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In this special relaunch episode of Licensure Lifeline, host Matt Lawson dives into one of the most overlooked but essential skills for passing the NCMHCE, NCE, and LCSW exams: how to read vignettes like a therapist. Rather than memorizing answers or rushing to diagnoses, Matt guides you through the art of clinical thinking—slowing down, picking up on patterns, and responding to client cues like you would in real life. You’ll explore what test writers are really asking, how to spot hidden clues in case scenarios, and walk through a full vignette together to build confidence and insight. Whether you’re prepping for your exam or refining your clinical instincts, this episode will help you stop reading for answers—and start listening like a pro.

🗓️ The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) recently reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to test centers after reports of regional scheduling delays—especially for those planning to take the NCMHCE. If you’re planning to sit for the exam this year, don’t wait—schedule early.

📍You can check test availability and policies here:

🔗 https://www.nbcc.org/Exam/NCMHCE

📚 On the advocacy front, the American Counseling Association (ACA) has been exploring ways to increase trauma-informed and culturally relevant content in both exams and continuing education. While nothing has been formalized yet, it reflects a growing movement to make licensure prep more reflective of the clients we serve.

📰 Stay up to date through ACA’s newsroom and publications here:

🔗 https://www.counseling.org/news/updates

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