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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The stigma surrounding mental health concerns has diminished over the years, encouraging more individuals to seek help when facing emotional and psychological challenges. In 2021, around 41.7 million adults in the United States received treatment or counseling for their mental health, highlighting the growing recognition of the importance of mental well-being (Statista, 2023).

Our research team has compiled a complete list of North Carolina counseling licensure requirements as well as the educational requirements you need to complete. We will also include the top counseling programs in North Carolina for those who are interested in working in the state.

How to Become an LPC in North Carolina Table of Contents

Overview of the Counseling Industry in North Carolina
Educational Requirements for Licensed Counselors in North Carolina
North Carolina Licensure Application and Renewal Process
Timeline for Becoming a Licensed Counselor in North Carolina
List of Top Counseling Programs in North Carolina for 2025
How does substance abuse counseling address critical mental health challenges in North Carolina?
How Do Licensed Counselors Compare to Other Mental Health Professionals?
How do counseling and psychology licensure pathways compare in North Carolina?
How does an online master's degree prepare you for a career in mental health counseling in North Carolina?
What Should You Look for in Accredited Counseling Programs in North Carolina?
How Can Dual Credentials Enhance Your Counseling Practice in North Carolina?
How Can Behavior Analysis Complement Your Counseling Practice in North Carolina?
What Challenges Do LPCs Encounter in North Carolina?
How Can School Counseling Enhance LPC Practice in North Carolina?
How Can LPCs Stay Updated with Regulatory Changes?
Career Opportunities and Growth for LPCs in North Carolina
The Role of Art Therapy in Mental Health Counseling
Importance of Marriage and Family Counseling in North Carolina
What are the steps to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina?

Overview of the Counseling Industry in North Carolina

The state of North Carolina has established a robust regulatory framework to ensure the competence and ethical conduct of counselors. The North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (NCBLCMHC) oversees the licensure and practice of LPCs. Additionally, the average salary of a licensed counselor in North Carolina is $67,334. Noticeably, it is lower than the national average salary of $80,698 for the same profession (ZipRecruiter, 2023).

If you plan to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina, it is also worth noting that the cost of living in the state is six percent lower than the national average (RentCafe, 2023). Therefore, despite the lower average salary for being an LPC, you can still expect to live a comfortable lifestyle in the state.

Educational Requirements for Licensed Counselors in North Carolina

Becoming a licensed counselor in North Carolina requires completing a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution. Counselors-in-training also complete supervised clinical hours to gain practical experience. To give you an idea about the process, here is a comprehensive list of the LCMHC NC requirements:

Obtain an undergraduate degree: Before you can enroll in a counseling program, you need an undergraduate degree first. You can look for an affordable psychology degree online or in any other related field that you are interested in.
Obtain a master’s degree: The next thing you need to do is complete a master’s program in counseling or other graduate psychology programs online.
Gain relevant experience: To become a licensed counselor in North Carolina, you need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience post-master’s. Gaining relevant professional experience also applies to everyone looking for jobs with a psychology degree.
Pass the national examinations. Before you can work as a licensed counselor in North Carolina, you need to pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
Pass the jurisprudence exam in NC: After passing the national exams, you will also need to pass the jurisprudence exam in NC for the NCBLCMHC to work in the state.

North Carolina Licensure Application and Renewal Process

In 2020, there were 8,360 guidance, school, and vocational counselors; 2,700 rehabilitation counselors; and 9,370 behavioral disorder and mental health counselors in North Carolina (Projections Central, 2021). The presence of a substantial number of counselors in North Carolina reflects the state’s commitment to addressing the diverse mental health needs of its population.

License reciprocity is a practice in which a state recognizes the license of an individual from another state, allowing them to practice their profession in a new state. This means that the individual does not necessarily need to meet all the new state’s licensing requirements in order to practice their profession. Regarding North Carolina LPC reciprocity, the state currently does not have reciprocity with other states. However, active LPCs in other states can apply for the LCMHC license by endorsement (NCBLCMHC, 2023).

Here is the process for licensure application and renewal in the state:

Licensure Application Process:

After passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, you can submit an application for licensure to the NCBLCMHC.
Both new applicants and renewing licensees are required to submit the Certificate of Completion of the Jurisprudence Exam, which must be taken six months prior to the application.
You need to provide the board with your official school transcripts, verification of supervised clinical hours, verification of passing the NCMHCE, and pay the application fee.
During the NCBLCMHC license verification process, the board will review your application and notify you once it is approved. Only then will you receive your LPC license and be allowed to work as a licensed counselor in North Carolina.

Licensure Renewal Process:

To continue working as a licensed counselor in North Carolina, you need to renew your license every two years by June 30th of the renewal year. You can access the LCMHC license lookup online to check if an individual or your license is still active in the state.
You also need to complete 40 hours of continuing education, which can also be partly completed with the jurisprudence exam.
Submit your renewal application to the NCBLCMHC, including a professional disclosure statement for the level of license being renewed.
After the NC LPC license verification and the board approves your renewal application, you can then continue working as a licensed counselor in North Carolina.

Timeline for Becoming a Licensed Counselor in North Carolina

Becoming a licensed counselor (LPC) in North Carolina typically takes 6 to 8 years, depending on your chosen pathway and circumstances.

Educational Requirements (2 to 3 years): To begin, you must earn a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited program. Most master’s programs take about 2 to 3 years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Supervised Clinical Experience (2 to 3 years): After completing your degree, you need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. This phase can take 2 to 3 years, depending on whether you work part-time or full-time during this period.
Exam Preparation and Testing (3 to 6 months): You will need time to prepare for and pass the required exams (NCMHCE and the North Carolina Jurisprudence Exam). The preparation time varies based on your prior knowledge, but expect to spend at least 3 to 6 months getting ready.
Licensure Application Process (1 to 3 months): Once you meet all the educational and experiential requirements, you’ll need to submit your application for licensure. The processing time for your application and the official approval can take 1 to 3 months.

List of Top Counseling Programs in North Carolina for 2025

According to our research, there are over 3,000 licensed professional counselor jobs available in North Carolina (Zippia, 2023). With the growing demand for professionals in counseling therapy and psychology, it is also expected that the number of LPCs in the state will increase over the years.

For those who want to start learning to become licensed counselors in North Carolina, here are some of the top counseling programs:

North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University offers several counselor education programs, such as an M.Ed. in clinical mental health counseling and in student development. They also offer a doctoral program in counseling and counselor education for those who want to obtain the highest educational degree in the field. Additionally, NCSU’s M.Ed. in school counseling is designed for individuals who want to take on advising positions in student service agencies and colleges.

Program Length: Three to five years
Tracks/concentrations: clinical mental health and student development
Cost per credit: $200 (in-state), $533 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)

Wake Forest University

WFU’s Department of Counseling has graduate programs in counseling with choices for specialization. They also offer online MA in counseling degrees as well as the option for students to study on campus. Additionally, WFU also offers an undergraduate minor course in counseling focused on health and human services.

Program Length: Three Years
Tracks/concentrations: clinical mental health and school counseling
Cost per credit: $1,650
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CACREP

North Carolina Central University

NCCU’s clinical mental health counseling program provides students with comprehensive curricular studies as well as the supervised experiences needed to become licensed counselors in North Carolina. Students who graduate from this program are also eligible to apply for licensure as a clinical addiction specialist.

Program Length: Three Years
Tracks/concentrations: clinical mental health and school counseling
Cost per credit: $298.73 (in-state), $1,038.07 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CACREP

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University offers master’s degrees in counseling with two choices for specializations. Graduates from WCU’s counseling program are eligible to apply for licensure as LPCs and licensed clinical mental health counselor associates. WCU also offers a graduate program in social work.

Program Length: Two Years
Tracks/concentrations: school counseling and clinical mental health
Cost per credit: $586 (in-state), $1,180 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CACREP

Appalachian State University

ASU offers an on-campus MA in clinical mental health counseling as well as a dual-degree option. Their dual degree program combines clinical mental health counseling with music therapy. Graduates from this program can work in various settings, such as treatment centers, community mental health centers, veterans administration, and hospitals.

Program Length: Two to three years
Tracks/concentrations: clinical mental health
Cost per credit: $478 (in-state), $1,350 (out-of-state).
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: CACREP

How does substance abuse counseling address critical mental health challenges in North Carolina?

Substance abuse counseling is an essential specialty that complements broader mental health services in North Carolina by specifically targeting addiction-related obstacles. This field focuses on the assessment, treatment, and ongoing support of individuals facing substance dependency, thereby reducing community risk factors and enhancing overall well-being. By employing evidence-based treatment plans and fostering strategic partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations, practitioners in this area help build resilient support networks. For detailed guidance on entering this specialty, review how to become a substance abuse counselor in North Carolina.

How Do Licensed Counselors Compare to Other Mental Health Professionals?

Licensed counselors hold a distinct position within the mental health field by focusing on counseling techniques developed through master’s-level training and supervised clinical experience. In contrast, clinical psychologists typically undergo doctoral training that emphasizes comprehensive assessment and research-driven interventions, while social workers integrate therapeutic practices with case management and community support. Each profession adheres to specialized standards that influence scope of practice, treatment modalities, and career trajectories. For an in-depth analysis of these role differences, please review our article on social worker vs psychologist discourse.

How do counseling and psychology licensure pathways compare in North Carolina?

Counseling and psychology share distinct educational and regulatory frameworks in North Carolina. Licensed professional counselors rely on master’s-level training with a focus on practical therapeutic techniques, while psychology licensure generally necessitates doctoral-level education along with an in-depth understanding of research and assessment practices. Both licensure routes demand strict adherence to state standards; however, the supervision, clinical hours, and examination requirements differ significantly. Understanding these discrepancies is crucial for professionals considering a shift or expansion in their services. For a detailed outline of the psychology track, please refer to how to become a psychologist in North Carolina.

How does an online master's degree prepare you for a career in mental health counseling in North Carolina?

The availability of online master's programs offers a flexible pathway that maintains rigorous academic and clinical standards essential for licensure. These programs provide structured coursework, supervised virtual practicum experiences, and access to expert-led discussions that mirror traditional classroom settings. By leveraging advanced digital tools and interactive platforms, candidates gain exposure to diverse client scenarios and emerging best practices in counseling. Additionally, such programs accommodate working professionals who require adaptable schedules, making it easier to balance career advancement with personal commitments. For a curated list of such opportunities, consider exploring the best online masters in mental health counseling degree program.

What Should You Look for in Accredited Counseling Programs in North Carolina?

When evaluating counseling programs, focus on accreditation status, faculty expertise, and the extent of hands-on clinical experiences offered. Assess whether the curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current mental health practices and ethical standards. Additionally, potential students should examine program outcomes such as graduation rates, licensure success, and post-graduation employment statistics. Resources like good colleges for psychology in North Carolina can provide further insights into program credibility and overall educational quality.

How Can Dual Credentials Enhance Your Counseling Practice in North Carolina?

Integrating complementary licensure or certifications can broaden professional expertise and service offerings. For instance, acquiring additional skills in social work enables counselors to address clients’ challenges from both therapeutic and systemic perspectives, thereby enhancing case management and community engagement. This dual approach can open avenues for interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing professionals to better meet complex client needs and policy requirements. For guidance on exploring these integrated pathways, review how to become a social worker in North Carolina.

How Can Behavior Analysis Complement Your Counseling Practice in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, integrating behavior analysis offers licensed counselors an opportunity to diversify their skill set and enhance client outcomes. By applying evidence-based strategies from applied behavior analysis (ABA), mental health professionals can target specific behavioral patterns and improve individualized treatment plans. This approach, when combined with traditional counseling methods, supports a more comprehensive understanding of client needs and fosters measurable improvements in behavior. For professionals seeking to expand their expertise, exploring how to become a behavior analyst in North Carolina can provide valuable insights into complementary certification and career advancement opportunities.

What Challenges Do LPCs Encounter in North Carolina?

Licensed Professional Counselors in North Carolina face several challenges that extend beyond meeting licensure requirements. Balancing administrative responsibilities with client care can contribute to professional burnout, especially in high-demand environments where caseloads are substantial. Moreover, adapting to evolving teletherapy practices and digital health trends requires ongoing professional development and a commitment to integrating new technologies into traditional therapeutic models. Navigating insurance reimbursements and compliance with strict regulatory standards add further complexity to daily practice. For professionals looking to streamline their entry into the field and mitigate these challenges early on, consider exploring the fastest way to become a counselor in North Carolina.

How Can School Counseling Enhance LPC Practice in North Carolina?

School counseling offers LPCs a focused pathway to integrate mental health principles within educational environments, addressing unique student challenges and promoting early intervention strategies. By collaborating with educators and administrators, counselors can develop tailored programs that support academic achievement and emotional resilience in school settings. For more details on the pathway, consider becoming a school counselor in North Carolina.

How Can LPCs Stay Updated with Regulatory Changes?

Staying informed about evolving state policies and regulatory updates is essential for maintaining licensure and ensuring high-quality client care. Licensed professionals should monitor official communications from the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors and participate in targeted professional development opportunities, such as webinars and workshops that focus on new legal and ethical standards. In addition, joining professional associations and networking groups can provide real-time insights and peer support for navigating compliance matters. For further details on the latest requirements and procedural updates, refer to North Carolina LPC license requirements.

Career Opportunities and Growth for LPCs in North Carolina

North Carolina’s growing demand for mental health services creates ample opportunities for LPCs across various sectors. From schools to private practices, LPCs can choose from diverse career paths:

Private Practice: Many LPCs in North Carolina open their own practices, providing flexible schedules and autonomy.
Hospitals and Clinics: Mental health facilities require counselors to work with patients in need of therapeutic services.
Schools: Schools, particularly K-12 institutions, increasingly need counselors to support students’ emotional and mental well-being.

Additionally, online counseling programs, such as the cheapest online MFT programs, allow prospective counselors to earn their degree while balancing other commitments, offering an accessible path into these rewarding career opportunities.

This growth in demand, paired with the increasing acceptance of teletherapy and online services, means LPCs in North Carolina can look forward to varied and stable career options.

The Role of Art Therapy in Mental Health Counseling

As mental health challenges continue to rise, the field of counseling has evolved to include a range of therapeutic techniques to meet the diverse needs of clients. One such technique is art therapy, which has proven to be an effective way to help individuals express emotions that may be difficult to articulate through words. Art therapy allows clients to explore their feelings, reduce stress, and improve mental well-being through creative expression.

LPCs who specialize in art therapy can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices. For those interested in combining their counseling skills with a creative approach, pursuing a Master’s in Art Therapy can be a fulfilling career path. Art therapists use various forms of art, including drawing, painting, and sculpture, to help clients unlock emotions, gain insights, and promote healing.

If you’re interested in integrating art therapy into your counseling career, several universities in North Carolina and beyond offer specialized programs that combine counseling techniques with art therapy training. For example, the best art therapy programs provide an opportunity for counselors to develop a deep understanding of both psychological principles and the therapeutic power of the arts.

Adding a focus on art therapy would not only give readers more options for specialization but also deepen the content’s relevance for those looking for career opportunities in a specific niche of the counseling industry.

Importance of Marriage and Family Counseling in North Carolina

Marriage and family counseling plays a pivotal role in addressing the complex dynamics and challenges many North Carolina residents face in their personal lives. Licensed counselors specializing in this area help individuals and families navigate marital issues, parent-child relationships, and broader familial conflicts, fostering communication and emotional well-being. Given the cultural and demographic diversity in North Carolina, there is a strong demand for professionals with expertise in this specialization.

Aspiring counselors should explore pathways to becoming licensed marriage and family therapists, as these roles often intersect with vital mental health services in schools, clinics, and private practices. For a comprehensive guide on the steps required, including education, licensure, and career opportunities, visit this dedicated resource on how to become a marriage and family therapist in North Carolina. This concise yet detailed overview will assist you in determining whether this fulfilling specialization aligns with your career ambitions.

Moreover, specializing in marriage and family therapy can open new doors for advanced practice, enabling professionals to tackle unique challenges that go beyond individual counseling. With North Carolina continually recognizing the value of integrated family mental health support, this area of practice promises growth and impactful opportunities for dedicated practitioners.

What are the steps to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina?

To become a licensed counselor in North Carolina, one must follow a series of steps that include obtaining the necessary education, gaining supervised experience, and passing the required exams. For a detailed guide on how to become a licensed mental health counselor in North Carolina, it's essential to understand the intricacies of the licensure process, from the initial application to the renewal of the license. This includes meeting the educational requirements, completing the necessary clinical hours, and successfully passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and the North Carolina Jurisprudence Exam. By following these steps and staying informed about the requirements and opportunities in the field, aspiring counselors can set themselves up for success in their careers.

Should I study to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina?

The demand for mental health services in the U.S. has been on the rise, leading to increased opportunities for licensed professional counselors. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated mental health challenges, have further underscored the need for accessible and qualified mental health professionals. Since the cost of living in North Carolina is lower than the national average, it can be a worthy career investment to start your educational journey in the state.

If you are unsure whether studying to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina is worth it or not, it is important to consider your personal and professional goals. The tuition and costs of studying counseling can be extensive since it requires rigorous training and experience. On the other hand, choosing a specialization can open up more career opportunities for advancement in the future as well as opportunities to receive higher compensation.

Key Insights

Increasing Demand for Mental Health Services: With over 41.7 million adults in the U.S. receiving mental health treatment in 2021, the demand for licensed counselors is on the rise.
Robust Regulatory Framework: North Carolina has a well-established regulatory framework overseen by the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (NCBLCMHC).
Competitive Salary and Low Cost of Living: While the average salary for licensed counselors in North Carolina is $67,334, the cost of living in the state is 6% lower than the national average, offering a comfortable lifestyle.
Comprehensive Educational Requirements: Aspiring counselors need a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing scores on national and state exams.
Top Counseling Programs: North Carolina offers several accredited counseling programs, including those at North Carolina State University, Wake Forest University, and Appalachian State University, which are well-regarded for their comprehensive curricula and practical training.

FAQ

1. What are the educational requirements to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina?

To become a licensed counselor in North Carolina, you must obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution. Additionally, you need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience post-master’s.

2. What exams are required for licensure as a counselor in North Carolina?

You must pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) and the North Carolina Jurisprudence Exam to qualify for licensure.

3. How do I apply for a counseling license in North Carolina?

After meeting the educational and exam requirements, you can submit your application through the North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors (NCBLCMHC). You need to provide official transcripts, verification of supervised hours, and proof of passing the required exams, along with an application fee.

4. How often do I need to renew my counseling license in North Carolina?

Counseling licenses in North Carolina need to be renewed every two years by June 30th of the renewal year. You must complete 40 hours of continuing education for each renewal period.

5. Does North Carolina have license reciprocity with other states?

North Carolina does not have direct reciprocity with other states. However, licensed counselors from other states can apply for licensure by endorsement, provided they meet certain criteria set by the NCBLCMHC.

6. What are some top counseling programs in North Carolina?

Top counseling programs in North Carolina include North Carolina State University, Wake Forest University, North Carolina Central University, Western Carolina University, and Appalachian State University. These programs offer comprehensive training and are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

7. What is the job outlook for licensed counselors in North Carolina?

The job outlook for licensed counselors in North Carolina is positive, with a growing demand for mental health services. In 2020, there were over 20,000 counselors working in various capacities across the state.

8. How much do licensed counselors earn in North Carolina?

The average annual salary for licensed counselors in North Carolina is $67,334, which is slightly lower than the national average. However, the lower cost of living in North Carolina compensates for this difference.

9. What continuing education is required to maintain a counseling license in North Carolina?

To maintain a counseling license in North Carolina, you must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years. This can include coursework, workshops, and other professional development activities.

10. Should I study to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina?

Studying to become a licensed counselor in North Carolina can be a worthwhile investment due to the growing demand for mental health services, comprehensive educational programs, and the state’s lower cost of living. However, it is important to consider personal and professional goals and the costs associated with obtaining the necessary education and training.