What trend occurred in credentials during the 1980s and 1990s?

• A. Decrease in Credentials
• B. Increase in Credentials and Licensure
• C. Credentials Stayed the Same
• D. Shift Away from Licensure

Answer: (B)

During this period, counseling moved toward strong formal recognition through licensure and professional credentials. States expanded licensure laws for counseling, creating regulated practice and protections for clients. At the same time, national bodies promoted standardized credentials—such as the National Certified Counselor through NBCC—and CACREP began accrediting counseling programs to ensure consistent training standards. As a result, more counselors pursued advanced degrees and credentialing to meet these requirements, increasing the profession’s legitimacy, mobility, and accountability. This is why the trend is described as an increase in credentials and licensure. The ideas that credentials would decline, stay the same, or move away from licensure don’t fit the historical pattern, which shows a clear move toward greater regulation and professional recognition.