To be eligible for the Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager (CBHCM) credential—regardless of the application pathway—all applicants must ultimately meet the minimum requirements outlined below. These requirements ensure that every CBHCM professional is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective, ethical case management services.
The following information provides an overview of the CBHCM requirements – detailed information is provided in the CBHCM Standards, Requirements, and Application Guide and the CBHCM-Provisional/Upgrade Standards, Requirements, and Application Guide.
Requirements Overview
🎓 Formal Education
- A bachelor’s degree or higher is required.
📚 CBHCM Training
- Completion of 50 hours of training in CBHCM-approved topics, designed to build foundational skills in case management.
💼 Work Experience
- A minimum of 2000 hours of work experience in a targeted case management setting.
👥 Supervision
- At least 50 hours of supervised work experience, focused on developing your knowledge and skills as a case manager.
📝 Letters of Recommendation
- Submission of three letters of recommendation that support your readiness and suitability for CBHCM certification.
🖥️ Exam Requirement
- Applicants may only register for the exam after application requirements have been reviewed and approved by the Certification Board.
- Pass a 100-item, multiple-choice certification exam. The exam is designed to assess knowledge, skills, and competencies essential to targeted case management practice.
- The passing score is 70%, with all questions weighed equally.
Application Pathways
There are two ways to apply for the Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager (CBHCM) credential—Standard and Provisional/Upgrade. Both lead to full certification, but the right path for you depends on your current experience as a case manager.
💼 Standard Pathway
Choose this path if you have already met all the following:
- Required education
- Completed CBHCM training
- Verification of relevant work experience (minimum of 2000 hours)
- Required supervision hours
- Letters of recommendation
You’re ready to apply directly for the CBHCM credential. See the CBHCM Requirements and Policy guide for detailed instructions.
🕒 Provisional/Upgrade Pathway
This path is designed for applicants who do not yet have 2000 hours of work experience. Starting with the provisional certification allows you to work in the field while gaining the required experience and supervision. Once you meet the requirements, you’ll upgrade to full CBHCM certification.
Not sure which pathway is right for you? Review the following Choosing the Right Path resources:
- CBHCM Standard Application Eligibility Checklist
- CBHCM Provisional/Upgrade Application Eligibility Checklist
- CBHCM Application Pathway Comparison Chart
If you have any additional questions, please contact us for guidance.
Click on the correct application pathway button to access detailed information on application, examination, credential award, and maintenance/renewal requirements, processes, and procedures.