LCPC - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

A licensed clinical professional counselor (LPC) is a certified specialist who provides mental health services to individuals across all age groups. Mental health services offered by LPCs include substance abuse counseling, anxiety, addiction, group counseling, and mental and emotional disorders.  

The LPC can work in a variety of settings and specialties. For example, they could work in private practice, hospitals, or clinics.

Eligibility Requirements

Requirements for licensed clinical professional counselors include:

• Master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in mental health counseling

• Must complete 2,000- 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience post-degree. Clinical hours may vary and must be completed within 2 years after graduation

• Uphold code of ethics and standards of practice

Each state has additional requirements for obtaining licensure. Applicants can receive state-specific licensure information on State Licensing board websites.

Every state has its own requirements, but many states require those seeking a license to take the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) given by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NBCC is a nationally recognized provider of counseling credentials and has an excellent reputation for excellence in the exam field. 

Although the NCE exam is the most common one required for state certification, there are other exams available. Before registering, check with your state board of licensing to see what exam they require for licensure.

Most states require continuing education for maintaining licensure. Please check with your state board of licensing for specific renewal details.

The NBCC offers resources for the NCE exam, including a candidate handbook, content outline and sample questions.

• NBCC Certified Mental Health Counselor (CMHC)

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

• Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)