How to Become a Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Nebraska for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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The high prevalence of mental disorders and limited access to mental healthcare in Nebraska may in part be caused by the economic performance of the Cornhusker State. Among the 50 states and the District of Columbia in the United States (US), Nebraska ranked as the 25th richest (Rich States, Poor States, 2023) and 44th in terms of mental illness pervasiveness and poor access to care in 2023 (Mental Health America, 2023). Mental healthcare professionals, along with the state government, have the responsibility to improve in-person and online service facilities as well as the affordability of professional support. If you aspire to become a licensed professional counselor or LPC in Nebraska, you are provided with the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of mental health conditions in the state.

To help you get started, our team at Research.com created this extensive guide to becoming an LPC in Nebraska. We discuss the leading counseling programs in the state, the process of licensure, and local counseling careers.

LPC in Nebraska Table of Contents

1. Overview of the Counseling Industry in Nebraska
2. Educational Requirements for Counselors in Nebraska
3. Nebraska Licensure Application and Renewal Process
4. How can online education benefit aspiring substance abuse counselors?
5. List of Top Counseling Programs in Nebraska for 2025
6. Career Opportunities and Specializations in Mental Health Counseling
7. How can professional associations and mentorship boost LPC career advancement?
8. How does substance abuse counseling impact community wellness in Nebraska?
9. What are the next steps to take after completing the educational requirements?
10. What distinguishes counselor licensure from psychology licensure in Nebraska?
11. What legal and ethical frameworks govern mental health counseling practice in Nebraska?
12. How can understanding Nebraska LPC license requirements bolster your licensing success?
13. Can integrating art therapy enhance treatment outcomes?
14. How can integrating social work principles enhance mental health counseling in Nebraska?
15. What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Nebraska?
16. How can telehealth improve access to mental healthcare in Nebraska?

Overview of the Counseling Industry in Nebraska

Available and accessible mental health services in Nebraska are disproportionate to the number of residents with mental health concerns. While the state ranked 29th out of the 50 US states and the District of Columbia in terms of access to care in 2023, Nebraska ranked 44th in terms of the prevalence of mental illness (Mental Health America, 2023). This alarming condition may serve as encouragement for individuals who aspire to become an LPC in Nebraska.

An LPC and a licensed mental health professional or LMHP in Nebraska also have considerable income potential. In 2022, rehabilitation counselors had an estimated median annual wage of $40,262.4. Meanwhile, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors had $45,676.8. Moreover, educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors had $58,368 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023].

Considering the estimated median annual salaries of the previously mentioned occupations with a Nebraska licensure, individuals in these roles may be able to make ends meet in Nebraska, as the estimated cost of living for single residents without children is $32,722. This gross annual income already includes housing ($7,599), food ($4,010), and transportation ($5,356) (Glasmeier & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2023).

Educational Requirements for Counselors in Nebraska

To become an LPC in Nebraska, you are required to meet the following academic requirements set by the Nebraska Board of Mental Health and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. You may earn your educational credentials through on-campus or online counseling degree programs that are accredited by official institutional accreditors, such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), and the American Psychological Association (APA).

• Bachelor’s Degree. You must earn an undergraduate degree in counseling or in a related field, such as social work and psychology, from an accredited college or university. Psychology and social work vs counseling may cater to similar population groups but the services that professionals in these fields provide may vary. For instance, counselors and psychologists may be skillfully trained in conducting therapeutic treatments with clients and patients, while social workers may be able to support their clients by informing them about social services that are available to them, including housing, food, and healthcare. Therefore, you must understand which role you want to pursue. Fortunately, education for health professions has developed over the decades, and in 2021, 268,018 bachelor’s degrees in the field of study and its related disciplines were conferred in the US (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022).
• Graduate Degree. Complete a graduate-level degree program in the counseling specialty of your choice. You may decide to become a substance abuse counselor, school counselor, career counselor, mental health counselor, or grief counselor, among other available concentrations. Notably, Nebraska counseling licensure requirements generally accept master’s degree holders as candidates. However, you must regularly check application procedures to avoid overlooking any updates.
• Continuing Education. LMHPs in Nebraska are required to earn 32 credits of continuing education, including an ethics course and graduate-level coursework, for the renewal of their licenses every two years. You may satisfy this requirement through seminars, publications, and university instruction, among other educational means.

Nebraska Licensure Application and Renewal Process

After completing your educational requirements to become an LPC in Nebraska, you must go through an internship program and gain supervised professional experience. Once you complete these requirements, you may apply to take the necessary licensure examinations for your selected counseling specialty. Fulfilling all requirements makes you qualified to be one of the 1,770 educational, guidance, and career counselors; the 1,600 substance-abuse, behavioral-disorder, and mental health counselors; and the 470 rehabilitation counselors in Nebraska (US BLS, 2023).

1. Complete an internship. During your graduate degree program, you must complete a minimum of three semester hours at an internship. Notably, students in CACREP-accredited practicums must earn six credit hours or a minimum of 600 hours of clinical experience in counseling.
2. Gain supervised professional experience. After finishing your graduate program, you must gain 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience within 5 years before you apply for licensure. You must be involved in direct client contact for 1,500 hours of your supervised experience.
3. Pass the licensure examinations. To become an LPC in Nebraska, you must pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) for Licensure and Certification or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE), which are both given by the National Board for Certified Counselors. The NCE covers questions on standard counseling services, while the NCMHCE covers clinical skills, including assessment, diagnosis, and counseling.

How can online education benefit aspiring substance abuse counselors?

Online education offers a flexible, cost-effective pathway for individuals pursuing careers in substance abuse counseling. Digital programs can bridge geographical gaps, providing access to specialized coursework and resources for students in both urban and rural areas of Nebraska. These programs often integrate practical experiences, such as virtual simulations and remote practicums, allowing candidates to develop relevant skills while managing work and personal obligations. Additionally, online formats frequently feature asynchronous learning, expert-led webinars, and peer networking opportunities that enhance professional development. For a comprehensive look at affordable, high-quality programs, explore our article on masters in addiction counseling.

List of Top Counseling Programs in Nebraska for 2025

Individuals who aim to become an LPC in Nebraska must thoroughly research the academic institutions that offer counseling programs. Doing so ensures that they may receive quality education and training from accredited programs, which is a standard requirement for licensure. Explore the following leading academic institutions in Nebraska and determine the most suitable program for you.

1. University of Nebraska

Founded in 1908, the University of Nebraska-Omaha (UNO) has been offering top-notch counseling programs that have been accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) for more than 20 years now. According to the university, its degrees in clinical mental health counseling (CMHC) and school counseling are the only programs of its kind to be given accreditation by CACREP in the state of Nebraska. As for tuition, resident students can expect to pay $7,978 for their annual tuition, while non-resident students who aim to become an LPC in Nebraska may be required to pay $16,860.

Programs Available:

• Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC)
• MS in School Counseling P-12 (SC)
• MS in Student Affairs Practice in Higher Education (SAHE) (Online)

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

2. Wayne State College

Home to almost 5,000 students, Wayne State College offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in counseling, human services, and psychology. Its human services and psychology programs are among its top 10 undergraduate programs in terms of popularity. The graduate-level counseling program curricula include specialized courses and research projects that are aligned with the knowledge and skills necessary for students to pass licensure examinations and obtain employment. Moreover, several of the college’s Counseling Department faculty members are CACREP-approved and have received remarkable recognition and awards. For tuition, undergraduate programs may cost $192 per credit for resident and non-resident students and $309 per credit for online students. Meanwhile, graduate programs may cost $240 per credit for resident students, $360 per credit for students living in selected nearby states, and $480 per credit for non-resident students who aim to become an LPC in Nebraska.

Programs Available:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services
• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Human Services
• Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Master’s in School Counseling
• Master’s Student Affairs and College Counseling

Accreditation: HLC, CACREP

3. Bellevue University

Established in 1966, Bellevue University provides aspiring counseling professionals with a CACREP-accredited MS program in clinical mental health counseling. With a 60-credit curriculum, the program aims to prepare students for licensure and the provision of quality healthcare services. The program also gives students the opportunity to gain field experience through its 100-hour practicum and 600-hour clinical internship requirements. The university also offers related programs, such as BS in behavioral science and MS in industrial-organizational psychology. Moreover, graduate programs in the university may cost $649 per credit.

Program Available:

• MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Accreditation: HLC, CACREP

4. Doane University

Doane University, established as Crete Academy in 1872, is known for its liberal arts and science education curriculum. Today, the university provides its students with 40 undergraduate majors and nine graduate programs. For aspiring counselors, you may explore its sole undergraduate major in counseling (substance-use counseling) as well as two majors related to the field (psychology and sociology). Substance-use counseling majors are given the opportunity to learn about human behavior, treatment modalities, and social and health services necessary for people diagnosed with substance-use disorders. Meanwhile, professionals who seek to advance their education may want to consider their two master’s level counseling programs: the CACREP-accredited counseling program with a specialization in clinical mental health counseling and the school counseling program. Moreover, undergraduate programs may cost $320 per credit; the master of arts (MA) in counseling program may cost $484 per credit; and the master of education (MEd) in school counseling may cost $292 per credit for on-campus students and $371 per credit for online students.

Programs Available:

• Undergraduate Program in Substance Use Counseling (Lincoln Campus)
• MA in Counseling (Lincoln Campus)
• MEd in School Counseling (Lincoln Campus, Omaha Campus, & Online)

Accreditation: HLC, CACREP, Nebraska Coordinating Commission of Post-Secondary Education

5. Creighton University

Founded in 1878, Creighton University is a private Catholic research university that is among the 28 Jesuit academic institutions in the US and is currently home to over 8,000 students. While the university does not offer undergraduate counseling programs, it provides bachelor’s degree holders with the option to undergo a graduate-level school counseling program. The MS in school counseling program educates students on trauma-informed practice, leadership, and cultural awareness and was developed while being guided by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) national model. Moreover, graduate students who aim to become an LPC in Nebraska may be required to pay $626 per credit.

Program Available:

• MS in School Counseling & Mental Health (Online)

Accreditation: HLC

Career Opportunities and Specializations in Mental Health Counseling

Aspiring LPCs in Nebraska have a variety of specializations and career opportunities to consider, aligning with their interests and the state's needs. One prominent option is becoming a marriage and family therapist, which focuses on improving family dynamics and intimate relationships. This specialization is particularly relevant as Nebraska continues to address issues related to mental health disparities and access to care.

Marriage and family therapists work in diverse settings, including private practices, mental health clinics, and community health organizations. Their interdisciplinary approach requires a strong understanding of systemic therapy practices and collaborative problem-solving. If you're interested in pursuing this career path, learning the steps for licensure and educational requirements is crucial. You can explore detailed guidance on how to become a marriage and family therapist in Nebraska to understand the process and start your journey effectively.

Apart from marriage and family therapy, LPCs can also specialize in areas such as substance abuse counseling, school counseling, and clinical mental health counseling. Each specialization addresses unique community demands, offering professionals the opportunity to contribute meaningfully while tailoring their careers to individual passions.

Employment opportunities for mental health counselors in Nebraska are also promising, given the increasing mental health awareness and demand for qualified professionals in the state. From nonprofit organizations to public health departments and educational institutions, LPCs can find roles that allow them to make a profound impact. For mental health professionals aiming for leadership roles, pursuing further certifications or a doctoral-level education can expand career horizons and lead to positions such as clinical supervisors or program directors.

How can professional associations and mentorship boost LPC career advancement?

Engaging with established professional organizations and dedicated mentorship programs can significantly enhance both clinical competencies and leadership skills in mental health counseling. These affiliations offer access to cutting-edge workshops, specialized certification courses, and regular updates on evolving best practices—factors that are crucial for maintaining licensure and staying competitive in Nebraska’s dynamic mental healthcare landscape. Furthermore, connecting with seasoned practitioners provides valuable insights into navigating complex cases and adapting to regulatory changes, thereby fostering long-term professional growth. For additional academic insights into building a solid educational foundation, consider exploring good colleges for psychology in Nebraska.

How does substance abuse counseling impact community wellness in Nebraska?

Substance abuse counselors play an essential role in mitigating the community-wide effects of addiction. Their specialized interventions focus on early detection, individualized treatment planning, and collaboration with local health providers to streamline care pathways. By integrating evidence-based practices, these professionals help reduce emergency interventions and long-term rehabilitation costs while actively working to de-stigmatize addiction. Interested readers can explore further steps in pursuing this field by learning how to become a substance abuse counselor in Nebraska.

What are the next steps to take after completing the educational requirements?

After completing the necessary educational requirements, aspiring mental health counselors in Nebraska should focus on gaining practical experience and preparing for licensure examinations. To learn more about the process, visit how to become a licensed mental health counselor in Nebraska for detailed guidance on the next steps to take. This will help individuals navigate the licensure application and renewal process, ensuring they are well-prepared for a successful career as a mental health counselor in Nebraska.

What distinguishes counselor licensure from psychology licensure in Nebraska?

In Nebraska, counselor licensure focuses on preparing professionals with a specialized skill set centered around client support, crisis intervention, and guided therapeutic practices, while psychology licensure typically demands a broader education in research, psychological assessment, and a doctoral-level understanding of behavioral science. This distinction influences the scope of practice, supervision requirements, and the trajectory of continued professional development. Professionals evaluating their career path should carefully consider these differing educational and practical benchmarks and review how to become a psychologist in Nebraska for detailed licensure criteria.

What legal and ethical frameworks govern mental health counseling practice in Nebraska?

Mental health professionals in Nebraska must adhere to state-specific regulations that encompass client confidentiality, informed consent, and mandatory reporting requirements. Compliance with HIPAA and Nebraska’s licensing standards is essential to protect client rights and ensure ethical service delivery. Practitioners are expected to navigate complex legal boundaries, balancing duty to warn with patient privacy, while remaining update-to-date with evolving regulations. Furthermore, integrating ethical considerations into routine practice enhances professional integrity and supports community trust, similar to the protocols outlined for becoming a school counselor in Nebraska.

How can understanding Nebraska LPC license requirements bolster your licensing success?

A comprehensive grasp of state-specific licensure details can significantly streamline the transition from academic preparation to clinical practice. Reviewing the prerequisites, exam content outlines, and procedural timelines enables candidates to strategically align their educational endeavors with professional expectations, thereby reducing potential delays in licensure. This informed approach also assists in pinpointing competencies that require further development, ultimately enhancing exam readiness and fostering a proactive mindset in navigating regulatory updates. For detailed guidelines, review Nebraska LPC license requirements.

Can integrating art therapy enhance treatment outcomes?

Creative therapies, notably art therapy, offer an effective complement to traditional mental health counseling by providing non-verbal avenues for self-expression and emotional processing. In Nebraska, where access to conventional treatment options may be limited, incorporating art therapy can help address patients’ diverse needs and enhance overall treatment engagement. Evidence suggests that integrating creative modalities into counseling sessions can lower anxiety levels and foster improved communication between clients and practitioners. For mental health professionals interested in expanding their practice, evaluating certification pathways in art therapy is recommended. Consider exploring the best art therapy programs to broaden your treatment repertoire and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

How can integrating social work principles enhance mental health counseling in Nebraska?

Integrating social work principles into mental health counseling can broaden the therapeutic framework by emphasizing holistic care and addressing clients’ socioeconomic challenges. This approach encourages comprehensive assessments that account for environmental, cultural, and community factors potentially affecting mental health outcomes. By leveraging strategies such as resource coordination, community engagement, and preventative care measures, counselors can more effectively tailor treatment plans to individual client needs while enhancing overall service delivery. For professionals interested in exploring complementary pathways and expanding their practice, review how to become a social worker in Nebraska.

What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Nebraska?

Licensed professional counselors in Nebraska are required to complete a set number of continuing education units (CEUs) within each license renewal period to ensure their practice remains current with evolving clinical standards and new treatment modalities. Professionals must adhere to state-specific guidelines established by the Nebraska Board of Mental Health, which typically include topics on ethics, legal updates, and emerging therapeutic techniques. Additionally, targeted training in related specialties can further enhance clinical practice. For example, expanding expertise by exploring certification opportunities—such as how to become a behavior analyst in Nebraska—may provide extra career versatility and a competitive edge in the field.

How can telehealth improve access to mental healthcare in Nebraska?

Telehealth offers LPCs an opportunity to overcome geographical barriers and expand service reach in Nebraska’s rural and underserved communities. By leveraging secure, HIPAA-compliant digital platforms, practitioners can conduct remote counseling sessions, offer timely interventions, and maintain continuity of care. Adopting telehealth requires familiarity with emerging technologies and adherence to privacy regulations, ensuring safe and effective patient engagement. For professionals eager to incorporate digital modalities into their practice, exploring the fastest way to become a counselor in Nebraska can help align clinical expertise with evolving industry trends.

Become a Successful Mental Health Professional

The process of becoming and practicing as an LPC in Nebraska may be difficult. The transformative role of mental health professionals in society makes the pursuit essential and worth it. With the help of quality counseling education and training, you may gain the knowledge and skills necessary to help vulnerable communities. Therefore, you must ensure that your preferred academic institutions are accredited if you aspire to become a successful practitioner in the field. Moreover, you may explore US student scholarships you are eligible for to ensure that you have adequate financial support throughout your undergraduate and graduate programs.

References

• Glasmeier, A. K. & Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2023). Living Wage Calculation for Nebraska. https://livingwage.mit.edu/states/31
• Mental Health America. (2023). The State of Mental Health in America. https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf
• National Center for Education Statistics. (2022). Table 322.10. Bachelor’s degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions, by field of study: Selected academic years, 1970-71 through 2020-21. Digest of Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_322.10.asp
• Rich States, Poor States. (2023). Nebraska. https://www.richstatespoorstates.org/states/NE
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Nebraska. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ne.htm