Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Jobs & Career Guide 2025

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By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

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What Is a Licensed Professional Counselor?

A licensed professional counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who is licensed by their state to provide counseling services to individuals, families, and groups. LPCs typically have a master’s degree in counseling psychology, counseling or a related field, and have completed a certain number of hours of supervised clinical experience.

LPCs assess clients’ mental health needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling services, such as individual and group therapy, family therapy, and couples therapy. They monitor clients’ progress and adjust treatment plans as needed, collaborate with other mental health professionals to ensure coordinated care, and maintain accurate records of clients’ treatment and progress.

What Does a Licensed Professional Counselor Do?

The core responsibilities of an LPC include conducting assessments of clients’ mental health needs and developing treatment plans based on their specific needs and goals. They provide counseling services, such as individual and group therapy, family therapy, and couples therapy, to help clients work through emotional and behavioral challenges. They monitor clients’ progress and adjust treatment plans as needed to ensure that clients are making meaningful progress toward their goals.

In addition to providing counseling services, LPCs collaborate with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, social workers, and psychologists, to ensure that clients receive coordinated and comprehensive care. They also maintain accurate and complete records of clients’ treatment and progress, adhere to ethical and legal standards for the practice of counseling, and engage in ongoing learning and professional development to stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the field.

As an LPC, I have the privilege of helping others work through some of life’s toughest challenges. It’s an incredibly rewarding career that requires dedication, empathy, and a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Each day brings a new opportunity to connect with clients, listen to their stories, and work together to find solutions that promote healing and growth. It can be a challenging job, but the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others makes it all worthwhile.
Dr. Russell Fulmer, a licensed professional counselor and professor of counseling

Here is an example of a typical daily schedule for an LPC who works in a community mental health center:

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Check email and voicemail messages, review client charts and prepare for the day’s appointments.

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Conduct individual therapy sessions with clients, providing support and guidance for their mental health needs.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Attend a team meeting with other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, social workers, and psychologists, to discuss clients’ progress and coordinate care.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch break

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Conduct more individual therapy sessions with clients, addressing a range of mental health concerns.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Meet with a client’s family or partner for a family therapy or couples therapy session.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Complete progress notes and other documentation for the day’s appointments, ensuring that records are accurate and up-to-date.

Where Do Licensed Professional Counselors Work?

LPCs have a range of employment options:

  1. Community mental health centers: LPCs may work in community mental health centers that provide counseling services to individuals and families who may not have access to other mental health resources.
  2. Private practice: Some LPCs may choose to open their own private practice and provide counseling services to clients on a fee-for-service basis.
  3. Online therapy: increasing numbers of LPCs work via the various online therapy platforms conducting video calls with their clients.
  4. Schools and universities: LPCs may work in schools and universities providing counseling services to students, faculty, and staff.
  5. Hospitals and healthcare organizations: LPCs may work in hospitals and other healthcare organizations as part of a multidisciplinary team providing mental health services to patients.
  6. Government agencies: LPCs may work for government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing counseling services to veterans, military personnel, and their families.
  7. Non-profit organizations: LPCs may work for non-profit organizations that provide counseling services to underserved populations, such as survivors of domestic violence or refugees.
  8. Employee assistance programs: LPCs may work for employee assistance programs that provide counseling services to employees and their families.

How to become a Licensed Professional Counselor

Obtain a bachelor’s degree

A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field is typically required as a prerequisite for admission to a master’s degree program in counseling. Some programs may also require specific undergraduate coursework in psychology or related fields.

Obtain a master’s degree

Most states require LPCs to have a master’s degree in counseling psychology, counseling or a related field from an accredited program. The program should include coursework in counseling theory, techniques, and ethics, as well as supervised clinical experience.

Supervised clinical hours

Most states require LPC candidates to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours, typically ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 hours. The exact number of hours required varies by state.

Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE)

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is a standardized exam that assesses the knowledge and skills of individuals seeking to become licensed professional counselors in the US. The exam is developed and administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

The NCE consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover a range of topics related to counseling theory and practice, including human growth and development, social and cultural foundations, helping relationships, group work, career and lifestyle development, assessment and testing, research and program evaluation, and professional ethics and practice.

The exam is administered in a computer-based format at testing centers throughout the US. Test-takers have four hours to complete the exam, and are provided with a tutorial on how to use the computer-based testing software before beginning the exam.

The passing score for the NCE varies by state, but is typically set at around 96-98 correct answers out of the 200 questions. Test-takers who do not pass the exam on their first attempt are typically allowed to retake the exam after a waiting period of a few months.

Obtain state licensure

Once all educational and clinical requirements have been met, LPC candidates must apply for state licensure.

Licensure is the process by which a state grants permission to an individual to practice as a licensed professional counselor within that state.

The state licensing board may also require candidates to pass a state-specific exam, undergo a criminal background check, and provide references from colleagues or supervisors. The process of obtaining licensure can take several months to a year or more, depending on the state’s specific requirements and the candidate’s readiness to complete the process.

How Much Money Do Licensed Professional Counselors Earn?

The average salary for an LPC in the US is around $47,000 per year. However, salaries can range from around $32,000 to over $70,000 per year, depending on a few different factors such as the location of the job, experience in the field, and type of organization. Get more insights in our LPC salary guide.

Latest LPC Job Listings

PositionCompanyLocationPosted
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPCUnitedHealth Group Torrington, Connecticut US01/14/2025
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Torrington, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPCUnitedHealth Group Norwich, Connecticut US01/14/2025
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Norwich, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live. As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPCUnitedHealth Group Thomaston, Connecticut US01/14/2025
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/ Therapist to join our team in Thomaston, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live. As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Short Term or As Needed Coverage – MFLC Counselor – Fort Johnson, LouisianaLeidos Leesville, Louisiana US01/14/2025
Make a difference in the lives of our military Service Members and their families with your expertise in counseling and behavioral health – without the fuss of insurance or paperwork. Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are the first line of defense for our Service Members mental health, and we need flexible, ready-to-serve counselors willing to jump in at a moments notice.This position will support Fort Polk/Fort Johnson in Louisiana.Leidos seeks passionate … More
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)LifeStance Health Princeton Junction, New Jersey US01/14/2025
We are actively looking to hire talented Licensed Therapists in the Princeton Junction, NJ area who are passionate about patient care and committed to clinical excellence.*Sign-On Bonus provided***Recently licensed and experienced candidates***Flexible availability**36 hours+/week***Two locations in Princeton Junction** Is this you?Wanting to deliver high quality behavioral healthcare.Seeking … More
Licensed Behavioral Health Therapist – LCSW or LMFT – Pasadena, CAUnitedHealth Group Pasadena, California US01/13/2025
Gunn Psychological Services, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Therapist – LCSW or LMF to join our team in Pasadena, CA. Optum Behavioral Care Team is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities … More
Licensed Professional Counselor (Therapist/LPC)- Outpatient Group PracticeLifeStance Health Greeley, Colorado US01/13/2025
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Licensed Mental Health Therapist (LPC, LMFT or LCSW) – Outpatient Group PracticeLifeStance Health Colorado Springs, Colorado US01/13/2025
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Position
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Torrington, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Torrington, Connecticut US
Posted
01/14/2025
Position
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/Therapist to join our team in Norwich, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live. As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Norwich, Connecticut US
Posted
01/14/2025
Position
Outpatient Therapist – LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Tides Of Mind Counseling, part of the Optum family of businesses, is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician/ Therapist to join our team in Thomaston, CT. Optum is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live. As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone. Explore opportunities at Optum Behavioral Care. We’re revolutionizing … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Thomaston, Connecticut US
Posted
01/14/2025
Position
Short Term or As Needed Coverage – MFLC Counselor – Fort Johnson, Louisiana
Make a difference in the lives of our military Service Members and their families with your expertise in counseling and behavioral health – without the fuss of insurance or paperwork. Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) are the first line of defense for our Service Members mental health, and we need flexible, ready-to-serve counselors willing to jump in at a moments notice.This position will support Fort Polk/Fort Johnson in Louisiana.Leidos seeks passionate … More
Company
Leidos
Location
Leesville, Louisiana US
Posted
01/14/2025
Position
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
We are actively looking to hire talented Licensed Therapists in the Princeton Junction, NJ area who are passionate about patient care and committed to clinical excellence.*Sign-On Bonus provided***Recently licensed and experienced candidates***Flexible availability**36 hours+/week***Two locations in Princeton Junction** Is this you?Wanting to deliver high quality behavioral healthcare.Seeking … More
Company
LifeStance Health
Location
Princeton Junction, New Jersey US
Posted
01/14/2025
Position
Licensed Behavioral Health Therapist – LCSW or LMFT – Pasadena, CA
Gunn Psychological Services, part of the Optum family of businesses is seeking a Licensed Behavioral Health Therapist – LCSW or LMF to join our team in Pasadena, CA. Optum Behavioral Care Team is a clinician-led care organization that is changing the way clinicians work and live.As a member of the Optum Behavioral Care Team, you’ll be an integral part of our vision to make healthcare better for everyone.Explore opportunities … More
Company
UnitedHealth Group
Location
Pasadena, California US
Posted
01/13/2025
Position
Licensed Professional Counselor (Therapist/LPC)- Outpatient Group Practice
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Company
LifeStance Health
Location
Greeley, Colorado US
Posted
01/13/2025
Position
Licensed Mental Health Therapist (LPC, LMFT or LCSW) – Outpatient Group Practice
At LifeStance Health, we believe in a truly healthy society where mental and physical healthcare are unified to make lives better. Our mission is to help people lead healthier, more fulfilling lives by improving access to trusted, affordable, and personalized mental healthcare. Everywhere. Every day. It’s a lofty goal; we know. But we make it happen with the best team in behavioral health. Thank you for taking the time to explore a career with us. As the fastest growing behavioral health … More
Company
LifeStance Health
Location
Colorado Springs, Colorado US
Posted
01/13/2025