What is an LPCC? (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor)

Reviewed by: Megan Kelly, MA, LMHC

A Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is a licensed mental health professional qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals dealing with emotional, behavioral, and substance-related disorders. This title is used in several states—most notably California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Ohio—as the official licensure for advanced professional counselors.

To become an LPCC, you typically need to:

• Earn a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited program
• Complete supervised postgraduate clinical experience
• Pass a national or state-recognized licensing exam

During this process, aspiring LPCCs can specialize in areas such as family therapy, addiction counseling, or child and adolescent mental health, depending on their program and state requirements.

Tip: In states like California, LPCCs are regulated by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and must complete over 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work before licensure.

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How to Become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

To become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), you must complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling from a program that meets your state’s licensure requirements. Most states prefer or require that programs be regionally accredited or recognized by CACREP (the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs).

Some counseling programs offer a broad foundation in mental health counseling, while others allow you to specialize in areas like addiction, marriage and family therapy, or child and adolescent counseling. Regardless of specialization, your program should include supervised practicum experiences, coursework in ethics and diagnosis, and preparation for licensure exams.

What Is an LPCC?

An LPCC is a licensed mental health professional authorized to provide clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to individuals, families, and groups. LPCCs work with people experiencing a wide range of concerns, including:

• Mental health disorders
• Substance abuse and addiction
• Trauma and abuse
• Psychosocial and environmental challenges
• Grief, loss, and emotional distress

LPCCs can work in private practice, hospitals, community health centers, schools, or telehealth platforms. While some choose to specialize, many serve diverse populations and conditions.

What Is the Role of a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor?

The role of an LPCC includes:

• Diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders
• Providing therapy across the lifespan (children, teens, adults, and seniors)
• Leading individual, couples, or group therapy sessions
• Creating treatment plans and working in interdisciplinary teams

LPCCs provide holistic care, focusing on emotional wellness and personal growth alongside symptom reduction. Their flexibility across settings and client populations makes them a cornerstone of modern mental health care.

Note: The LPCC license title is used in specific states: California, Colorado, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Ohio. In other states, similar roles may be titled LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) or LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) depending on state regulations.

What’s the Difference Between A LPCC and a LMFT?

LPCC Counselor Licensure: What Is an LPCC License?

An LPCC license is the legal credential that allows an individual to practice as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. You cannot legally use the LPCC title or provide clinical counseling services without holding this license, which is granted by the state where you practice.

To obtain LPCC licensure, candidates typically must complete the following steps:

• Graduate with a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field
• Complete supervised field experience during and after graduate school
• Pass a nationally recognized licensure exam, such as the NCE or NCMHCE

Licensure is not just a formality—it’s the state’s official authorization that you are qualified to practice professional clinical counseling. Requirements vary by state: some states issue a single-tier license, while others use a two-tier system (e.g., pre-licensure associate status followed by full licensure).

The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) oversees two major exams accepted by most states:

• NCE: National Counselor Examination
• NCMHCE: National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination

Holding an LPCC license confirms that the individual has met rigorous educational, clinical, and examination requirements and is qualified to treat mental health and behavioral issues. However, an LPCC is not the same as a psychologist or psychiatrist—those titles require different degrees and licensing processes.

What Does It Mean to Obtain an LPCC License?

Becoming an LPCC demonstrates that a professional has completed:

• Accredited graduate-level education in counseling
• Hundreds or thousands of hours of supervised clinical experience
• A passing score on one or more licensing exams

This distinguishes LPCCs from unlicensed professionals using the generic title of “counselor” or “life coach,” which may not require formal training or state oversight.

Insight from Megan Kelly, MA, LMHC:
“It’s important that you understand the laws that govern counseling and psychotherapy-related licenses in your state, whether that is LPCC or something else. It’s also important that you check to see whether terms like ‘counselor’ or ‘therapist’ are legally protected titles in your state. This will help you avoid providing services under a title that you’re not legally allowed to claim.”

What States Allow You to Get an LPCC License?

The title Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is not used nationwide, but it is an official counseling license in several states. While counselors are licensed in all 50 states, only a handful use the LPCC designation.

As of 2025, the LPCC license is offered in the following states:

• California (view California counseling programs)
• Kentucky (view Kentucky counseling programs)
• Minnesota (view Minnesota counseling programs)
• New Mexico (view New Mexico counseling programs)
• North Dakota (view North Dakota counseling programs)
• Ohio (view Ohio counseling programs)

In these states, “LPCC” and “Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor” are equivalent terms and represent a fully licensed clinical mental health counselor.

LPCC vs. LPC: What’s the Difference?

While both LPCCs and LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors) are licensed to provide counseling services, there are some differences in how these credentials are defined across states:

Credential	Focus	Common States
LPCC	Clinical mental health counseling	CA, OH, MN, KY, NM, ND
LPC	General counseling (may include career, rehab, or school)	Most other states
LMHC	Similar to LPCC but used in states like NY, FL, WA	Varies

The LPCC license typically emphasizes clinical practice, meaning LPCCs often work in private practice, mental health clinics, or hospitals and may have greater autonomy depending on the state. LPCs may focus more broadly and may not always require as much clinical supervision or depth in mental health coursework.

Education Requirements to Become an LPCC

To become an LPCC, you’ll need to complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling from a program that aligns with your state’s licensing board requirements.

Most states require the program to be either:

• Regionally accredited, or
• CACREP-accredited (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs)

Common required coursework includes:

• Human growth and development
• Counseling theories and techniques
• Group counseling
• Ethics and professional issues
• Research and assessment
• Diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders
• Practicum and internship experiences

Tip: Always compare your program’s curriculum to your state’s board requirements before enrolling.

LPCC Requirements Example: California

California has one of the most detailed LPCC education frameworks. To qualify for licensure in California, applicants must complete:

• 60 semester credits (or 90 quarter credits)
• 15 credits of advanced clinical coursework
• At least 280 hours of supervised direct client experience
• Courses in specific areas such as California law and ethics, psychopharmacology, multicultural counseling, and crisis treatment

If coursework doesn’t align exactly, students may need to submit course equivalency documentation during the application process.

State Requirements for LPCC Licensure

Each state sets its own licensure requirements for becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). While specific rules vary, several key requirements are common across states:

1. Degree Requirements

Applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field from a regionally accredited or CACREP-accredited institution.

2. Required Licensing Exams

Most states require applicants to pass one or both of the following exams, administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC):

• NCMHCE – National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam
• NCE – National Counselor Examination

Some states follow a two-tiered system, meaning you may need to pass one exam (e.g., NCE) for associate licensure and the other (e.g., NCMHCE) for full LPCC licensure.

3. Postgraduate Supervised Experience

States typically require between 2,000 and 3,000 hours of postgraduate clinical supervision. Requirements may include:

• A minimum number of direct client contact hours
• A specific number of supervision hours with a licensed supervisor
• Rules about whether pre-degree clinical hours can count (varies by state)

Some states only count hours earned after graduation, while others allow certain practicum or internship hours to apply toward licensure totals.

4. Continuing Education (CE) and License Renewal

Most states require LPCCs to renew their licenses every two years. To renew, counselors must complete a set number of continuing education units (CEUs), typically between:

• 20 to 40 CEUs per renewal cycle
• May include specific topics like ethics, suicide prevention, or law and ethics

Renewal deadlines and documentation requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check with your state’s counseling licensure board for current rules.

Complete Steps to Getting Licensed as an LPCC Therapist

Becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) involves completing a series of educational, clinical, and administrative milestones. While state requirements vary slightly, here is a comprehensive outline of the typical licensure process—especially relevant in states like California, North Dakota, and Ohio.

Quick LPCC Licensure Checklist

Step	Requirement	Notes
Graduate Education	Master’s or doctoral degree in counseling (min. 60 semester or 90 quarter units)	Must include ~280 hours of supervised practicum and core content areas (e.g., ethics, diagnosis, multicultural counseling)
APCC Registration (CA only)	Apply as Associate Professional Clinical Counselor	Requires Live Scan fingerprinting, background check, and initial fees
Supervised Clinical Practice	Minimum of 3,000 postgrad hours over 2–6 years	Must include at least 1,750 direct client hours; supervised by a qualified LPCC or equivalent
Law & Ethics Exam	Required in states like CA	Must be taken before full licensure; multiple-choice; 70%+ to pass
NCMHCE / NCE	National exam(s) for licensure	Required by most states; managed by the NBCC
Submit Licensure Application	Complete form, fee, and proof of experience	Includes transcripts, clinical hour verification, and test scores
Continuing Education	Varies by state, often 30–40 hours every 2 years	Must include ethics and clinical topics; CEU providers must be approved by your state board

Step 1: Review Education Requirements

Before enrolling in a counseling program, confirm that it aligns with your state’s academic requirements. Most states require that your degree come from a regionally or CACREP-accredited program with coursework in:

• Human development
• Professional ethics
• Diagnosis & treatment planning
• Counseling theories
• Practicum/internship experiences

Example: In California, LPCC programs must offer at least 60 semester hours and cover 13 core content areas. Accreditation doesn’t guarantee licensure alignment, so always double-check with your state board.

Step 2: Complete Postgraduate Supervised Experience

After graduation, you’ll need to complete 2,000–3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience under a licensed professional.

Example: In North Dakota, LPCC candidates must complete:

• 700 hours of clinical training during their degree
• 3,000 postgrad hours of supervised practice
• 100 hours of direct clinical supervision

Rules differ by state regarding whether pre-graduation hours can count.

Step 3: Pass Required Licensing Exams

Most states require one or both of the following national exams:

• NCMHCE (National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam)
• NCE (National Counselor Exam)

These exams are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and are used to measure clinical competency.
Some states require the NCE for associate licensure and the NCMHCE for full licensure.

Step 4: Fulfill Additional Requirements

Before receiving your LPCC license, you must:

• Pay all licensure and testing fees
• Submit transcripts and documentation of supervised hours
• Pass a criminal background check (Live Scan or equivalent)
• Complete a jurisprudence exam, if required by your state
• Provide a Statement of Intent describing your practice area and any impairments/criminal disclosures (e.g., in ND)

Step 5: Maintain and Renew Your License

LPCC licenses must be renewed every two years in most states. Renewal usually requires:

• 20–40 CEUs (Continuing Education Units), often with specific topics like ethics or suicide prevention
• A new Statement of Intent or updated clinical practice description
• Disclosure of any legal or ethical issues since the last renewal

Example: In North Dakota, renewal requires:

• 40 total CEUs
• 10 of those CEUs must be in clinical professional development

Why Are LPCCs Needed?

The demand for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) has grown significantly in recent years as mental health challenges become more visible and widespread in the U.S. LPCCs provide critical therapeutic services such as counseling, diagnosis, and support for individuals, families, and groups navigating emotional and psychological stressors.

Growing Mental Health Concerns

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year. Common conditions requiring intervention include:

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Substance use disorders

These challenges are increasing in both youth and adults, placing added strain on an already-limited mental health system.

Limited Access to Mental Health Services

Even as demand increases, many Americans struggle to access timely care due to:

• Shortages of licensed mental health professionals
• Long wait times for appointments
• Geographic disparities — especially in rural or underserved areas

LPCCs are uniquely positioned to bridge this gap. Their broad training enables them to provide accessible, affordable care to diverse populations across settings — including private practice, schools, hospitals, and telehealth.

The Unique Role of LPCCs in Mental Health Care

LPCCs are trained to provide:

• Clinical assessment and diagnosis
• Individual and group therapy
• Crisis intervention and care planning
• Referrals to psychiatrists, social workers, or specialized services when needed

Unlike psychologists or psychiatrists, LPCCs typically emphasize relational counseling and therapy techniques aimed at long-term wellness and emotional resilience.

Mental Health Statistics That Support the Case for More LPCCs

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and American Counseling Association (ACA):

• 59.3 million adults (23.1%) experienced a mental illness in the past year (2023)
• 4.8 million adolescents (19.5% of ages 12–17) had a major depressive episode
• 13.2 million adults seriously considered suicide in 2022
• There is a nationwide shortage of licensed mental health professionals, especially in rural and low-income areas

Early access to care improves outcomes. Research shows that individuals who receive support early in their mental health journey have better long-term outcomes and lower overall healthcare costs.

Why More LPCCs Matter

By expanding the LPCC workforce, we can:

• Reduce wait times for therapy
• Increase access in underserved regions
• Provide earlier intervention for teens and adults
• Strengthen families and communities through accessible care

LPCCs play a central role in creating a healthier, more resilient society. Their impact goes far beyond the therapy room — they empower individuals, restore families, and build hope.

What Do LPCCs Do?

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) are trained mental health professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues in individuals, couples, families, and groups.

They work in diverse settings including private practice, clinics, hospitals, schools, and telehealth platforms, delivering critical therapeutic services across the lifespan.

Core Responsibilities of an LPCC

Here are the primary duties LPCCs are licensed and trained to perform:

1. Mental Health Assessment & Diagnosis

LPCCs evaluate clients for a range of mental health disorders, such as:

• Anxiety and depression
• Bipolar disorder
• PTSD
• Substance use disorders

They use evidence-based tools to make accurate clinical diagnoses, which inform the next steps in treatment.

2. Providing Psychotherapy

Counselors use a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to client needs. Common modalities include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Trauma-Informed Therapy

Their sessions may be individual, group, couples, or family-oriented, depending on the case.

3. Developing Treatment Plans

LPCCs design personalized treatment plans with defined goals, progress benchmarks, and therapeutic strategies. These plans help track progress and adapt care based on the client’s evolving needs.

4. Crisis Intervention

In urgent situations, LPCCs are trained to de-escalate crises, provide emotional stabilization, and refer clients to appropriate services (e.g., inpatient care or psychiatry) when needed.

Specializations Within the LPCC Role

Many LPCCs choose to specialize in a particular population or area of concern. Common focus areas include:

• Addiction and substance use counseling
• Child and adolescent mental health
• Marriage and family counseling
• Trauma recovery and abuse support

These specializations often influence where an LPCC works and what kinds of clients they serve.

Beyond Counseling: Advocacy & Education

LPCCs do more than provide therapy. Many also:

• Lead community workshops on mental health awareness
• Collaborate with primary care teams and social workers
• Participate in advocacy efforts to reduce stigma and improve access to care

They are key voices in promoting healthy coping, emotional literacy, and resilience within their communities.

Societal Impact of LPCCs

By supporting individuals through emotional challenges and mental illness, LPCCs play a vital role in creating stronger, healthier communities. Their work:

• Reduces stigma around seeking help
• Encourages early intervention
• Promotes empathy, communication, and emotional regulation at every age

LPCCs are the front line of mental health care—offering healing, hope, and human connection when it’s needed most.

Top LPCC Degree Programs

The following master’s programs offer LPCC-track education designed to meet licensure requirements in their respective states. These programs are regionally or CACREP-accredited and emphasize clinical training, licensure readiness, and counseling specialization options.

Concordia University-Irvine

Program: Master of Arts in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Concentration
Location: Irvine, California (hybrid delivery)
Accreditation: CACREP

Concordia’s Townsend Institute offers a CACREP-accredited LPCC program designed to be completed in 2–3 years, depending on enrollment pace. The program requires 60 credit hours and includes:

• A 4-day Kickoff Conference to build student community and preview the curriculum
• Core coursework plus two electives (e.g., Play Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapy)
• Clinical training in CBT, psychopharmacology, and relationship-based treatment models

Admission Requirements:

• Application + fee (waived with info night attendance)
• Bachelor’s degree (GPA 3.0 or higher)
• Two-page personal essay
• Resume and at least one professional reference

This program meets California LPCC licensure requirements and may be applicable in other states. Always verify with your state board.

St. Mary’s University of Minnesota

Program: Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychological Services (MACPS)
Location: Minneapolis and Rochester campuses
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

The MACPS program at St. Mary’s is a 48-credit LPCC-track degree designed to meet Minnesota LPCC licensure requirements. Program features include:

• Coursework in counseling theory, research, social psychology, and ethics
• Two semesters of practicum totaling 700+ clinical hours
• Optional Addiction Studies Certificate (12 additional credits)
• Option to fast-track into the Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD) through early entry

Courses are offered in both on-campus and hybrid formats (no fully online version). New cohorts begin in August, January, and May.

Admission Highlights:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Application deadlines aligned with start terms
• Eligibility to add licensure-specific electives to meet LPCC standards in Minnesota

LPCC Salary and Job Outlook

Becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) offers more than just a meaningful career helping others — it also provides strong job stability and competitive earning potential across various mental health settings.

LPCC Salary Overview

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for professionals in roles that include LPCCs — such as substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors — was $59,190 as of May 2024.

However, salaries can vary significantly based on:

• Location: Urban vs. rural, cost of living, regional demand
• Work setting: LPCCs in hospitals earn more (median of $61,930) than those in outpatient clinics or schools
• Specialization: LPCCs focusing on trauma, addiction, or family counseling may command higher salaries
• Experience level: Advanced LPCCs with supervision or private practice privileges often see higher compensation

LPCC Job Growth and Outlook

The job outlook for LPCCs is extremely positive, with the BLS projecting a 19% growth rate between 2023 and 2033 — much faster than the national average for all occupations.

This growth is driven by:

• Increased mental health awareness and reduced stigma
• Expanded insurance coverage for behavioral health services, including through the Affordable Care Act
• Greater need for substance use treatment and crisis intervention
• Growing integration of mental health care into primary care and hospital settings

Where LPCCs Are in High Demand

LPCCs are in growing demand across a variety of settings:

• Hospitals and integrated health systems
• Community mental health centers
• Private practice and teletherapy platforms
• Schools, colleges, and universities
• Substance use treatment and rehabilitation centers

Why the Demand Will Keep Growing

As more individuals seek help for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and addiction, and as mental health parity laws expand, LPCCs are uniquely positioned to meet that need. Their specialized clinical training and ability to work across the lifespan make them a critical part of the future mental health workforce.

Other Career Options After Getting an LPCC Degree

While many individuals pursue the LPCC to work as licensed clinical counselors, the degree also opens doors to a variety of other rewarding roles within the mental health and education space.

Common Careers for LPCC Degree Holders

Here are some of the most popular career paths for individuals with an LPCC or LPCC-track master’s degree:

School and Career Counselor

Where they work: K–12 schools, colleges, career centers
What they do:

• Help students navigate academic, social, and emotional development
• Support career exploration and college readiness
• Guide students in goal-setting and overcoming personal challenges

Median Salary: $65,140/year (BLS, 2024)
Job Growth: 4% from 2023–2033

Note: While school counselors require specific credentials beyond the LPCC in many states, an LPCC-aligned degree can provide a strong foundation when paired with school counseling certification.

Psychologist (Doctorate typically required)

Where they work: Hospitals, clinics, private practice, research institutions
What they do:

• Conduct psychological assessments and testing
• Diagnose and treat emotional and cognitive disorders
• Engage in academic research or clinical consultation

Median Salary: $94,310/year (BLS, 2024)
Job Growth: 7% from 2023–2033

Note: LPCC degree holders interested in becoming psychologists must pursue a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and meet state licensure requirements for psychology.

Additional Counseling Careers with an LPCC Degree

In addition to direct clinical counseling, LPCC-trained professionals can also specialize or transition into roles such as:

• Grief Counselor – Supporting individuals dealing with loss and bereavement
• Geriatric Counselor – Focused on aging adults facing emotional or cognitive challenges
• Pediatric Counselor – Working with children in schools or pediatric healthcare settings
• Veteran or Military Counselor – Assisting service members and their families with trauma, reintegration, and stress
• Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) – With additional credentials, may treat couples or families systemically
• Substance Abuse Counselor – A high-demand field helping people recover from addiction
• Behavioral Health Counselor – Working in integrated health settings treating anxiety, mood, and behavioral disorders

These paths often require licensure (such as LPCC or LMFT), which is determined by your state board. Many of these roles overlap in required competencies — and an LPCC degree is a versatile starting point.

Why LPCC Careers Are Growing

The counseling profession continues to expand due to:

• Growing public awareness of mental health
• Demand for therapists in telehealth and integrated care settings
• Population growth and increased need for grief, trauma, and addiction recovery services

Bottom line: With an LPCC degree, you’ll have both the credential and flexibility to work across a range of mental health and human service settings — with the option to specialize further over time.

LPCC vs. LPC vs. LMHC vs. LMFT: What’s the Difference?

The mental health field offers several professional licensure paths, each with distinct qualifications, scope of practice, and focus areas. Understanding how LPCC, LPC, LMHC, and LMFT differ can help you choose the counseling degree and license that align with your career goals.

LPCC vs. LPC

Category	LPCC	LPC
Education	Master’s in counseling or related field	Same
Clinical Focus	Typically more clinical hours and training for independent mental health diagnosis	May vary by state; often broader counseling training
Title Usage	Used in states like CA, OH, MN, NM	Most common title across the U.S.
Scope	Emphasizes clinical mental health counseling	Often includes career counseling, rehab, or general practice

Key Takeaway: Both are licensed counselors, but LPCC often implies deeper clinical training and is required for independent clinical practice in some states.

LPCC vs. LMHC

Category	LPCC	LMHC
Education	Master’s in counseling or psychology	Same
Title Usage	Used in states like CA, OH, NM	Used in states like NY, FL, WA
Scope	Clinical counseling with diagnostic authority	Focused on mental health disorders, often similar to LPCC
Licensure Exams	NCE and/or NCMHCE	Same or similar exams (varies by state)

Key Takeaway: LPCC and LMHC have nearly identical roles; the title difference is based on state preference, not function.

LPCC vs. LMFT

Category	LPCC	LMFT
Education	Master’s in counseling	Master’s in marriage and family therapy (or similar)
Clinical Focus	Individual, group, and general mental health therapy	Specializes in relational, couple, and family therapy
Supervised Hours	2,000–4,000 (general mental health)	1,500–3,000 (majority with couples/families)
Exam	NCE or NCMHCE (state-dependent)	AMFTRB’s MFT Exam
Title Usage	LPCC or similar	LMFT

Key Takeaway: LPCCs offer broad-based clinical therapy across populations; LMFTs specialize in family and relationship systems.

Choosing the Right Counseling Path

When deciding between LPCC, LPC, LMHC, or LMFT, consider:

• Your state’s licensure titles and rules
• Whether you want to specialize in family therapy (LMFT)
• If you prefer a broader clinical counseling focus (LPCC/LMHC)
• The settings where you want to work — e.g., private practice, school, hospital, family clinic

LPCC Frequently Asked Questions

Why do only certain states offer LPCC licensure?

LPCC licensure is determined by state law.
Not all states use the LPCC title. Some prefer other titles like LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) or LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor), even if the scope of practice is similar. This variation stems from each state’s historical development of counseling laws and licensure boards.

Can I become an LPCC without a counseling degree?

Typically, no — a master’s in counseling is required.
Most states require a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field. In some cases, degrees in psychology, social work, or marriage and family therapy may be accepted, but applicants must complete supplemental coursework and supervised hours.

Does it matter if my master’s program is CACREP-accredited?

Yes, it often makes a major difference.
Many states require or strongly prefer that LPCC applicants graduate from a CACREP-accredited program. CACREP accreditation ensures the program meets national standards for counselor education and can streamline the licensure process.

Tip: Graduating from a CACREP-accredited program may also help with interstate licensure portability.

Can I apply for LPCC licensure if I’m from out of state?

Yes — but you must meet the new state’s licensure requirements.
If you’re licensed or trained in another state, you can apply for LPCC licensure where you plan to practice. This process may include:

• Submitting transcripts and supervised hour documentation
• Providing NCE or NCMHCE exam results
• Taking a state-specific jurisprudence exam
• Meeting continuing education or ethics requirements

Some states have reciprocity or endorsement options, but others require a case-by-case review.

Looking Ahead: The Future of LPCCs

Becoming a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is more than a credential — it’s a path toward meaningful impact, professional growth, and lifelong service to individuals and communities.

A Profession in Demand

As the stigma around mental health decreases and access to care improves, the demand for licensed counselors is steadily rising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 18% growth rate for mental health counseling roles between 2022 and 2032 — far faster than average.

LPCCs are now seen as essential healthcare providers, not just optional resources.

Why the Future Is Bright for LPCCs

• Growing recognition of mental health’s role in overall wellness
• Increased insurance coverage for therapy services under the ACA and parity laws
• Expansion of telehealth and integrated care settings
• Crisis response and trauma counseling becoming institutionalized in schools and communities

These shifts are creating more opportunities in clinical settings, private practice, schools, hospitals, and even corporate wellness programs.

Lifelong Impact, Lifelong Learning

The educational path to becoming an LPCC is rigorous — but it’s also incredibly rewarding. From mastering core counseling techniques to gaining real-world experience through clinical internships, future LPCCs are equipped to:

• Serve diverse populations
• Tackle complex mental health challenges
• Evolve with the changing landscape of therapy

LPCCs grow alongside their clients — personally and professionally.

Final Thought: Should You Become an LPCC?

If you’re driven to support others through their most vulnerable moments — and you’re ready for a career that blends science, empathy, and advocacy — becoming an LPCC may be the perfect path.

Stable job outlook
Competitive salaries
Expanding career pathways
Meaningful, lasting impact

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