Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast NCE Study Guide

The Full Library Is Live + New Study Group Details!
In this episode, Glenn announces the long-awaited completion of the NCE Study Guide Patreon Library—91 audio-based study modules now fully organized by CACREP content areas and exam domains.

You’ll learn:

• How the modules are structured into accessible collections
• What’s available for free on Patreon
• How to join the full library ($5/month)
• And details about the new weekly Study Group, now offered through the $25/month tier

Beginning Tuesday, June 24th at 5 PM Pacific / 8 PM Eastern, the live Zoom-based study group will meet weekly. If you're serious about passing the NCE and want community-based support, this is for you.

🎧 Glenn also shares a full sample module from the library—Module 43: History and Philosophy of Counseling—so you can hear what to expect.

Join the community → patreon.com/NCEStudyGuide

🎧 Like what you hear?

➡️ Give the show a 5-star rating—it really helps others find these resources.

Welcome to the first module in Collection 1.2 of the NCE Study Guide Library: Intake, Assessment, and Diagnosis. In this episode, we follow new counselor Maya as she navigates her very first client intake—from the initial hello to building rapport, conducting a Mental Status Exam, and making sense of presenting problems through structured interviews and keen behavioral observations.

You’ll gain practical insight into essential concepts like intake interviews, the difference between chief complaint and presenting problem, how to develop a case conceptualization, and the subtle art of balancing structure with empathy. This foundational material not only prepares you for the NCE exam—it also helps shape your clinical intuition as a future counselor.

🎧 Like what you hear?

➡️ Give the show a 5-star rating—it really helps others find these resources.

📧 Join our free Saturday Study Group every week at 11am Pacific by emailing ncestudyguide@gmail.com

💡 Want full access to all 91 modules? Join the growing community at patreon.com/ncestudyguide

Case Study Module 9: Carlos, the Man with Many Masks

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Carlos, a 38-year-old Latino male, is court-mandated to attend a domestic violence offender group. This case explores legal-ethical practice, group norms, and behavior change through the Duluth Model, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. You'll examine how to support accountability in mandated clients while practicing cultural humility.

Case Study Module 8: Linda, the Grieving Widow

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Linda, a 68-year-old woman, struggles with prolonged grief after losing her husband. This case highlights Worden’s Tasks of Mourning, Gestalt Therapy, and Narrative work in supporting older adults. You'll also explore assessment of complicated grief, somatic expression, and ethical care with aging clients.

Case Study Module 007: Devon, the College Student in Crisis

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Devon, a 19-year-old non-binary student, presents with depression, academic stress, and identity confusion. This case explores Affirmative Therapy, Person-Centered, and Narrative approaches while integrating suicide risk assessment, multicultural ethics, and LGBTQIA+ inclusive practice in a college setting.

Case Study Module : Brian, the Career Crosser

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Brian, a 45-year-old man, experiences depression and loss of purpose after being laid off. This midlife case focuses on career counseling integration, adult developmental transitions, and identity reconstruction using Career Construction Theory, CBT, and Existential Therapy. Ethical considerations include dual-focus care, scope, and career assessment tool interpretation.

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Elena, a 24-year-old Latina woman, seeks therapy after surviving sexual assault. This trauma-informed case explores PTSD diagnosis, cultural stigma, and safety-centered care using EMDR, TF-CBT, and multicultural counseling practices. Ethical concerns include pacing, informed consent, and culturally responsive practice for survivors of interpersonal violence.

Case Study Module 4: Sofia and Jake, the Anxious Couple

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Sofia and Jake, an engaged couple in their early 30s, present with emotional distance and communication breakdown. Through Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Structural Family Therapy, this case explores attachment wounds, relational anxiety, and therapist neutrality. Learn to navigate dual alliance ethics, relational dynamics, and psychoeducational tools for couples.

Episode Description:

Welcome to NCE Study Guide Case Study Module 1 of 10. In this episode, we dive into the fictional case study of James, the Overwhelmed Teacher—a high-achieving high school English teacher grappling with anxiety, insomnia, and emotional burnout.

Through James’s story, you’ll explore key themes you’re likely to encounter on the National Counselor Examination (NCE), including diagnostic decision-making, ethical considerations, and treatment planning. We’ll examine how theoretical approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy can guide interventions, and we’ll discuss tools like the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 for accurate assessment.

This episode is part of a creative, research-backed series developed by Glenn Ostlund—counselor, folklorist, and recent NCE passer—who blends science, narrative, and AI collaboration into a unique study experience he calls an “AI Puppet Show.” You’ll also hear sample NCE-style multiple-choice questions to help you test your knowledge and deepen your clinical reasoning.

Whether you’re prepping solo or considering joining the NCE Study Guide weekly group, this episode is your invitation to engage in practical, case-based learning that brings theory to life.

To connect with Glenn or suggest future case study topics, email: ncestudyguide@gmail.com.

Let’s begin.

Module 11: Ecological and Social Contexts in Development

Lev Vygotsky, Urie Bronfenbrenner, Daniel Levinson (Social and Cultural Development – Learning, Environment, and Adult Transitions)

Come join the NCE Study Guide Patreon Library to gain access to the following:

1.1 – Professional Practice and Ethics (8 modules) are now LIVE!

For as little as $5 per month, you will have access to the full library:

Part 1: Counselor Work Behavior Area

1.1 – Professional Practice and Ethics (8 modules)

(Core Area: Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice)

Module 1 – Ethical Foundations & Principles
1.1.1 ACA Code of Ethics
1.1.2 Ethical Principles (autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, fidelity, veracity)
1.1.3 Ethical Decision-Making Models (e.g., Forester-Miller & Davis, Corey et al.)
1.1.4 Morality vs. Ethics
1.1.5 Personal Values vs. Professional Ethics

Module 2 – Confidentiality and Client Rights
1.1.6 Informed Consent
1.1.7 Confidentiality
1.1.8 Privileged Communication
1.1.9 Duty to Warn / Duty to Protect
1.1.10 Mandated Reporting (abuse, neglect, threats)

Module 3 – Professional Identity and Scope
1.1.11 Professional Counseling Identity
1.1.12 Scope of Practice
1.1.13 Scope of Competence
1.1.14 Licensure vs. Certification vs. Accreditation
1.1.15 Professional Organizations (e.g., ACA, AMHCA, NBCC)
1.1.16 Advocacy for the Profession
1.1.17 Gatekeeping in Counseling

Module 4 – Client-Counselor Relationship & Boundaries
1.1.18 Dual Relationships
1.1.19 Boundary Crossings vs. Boundary Violations
1.1.20 Sexual Misconduct and Nonsexual Touch
1.1.21 Termination and Referral Ethics
1.1.22 Bartering and Gifts
1.1.23 Counselor Self-Disclosure

Module 5 – Supervision and Professional Development
1.1.24 Clinical Supervision (roles, types)
1.1.25 Supervisor vs. Consultant
1.1.26 Documentation in Supervision
1.1.27 Counselor Impairment and Burnout
1.1.28 Continuing Education Requirements
1.1.29 Professional Development Plans

Module 6 – Cultural and Social Justice Ethics
1.1.30 Multicultural Competence
1.1.31 Cultural Humility
1.1.32 Addressing Implicit Bias and Microaggressions
1.1.33 Social Justice and Advocacy Ethics
1.1.34 Intersectionality and Client Identity

Module 7 – Technology, Records, and Legal Overlaps
1.1.35 Ethics in Telehealth
1.1.36 Social Media Use by Counselors
1.1.37 HIPAA and Electronic Records
1.1.38 Recordkeeping Best Practices
1.1.39 Client Access to Records
1.1.40 Legal vs. Ethical Obligations

Module 8 – Test and Assessment Ethics
1.1.41 Informed Consent in Testing
1.1.42 Test Appropriateness and Fairness
1.1.43 Competence in Test Administration
1.1.44 Misuse of Test Data
1.1.45 Confidentiality of Test Results

1.2 – Intake, Assessment and Diagnosis (8 modules)

(Core Areas: Assessment and Testing | Human Growth and Development)

Module 9 – Intake Process and Initial Contact
1.2.1 Intake Interview
1.2.2 Mental Status Exam (MSE)
1.2.3 Presenting Problem vs. Chief Complaint
1.2.4 Case Conceptualization
1.2.5 Rapport Building During Assessment
1.2.6 Structured vs. Unstructured Interviews
1.2.7 Behavioral Observations

Module 10 – Assessment Fundamentals
1.2.8 Assessment vs. Testing vs. Evaluation
1.2.9 Standardized vs. Non-Standardized Assessments
1.2.10 Norm-Referenced vs. Criterion-Referenced Tests
1.2.11 Formative vs. Summative Assessment
1.2.12 Screening Tools (e.g., PHQ-9, GAD-7)
1.2.13 Triangulation of Data Sources (e.g., self-report, observation, records)

Module 11 – Psychometric Properties
1.2.14 Reliability (test-retest, interrater, internal consistency)
1.2.15 Validity (construct, content, criterion, face)
1.2.16 Standard Error of Measurement (SEM)
1.2.17 Confidence Intervals in Test Scores
1.2.18 Norms and Standardization Samples

Module 12 – Ethical and Multicultural Considerations
1.2.19 Informed Consent in Assessment
1.2.20 Test Bias and Cultural Fairness
1.2.21 Language Barriers and Interpreter Use
1.2.22 Accommodations for Disabilities
1.2.23 Testing Special Populations (e.g., minors, elders, bilingual clients)
1.2.24 Counselor Competence in Assessment

Module 13 – Diagnosis and Clinical Classification
1.2.25 DSM-5-TR Structure and Use
1.2.26 Differential Diagnosis
1.2.27 Comorbidity
1.2.28 Rule-Out Diagnoses
1.2.29 Subtypes, Specifiers, and Severity Ratings
1.2.30 Provisional vs. Confirmed Diagnoses
1.2.31 Z-Codes and V-Codes (conditions that may require clinical attention)

Module 14 – Specialized and Commonly Used Assessments
1.2.32 Personality Assessments (MMPI-2, MCMI, 16PF)
1.2.33 Projective Techniques (Rorschach, TAT)
1.2.34 Intelligence Tests (WAIS, WISC)
1.2.35 Aptitude vs. Achievement Tests
1.2.36 Interest Inventories (e.g., Strong Interest Inventory)
1.2.37 Risk Assessments (e.g., suicide, homicide, self-harm)
1.2.38 Substance Use Screening Tools (e.g., CAGE, AUDIT, DAST)

Module 15 – Report Writing and Clinical Documentation
1.2.39 Assessment Reports (format, clarity, audience)
1.2.40 Diagnostic Justification
1.2.41 Case Notes (DAP, SOAP, BIRP formats)
1.2.42 Referral Reports and Collaboration Notes
1.2.43 Documenting Risk and Protective Factors

Module 16 – Legal and Professional Considerations
1.2.44 Confidentiality of Test Data
1.2.45 Test Security and Storage
1.2.46 Record Retention Guidelines
1.2.47 Informed Interpretation of Results
1.2.48 Avoiding Misdiagnosis and Overpathologizing

1.3 – Areas of Clinical Focus (7 modules)

(Core Areas: Human Growth and Development | Social and Cultural Diversity | Counseling & Helping Relationships)

Module 17 – Major Mental Health Diagnoses
1.3.1 Mood Disorders (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I & II)
1.3.2 Anxiety Disorders (e.g., GAD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety)
1.3.3 Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
1.3.4 Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders (e.g., PTSD, Acute Stress)
1.3.5 Dissociative Disorders
1.3.6 Psychotic Disorders (e.g., Schizophrenia Spectrum)
1.3.7 Personality Disorders (Clusters A, B, C)
1.3.8 Substance Use Disorders
1.3.9 Eating Disorders
1.3.10 Neurodevelopmental Disorders (e.g., Autism Spectrum, ADHD)

Module 18 – Developmental and Life Span Focus
1.3.11 Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages
1.3.12 Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory
1.3.13 Attachment Theory (Bowlby, Ainsworth)
1.3.14 Life Transitions and Adjustment Issues
1.3.15 Grief and Loss Models (e.g., Kübler-Ross, Worden)
1.3.16 Aging and Geriatric Counseling Concerns
1.3.17 Parenting and Family Dynamics Across the Life Span

Module 19 – Multicultural and Identity-Based Focus
1.3.18 Racial and Ethnic Identity Development Models
1.3.19 Acculturation and Assimilation
1.3.20 LGBTQIA+ Counseling Considerations
1.3.21 Gender Identity and Expression
1.3.22 Socioeconomic and Class Issues in Counseling
1.3.23 Intersectionality
1.3.24 Religion and Spirituality in Counseling...

Module 10: Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions

Albert Ellis, William Glasser, Donald Meichenbaum (CBT, REBT, and Reality Therapy – Thought Patterns, Choice, and Cognitive Change)

Module 9: Family and Systemic Therapy

Fritz Perls, Virginia Satir, Salvador Minuchin (Gestalt and Family Systems – Self-Awareness, Communication, and Structure in Relationships)

Module 8: Moral Development and Ethical Reasoning

Lawrence Kohlberg, Carol Gilligan, James Rest (Moral Development – Justice, Care, and Ethical Decision-Making)

Module 7: Neo-Freudian and Psychodynamic Theories

Carl Jung, Karen Horney, Melanie Klein (Beyond Freud – The Unconscious, Archetypes, and Object Relations)

Module 6: Attachment Theory and Early Development

John Bowlby, Mary Ainsworth, Harry Harlow (Attachment and Bonding – Infant Relationships and Their Impact on Development)

Module 5: Career Counseling and Vocational Development

Donald Super, John Holland, Linda Gottfredson (Career Development – Personality, Self-Concept, and Occupational Choice)

Module 4: Existential Therapy and Meaning-Making

Viktor Frankl, Rollo May, Irvin Yalom (Existential and Humanistic Therapy – Meaning, Freedom, and Anxiety)

Module 3: Learning Theories and Behavioral Conditioning

B.F. Skinner, John Watson, Albert Bandura (Behaviorism and Social Learning – Conditioning, Reinforcement, and Modeling)

Module 2: Theories of Personality and Human Development

Alfred Adler, Erik Erikson, Jean Piaget (Psychosocial and Cognitive Development – Growth Across the Lifespan)

Module 1: The Foundations of Counseling and Psychotherapy

Sigmund Freud, Carl Rogers, Aaron Beck (Psychoanalysis, Humanism, and Cognitive Therapy – Core Approaches to Therapy)

Episode Description 

In this episode of the NCE Study Guide, we explore the domain of Assessment and Testing, one of the most technical—and crucial—areas of the NCE. This session is grounded in our May 3rd, 2025 study group, where Tiffany shared her journey navigating complex concepts like z-scores, validity types, and ethical test use.

You’ll learn why assessment is not just about test-taking but about making accurate, client-centered decisions in practice. We break down key terms, offer metaphors to simplify abstract ideas, and model how these topics appear on the NCE. You'll also get a quiz with detailed explanations to sharpen your test-taking strategy.

This episode aligns with the Assessment and Testing Work Behavior Domain and the CACREP core area of Assessment, helping you build both confidence and competence.

If you find this helpful, please leave a 5-star review—it helps more future counselors find their way. And don’t forget to join our free weekly study group (email ncestudyguide@gmail.com).

CACREP Core Area: Assessment and Testing

In this episode:

• Learn how to differentiate reliability vs. validity
• Understand z-scores, bell curves, and percentile ranks
• Explore how assessments protect client well-being
• Practice with 5 NCE-style questions and explanations
• Hear how Tiffany uses real-world context to retain testing concepts

Takeaways:

• Think like a counselor, not a memorizer
• Ethical test use = accurate, equitable care
• Assessment is your decision-making flashlight

Study Group Highlight:
Tiffany’s story inspired this module. Her insight into struggling with technical content—and learning how to visualize it with clients in mind—makes this one of our most relatable and practical episodes yet.

Join us Saturdays at 11 AM Pacific – email ncestudyguide@gmail.com to attend!

The Study Group is a space for listeners of this podcast to meet and discuss their NCE prep.

This episode isn’t just about prepping for a test—it’s about building community, owning your learning process, and redefining what success looks like in the face of pressure. Whether you’re weeks away or years out, this one’s for you. Let’s study smarter, together.

You can request to join the study group by emailing ncestudyguide@gmail.com

Welcome to Module 1 of the NCE National Counselor Exam Study Guide! In this episode, we dive into the first 10 multiple-choice questions designed to sharpen your knowledge of key counseling concepts and theories.

Explore topics such as:

• The foundations of Humanistic theory and person-centered therapy
• Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development
• Group counseling stages and dynamics
• Key ethical principles like autonomy and beneficence
• The miracle question in solution-focused brief therapy
• Holland’s vocational choice theory and career counseling

Each question is accompanied by a detailed explanation to deepen your understanding and reinforce core concepts for the National Counselor Exam. Whether you're studying on the go or reviewing at home, this episode is the perfect way to start your journey toward exam success.

Tune in and take the first step in mastering the material for your counseling career!

Module 1: Questions 1–10

Question 1:

Which counseling theory emphasizes the importance of free will, self-actualization, and personal growth?

A. Psychoanalytic theory

B. Behavioral theory

C. Humanistic theory

D. Cognitive-behavioral theory

Correct Answer: C. Humanistic theory

Explanation:

Humanistic theory, developed by figures such as Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, focuses on the individual’s capacity for self-actualization and personal growth. It emphasizes free will and the idea that people are inherently good and capable of making positive changes. The other options focus on different principles: psychoanalytic theory on unconscious motives, behavioral theory on observable behaviors, and cognitive-behavioral theory on thought patterns and behaviors.

Question 2:

Which of the following is NOT considered a core condition of person-centered therapy?

A. Empathy

B. Congruence

C. Unconditional positive regard

D. Interpretation

Correct Answer: D. Interpretation

Explanation:

In person-centered therapy, Carl Rogers identified empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard as core conditions necessary for effective therapy. Interpretation, which involves analyzing client behavior or speech, is more associated with psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches, not person-centered therapy.

Question 3:

In group counseling, which stage is typically characterized by conflict, power struggles, and resistance?

A. Forming

B. Storming

C. Norming

D. Performing

Correct Answer: B. Storming

Explanation:

The storming stage of group development involves conflict and power struggles as group members assert their individuality and test boundaries. This stage is critical for establishing norms and roles within the group. The other stages—forming, norming, and performing—are characterized by orientation, cohesion, and productive collaboration, respectively.

Question 4:

What term refers to the unconscious redirection of feelings from one person to the therapist during counseling?

A. Countertransference

B. Projection

C. Transference

D. Repression

Correct Answer: C. Transference

Explanation:

Transference occurs when a client unconsciously redirects feelings or expectations from significant people in their life onto the therapist. Countertransference, in contrast, refers to the therapist’s emotional response to the client. Projection involves attributing one’s feelings to another person, while repression refers to unconsciously blocking unacceptable thoughts.

Question 5:

According to Erik Erikson, what is the primary psychosocial task of adolescence?

A. Trust vs. Mistrust

B. Initiative vs. Guilt

C. Identity vs. Role Confusion

D. Intimacy vs. Isolation

Correct Answer: C. Identity vs. Role Confusion

Explanation:

Erikson’s psychosocial theory identifies adolescence as the stage where individuals work to develop a sense of identity. Failure to do so can lead to role confusion. The other stages correspond to different life periods, such as infancy (trust vs. mistrust) and early adulthood (intimacy vs. isolation).

Question 6:

Which type of research design involves studying one group of participants over an extended period?

A. Cross-sectional

B. Longitudinal

C. Experimental

D. Case study

Correct Answer: B. Longitudinal

Explanation:

Longitudinal research tracks the same group of individuals over a long period, allowing researchers to observe changes and development over time. Cross-sectional studies compare different groups at a single point in time. Experimental designs involve manipulation of variables, and case studies focus on in-depth analysis of a single subject or small group.

Question 7:

In career counseling, which theory emphasizes the match between an individual’s personality and the work environment?

A. Super’s Developmental Theory

B. Holland’s Theory of Vocational Choice

C. Krumboltz’s Social Learning Theory

D. Ginzberg’s Theory

Correct Answer: B. Holland’s Theory of Vocational Choice

Explanation:

Holland’s theory posits that people are more satisfied and productive when their work environments align with their personality types. Super’s theory focuses on career development across the lifespan, Krumboltz emphasizes the role of learning experiences, and Ginzberg’s theory explores career decision-making processes.

Question 8:

Which ethical principle requires counselors to respect the autonomy of their clients?

A. Beneficence

B. Nonmaleficence

C. Justice

D. Respect for autonomy

Correct Answer: D. Respect for autonomy

Explanation:

Respect for autonomy is the ethical principle that emphasizes honoring clients’ ability to make their own decisions. Beneficence involves promoting the client’s well-being, nonmaleficence refers to avoiding harm, and justice is about fairness and equality.

Question 9:

What statistical measure is used to describe the degree of relationship between two variables?

A. Mean

B. Standard deviation

C. Correlation coefficient

D. Variance

Correct Answer: C. Correlation coefficient

Explanation:

The correlation coefficient quantifies the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables. The mean is an average value, standard deviation measures variability, and variance r...

In this episode of the NCE Study Guide, we dive deep into one of the most testable and misunderstood areas of the NCE: Group Dynamics.

Learn to recognize and navigate the five stages of group development—forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning—and how they show up in NCE-style scenarios.

We break down real-world examples of group member roles (like the scapegoat and monopolizer), the emotional rhythm of group counseling, and essential terms like universality, cohesion, catharsis, and more.

Featuring practical tips and a 5-question mini quiz, this episode will help you think like a counselor, not just a test-taker.

Brought to you by Glenn Ostlund and the NCE Study Guide community.

📧 Join our free Saturday study group: ncestudyguide@gmail.com
⭐ Like what you hear? Leave us a 5-star review to help more counselors find us!

Tags: #NCEprep #GroupCounseling #CounselorExam #MentalHealth #StudyGuide #Tuckman #Yalom #NCEstrategies

What makes a test trustworthy?

This episode dives into validity and reliability—two essential concepts for anyone preparing for the NCE exam or learning how to ethically use assessments in counseling.

We explore how these ideas show up on the NCE, how to apply them in real-life practice, and how understanding them can help you avoid common pitfalls—like missing a passing score by one point.

🧠 This episode falls under the Assessment and Diagnostic Services work behavior domain and the CACREP Appraisal core content area.

💡 Inspired by a conversation in our Saturday study group—where Amy shared how a better understanding of validity might have tipped her score—we break it down in plain, practical language.

📬 Want to join the study group or suggest a future episode?

Email: ncestudyguide@gmail.com

⭐️ If this episode helps you, please take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating. It’s a quick way to support the show and help other counseling students find us!

Carl Jung – Archetypes, Shadow Work, and Counseling Applications

Episode Description:

In this episode of the NCE Study Guide, we take a deep dive into the foundational ideas of Carl Jung—his theories, legacy, and practical relevance for the National Counselor Examination. This module was inspired by Lily, a forward-thinking member of our Saturday study group who requested a focused exploration of Jungian psychology.

You’ll learn how concepts like the collective unconscious, archetypes, the Shadow, and individuation can show up on the NCE—not just in theory questions, but embedded in case vignettes that require symbolic, spiritual, or depth-oriented interpretation. We also explore Jung’s influence on transpersonal counseling, multicultural sensitivity, and personality assessments like the MBTI.

This resource is part of a growing, collaborative study effort. If you’d like to join the weekly Zoom group (Saturdays at 11 a.m. PT), suggest a topic, or ask a question, send an email to ncestudyguide@gmail.com. And if you find this podcast helpful, please consider leaving a 5-star rating—it helps others find us!

At the beginning of this episode, you’ll also hear the voice of Carl Jung himself with a quote that invites self-reflection and curiosity—a perfect mindset for both the exam and the counseling profession.

Let’s get started.

Case Study Module 10: Maya, the Young Girl with Big Worries

This case study module presents a fictional scenario designed to prepare you for the NCE by examining key clinical competencies: ethical considerations, appropriate diagnoses, applicable modalities and interventions, and core exam content areas. Each module ends with an NCE-style quiz to reinforce your understanding and retention.

Case Overview:
Maya, an 8-year-old girl, presents with separation anxiety and school refusal following a recent move. This case includes child-specific assessment tools, play therapy, and CBT for kids, along with a family systems approach to support consistent parenting strategies and emotional safety in treatment planning.

In this first grassroots Zoom session of the NCE Study Group, Glenn brings together a diverse group of counseling students and recent test-takers from across the country—each with a unique story, study style, and set of challenges. One participant shares how a literal storm disrupted her exam and led to a second chance. Another reflects on the difficulty of connecting theory to real-life practice. The conversation touches on test anxiety, learning styles, why the “purple book” might not be enough, and how to approach the NCE as a skill-based, pattern-recognition test—not just memorization.

Glenn also shares the backstory behind his NCE Study Guide Podcast and the AI tools he uses to generate custom study modules. The group discusses the pros and cons of taking the exam at home vs. at a testing center, strategies for managing silence in therapy, and the surprising weight career and group counseling sections carry on the exam.

This episode isn’t just about prepping for a test—it’s about building community, owning your learning process, and redefining what success looks like in the face of pressure. Whether you’re weeks away or years out, this one’s for you. Let’s study smarter, together.

You can request to join the study group by emailing ncestudyguide@gmail.com