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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Are you contemplating a career as a Licensed Counselor (LPC) in Oregon, but you're unsure about how to go about it? You're not alone. Indeed, embarking on a new career path can be daunting, especially when you're uncertain about the specifics of the journey.

As a seasoned expert with over ten years of experience in the realm of career planning, I have utilized my expertise to gather crucial data from credible sources to craft this guide. And the data is promising—Oregon LPCs report an impressive 85% job satisfaction rate, according to the state government. By reading this guide, you'll gain insights that could fold uncertainty into a well-shaped plan for kick-starting your counseling career in Oregon.

Key Things to Know on How to Become an LPC in Oregon

Starting with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, you'll need to earn a master's or doctoral degree from a CACREP-accredited institution covering key counseling topics and complete significant hours of supervised practical experience.
Supervised experience generally ranges between 2,400 and 4,000 hours, depending on your program.
Oregon counseling license costs $230 initially, with $225 annual renewals.
Oregon's LPCs, specializing in various disorders, earn a median of $53,710 annually.
Every year, an estimated 42,000 counseling positions in substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health are expected to materialize in the next decade.

List of Top Licensed Counselor Programs in Oregon for 2025
What are the steps to become a licensed counselor in Oregon?
Are there opportunities to specialize within counseling?
What does the salary range look like for licensed counselors in Oregon?
What are the job prospects and opportunities for career growth for counselors in Oregon?
What types of counseling jobs can you choose from in Oregon?
How can you boost your career as a licensed counselor in Oregon with advanced courses?
What alternative careers exist for licensed counselors going beyond the traditional counseling role?
What networking opportunities and professional associations are available for counselors in Oregon?
How can specializing in substance abuse counseling boost my career in Oregon?
How can integrating social work expertise advance your counseling practice in Oregon?
Is pursuing psychology licensure a viable alternative for career advancement in Oregon?
What challenges do counselors commonly face in Oregon?
How does academic excellence influence your counseling practice in Oregon?
How can self-care strategies boost your effectiveness as a counselor in Oregon?
Can dual licensure expand your career opportunities in Oregon?
What are common pitfalls in obtaining an LPC license in Oregon?
How can cultural competence enhance counseling outcomes in Oregon?
How can targeted exam preparation optimize your LPC licensing success in Oregon?
How can interdisciplinary collaboration enhance your impact as a counselor in Oregon?
What are the ethical guidelines for counselors in Oregon?
How can continuing education and specialization impact your career as an LPC in Oregon?
What are the next steps for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a counselor in Oregon?
What is the role of counselors in Oregon's mental health crisis?
Other Things You Should Know About Being an LPC in Oregon

List of Top Licensed Counselor Programs in Oregon for 2025

How do we rank schools?

Recognizing that paying for a degree is a significant investment, our ranking methodology ensures that students can make informed decisions based on comprehensive and transparent information. The ranking draws upon reliable sources such as the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and The National Center for Education Statistics. These sources provide a robust foundation of data to evaluate and rank the best LPC programs in Oregon. For more details on our methodology, please visit Research.com's methodology page.

1. Southern Oregon University

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program at Southern Oregon University is designed to prepare students to become competent, culturally aware, and ethical counselors who can provide exceptional mental health services in both public and private settings. The program provides a deep understanding of the counselor as an important foundation for the counseling relationship and a broad theoretical and empirical understanding of counseling approaches.

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2. University of Oregon

The PhD in Counseling Psychology at the University of Oregon is designed to provide students with a generalist, scientist-practitioner model of training. Students will develop and apply clinical skills to a broad range of practice settings and populations and increase understanding and effect change at all levels. The University of Oregon also offers a master's in psychology, which is considered as one of the cheapest online degree in psychology.

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3. George Fox University

The master's degree in School Counseling at George Fox University is designed to prepare students to become professional school counselors who can work with children in public or private schools. The master's degree in School Counseling at George Fox University is designed to prepare students to become professional school counselors who can work with children in public or private schools.

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4. Lewis and Clark College

The Professional Mental Health Counseling program at Lewis and Clark College is designed to prepare students to become professional counselors who are well-grounded in theory and skillful in providing sound clinical interventions. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes coursework in counseling theory, human development, and career counseling.

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5. Oregon State University

The Master of Counseling in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Oregon State University is a hybrid online program that prepares students for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) and to work as clinicians across a variety of settings. The program emphasizes the development of empathetic and compassionate practitioners who, through their creative leadership and advocacy, contribute to the advancement of the counseling profession and the cause of social justice.

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Here's What Graduates Have to Say About their LPC Career in Oregon

"Training to become an LPC in Oregon was an enriching experience. The rigorous curriculum and hands-on experience prepared me well for my future career. Beyond that, the sense of community and support in Oregon was overwhelming." - John

"The state offers an abundance of opportunities, and the constant demand for licensed counselors gave me the confidence I needed. It was a journey worth every bit." - Sarah

"Oregon was the perfect setting for my LPC journey – beautiful, welcoming, and stimulating. The opportunities to learn and grow seemed endless. It truly shaped me as a professional counselor and as an individual." - Megan

What are the steps to become a licensed counselor in Oregon?

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon, you need to follow several key steps involving education, licensure, and ongoing renewal requirements. Regardless of where you are in your career journey, understanding these steps can help you successfully navigate to your counseling credential.

Educational Requirements

Prior to licensure, your educational journey has a huge impact. It sets the foundation for the rest of your career. Here are the general guidelines:

Obtain a bachelor's degree: This is your first step into higher education. Your bachelor's does not need to be in a related field, but consider psychology, social work, or human services to help prepare you for your master's program.
Obtain a Master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field: This program, including online psychology doctorate programs, needs to be from a Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredited university. Your course load should cover key areas such as counseling theory, human growth and development, ethics, and more.
Complete a supervised internship and clinical hours: Hands-on experience is vital. Most programs will require you to complete a certain number of hours under the supervision of a licensed professional to help you apply what you've learned.

Licensing Requirements

Once you've met the educational requirements, your next step involves becoming officially licensed.

Gain one to three years of supervised experience post-graduation: The exact amount of supervised experience required depends on the specifics of your graduate program, but generally, you'll need between 2,400 and 4,000 hours.
Pass the required licensing exams: The National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselors Examination (NCMHCE).
Pay the licensing fees: The initial licensing fee in Oregon is $230, and the annual renewal fee is $225. These costs can change, so be sure to refer to the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists' website for the most up-to-date information.

Renewal Requirements

To maintain your licensure as a counselor in Oregon, you need to engage in ongoing education:

Complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education every two years.
Renew your license annually and pay the associated renewal fee.

Following these steps can lead you to a rewarding career as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon.

Making the Move: Guidance for Out-of-State LPCs Seeking Employment in Oregon

The Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists provides an alternative route to licensing known as licensure by reciprocity. The process is straightforward but involves several crucial steps:

Verification of current license: Submit verification of your current, active, and unrestricted counseling license from another jurisdiction.
Satisfying Oregon's requirements: Ensure your licensure meets Oregon's educational, experiential, and examination requirements or is equivalent.
Application for Oregon licensure: Submit a completed application for Oregon LPC licensure along with the required fees.
Board review: Await review of your application by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. If approved, you will receive your Oregon LPC license.

Bear in mind that you cannot start practicing in Oregon until your application for licensure by reciprocity has been approved by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists.

Are there opportunities to specialize within counseling?

Yes, there are abundant opportunities to specialize in counseling. The following options exist for those who wish to specialize in Oregon:

Mental Health Counseling: This specialty focuses on helping individuals cope with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders.
Marital and Family Therapy: Professionals in this field work with couples and families to resolve conflict and improve communication.
School Counseling: School and career counselors assist students with academic, career, personal and social concerns.
Addiction Counseling: This specialization helps individuals recover from substance abuse and addictive behavior.
Rehabilitation Counseling: Rehabilitation counselors support people with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives.

By choosing a specific area, you can concentrate your skills to address particular issues, thus increasing your proficiency and effectiveness as a counselor.

With an escalating need for specialized practitioners in certain areas, the scope for honing specific skills within counseling has been rapidly expanding. According to recent data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, 47% of the U.S. population in 2022 was residing in a mental health workforce shortage region, with some states needing up to 700 additional practitioners to erase this deficiency.

What does the salary range look like for licensed counselors in Oregon?

As of May 2023, licensed counselors in Oregon, also known as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), earn a median annual wage of $53,710, particularly those specialized in substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counseling.

The salary range in the field can vary extensively based on counselor specialization. For instance, Oregon's rehabilitation counselors averaged annual salaries of $52,180, while educational, guidance, and career counselors earned around $66,050 as of May 2021.
On the higher end of the scale, the average annual salary for a counselor in Oregon can reach up to $85,898. Conversely, beginners in the field can expect to earn within the range of $39,850 to $54,740 per annum.
Interestingly, Oregon offers some of the higher average annual salaries for counselors in the country, making it an attractive prospect for counseling professionals.

Please note that these figures can vary based on additional factors such as years of experience, credentials, location within the state, and additional specializations.

What are the job prospects and opportunities for career growth for counselors in Oregon?

The job market for licensed counselors in Oregon is anticipated to expand by 18% from 2022 to 2032, based on BLS data. This rate outpaces the average growth rate across all industries. Expect growing opportunities in the mental health and drug abuse counseling fields.

Annually, roughly 42,000 positions are projected to open up in substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counseling over the coming decade.
A sizable chunk of these job openings are expected to arise as current workers retire or move into different occupations.
Demand for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is set to increase as more individuals seek help for addiction and mental health issues.
The number of individuals, including young people, with mental health conditions and behavioral disorders is on the rise, fuelling demand for professional counseling services.
As the opioid crisis continues, there will be an ongoing need for services specifically tailored to aiding those struggling with opioid use disorder.

What types of counseling jobs can you choose from in Oregon?

You'll find a wide variety of counseling career paths open to you in Oregon:

Rehabilitation Counseling: these professionals help individuals dealing with personal, physical, or substance abuse issues regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Gambling Counseling: As a gambling counselor, you'll work with those struggling with gambling addiction to overcome their problems and live fulfilling lives.
Genetic Counseling: In this role, you'll guide and support families who may be at risk for or diagnosed with genetic disorders.
Youth Counseling: Young people often face unique challenges. As a youth counselor, you'll guide young individuals through tough situations like bullying, family issues, or mental health concerns.
Guidance Counseling: As a guidance counselor, you work primarily in schools, helping students navigate their educational and career paths.
Marriage and Family Therapy: Family counseling and therapy involves helping couples and families through challenging situations to foster understanding and closer relationships.
School Counseling: In this role, you aid students with their academic, personal, and social issues.
Substance Abuse Counseling: Substance abuse counselors help individuals who are dealing with addiction issues.

Choose the path that resonates most with you and get started on this rewarding career. As per BLS data below, hospitals and medical centers are the top employers of licensed counselors.

How can you boost your career as a licensed counselor in Oregon with advanced courses?

If you're looking for ways to boost your career as a licensed counselor in Oregon, consider taking advanced courses.

Advanced Counseling Theories and Interventions: This course delves deeper into the major counseling theories, refining your intervention skills and developing a personal therapeutic style. It's perfect for counselors seeking to enhance their theoretical grounding and expand their therapeutic toolkit.
Grief and Loss Counseling: Grief and loss are universal human experiences, and this course empowers you to provide effective support during these challenging times. Whether supporting individuals through bereavement, divorce, or job loss, this course provides the tools necessary to instill hope and facilitate healing.
Trauma-Informed Counseling: Develop expertise in recognizing and treating trauma responses in your clients with this advanced course. Learn evidence-based therapeutic techniques, such as EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy, which are key to effectively guiding clients through their healing process.
Couples and Family Therapy: Looking to expand your practice to include family and couple therapy? This course offers advanced knowledge of family systems theory and therapeutic techniques, equipping you to address various family dynamics and relational issues.
Substance Abuse Counseling: With a growing need for skilled counselors in this area, this course provides a comprehensive look at addiction theory, treatments, and prevention strategies. It enhances your abilities to diagnose, create treatment plans, and facilitate groups for those dealing with substance abuse issues.

With around 4,000 licensed counselors in the state, according to the Oregon Mental Health Regulatory Agency, having a specialty elevates your professional status and potentially enhances your salary prospects.

What alternative careers exist for licensed counselors going beyond the traditional counseling role?

In addition to traditional counselor roles, your skills as a trained counselor can be applied to several other jobs.

Career Coach Consultant: As a career consultant, you help clients identify their professional goals and create a strategic plan to achieve them. Your counseling proficiency aids in understanding your clients' motivations and overcoming barriers to success.
Human Resources Professional: In this role, your background in counseling can be essential for understanding employee issues, mediating conflicts, and supporting staff well-being. Additionally, developing training programs and providing career development advice are tasks that heavily rely on your counseling skills.
Life Coach: As a life coach, you guide your clients in making significant personal improvements and reaching their life goals. These could range from maintaining a healthier lifestyle and improving relationships to achieving work-life balance. Your counseling abilities help identify obstacles and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
Community Service Manager: Here, you’d be involved in coordinating social service programs and leading community organizations. Your counseling expertise can prove invaluable in understanding community needs, dealing with crises, and successfully meeting program objectives.
Post-secondary Education Administrators: Within this role, your duties may include student services, counseling, and academic planning. Your counseling knowledge aids in understanding student needs, supporting their mental well-being, and enhancing their learning experience.

These diverse yet complementary career paths demonstrate the flexibility of your counseling skills, enabling you to make a difference across a vast spectrum of roles and sectors.

What networking opportunities and professional associations are available for counselors in Oregon?

Being a Licensed Counselor in Oregon offers several opportunities for networking and for joining professional associations dedicated to this field. These platforms will not only help you share knowledge and best practices, but also expand your professional connections. Let me share some important ones:

Oregon Counseling Association (ORCA): As the premier body for LPCs in Oregon,
Local Chapter Events: Participating in local chapter events is a splendid way to network with other professionals. Here, you have an opportunity to learn new trends and share your expertise.
Annual Conferences: State, regional, and national conferences provide an unprecedented chance to meet fellow counselors, learn about advancements in the field, and even present your own research or findings.
Online Community: Many professional organizations offer online forums for members to connect, share resources, and ask questions. It’s a great way to expand your network beyond your local area.

Remember, as a counselor, continuously broadening your network and knowledge is essential for an enriching and successful career.

How can specializing in substance abuse counseling boost my career in Oregon?

Specializing in substance abuse counseling equips professionals with targeted strategies based on evidence-based practices to address addiction-related issues. This niche expertise enables counselors to provide focused interventions, optimize client outcomes, and fulfill the community’s growing need for specialized care. Advanced training in substance abuse not only enhances clinical proficiency but also broadens career opportunities and may result in higher compensation. For detailed steps and requirements on this pathway, please refer to how to become a substance abuse counselor in Oregon.

How can integrating social work expertise advance your counseling practice in Oregon?

Integrating social work expertise into your counseling practice can deepen your understanding of community resources and broaden client support networks. Accessing principles from social work allows counselors to approach client challenges from a systemic perspective, enhancing problem-solving and advocacy efforts. This interdisciplinary approach not only reinforces client care with practical social service strategies but also opens new pathways for professional growth and leadership in community health. For further insights into how advanced social work training can complement your counseling career, explore our article What can you do with a masters in social work?

Is pursuing psychology licensure a viable alternative for career advancement in Oregon?

For professionals evaluating long-term career growth, transitioning from counseling to psychology licensure presents an opportunity to diversify skill sets and open new leadership or research-oriented roles. The psychology pathway in Oregon involves distinct academic criteria and clinical supervision, creating avenues for engaging with complex therapeutic modalities and contributing to policy development, particularly in underserved communities. Compare these distinct professional trajectories and determine the optimal pathway for your career by reviewing how to become a psychologist in Oregon.

What challenges do counselors commonly face in Oregon?

Counselors in Oregon frequently navigate a range of challenges, including complex administrative requirements, increased caseloads, and the pressure to integrate emerging technologies into their practice. Geographic disparities, particularly in rural areas, demand innovative service delivery and outreach strategies to ensure equitable access to care. Practitioners also encounter difficulties in balancing clinical responsibilities with ongoing professional development amid evolving accreditation and regulatory standards. For a deeper understanding of the academic paths that support these roles, review types of counseling degrees.

How does academic excellence influence your counseling practice in Oregon?

Choosing an accredited academic program lays a solid groundwork for refining clinical skills and integrating evidence-based methodologies into practice. High-quality education not only delivers comprehensive theoretical instruction but also facilitates practical exposure through supervised experiences, helping counselors develop the critical competencies required for complex client needs. Exploring good colleges for psychology in Oregon can offer valuable insights into academic standards and network-building opportunities that are essential for long-term professional growth.

How can self-care strategies boost your effectiveness as a counselor in Oregon?

Self-care is essential for maintaining professional resilience and mitigating burnout in high-demand counseling environments. Implementing structured routines that include stress management techniques, periodic reflective practices, and establishing clear work-life boundaries can enhance both personal well-being and client outcomes. Leveraging peer support networks and targeted self-development tools further aids in sustaining long-term productivity. Additionally, integrating unique insights from related fields—for example, exploring how to become a social worker in Oregon—can introduce fresh perspectives on self-care strategies that complement clinical expertise.

Can dual licensure expand your career opportunities in Oregon?

Pursuing dual licensure can set you apart in Oregon’s competitive mental health field by broadening your clinical repertoire and expanding your client base. Integrating complementary credentials, such as behavioral analysis, allows you to offer integrated treatment plans that address a wider range of client needs and promote cohesive care. This strategy not only enhances your professional credibility but also creates additional avenues for interdisciplinary partnerships across healthcare, education, and social services. For insights on supplementing your counseling expertise, learn how to become a behavior analyst in Oregon.

What are common pitfalls in obtaining an LPC license in Oregon?

Candidates navigating Oregon’s licensure process often encounter administrative hurdles such as inconsistent documentation, challenges with supervision records, and delays in background check results. Meticulous attention to submitting accurate academic transcripts and supervision logs, along with early consultation with experienced professionals, can help mitigate these issues. Regularly reviewing the latest guidelines issued by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists is essential to align your submission with regulatory expectations. For insights on expediting your preparation, check out the fastest way to become a counselor in Oregon.

How can cultural competence enhance counseling outcomes in Oregon?

Adopting cultural competence enables counselors to effectively address the diverse needs of Oregon's populations by acknowledging and integrating varying cultural values, customs, and communication styles into their practice. This approach not only strengthens the therapist-client relationship through improved trust and rapport but also facilitates the creation of tailored treatment strategies that resonate with clients' unique backgrounds. In educational environments, fostering cultural competence is pivotal for establishing inclusive settings that support students' mental health and academic growth, further underscored by resources on becoming a school counselor in Oregon.

How can targeted exam preparation optimize your LPC licensing success in Oregon?

Developing a structured exam preparation strategy is crucial for navigating the LPC licensure process in Oregon. Focusing on a disciplined study schedule that incorporates practice tests, review courses, and mentoring from experienced professionals ensures that candidates remain aligned with the most current regulatory expectations. Utilizing updated guidelines and recommended study resources—such as those outlined in Oregon LPC license requirements—can help reduce exam-related uncertainties. Additionally, integrating performance assessments and time management techniques into your preparation plan enhances your ability to absorb essential theoretical and practical content, thereby increasing your competitive advantage during both initial licensure and future professional development.

How can interdisciplinary collaboration enhance your impact as a counselor in Oregon?

Partnering with professionals from other disciplines can significantly extend the reach and effectiveness of Licensed Professional Counselors in Oregon. Collaborating with educators, social workers, medical personnel, and legal professionals allows counselors to take a more comprehensive approach to client care. For instance, by working alongside teachers and school administrators, counselors can identify and address early signs of mental health issues in children, potentially preventing long-term challenges.

In healthcare settings, LPCs join forces with physicians and nurses to provide holistic care for patients with co-occurring physical and mental health conditions. This integrative approach ensures that clients receive well-rounded support tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, partnerships with legal experts can help address systemic barriers clients might face, such as navigating custody disputes or accessing social services effectively.

For counselors wishing to diversify their collaborative efforts, considering a career shift within the field is another option. For example, exploring specialized roles like marriage and family therapy could lead to opportunities to address relational challenges within broader systems. If you're interested in this career path, learn more about the detailed steps on how to become a marriage and family therapist in Oregon.

Overall, interdisciplinary collaboration not only enhances client outcomes but also enriches the counselor's professional experience, broadening their perspective and skill set in addressing complex challenges.

What are the ethical guidelines for counselors in Oregon?

Counselors in Oregon must follow strict ethical guidelines set by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists (OBLPCT). These guidelines focus on maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and avoiding conflicts of interest or dual relationships that could harm the client. Ethical standards also cover topics such as proper record-keeping, professional competence, and respecting client autonomy.

Oregon's ethical rules help ensure that counselors maintain integrity and professionalism in their practice. They are updated regularly to align with evolving best practices in mental health care. Following these guidelines protects both clients and counselors, creating a trustworthy and secure environment for therapy.

Ethical breaches can result in disciplinary action, ranging from fines to license suspension, so understanding these requirements is crucial for anyone pursuing a counseling career in Oregon. Additionally, counselors must stay informed about new ethical issues related to technology, such as confidentiality in telehealth, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws like HIPAA. Engaging in regular ethics training can also help counselors navigate difficult situations in practice.

How can continuing education and specialization impact your career as an LPC in Oregon?

Pursuing continuing education and specialized training can significantly enhance your career prospects as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon. Specializing in areas like grief counseling can open up unique career opportunities and make you a sought-after expert.

Ongoing Learning: Pursue courses and workshops to stay current with evolving counseling techniques and ethical standards.
Certifications & Specializations: Obtaining certifications in grief counseling or other specific areas helps increase job marketability and expertise.
Higher Earnings: Specialized LPCs often have the opportunity to command higher fees, especially in niche fields like grief counseling.

If you're interested in how to become a grief counselor, you’ll need to complete focused training and gain experience in the field to build expertise in helping individuals cope with loss. Consider exploring training programs that offer a deep dive into grief counseling to refine your skills and boost your counseling career in Oregon.

What are the next steps for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a counselor in Oregon?

For those looking to start their journey as a counselor in Oregon, understanding the initial steps is crucial. If you're interested in learning more about how to become a licensed mental health counselor in Oregon, you can find detailed guidance on the necessary education, licensure, and professional development requirements. This information will help you navigate the process of becoming a licensed counselor in Oregon and set you on the path to a rewarding career in mental health services.

What is the role of counselors in Oregon's mental health crisis?

Oregon, like many states, is facing a significant mental health crisis, exacerbated by issues such as increased substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and homelessness. LPCs are at the forefront of addressing these challenges by providing essential therapeutic services, and counseling individuals, families, and communities in need.

As the demand for mental health services in Oregon continues to rise, LPCs play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate complex emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues. The state has seen a significant increase in the need for counselors, particularly in underserved rural areas, where access to mental health care is limited. With an estimated 42,000 counseling positions in substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health expected to open over the next decade, there are abundant opportunities for LPCs to make a difference.

LPCs in Oregon are often the first line of defense against escalating mental health issues. They work in a variety of settings, including community health centers, schools, private practices, and hospitals, addressing issues such as trauma, addiction, depression, and relationship problems. In recent years, teletherapy has also become an important tool, allowing LPCs to reach clients in remote or underserved areas, ensuring that mental health support is accessible to a broader population.

For those considering a career as an LPC, this mental health crisis presents a unique and fulfilling opportunity. Not only can you build a rewarding career by helping individuals, but you can also contribute to the overall mental well-being of Oregon’s communities. As you embark on this career path, it’s important to stay informed about the latest trends in mental health and treatment options. Additionally, specialized training in areas such as addiction counseling or trauma-informed care can further empower you to address the specific needs of your clients.

Oregon is committed to tackling its mental health challenges, and as an LPC, you will be a key player in that effort. If you are interested in focusing your practice on areas like substance abuse, there are many resources available to help you obtain the necessary certifications and skills. Explore how a substance abuse counselor degree can provide you with the specific expertise needed to help those struggling with addiction and mental health issues.

Other Things You Should Know About Being an LPC in Oregon

How much is an LPC license in Oregon?

You'll need to pay $175 for the licensure application, and bear in mind, this cost also includes the actual amount the board requires to conduct a criminal background check. Following approval, the initial license fee is $115. Also, keep in mind, if you decide to hold your license in an inactive status, the board charges $180 for this.

Can I practice counseling in Oregon without a license?

No, you cannot practice counseling in Oregon without a license. The state of Oregon strictly requires individuals who wish to practice counseling to hold a valid license. Practicing without one can lead to severe penalties, including heavy fines and possible legal consequences. It's crucial to understand and comply with all state licensure requirements to maintain your professional integrity and ensure the welfare of your clients.

What is the difference between LPC and LMFT in Oregon?

In Oregon, the main difference between a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) is their focus areas. LPCs provide a broad range of services, while LMFTs are more specialized, focusing on relationship dynamics within the context of families and couples. Additionally, LMFTs require a different set of academic and clinical experiences for licensure.

What types of clinical experiences qualify for licensure in Oregon?

To qualify for licensure in Oregon, clinical experiences should involve supervised internships and accumulation of clinical hours, as stipulated by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. These experiences should be under the guidances of verified clinical supervisors in counseling, family therapy, clinical psychology or social work.

What unique licensure requirements and continuing education opportunities exist for counselors in Oregon?

In Oregon, becoming a licensed counselor involves meeting specific educational and clinical experience requirements set by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, complete 2,400 supervised clinical hours, and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the Oregon law and rules exam. Continuing education is also mandatory, with counselors needing to complete 40 hours of approved continuing education every two years, including six hours in ethics. Oregon offers various professional development opportunities through workshops, conferences, and online courses, ensuring counselors remain current with best practices and industry advancements.

References:

A closer look at the mental health provider shortage. (n.d.). www.counseling.org. https://www.counseling.org/publications/counseling-today-magazine/article-archive/article/legacy/a-closer-look-at-the-mental-health-provider-shortage
Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists : Apply for a license : State of Oregon. (n.d.). Apply for a License : Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists. https://www.oregon.gov/oblpct/pages/apply.aspx
Occupational Outlook Handbook - Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Job Outlook. (2024, April). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved May 5, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm#tab-5
Occupational Outlook Handbook - Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors Pay. (2024, April). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved May 5, 2024, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm#tab-3
Oregon Mental Health Regulatory Agency, & Hill, C. (2022, December). Oregon Mental Health Regulatory Agency Diversity Study. Retrieved May 5, 2024, from https://www.oregon.gov/oblpct/Documents/Diversity_Study_12-22.pdf