Receiving a Ph.D. in psychological counseling places emphasis on advanced research techniques that can lead to positions in academia.
A Ph.D. will probably not contribute any more than a master's in becoming an independent practitioner. According to the AMHCA, the counseling profession places emphasis on experience for licensing.
Some Ph.D. programs admit students to their programs without a master's degree. Other programs require a master's degree. Graduate admissions requirements will vary by program, as will the requirements for transferring course credits to the Ph.D. from the master's.
It usually takes six years of graduate study to receive a Ph.D. in psychological counseling. Transferring hours from the master's degree may take less time.
While a Ph.D. in psychological counseling is considered by some to be less prestigious, it can still lead to jobs in academia that a master's degree alone can not.