LMHC CE Requirements in Washington
This page summarizes the current CE requirements for the LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) license in Washington — renewal model, mandated topics, live/interactive rules, and home-study limits — with links to the official regulator.
LMHC
- Professional Ethics and Law — 6 h
- Professional Roles and Boundaries — 2 h
- Suicide Assessment, Treatment and Management — 6 h6 hours once every six years; first training during the first full CE reporting period after initial licensure; from the DOH model list (WAC 246-809-615)
- Health Equity — 2 h2 hours once every four years (WAC 246-12-830)
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How many CE hours does an LMHC need in Washington?
An LMHC must complete 32 CE / continuing-education hours every 2 years in Washington. That total includes 6 hours of ethics.
Are there required CE topics for LMHC in Washington?
Yes. Washington requires the following CE topics for LMHC: Professional Ethics and Law (6 h); Professional Roles and Boundaries (2 h); Suicide Assessment, Treatment and Management (6 h); Health Equity (2 h).
Can LMHC CE be completed online in Washington?
Generally yes — Washington does not require live or interactive hours for LMHC, so approved online / home-study CE can typically satisfy the requirement. Home-study note: No limit on distance learning (may be all online; asynchronous programs must include a test of comprehension). Employer/agency-sponsored training limited to 26 hours per two-year reporting period..
What else should LMHC renewals know in Washington?
32 hours per two-year reporting period. The 36-hour figure sometimes cited is a pre-licensure/entry requirement, not the renewal requirement. Suicide training is on a 6-year cadence and health equity on a 4-year cadence, separate from the 2-year total (WAC 246-809-600 through 246-809-650).