List of LPC Programs in Virginia

Virginia is home to a diverse range of higher education institutions, from nationally recognized research universities to smaller liberal arts colleges. Many of these schools offer counseling degree programs that combine strong academic training with practical field experiences. Students in Virginia can take advantage of the state’s rich educational landscape while preparing for meaningful careers in the counseling profession.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Virginia

Students beginning their counseling journey in Virginia will find undergraduate programs that introduce core concepts in psychology, human services, and counseling foundations. These programs help prepare students for graduate study while also opening doors to entry-level roles in community services, education, and social support fields.

For students looking for added flexibility, you may also want to explore an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, which can provide the same foundational knowledge while allowing you to balance school with work or family commitments.

Graduate Counseling Programs in Virginia

Graduate-level study is essential for anyone planning to become a licensed counselor. Virginia offers a variety of programs that meet rigorous professional standards and prepare students for licensure and advanced practice. For those seeking flexibility, there are also CACREP-accredited counseling programs, as well as options to pursue an online master’s degree in counseling or an online master’s in counseling with no GRE. Students considering advanced study beyond the master’s level may also be interested in exploring online counseling PhD programs.

The following schools represent some of the top graduate counseling options available in Virginia.

Click to jump to the full list of Virginia counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.

School and Program Information	Online Program? Entry Requirements	Course Information
Walden University MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More
Walden University MS in School Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More
Northwestern University Online MA in Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available Learn More
Northwestern University Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More
Grand Canyon University Master's Degree in Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online	Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More
Liberty University MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Online with required intensives	Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More
Liberty University MED: School Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Online with required intensives	Liberty University’s CACREP-accredited Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling can help equip you to work as a school counselor in Christian, public, and private schools. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More
Liberty University MSW: Social Work SACSCOC	✔ Online 100% online, 8-week courses	This program offers a general cognate and an individual and family clinical cognate. No matter which option you choose, you’ll receive advanced generalist training in social policy, research, and practice — as well as the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in your field. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More
Liberty University MA: Marriage and Family Therapy SACSCOC	✔ Online Online with required intensives	A Liberty University marriage and family therapy master’s program online can prepare you to help individuals, couples, and families find healing through counseling. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs

Walden University

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Click for admissions info.

CACREP Accredited

✔ Online

Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Liberty University - MED: School Counseling (CACREP and NCATE through CAEP Accredited)

Liberty University - MSW: Social Work (SACSCOC Accredited)

Liberty University - MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (SACSCOC Accredited)

Top Virginia Schools with Counseling Programs

Virginia is home to several excellent universities offering counseling programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels. While the term “best” is subjective — since the right program depends on an individual’s career goals, learning style, and personal circumstances — the schools listed here represent some of the state’s strongest options. Use this list as a starting point for your own exploration.

University of Virginia

Featured Program: M.Ed. in Counselor Education
The University of Virginia’s Master of Education in Counselor Education prepares students for licensure as school counselors or clinical mental health counselors. The CACREP-accredited program is in full compliance with all applicable accreditation standards and policies and emphasizes leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. Students select a specialty in either school counseling or clinical mental health counseling and gain extensive supervised practicum and internship experience. The two-year, full-time program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on training to equip graduates to provide ethical, developmentally appropriate, and trauma-informed services across diverse communities and settings.

About the University of Virginia
Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia is a leading public institution located in Charlottesville, Virginia. UVA is nationally recognized for academic excellence, historic traditions, and a strong commitment to public service. Students benefit from a collaborative community, world-class faculty, and access to extensive professional networks that prepare them to become leaders in education, counseling, and beyond.

William & Mary

Featured Program: Online M.Ed. in Counseling
William & Mary’s online Master of Education in Counseling prepares students for licensure in school counseling or clinical mental health counseling, with an optional specialization in military and veterans counseling. Fully accredited by CACREP and determined to be in full compliance with all applicable accreditation standards and policies, the program integrates social justice, cultural responsiveness, and ethical practice into every aspect of training. Students complete supervised practicum and internship experiences, two on-campus residencies, and a 60-credit curriculum designed to prepare them for state licensure and certification. Graduates benefit from small cohorts, close faculty mentorship, and a 100% recent pass rate on national counseling exams.

About William & Mary
Founded in 1693 and recognized as a “Public Ivy,” William & Mary is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Located in Williamsburg, Virginia, the university combines historic tradition with academic excellence and innovation. Its School of Education is known for preparing leaders in education, counseling, and mental health, with faculty who are both accomplished researchers and dedicated mentors. The online counseling programs extend William & Mary’s values-centered, rigorous education to students nationwide, fostering a community of ethical, reflective, and service-oriented professionals.

Virginia Tech

Featured Program: M.A.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Virginia Tech’s Master of Arts in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for licensure as professional counselors in Virginia. Fully accredited by CACREP and determined to be in full compliance with all applicable accreditation standards and policies, the program emphasizes social justice, advocacy, and evidence-based practice. Students complete a 60-credit curriculum over two years in a cohort model, progressing from foundational coursework in ethics, counseling theory, and lifespan development to advanced training in crisis intervention, addictions, and experiential counseling techniques. Clinical experience includes a practicum and 600 internship hours in community placements such as hospitals, free clinics, college counseling centers, and substance abuse treatment programs. Graduates meet all educational requirements for LPC licensure in Virginia and are prepared to advance to residency and national certification.

About Virginia Tech
Founded in 1872, Virginia Tech is a leading public research university with a commitment to service, discovery, and community impact. With its main campus in Blacksburg, Virginia, and multiple locations statewide, the university is known for its motto Ut Prosim (“That I May Serve”). The School of Education within the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences trains the next generation of counselors, educators, and leaders through innovative, socially responsive programs. Students in counselor education benefit from mentorship by nationally recognized faculty, strong professional networks, and hands-on learning that prepares them to serve individuals, families, and communities across diverse settings.

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Virginia

To practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, candidates must complete graduate-level training, supervised experience, and national examinations. The process is carefully regulated by the Virginia Board of Counseling. Below are the key steps:

1. Earn a Graduate Counseling Degree

• Complete a master’s or doctoral degree that prepares individuals to practice counseling.
  
• Programs must include at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of graduate-level coursework covering 13 required core areas, such as ethics, counseling theories, assessment, psychopathology, addictions, and family systems.
  
• Complete a 600-hour supervised internship, with a portion spent in direct client contact.
  
• CACREP-accredited programs generally meet these requirements, though all courses must be documented.
  

2. Apply for Licensure as a Resident in Counseling

• Before beginning supervised post-degree experience, apply for a Resident in Counseling license.
  
• Submit:
  
  • An official supervisory contract (must be Board-approved before hours may begin).
    
  • Official graduate transcripts.
    
  • A National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) self-query.
    
  • Required fees and documentation.
    
• You must hold this license before counting residency hours.
  

3. Complete the Supervised Residency

• Total hours required: 3,400 hours, lasting at least 21 months and no more than 4 years.
  
• Direct counseling: At least 2,000 hours must be face-to-face client contact.
  
• Supervision: At least 200 hours of in-person supervision (1–4 hours per 40 work hours; no more than half may be group).
  
  • Up to 20 supervision hours from internship may count if provided by an LPC.
    
• Credit for prior experience:
  
  • Up to 300 internship hours beyond the initial 600 may be applied.
    
  • Up to 900 practicum/internship hours (including 100 supervision hours) may be credited from a CACREP-accredited doctoral counseling program.
    
• During this time, you must identify yourself as a Resident in Counseling, not as an independent practitioner.
  

4. Pass the Required Examination

• Virginia accepts either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both administered by NBCC.
  
• You must pass the exam within 6 years of your initial Resident license issuance.
  

5. Apply for LPC by Examination

• After completing supervised experience and passing the exam, submit the LPC by Examination application.
  
• This includes verification of supervision, transcripts, proof of exam passage, NPDB self-query, and fees.
  

6. Maintain Your License

• LPCs must renew annually by June 30.
  
• Complete 20 hours of continuing education (CE) each year, including at least 2 hours in ethics, standards, or Virginia law/regulations.
  
• New licensees are exempt from CE for their first renewal.
  

If you’re exploring counseling as a profession, you may find it helpful to review what it means to become a counselor, the detailed steps for how to become an LPC, and the requirements for the LPC role.

Counseling Licensure Titles in Virginia

The Virginia Board of Counseling (VBC) regulates most professional counseling licenses in the state, including mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and many substance abuse treatment practitioners. However, it is important to note that school counselors are licensed through the Virginia Department of Education rather than the VBC.

Some of the most common counseling-related credentials in Virginia include:

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The primary license for independent counseling practice in Virginia, allowing counselors to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups across a variety of settings.
  
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – Focuses on therapy with couples and families, specializing in relationship and family systems work.
  
• Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP) – A full license for advanced, independent practice in substance abuse treatment and supervision of others.
  
• Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and CSAC-Resident (CSAC-R) – Certifications for professionals working in substance abuse counseling; CSACs practice under supervision and do not engage in fully independent practice.
  
• Certified Substance Abuse Counseling Assistant (CSAC-A) – An entry-level credential for those beginning in the field of substance abuse services.
  
• School Counselor (PreK–12) – Licensed through the Virginia Department of Education; school counselors provide academic, career, and social-emotional support to students in K–12 settings.
  

These licensure titles reflect the different professional pathways available to counselors in Virginia and highlight the distinctions between roles regulated by the Board of Counseling versus the Department of Education.

Transferring a Counseling License to Virginia

Counselors licensed in another state may apply for Virginia licensure through licensure by endorsement. This pathway allows the Virginia Board of Counseling to recognize equivalent education, supervised experience, and examination results, provided that the applicant’s credentials meet Virginia’s standards.

• License eligibility
  Applicants must hold an active, unrestricted professional counseling license in another U.S. jurisdiction. The Board will verify all licenses held and confirm that there are no unresolved disciplinary actions.
• Active practice requirement
  Endorsement applicants may qualify under one of several pathways. Those with at least 24 months of active clinical practice within the past 60 months often have a streamlined process. Active practice is defined as providing direct clinical counseling services or clinical supervision; internship or residency hours do not count.
• Education and supervised experience
  Applicants must demonstrate graduate-level training that includes at least 60 semester hours of coursework, a qualifying internship, and supervised experience equivalent to Virginia’s standards. If credentials do not exactly match, evidence of recent post-licensure practice may compensate.
• Examinations
  Virginia requires passage of either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Verification must be sent directly from the testing agency.
• Application process
  Endorsement applicants submit an application, fee, official transcripts, verification of all licenses, proof of supervised experience, verification of exam scores, a self-query from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB), and an affidavit confirming knowledge of Virginia’s counseling laws and regulations.
• Board review
  Each application is evaluated individually. The Board may approve licensure, request additional documentation, or deny endorsement if the applicant’s qualifications are not substantially equivalent.

For complete details on transferring your license, visit the Virginia Board of Counseling.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Virginia

Financing a counseling degree can be a major consideration for students. In Virginia, prospective counselors can explore a variety of scholarship and financial aid opportunities, including:

• State-based aid – Programs such as the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) for students attending eligible private colleges.
  
• University-specific scholarships – Many Virginia universities offer departmental or program-level awards for counseling and psychology students.
  
• National counseling associations – Organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) and National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation provide scholarships and fellowships that Virginia students may apply for.
  
• Federal student aid – Students can apply for grants, work-study programs, and federal loans through the FAFSA.
  

Exploring both statewide and national resources can help reduce the financial burden of pursuing a counseling degree.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Virginia

Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a graduate degree to become a licensed counselor in Virginia?
Yes. A master’s degree with at least 60 semester hours of graduate study in counseling or a related field is required for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

How long does it take to become licensed as a counselor in Virginia?
The timeline varies, but most candidates spend 2–3 years completing a master’s degree, followed by 2–4 years of supervised residency before qualifying for licensure.

Can I complete my counseling degree online if I live in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia residents can pursue online counseling degrees, including options that are CACREP-accredited and tailored for students who need flexibility.

What is the difference between an LPC and a school counselor in Virginia?
An LPC is licensed through the Virginia Board of Counseling and can provide mental health services in clinical, community, and private practice settings. School counselors, on the other hand, are licensed through the Virginia Department of Education and work within K–12 schools.

Does Virginia accept counseling licenses from other states?
Yes, through a process called licensure by endorsement. The Virginia Board of Counseling reviews applicants’ education, supervised experience, and exam results to determine eligibility.

Making a Counseling Career in Virginia

Virginia offers a strong environment for students and professionals pursuing a career in counseling. With nationally recognized universities, a variety of CACREP-accredited graduate programs, and a state board that supports multiple counseling specializations, Virginia provides clear pathways into the profession.

The demand for qualified counselors in mental health, substance abuse treatment, marriage and family therapy, and school settings ensures that graduates can find opportunities to apply their skills. Combined with scholarship options and the availability of both on-campus and online degree programs, Virginia remains an encouraging place to begin or advance a career in counseling.

Popular Online Counseling Programs

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Online MA in Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

COAMFTE Accredited

Learn More

Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online

Master's Degree in Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MED: School Counseling

CACREP and NCATE through CAEP Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MSW: Social Work

SACSCOC Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Marriage and Family Therapy

SACSCOC Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Addiction Counseling

SACSCOC Accredited

Learn More

Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Virginia Counseling Degrees

CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs.

Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in Virginia. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Virginia

View all programs in Virginia below, or jump to all Virginia CACREP accredited counseling programs.