Virginia (the credential I obtained first) my credential is LCSW. In Maryland, the credential is LCSW-C. The credential LCSW in Maryland represents a non-clinical social worker. Thanks for the great resource!
Hi, Ashley! Thanks for dropping in to ask this. It is increasingly an issue for many of us. Assuming you want to represent both of these credentials in the same – place like on a website or on a business card – I would suggest you do this –> Ashley Nicole, LCSW (VA), LCSW-C (MD)
Hi,
I hope all is well. I am an LSW in NJ and LMSW in NY. How do I write my credentials so people know I licensed in both states on my resume?
Hi, Sarah! One way that might be useful to you – on both your resume and your business cards – is to simply spell out your credentials as in Licensed Social Worker (NJ) and Licensed Master Social Worker (NY).
You might choose to “stack” these under your name rather than listing them beside your name just for visual balance.
I hope that helps and that you will be bak to chat often!
Is this correct?
Linda M Miller MS, LPC, NCC, LCDC
Thank you,
Linda
Hi, Linda! You’ve almost got this right.
Drop the MS for two reasons:
(1) You should never list over three credentials and
(2) It is assumed that you have a Masters Degree since you hold a license (or two) that actually require this.
🙂
Hello. I have been getting mixed answers regarding my credentials; I am hoping you can help! I currently hold my Master’s of Counseling Psychology (MACP) and obtaining my Master’s of Jurisprudence (MJ). I have been told that I can list myself as a mental health professional (MHP) given my MACP and the requirements met for that degree. My first question, can I list myself as an MHP? Second, once I obtain my MJ, how would I list my full credentials?
Thank you and be well!
Hi, Cyndi! I think I need more information in order to be helpful to you because . . . well, context matters.
What is it you are doing in the field and how are you using each of these degrees in the field of mental health?
Thank you for this information. I have been confused about several aspects of this. My sited degree, license is M.Ed., which you corrected to MEd and LBS (Licensed Behavior Specialist). I currently work as a special education teacher but also work as a Behavior Specialist. Should these be listed together? The LBS is only good in Pennsylvania. Should that limitation be noted? I am also a certified school counselor. I have never seen this credential listed. Should it be listed at all?
Hi, Larry! OK, so let’s figure this out . . . . .
I want to make sure that I understand you correctly.
To do that, I need to understand the context in which you are working.
Are you working as a special education Teacher and also as a Behavior Specialists?
Are you licensed or certified to teach in special education? If so, where?
I believe you mean that your terminal degree is an MEd . . . in what?
Are you licensed as a Licensed Behavior Specialist in Pennsylvania?
You are also certified as a school counselor.
Is this a national certification or state certification or . . . ?
Did I get all of the credentials covered here?
I have a masters of science in counseling with an emphasis in clinical mental health counseling.. what is my designation? MSC/CCMH plus trauma certified specialist.
Hi, Nikki! Before I answer this, can you please tell me what CCMH actually stands for? I can make assumptions but would prefer to get this right.
And, what is the acronym for your trauma certification?
Give me those answers and then I can help you out!
Hello,
I got a lot of good information on your site so thank you! I have a license from another state that is equal to my LPC, do I list that?
I have my MS to list then my LPC and my BSL so I was wondering if I would bother listing my MHC from WA. Also, I wasn’t sure what order to list LPC and BSL but from your information I believe MS, LPC, BSL because MS is permanent, LPC is higher license than BSL.
Thank you in advance
Hi, Jacqueline!
BSL means different things in different locations so can you please tell me what yours stands for?
If you can spell out each of your credentials here and indicate in what states they cover, I would be happy to help you with this.
Thank you so much for all of these answers. I have a quick question. I am in NY. I hold a CASAC and just earned the Advanced Counselor standing. I only have a Bachelor degree. I am not clear on how to sign this. I have been researching it and have not seen much thus far. I was wondering if you have. I am also certified as holistic health counselor (HHC).
Hi, Carin! Congrats to you on earning that Advanced Counselor credential!
I am not familiar with your credential but would assumme that you CASAC-Advanced Counselor took you more time and effort to obtain than your HHC so I would list it this way: Carin Jones,BS, CASAC-Advanced, HHC.
Or, if either of these credentials is not commonly recognized, I might simply spell them out on your letterhead / business card / website to make sure people understand your training and experience.
Hi there,
Thanks for this article! I am licensed in 3 states and each credential reads a little different despite similar meanings. Do I need to list all three after my signature on treatment notes?
I’d really appreciate your thoughts and again, thank you for the already helpful info!
Hi, Lisa! What a great question. You do not need to list all three licenses on your treatment notes – only the one that applies to the client and the state you are working in and the insurance company that you are filing with.
For example, your clients’ records in Montana, require your license in Montana on the notes,your clients’ records in Washington require your Washington license, etc..
I have a question about how to write my name in an email. Do I have to include my education as a MSW if I have my LICSW? Isn’t it implied? Should my name be listed like Angela Menard, MSW, LICSW, LADC or should I omit the MSW so it is just Angela Menard, LICSW, LADC?
Oh, Angie! I’m so glad that you asked this.
Traditionally, Social Workers do not include their MSW if they are licensed.
I know – it’s a little strange that Professional Counselors do include theirs.
Nevertheless, You should list your name as “Angela Menard, LICSW, LADC.”
Thanks for asking!
I need advice about listing my credentials. They are as follows: 1. Master of Arts In Education School Counseling (Rank I); 2. Master of Arts Clinical Mental Health Counseling; 3. Individual Intellectual Assessment (IIA) Endorsement (MSU); 4. Certified Play Therapist (EKU); 4. Licenced Professional Counselor Associate (KY/Inactive).
Hi, Joy! Congrats to you on all the accomplishments!
I’m happy to help you with this.
What is the context in which you are working (because it matters) – higher ed, clinical practice, etc.?
And, where are you geographically (because that might matter, too).
Hi,
I am an LPC in one state and an LCMHC in another state in addition to a CCM which is applicable to my job, how do I list? Do I only use the licensing appropriate to the main state of practice?
For example: MS, LCMHC, CCM or should I do MS, LCMHC, LPC?
Hi, Maria.
Thanks for asking for clarification.
It depends on where you are using your license and in what context.
For simplicity’s sake, on a business card or website, you could list MS, LCMHC (TX), LPC (OH) or whatever states are appropriate for you.
However, if you are using your credentials in a different context – like at the end of a clinical note or to write a clinical report for a client – you would use only the credential that is appropriate to that particular client.
For example, if you are seeing a client in Ohio, you would only use your Ohio license when signing that client’s notes.
Does that make sense to you?
Dear Tamara,
I would greatly appreciate it if you would help me answer a practice question that I have. This is a very simple matter: I graduated from an accredited program in Clinical Psychology, recently passed my EPPP test, and I am ready to submit my Jurisprudence Exam, after which I will be granted my license in the State of New Mexico. I currently work in a substance abuse hospital (ran by the State), where I am in the Loan Forgiveness Program. My position is defined as a Master-level position, and it will remain as such, as there’s no upward mobility in this place and there are no psychologists’ positions available in this institution. Since I have only two years or so to be granted the loan forgiveness, I am willing to stay in my old position to complete the program’s requirements, however, I’m writing to you because my current supervisor, requires me to display my Master’s degree level license, at the same time prohibiting me to display my PhD license when it will be issued to me. I believe this is inappropriate, unethical, and frankly – harassment.
I would greatly appreciate your opinion on this topic.
With warm regards,
Barbara
Oh, Barbara – I’m so sorry you find yourself in this situation!
My first thought is that some licensing boards actually stipulate when / where / how you should or must display your license – so that’s the first place to check.
Secondly, check your Code(s) of Ethics for any professional association that you may belong to.
And, thirdly, check your state laws.
Any of these may dictate that you may not or you MUST display your license(s) where ever you practice.
And, if you still have questions about what you are and are not allowed to do, I would strongly recommend that you consult with your liability insurance company.
Their policies often provide a once-a-year free consult with an attorney in your jurisdiction who can advise you quickly of your rights and responsibilities.
I hope once you figure this out, you’ll drop back in to let us know how it was resolved and where you are located.
Best wishes on your journey!
I just graduated with an MFT and PCC degrees. I am a state intern. Do I say MFT intern? Or can I just put MFT, PCC after my name? I know I can’t put the l in front of it because I am not licensed yet
Hi, Deana! Where are you and what does PCC stand for?
Hello! Thanks for the great information. Super helpful. I had a question- I am licensed in two states and will be practicing in both of them at two office locations. IL which has the LCPC and MO which has the LPC credential. What credentials should be listed on marketing materials (letters to doctors, business cards)?
Thank you!
Hi, Brittany! The credentials listed should be relevant to the state you are practicing in. For example, if the marketing materials you use address your services for both states, then list them both; however, if you have different marketing materials for each state, then only list the ones that are relevant for that state.
When it comes to letters to doctors, because they may refer patients to other states when they transfer their care, I would suggest you also use both credentials (and indicate which credential belongs to which state).
However, for your clinical records, I would only list the credential that is relevant to the state in which you are working in.
Hope this helps!
hello i recently graduated from Liberty University with my Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am having a hard time finding any information about listing my degree in my professional signature.
should this be shown as…
Grant Zahurance, MA
or
Grant Zahurance, CMHC
Thank you!
Hi, Grant! I agree! It is confusing.
As a Professional Counselor, you have two options.
You can list it as Grant Zahurance, MA,CMHCor Grant Zahurance, CMHC.
It is assumed that as a CMHC, you have earned a Master’s degree; however, for some reason, many counselors do choose to include that in their professional signature.
Just remember that as you accrue additional credentials, you can drop off the MA when necessary – never include over 3 in your professional signature.
Thank you so much for the help!!!
Hi can you tell me how I am to right my name if I have a BA in Sociology and I am QMHP certified.
Hi, Marlina! I’m happy to help!
I am not familiar with the acronym QMHP.
When I googled it, I found that this includes “qualified mental health professionals-adult and qualified mental health professionals-child.”
Is this what you are referencing or is it something different?
I found no reference to any “certification” related to QMHP.
So, based on this limited information, your professional signature would be Marlina Stinney, BA, QMHP or Marlina Stinney, QMHP.
Let me know if I’ve misunderstood something you’ve written!
Tamara,
Thank you so much for sharing your insight into the proper etiquette when noting initials after one’s name. Here’s one for you. I have an employee who completed medical school outside of the U.S. and wants to have “doctor” printed on his business card without the MD since he is not practicing. My feeling is that clients may misunderstand it. Should I allow for this while adding “non-practicing” under his name, to be clear? What are your thoughts?
Hi, Yvette – this is an increasingly common occurrence.
My first question is . . . Is being a medical doctor (and specifically not a psychiatrist) part of his job as your employee?
If not practicing medicine in your practice, then it is not relevant and should not be included on his business card or professional signature.
The exception, of course, would be if he is a psychiatrist and practicing mental health in your practice . . . .
If he is a psychiatrist . . . and IF he is approved in your jurisdiction (regardless of where his actual training and experience took place), he should then be allowed to use the professional credential “MD” and referred to as “doctor.”
However, to use the language of “doctor” when he is not approved by the state (assuming you are in the USA)or to use “MD” as part of his professional identity in your counseling practice (whether practicing as a doctor or not) would be confusing or deceptive language that could easily be misinterpreted by peers, referral sources, and clients.
I also want to acknowledge that it can be incredibly frustrating for an individual to have paid thousands of dollars and spent untold hours in sweat and tears often at great personal sacrifice to earn the most advanced degrees in the world (less than 1% of the people in the world have earned a doctorate degree).
It’s often difficult to set that degree aside and not display it as part of our professional identities.
It’s important to help employees (and supervises) understand why it is necessary to set this identity aside – not to be hidden as if it is a secret; but, also not to be used as a crutch for a fragile ego or to deceive others into believing that they are something they are not.
It’s also important, I think, as a mental health professional who employs others to recognize and celebrate all the experiences that your employees bring – both outside of professional training and inclusive of professional training because certainly our work is informed and enhanced by all of our selves rather than just those years spent in academia.
If you encounter significant resistance to taking this position, I would encourage you to provide some support (including counseling) for this individual as he lets go of that degree after his name and transitions to a different professional identity.
Thank you for dropping in to extend this conversation, Yvette.
I hope you’ll be back to let us know how this evolves in your work space!
This page is WONDERFUL! Thank you. I haven’t practiced in a few years and I am now returning to work and updating my resume and reinstating my credentials.
So, I am currently Jen (Name), MS, LPC, NCC
However, I have also returned to school- I am getting my MS in Outdoor Education along the way, and that is on my resume, however, I am obtaining a research based PhD– researching Outdoor Education programs and mental wellbeing– so there is definitely a mental health focus, but it isn’t required for licensure. My resume currently says, “Ph.D. Candidate, expected completion 2024” and lists my areas of study.
When I graduate should I change my cards to PhD, LPC, NCC or do I need to leave my Masters in Counseling on the card?
Thanks so much!
Hi, Jen! Your first sentence makes me so happy!
Glad to be of assistance!
Congrats to you on all the education!
You have a wealth of information under your belt and even more to come!
I am not familiar with a degree in Outdoor Education – how interesting!
Where can I learn more about your degree?
I make up that this is about experiential learning but . . . not sure.
What is the degree that satisfied your LPC and NCC requirements?
If you can answer this for me, I’m happy to help you figure this out!
Hi Tamara,
I will be teaching a CASAC course for a college as an adjunct. I also have a library degree and work as an academic librarian somewhere else. Can I write
Michael Kahn, MLS, LMSW, CASAC-T or do I drop the MLS?
Thanks.
Hi, Michael! This is such a great question.
Many mental health professionals transition to this field bringing a prior body of work – like you in the field of Library Science.
While that previous degree and education certainly enrich and often inform the ways in which we do our clinical work, those non-mental health degrees need to be omitted from our professional signatures.
So yes, drop the MLS.
I know that’s sometimes a painful thing to do but it is the professional, ethical, and right thing to do.
It’s also a hassle, isn’t it, to have to have two business cards, two professional identities.
But, it is for the benefit of the general public who doesn’t necessarily understand our credentials (or the alphabet soup that follow our names).
I find credentialing so interesting. My situation is confusing. I have an LPC and a private part-time virtual practice in Michigan. I also have a full-time job as a school counselor in South Carolina. I am awaiting my LPC from the state in SC. Can I use my LPC credential on my school email signature or is this crossover considered misrepresentation? If so is it because I am not yet licensed in the state of SC or is it because mental health and education are not closely related enough? My current signature is Cheri Stahl LPC, NCC, GCDF
Oh, Cheri! Good questions!
Because you are licensed in Michigan, I see no reason why you cannot use your LPC from there on your professional credentials for school counseling.
The way I have done it when I had an active license in both Colorado and Texas is to sign my name as “Tamara G. Suttle, MEd, LPC (TX and CO), ACS.”
So for you, it could be Cheri Stahl, LPC (MI), NCC, GCDF!
You are correct that education and mental health are not the same field – significant overlap, yes, but not the same so you would not necessarily be able to use the degrees or licenses interchangeably.
However, you are a mental health professional working in the field of education so that license ought to suffice.
Having said that though, you may run across employers who are not comfortable with this usage so just be prepared for the possibility.
Best wishes on your journey!
Hi, Tamara!
Thank you so much for all this great information! I have a question. I am an LMFT but my license is currently inactive status because I am not using it and did not feel a need to renew it at the moment. I have a podcast however and would like to list my credentials to add credibility. Would I need to re-activate my license in order to list it after my name?
Thank you so much!!
Brittany, this is such a great question.
However, the way I would handle this is this: FirstName LastName, LMFT (inactive).
In other words, you can always and should always tell the truth i.e. you’ve earned the license and it’s currently inactive.
Depending on the context, for example if you are listing this on your website or including it in an introduction to you for a workshop, you might want to expand on this by explaining that you earned your degree / license in XXXX (date), practiced for a while at ABC (agency or private practice) and then took a break to raise your children or take care of your in-laws or move into teaching or whatever.
However, double check with your licensing board to confirm this as I am not an attorney and do not know what state you are in.
Your laws / rules may dictate something different.
Hi Tamara,
My name is Dan Batusin and I just got done with my MS. in School counseling and currently active my state certification. My Question is can I use Certified School Counselor (CSC) in my name like:
Dan Batusin, CSC??
Thank you.
Congrats to you, Dan! You absolutely CAN and you SHOULD!
In fact, I would write your professional signature as Dan Batusin, MS, CSC OR Dan Batusin, MS and then on the line underneath I might spell out Certified School Counselor (CSC).
What would be wrong would be Dan Batusin, MS, CSC and then to write Certified School Counselor underneath it.
Hope that helps!
Thank you Tamara! 🙂
Hello Tamara,
I am currently using”, MS, LGPG” (soon to be LCPC) after my name. Recently, I graduated from an art therapy MA program and took the ATCBE (Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination) exam. Once I am officially licensed as an art therapist, I will be working as both LCPC and LGPAT from the same place. My question is should I keep MA. I thought I would be using:
First Last, MS, MA, LCPC, LGPAT
What do you think?
Hi, Sunny! Thanks for dropping in today.
If you are going to include a degree, then you need to choose one or the other.
Your professional signature should not include over three credentials so choose one degree or the other that is closely related to your work.
That means the correct signature would be either:
First Last, MS, LCPC, GLPAT or First Last, MA, LCPC, GLPAT
Take your pick!
Personally, I would list the degree that I received first – but you may have a better reason to list the other.
Either one would be correct – just not both.
Hi Tamara,
Thank you for your response. I also like the first example and the reason for your preference. Thank you again!
Hi Tamara,
I am so confused. Here is the situation: I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology, Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology, LPC, LCDC, MAC ( Master Addictions Counselor- a national board certification). I recently also graduated with my Ph.D in Industrial-Organizational Psychology.
I have a private practice which does clinical and business consulting. However, I do use a lot of my I-O skills with clients who come for leadership coaching and career development, among other things. As you saw from my website and even the name of my practice states Counseling and Consulting. This is because there are two side =s to my practice but they sometimes go hand in hand. I provide business consulting services for individuals and businesses. I am also working towards teaching at graduate level. I had listed my credentials as I have two long last names so for brevity here, lets just use Cheryl Doe Remi, (not actual last names, of course). So if I write my credentials as :
Cheryl Doe Remi, Ph.D., MIO, MPsy, LPC, LCDC, MAC is that wrong?I put the MIO next to the Ph.D so that they would be linked. Should I drop the MPsy due to the LPC?
I will also be teaching in different states for counseling, Industrial-Organizational Psychology and especially for Substance abuse and the MAC covers me since it is a national Certification, but Texas requires the LCDC. I don’t want a word Salad but I don’t want to drop my Ph.D either because (I worked for it) but I also use it a lot in my work in private practice even in career counseling with clinical clients. What do I do?
Also, is it ok to just write Psychotherapist and Industrial-Organizational Practitioner under my name? I don’t want any trouble with the ‘credential police’ or boards because I don’t think there is deception.
Any help will be much appreciated.
Well, first of all, Cheryl – congrats to you on pursuing so much education!
I know your clients and your business must benefit from all that knowledge and experience.
The short answer is – yes, drop all the Masters level degrees because your Doctorate trumps them.
With your PhD, it is assumed that you acquired the lesser degrees.
As for any of your certifications, I know that MAC was hard-earned but none are going to carry the weight, authority, or credibility that your licenses will.
That means Cheryl Doe Remi, PhD, LPC, LCDC is the correct signature for you.
And, because your PhD is in Industrial Organizational Psychology, you do not need to spell it out . . . but you could.
If it’s just too painful for you to present your signature as written above, you could consider on your business card, website, and letterhead adding a line underneath that says “Specializing in (or Special Interest in . . . ) Substance Abuse and Industrial Organizations.”
But, that is a lot of words cluttering up space on a tiny business card or a website banner that I would prefer to not include.
Oh – and if you are working in multiple states (or applying for positions in multiple states, then you may find it necessary to change your professional signature from state to state in order to comply with state standards.
(Not all states recognize any given credential.)
Or, consider following a credential that is not recognized in all states that you apply in with (TX) or (CO) or whatever to indicate where it is recognized.
I hope that helps!
Looking forward to hearing from you what you decide to do.
Great article! Question: my LAC credentials expired in November 2020… I made a career change, however, am still proud of my previous experience… Is it okay for me to still list the letters after my name?
Hi, Linda! You definitely cannot list your license after it has expired.
However, what you can do is say “I was licensed from this date to that date as an LAC” or “I practiced as an LAC while working at _______ (place) in ______ (specific year).
If you retired your LAC, you can also note “LAC-retired.”
But, it would be unethical, misleading, and illegal (false advertising) to list Linda K, LAC once it has expired.
Hope that’s helpful to you!
I loved this article as I was searching the internet for clarification and this post made it so much more clear.
I have a unique question as I go to print new business cards and a door name plate. I was practicing under my LMFT while working on my clinical psychology doctorate and now I’m done and have 2 licenses: LMFT and Psychologist. I’ve been listing my name followed by Psy.D., LMFT. But for my name plate on the door I’ve been trying to figure out if I should just list “psychologist” rather than both titles because I worried it would confuse the public saying “psychologist and licensed marriage and family therapist” Do you have any feedback about how to best label when someone has both masters and doctorate level licenses? Thank you!
Rebecca!!!!! Congrats to you on getting all those credentials and education!
Your clients are lucky to have you!
I would actually list your name and the PsyD, LMFT (and omit the periods in PsyD).
You’ve worked long and hard for your education and I would want the authority and credibility that comes with it.
And, beside . . . your PsyD assumes that there was the equivalent of a Master’s degree before that.
If you are concerned about the general public “getting confused” about that PsyD, you have ample opportunities to explain it in person, on the phone, on your website and on your disclosure statement, too.
Of course, you could always spell out “psychologist” below your credentials for clarity, too.
Hello, I’m wondering how to list licensure in multiple states in my signature? I am a LISW in Ohio and LCSW in California. Would I write Nicole Last Name, LCSW-CA, LISW-OH?
Hi, Nicole! You’ve got it almost right.
Instead of the dash, I would write it Nicole Last Name, LCSW (CA), LISW (OH) because so many credentials are hyphenated these days.
There is less confusion with the parentheses.
Hey! This information is very helpful. I am still, unfortunately, struggling however to figure out which credentials to use.
M.Ed, NCC, PCMHT, P-LPC
If I’m not mistaken it looks like mine would show up as
Kolby Little, M.Ed, P-LPC, PCMHT
or would I drop the PCMHT and just put NCC?
Would it be the same on my progress notes?
Thank you so much for all the information already provided!
Hi, Kolby – I’m so sorry that I never saw your questions until now.
I would be happy to help you with this but I am not familiar with “PCMHT” or “P-LPC.”
Can you please tell me what these stand for and if they are licenses, certifications, registrations, or something different?
I look forward to hearing from you!
Thanks so much for this blog topic, Tamara. I have a related question with which I’m hoping you can help. I have a PhD in Developmental Psychology, a MS in Counseling Psychology, and practice as a LPC. My understanding is that I cannot list my PhD because it is not directly related to my counseling license (though it certainly informs my counseling). Can you confirm that is accurate? In other words, should my business card include?:
Brenda…….., PhD, LPC or
Brenda…….., MS, LPC
If the later is accurate, can I include my PhD in Developmental Psychology on my business card as long as I don’t refer to myself as Dr. or include my PhD after my name?
Many thanks.
Brenda, I can’t give you legal advice on this and you definitely need to go with what your licensing board tells you to do.
But, I would have thought that you would list your credentials as Brenda _____, PhD, LPC unless your licensing board or an attorney in your jurisdiction has told you otherwise.
I would encourage you to seek legal consultation on this and if you are told you cannot do it, I would be tempted to list under your name and credentials the following “Developmental and Counseling Psychology.”
Yours is the first question I’ve received on this topic that honestly stumps me.
Hope you’ll drop back in and let me know what advice you receive from your board and or an attorney.
Best wishes in your work!
Hi–thank you for doing this! I have a credential listing question I don’t see here. I have a bachelor of nursing degree and a new LLMSW. (Michigan–Limited License Master Social Worker.) I have other undergrad and graduate degrees that have nothing to do with psychotherapy, but as I am working with chronic pain clients, I wonder if it’s a good idea to include my BSN in my signature: Carol Last Name, BSN, LLMSW. Thoughts?
Hi, Carol!
You do not want to include your Bachelor’s degree because your LLMSW indicates that your higher degree is actually a Master’s degree.
That means, your professional signature should be Carol Dollar Smith, LLMSW.
Thanks for asking the question!
Hi Caro Smith,
I have a B.Psy, MA in Counseling Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Organization Information and Learning Sciences (OILS). I am also an LPC Candidate working to complete my hours to become an LPC. I have been using Jemima Neddy Organ Ph.D., LPCC is this OK Please advise. Thank you
Context matters, Jemima. Where are your working and what is the nature of your work? Is it in mental health?
I have a similar situation. I am a LPC Candidate and should have my hours completed within the next few months. I work in the mental health field as a therapist. In the meantime, what should I do? Jayda Last Name, MSW, LPC-Candidate?
Yes, Jayda! That’s exactly what you should do until you are fully licensed! Congrats to you!
I am a director of social services at a nursing home. I have to sign my name and credentials daily. I have only been using SSD social services director. I do not have a degree in social services but I do have a Bachelors of Arts degree in psychology and a minor in sociology. How can I sign with those credentials also? Thanks
Rachel
Hi, Rachel – I apologize! I thought I replied to your question weeks ago but now I do not find it so I’m trying again.
Thank you for asking this question because it’s important.
Because “SSD” is not a medically approved acronym or credential, this would be a better way to document your work —> Rachel Nunlist, BA and then underneath that to spell out Director of Social Services.
It’s a lot, I know!
But, by doing so, you are ensuring that as your records fall before the eyes of other professionals in the field of medicine and also before the eyes of a court (as some of yours are likely to do so), your signature will actually demonstrate the full authority and credibility that you carry.
Thank you for showing up here!
I look forward to hearing from you again!
Hello and thank you for this informative thread. I have recently received my license as a Qualified Mental Health Professional Adult. Since I was able to qualify for this license because I earned my MS in Counseling Psychology, I am assuming that my signature block should be MS, QMHP-A. Would this be correct?
Hi, Stephanie! Thanks for dropping in to ask . . . .
I’m a little confused by your question because the QMHP-A and QMHP-C credential in Virginia is a registration and not a license.
Are you saying that you hold a license AND also have just earned the QMHP credential?
Or are you not licensed?
Please clarify and I’ll try to help.
What about when you actually sign your signature above the typed signature? Do you list the whole alphabet soup or just your name?
Oh, good question! Amanda, you sign it exactly as the typed signature. If that included your credentials – and I’m assuming it did – then you include them with your written signature.
Hello,
I’m making a sign for my office, and the sign makers wanted to put my credentials on a separate line so it reads like the following:
YJ Doe
MFT, ATR-BC
My gut instinct says to have them try to fit everything in one line but I can’t find any guidance on this. Is there a recommendation either way? Thanks so much!
YJ – had a computer crash and only now finding your post.
This actually looks great!
Your other option for that sign – and it’s entirely your personal preference – is to spell out those credentials.
Either way, it’ll look great!
I am a LMSW and have a BA certificate. I also was trained in EMDR, TF-CBT. Do I put: LMSW, BA, EMDR
I have a BS in psychology with minor in SW.
I have worked in the social work arena from DCS to Juvenile Court. I am now employees with the school system as a Life Coach.
What is the proper way to abbrev my BS degree?
Sandra, the only credential you have noted is your Bachelor’s degree.
So . . . “Sandra Smith Williams, BS” would be your signature; if you are creating business cards, you might want to add “Life Coach” on the line below – but that does not appear to be a credential – simply a title you have been given.
Thank you for the work you do!
Hi Tamara, I”m creating my business card…I have a bachelor degree in psychology and a certification as ITDS. Is correct put my name and BS. And them ITDS . Or psychologist? Thanks for your help!!!
Diana, what is ITDS? I’m not familiar with this acronym.
Hey Tamara!
This article was really helpful, but I want to make sure I do this correctly. I am currently a school counselor and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHC-A) in the state of North Carolina. I want to honor both titles in my disclosure statements to clients and families. How would I write my name?
Thanks!
Taylor
Hi, Taylor! Thanks for dropping in to chat!
Your only license is as an LMHC-A so that goes first.
So, when you are signing a note in a students record, it would be Taylor Robinson, LMHC-A.
But, if you are signing a letter or creating your business cards, you could add a line underneath your signature / name that includes “School Counselor.”
Please let me know if you have additional credentials that you might want to include.
Hello!
I am licensed in 5 states right now, and will probably have a couple more by the end of the year due to the kind of work I do. I am unsure how to list all of these. I dropped the MA.Ed. because there are so many licenses. Should I put the state after each one for clarity like so:
LPC (OR, AK), LMHC (IA), CPC (NV), LCP (MT), CADCIII (OR)
Stephanie, can you please let me know the type of work you are doing?
And, are you asking how to show your credentials on a business card? On a website? On letterhead? In a bio? For an introduction given by someone else? Or used somewhere else?
I ask because the answers are different depending on the location. 🙂
I look forward to helping you when I hear back!
If I obtain a PsyD in psychology and an MA in counseling, is my signature block: Cassandra McGinnis, PsyD, LPC
YEP! That’s perfect, Cassandra! Thanks for showing us how it’s done!
We need to include of registration number in CA for any type of advertisement. I am trying to figure out if I need to write it out as:
LCSW(number)
or add a space:
LCSW (number)
Help?
Hi, Nicole! Try this –> Nicole LastName, LCSW #45763
Hi there,
I am a recent graduate with my Master of Arts in Education degree. School Counseling was my course of study. I live in Ohio. I have passed the licensing OAE. How would I list my credentials. Is there even initials for licensed school counselors?
I have not found any info when researching and I am lost how to do this correctly. I do not have a mental health or clinical license. I do however have a NPI number as I was a QMHA at my previous job as a case manager for a mental health company.
Can you help? How should I list my name?
Thank you soooo much!!
Tara Mowery
Tara, without doing the research here, I don’t know the answer to some of your questions. This is a perfect thing to ask your state professional association. And, if you are not already a member of it, it’s probably time to join! If you get those answers, feel free to drop back in here and share them with us. I’m sure there will be others reading and wondering the same thing!
Hello!
I received my MBA in 2018, and in two weeks, I will be receiving my MSW. In my state of Michigan, you have to apply for a limited license before you can apply for full licensure. So, I will have my LLMSW, would my credentials be Jacque, LLMSW, MBA or Jacque, MSW, MBA? I also do not know where I am going to be working yet.
Hi, Jacque! Thanks for asking this! You have not indicated that your MBA will be directly in support of your work as a social worker, so you would want to omit that from your professional signature. I realize that you worked long and hard to obtain it . . . and may have a ton of business-related experience that you are bringing with you into the field of social work. And, it is hard for those coming into mental health as a second, third, or even fourth career to let those credentials sit quietly on the sidelines. However, the professional thing to do here is to list your credentials in the field ie. “Jacque LastName, LLMSW.” And, then when you are fully licensed it will change to “Jacque LastName, LMSW.”
Hi Tamara…This is an amazing resource and I am so glad I found it! I have a unique situation that I don’t think was covered in the article or comments. I’m a School Psychologist in VA. I hold a VA educator license, LPC in DC, and a PhD in school psychology. I will be joining a practice in VA to do life coaching with young professional (no client overlap with my full time job in VA schools). I live in DC and will be working mostly virtual with this new practice. I need to get business cards with this practice and was thinking of using “First Name Last Name, PHD.” What do you think?
Thanks so much!
RKW
RKW, I think this sounds perfect! Thank you for the work you are doing! You are changing the world!
Hi! I have a question about the “only three credentials” rule. If I have a MS, am a licensed professional counselor associate, am a NCC, and a NCSC how should I list it? Should I leave off the MS, but include my license, and both certificates through the NBCC , or should I include the MS, and my license, but list the NCC and NCSC as NCC/NCSC (or in another format)? I’d hate to not include both of my certifications as a national certified counselor and as a national certified school counselor. I’m not sure how to best highlight my accomplishments (specifically on my resume, on my signature on my professional email, and on my letterhead/business cards. I would be grateful for any recommendations. Thank you!
-Allie B
Tamara-
After reading your response to the prior post it reminded me what I forgot to add in my post: my license as a school counselor. Oops! So I have:
MS in School Counseling
I am a Licensed School Counselor,
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate,
I am NCC, and
I am a NCSC.
How on earth do I list (and honor) my accomplishments on resume, professional communications, and letterhead/business cards without coming off as obnoxious? Your advice would be greatly appreciated!
-Allie B.
Go, Allie, go!!! WOW! That’s a lot!
Please hear me when I say that you have choices; there is not just one right way.
However, consider that at some point, those who have worked really hard to accrue several credentials, may end up looking like alphabet soup follows their names.
In an attempt to prevent that from happening, I would encourage you to pick 3 to follow your professional name.
Context matters so I am assuming (but may be wrong) that you work primarily as a school counselor.
I suggest you drop the MS entirely because I am assuming every credential that you list here requires one; so anyone who knows you have one of these credentials, knows that you also were required to first have a master’s degree.
Licenses always trump certifications.
Which has required more training and or more experience – your LSC or your LPCA?
I imagine but do not know that would be your LSC.
That means that would be your first credential to list after your name and the other license would then follow.
When it comes to your two certifications, again . . . which one required more effort, took more time, and / or is related closest to the context of the work you are doing?
That is what I would list as your third credential in professional signatures on emails, letterhead, and business cards.
As for your resume and professional introductions or even bios when you are speaking publicly, by all means let those who are introducing you list off ALL of your accomplishments that are mental health related!
If I am registered as a CADC-R , bc I’m not fully credentialed…is it appropriate to use Katy Fanning, CADC or should it be Katy Fanning, CADC-R?
Katy, this is such a great question. You should only use CADC-R until you are fully credentialed. 🙂 Thanks for dropping in!
Hi! Thanks for your helpful post! I have a follow up question. My MA in Counseling was from a theological school in the department of Practical Theology. My PhD has nothing to do with counseling, but it is also in practical theology. Can I use my PhD alongside my MA? Thanks!!
Hi, Sara! Thank you for asking this.
I know you’ve worked long and hard to earn those degrees!
But, in my experience, context matters.
If you are practicing in the field of mental health, then you will only want to use the specific degrees and credentials that are directly related to mental health.
As I understand your degrees, you would ethically and legally want to write your professional name and credentials as Sara LastName, MA and omit your totally-relevant-but-not-mental-health-related PhD while working in mental health.
I know it’s not what you want to hear but I want you to make a fully informed choice about this aspect of your profession.
Blessings to you on your journey!
Hi Tamara,
I have a question, I have a license as an LPC in both Texas and Oregon, however, I recently was approved as an LPC-S in Texas, but have not applied for the Supervisor status in Oregon. How should I indicate this LPC-S (TX), LPC (OR)? Or do you have another suggestion for how to indicate these two licenses?
Thank you,
Tabitha 🙂
Tabitha, that is exactly how I would list it –> Tabitha Hipp, LPC-S (TX), LPC (OR).
Your other option would be to list your name and then write out the credentials indicating supervision only in TX and that you are an LPC in both.
Well done!
I have a Masters in Education and a masters in counseling with a limited license, LLPC along with a certification CADC. I’m not sure how to put the credentials after my name. I’ve done this.
Tammy M. Thompson MEd., MA LLPC, CADC
Looks wrong to me?
Hi, Tammy! Thank you for dropping in to chat!
Assuming your credentials actually require master’s level training, then you will want to drop your MEd.
The exception would be if your primary work is in the field of education (rather than counseling).
If you are working in the field of mental health (including teaching in mental health), then you would want to list your professional name as Tammy M. Thompson, MA, LLPC, CADC.