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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a licensed professional counselor opens doors to a fulfilling career, allowing you to directly impact the lives of individuals and families in your community. Beyond personal rewards, licensure provides a critical advantage: the ability to practice counseling at the highest level of professional competence and ethical standing.

In this guide, I will provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to navigate the path to becoming a licensed counselor in Washington, unlocking the full potential of your counseling practice, and making a significant difference in the lives of others.

Key things you should know about becoming a licensed counselor in Washington

$63,940 is the annual median wage of licensed professional counselors in Washington.
18% is the projected employment growth for LPCs through 2032.
There are two main paths to becoming a counselor in Washington: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA).
A minimum of 36 months of full-time counseling or 4,000 hours of postgraduate mental health counseling of which 1,000 hours must be direct counseling with individuals, couples, groups, or families, is required
To qualify for licensure renewal, applicants must complete 36 hours of continuing education, six of which are in professional law and ethics, plus four hours of AIDS education and training

What are the steps to become an LPC in Washington?
What are the educational requirements for Washington counseling licensure?
What are the types of counselor licenses issued in Washington?
What is the state of the counseling industry in Washington?
What is the job outlook for counselors in Washington?
How much do counselors in Washington make?
Where can I work as a counselor in Washington?
What do counselors do?
Top Counselor Programs in Washington for 2025
How does marriage and family therapy compare to LPC work in Washington?
How can I establish a thriving private counseling practice in Washington?
What additional certifications and professional organizations can enhance my LPC career in Washington?
What distinguishes LPC licensure from psychology licensure in Washington?
How can online education enhance your counseling career in Washington?
What factors should I consider when choosing a counseling program in Washington?
What challenges do LPC candidates encounter in Washington and how can they overcome them?
How Can Integrating Behavior Analysis Complement My Counseling Services in Washington?
How can telehealth transform my counseling practice in Washington?
How can I transition to becoming a school counselor in Washington?
How can I best prepare for Washington LPC license requirements?
What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Washington?
Is a career in counseling in Washington worth it?
Why is continuing education important for LPCs in Washington?
What steps can I take to pursue a career as a licensed counselor in Washington?
What specializations are available for LPCs in Washington?
Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Washington

What are the steps to become an LPC in Washington?

As of 2023, there were 12,080 substance abuse, mental health, and behavioral disorder counselors in Washington. Here are the key steps to become a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Washington:

Earn a master’s degree.

Earn a qualifying master's or doctoral degree in mental health counseling, behavioral science, or a closely related field, such as an online Christian counseling master's degree. Ensure your program covers the specific content areas mandated by the Department of Health. Some of these areas include assessment/diagnosis, ethics/law, and counseling individuals, groups, couples, and families.

Pass the required examinations.

Pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Acquire supervised experience.

Complete a minimum of 4,000 hours of supervised experience over at least three years. At least 1,000 hours must be directly supervised by a licensed mental health counselor or a similarly qualified mental health professional. You also need to complete four hours of AIDS education and training.

Apply for licensure.

Submit an application for LMHCA licensure to the Mental Health Credentialing Board after fulfilling the above requirements. Once licensed, you willl need to renew your LMHC license annually and complete continuing education credits.

Required supervised hours for counselor licensure in Washington

What are the educational requirements for Washington counseling licensure?

Based on Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data, there were 422 master's in counseling graduates in Washington in the academic year 2021-2022. There are two main paths for counselor licensure in Washington, and their academic requirements differ:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Requires a master's or doctoral degree in mental health counseling, behavioral science, or a field relating to mental health counseling. Your program could be among the cheapest CACREP accredited programs online but still cover the required content areas outlined by the Department of Health.

These include:

Assessment/diagnosis
Ethics/law
Counseling individuals, groups, couples, and families
Developmental psychology
Psychopathology/abnormal psychology
Research and evaluation
And at least four more from a specified list

Mental Health Counselor Associate

Requires a bachelor's degree in a counseling-related field. The Washington State Department of Health does not specify what constitutes a "counseling-related field" for certified counselors. Still, a degree in psychology, social work, or human services would likely qualify. Even the most affordable online psychology degree covers all the requirements for counselor certification.

What are the types of counselor licenses issued in Washington?

Based on BLS projections, about 42,000 licensed counselors will be needed to effectively address mental health concerns through 2032. Washington State issues two main types of counselor licenses:

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

This is the most comprehensive license for counselors in Washington. LMHCs can provide a wide range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group counseling, family therapy, and marriage counseling. They typically work in private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, and other settings. In some instances, taking a cheap project management degree online can be useful for LMHCs due to the nature of their work.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA)

This is a more limited license for counselors with a bachelor's degree. Certified counselors or mental health counselor associates can provide some mental health services, but their scope of practice is narrower than LMHCs. They may work under the supervision of an LMHC or in specific settings, like employee assistance programs.

What is the state of the counseling industry in Washington?

The counseling industry in Washington appears to be experiencing a positive trend with both high demand and potential job growth:

Data suggests a shortage of counselors, particularly Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) specializing in substance abuse, behavioral disorders, and mental health. It is crucial to address this shortage given the higher age-adjusted suicide rate in Washington at 15.3% vs. the 14.1% national average.

An aging counselor workforce, particularly psychologists, could lead to an increase in job openings due to retirements. Add to this the uneven distribution of counselors across the state, with some rural areas having limited access to mental health services.

Overall, the Washington counseling industry appears to be a growing field with strong job prospects, particularly for LMHCs specializing in areas of high need. However, there may be challenges regarding workforce distribution and ensuring access to services in underserved areas.

What is the job outlook for counselors in Washington?

The job outlook for counselors in Washington appears quite promising, particularly for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in certain specialties.

Projections indicate substantial job growth for LMHCs specializing in mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral disorders. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a growth rate of 18% from 2022 to 2032. Growth is also expected for school counselors (15.8%) and rehabilitation counselors (10.3%).

Growing public awareness about mental health issues is likely to lead to a greater demand for counseling services. An aging population often requires more mental health services, further increasing demand for counselors.

Employment growth projection for LPCs through 2032

How much do counselors in Washington make?

Based on data from the BLS, licensed professional counselors in Washington including substance abuse, mental health, and behavioral disorder counselors earn at least $63,490 annually. Counselors' salaries in Washington can vary depending on several factors, including:

License Type: Generally, Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) earn more than Certified Counselors due to their broader scope of practice.
Experience: Counselors with more experience typically command higher salaries.
Work Setting: Salaries can differ between private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, and government agencies.
Specialty: Counselors specializing in areas of high demand, like substance abuse or mental health, may earn more.
Location: Urban areas often offer higher salaries compared to rural areas.

Where can I work as a counselor in Washington?

In Washington, there are 3.46 counselors for every 1,000 individuals. Given this, there is a significant demand in every work setting that employs counselors. The types of work a counselor can take in Washington depend on their license type and area of specialization.

LMHCs have the broadest scope of practice and can work in various settings, including:

Private practice: Providing individual therapy, group counseling, couples therapy, and family therapy. They can work independently or collaborate with other mental health professionals.
Hospitals and community mental health centers: Treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and trauma.
Schools: Providing counseling services to students, often collaborating with teachers and parents to address academic, social, and emotional needs.
Government agencies: Offering counseling services to individuals and families involved with the justice system, child welfare, or other government programs.
Substance abuse treatment centers: Specializing in treating addiction and providing support for individuals in recovery.

On the other hand, Certified Counselors have a more limited scope of practice than LMHCs. They may work in some of the following settings:

Employee assistance programs (EAPs): Providing short-term counseling and support services to employees dealing with personal or work-related stress.
Residential treatment facilities: Working with individuals in residential treatment programs for mental health or addiction issues, often under the supervision of an LMHC.
Community organizations: Offering counseling services to specific populations, such as veterans, refugees, or victims of domestic violence.

While LMHCs do not require supervision after licensure, certified counselors may need to work under the supervision of an LMHC, depending on their work setting or the specific services they provide.

What do counselors do?

Counselors in Washington wear many hats, but their core function revolves around providing mental and emotional support to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Compared to the national average, the percentage of adults in Washington reporting symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorder is slightly higher at 32.6%.

Counselors meet with clients one-on-one to help them manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions. They employ various therapeutic techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy to address underlying issues and develop coping mechanisms.

They may also facilitate support groups for individuals dealing with similar challenges, like substance abuse, grief, or chronic illness. These groups provide a safe space for members to share experiences, learn from each other, and offer support.

Some counselors may provide crisis intervention services, offering immediate support to individuals amid a mental health crisis or emotional distress. They also conduct assessments to evaluate a client's mental health needs, diagnose mental health conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Top Counselor Programs in Washington for 2025

How do we rank schools?

We know that pursuing a counseling master's degree program is a big decision. Our team of specialists at Research.com has ranked counseling master's programs in Washington to empower you with insights derived from data.

This ranking is built upon a comprehensive and transparent methodology. We leverage data from trusted sources like the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) database, Peterson's databases, including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set, and the College Scorecard database from the National Center for Education Statistics. This multifaceted approach ensures we capture a complete view of each program, allowing you to compare and contrast based on key factors relevant to your needs.

1. Seattle University

Seattle University's online Master of Arts in Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling program caters to working adults seeking a career change or advancement in mental health counseling. Launched in 2012, this program is one of the first online counseling programs offered in Washington. The program blends asynchronous and synchronous learning elements.

Program Length: 2 to 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Counseling
Cost per Credit: $990
Required Credits to Graduate: 90 credits
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

2. Northwest University

Northwest University's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program equips students with the knowledge and skills to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in Washington state. While the curriculum is primarily asynchronous, offering flexibility for students to complete coursework on their own schedule, there are three mandatory on-campus residencies and practicum/internship placements.

Program Length: 2 to 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Cost per Credit: $795
Required Credits to Graduate: 90 credits
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

3. Walden University

Walden University, a national institution, offers a fully online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program designed for working adults seeking to advance their careers in counseling. The program features entirely online coursework with asynchronous learning activities and virtual interaction with faculty and classmates. This flexibility caters to working professionals who can complete their studies around their busy schedules.

Program Length: 2 to 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Cost per Credit: $665
Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle's online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program provides the clinical foundation and skills required for licensure as an LMHC in Washington. The program combines asynchronous coursework with online interactive sessions, allowing for engagement with instructors and classmates. In-person practicum and internship placements are also mandatory components of the program, providing students with hands-on experience under the supervision of qualified professionals.

Program Length: 2 to 3 years
Tracks/concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Cost per Credit: $585
Required Credits to Graduate: 60 credits
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

5. Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University's online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to work as mental health counselors in diverse settings. The program delivery blends primarily asynchronous coursework with some synchronous elements, offering flexibility for students. In-person practicum and internship placements are required, providing practical experience in the field.

Program Length: 2 to 3 years
Tracks/Concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling
Cost per Credit: $527
Required Credits to Graduate: 60-72 credits
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

Here’s what graduates have to say about their counseling master’s degree program:

Working as a school counselor in Washington has been incredibly rewarding. Every day, I get to help teenagers navigate the ups and downs of adolescence, from academic pressures to social anxieties. Seeing them develop coping mechanisms and gain confidence is truly special. The job can be emotionally challenging, but my positive impact on these young minds makes it all worthwhile. Sarah

Deciding to pursue licensure as an LMHC in Washington was the best decision I've made. Opening my private practice has given me the autonomy and flexibility I craved. Most importantly, I get to work directly with adults struggling with anxiety and depression. Helping them find tools to manage their mental health and improve their overall well-being is incredibly fulfilling. David

Although I wasn't born and raised here, Washington has embraced me with open arms as a counselor. The high demand for mental health professionals, especially for those specializing in substance abuse, has allowed me to make a real difference. Working in a community mental health center, I see firsthand the challenges people face with addiction. Being part of their recovery journey and witnessing their positive transformations is the most inspiring part of my job. Elena

How does marriage and family therapy compare to LPC work in Washington?

Marriage and family therapy (MFT) and licensed professional counseling (LPC) often intersect in their goal of supporting individuals and families with emotional and mental health challenges. However, these professions differ in scope and approach. In Washington, MFTs primarily focus on resolving relationship dynamics and systemic family issues, making them especially effective for couples seeking to improve communication or families facing intergenerational conflicts. LPCs, on the other hand, typically work with a broader range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.

While becoming an MFT requires specialized training in areas such as family systems theory and relationship counseling, LPCs may also delve into family therapy by choosing it as a specialization. Those considering the MFT path can refer to this comprehensive guide on how to become a marriage and family therapist in Washington for details on licensure and educational prerequisites.

Understanding the distinctions and overlaps between these roles can help prospective counselors decide which career path aligns best with their interests and long-term goals.

How can I establish a thriving private counseling practice in Washington?

Developing a successful private practice requires a strategic blend of business acumen and clinical expertise. Start by crafting a detailed business plan that outlines your target market, service offerings, and financial projections. Secure appropriate licenses and insurance, and determine the optimal practice structure to meet regulatory and ethical standards. Emphasize building a robust referral network through local collaborations and professional associations, which can enhance credibility and attract referrals. Additionally, consider leveraging digital marketing techniques—including a professional website and targeted social media outreach—to effectively reach prospective clients. For counselors looking to diversify their expertise, explore specialized fields by learning how to become a substance abuse counselor in Washington.

What additional certifications and professional organizations can enhance my LPC career in Washington?

In Washington, pursuing specialized certifications beyond licensure can refine clinical skills and open new avenues for practice. Obtaining credentials in targeted areas, such as trauma-informed care or EMDR, enables counselors to address specific client needs and distinguish themselves professionally. Engagement with professional organizations supplements these certifications by offering networking opportunities, access to cutting-edge research, and dedicated advocacy resources. For a comparative perspective on credential pathways within the broader mental health field, consider reading our guide Is being a social worker worth it? to inform your strategic career development.

What distinguishes LPC licensure from psychology licensure in Washington?

In Washington, the career paths for licensed professional counselors and psychologists differ significantly in educational depth, licensure examinations, and scope of practice. LPCs focus on clinical counseling, crisis intervention, and specialty areas such as substance abuse or trauma therapy, typically requiring a master’s degree and practical supervised experience. In contrast, psychologists undergo doctoral-level training with an emphasis on advanced assessment, research, and therapeutic modalities. For detailed requirements on the psychology route, review how to become a psychologist in Washington.

How can online education enhance your counseling career in Washington?

Research shows that online education can offer a flexible and cost-effective pathway for professional development and career advancement. Accredited online programs provide up-to-date curricula delivered by experienced professionals, enabling you to balance your studies with work and personal commitments. This mode of learning also offers access to a broader network of peers and mentors, contributing to knowledge exchange and enhanced practical insights. For those evaluating program affordability without compromising quality, consider the most affordable online school counseling degrees.

What factors should I consider when choosing a counseling program in Washington?

When evaluating counseling programs, assess program accreditation, curriculum rigor, available clinical training opportunities, and faculty credentials. Look for programs that offer comprehensive practicum placements, ensure adherence to state licensure standards, and provide robust career support services. Additionally, consider program format, cost effectiveness, and the overall reputation within the mental health community. For a comparative analysis of top institutions, explore good colleges for psychology in Washington.

What challenges do LPC candidates encounter in Washington and how can they overcome them?

Candidates often face multifaceted hurdles during the licensure process. Key challenges include:

• Navigating administrative procedures and documentation requirements that may delay licensure applications.

• Securing qualified supervision with flexible scheduling in light of high demand and limited availability.

• Balancing exam preparation with professional responsibilities amid extensive curricula and testing requirements.

• Managing the financial burden associated with advanced education, exam fees, and supervision costs.

Proactive strategies—such as developing a detailed timeline, joining professional peer groups, and exploring alternative career insights like how to become a social worker in Washington—can help mitigate these challenges and streamline the pathway to licensure.

How Can Integrating Behavior Analysis Complement My Counseling Services in Washington?

Combining counseling expertise with behavior analytic techniques can offer a targeted approach to address complex client behaviors. Advanced training in behavior analysis enhances your clinical toolkit by incorporating evidence-based strategies to support clients with conditions such as autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, or other behavioral challenges. This integration can lead to more effective treatment plans by merging traditional talk therapy with systematic behavior modification methods. For readers interested in expanding their practice, explore how to become a behavior analyst in Washington for a pathway to acquire this supplementary skill set.

How can telehealth transform my counseling practice in Washington?

Leveraging telehealth can expand client access, streamline scheduling, and reduce overhead while adhering to HIPAA and state-specific regulatory requirements. This approach allows LPCs to reach underserved communities and offer flexible, technology-driven care. Counselors adopting telehealth should regularly review current digital security practices and state telehealth guidelines to ensure compliance and maintain professional standards. Explore the fastest way to become a counselor in Washington for insights on integrating innovative service delivery methods with traditional counseling skills.

How can I transition to becoming a school counselor in Washington?

For LPCs interested in expanding their career into educational settings, transitioning into school counseling may require additional training in areas such as child development, educational psychology, and school crisis intervention. This pathway often involves meeting state-specific credentialing requirements that complement your existing clinical expertise, ensuring your skills align with the educational environment. Networking with school administrators and seeking mentorship from experienced school counselors can also facilitate a smooth career transition. For further details, refer to becoming a school counselor in Washington.

How can I best prepare for Washington LPC license requirements?

Candidates should focus on aligning their preparation strategy with state-specific compliance protocols, ensuring that documentation, supervised experience, and exam readiness meet regulatory expectations. Targeted study materials, practice examinations, and specialized workshops can help identify areas that require additional focus without duplicating prior content. For comprehensive details on submission procedures and regulatory guidelines, review the Washington LPC license requirements. Engaging with state board updates and professional peer groups further solidifies your pathway toward a successful licensing process.

What are the continuing education requirements for LPCs in Washington?

Continuing education (CE) is a crucial part of maintaining an LPC license in Washington. LPCs are required to complete 36 hours of continuing education every two years, ensuring they stay current with counseling practices and ethics. This includes a mandatory six hours in professional law and ethics to address evolving legal standards and four hours of AIDS education and training. CE courses can cover diverse topics, such as trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, or new therapeutic techniques, keeping LPCs effective and knowledgeable in their field.

Is a career in counseling in Washington worth it?

There is a shortage of counselors in Washington, particularly LMHCs specializing in mental health, substance abuse, and behavioral disorders. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects significant job growth for these areas.

Earning a master's degree for LMHC licensure requires time and financial resources. Considering the master's in psychology online cost, these programs can be expensive, potentially leading to student loan debt. Counselors often deal with clients facing difficult challenges, which can be emotionally taxing.

However, counselors play a vital role in promoting mental health and well-being. You can help individuals, couples, families, and groups navigate challenges and improve their quality of life. You can choose from various settings like private practice, hospitals, schools, or community organizations. You can specialize in areas that interest you, like trauma, addiction, or career counseling. Or pursue career advancement through the cheapest Ph.D. in organizational leadership.

Why is continuing education important for LPCs in Washington?

For licensed professional counselors (LPCs) in Washington, continuing education is essential to maintain licensure and stay informed about the latest therapeutic techniques. Counselors can attend workshops, conferences, or enroll in online courses, such as a masters in Christian counseling, to broaden their expertise.

Stay Current with Industry Trends: Workshops and conferences help counselors stay up to date with advancements in counseling techniques.
Earn Required CE Credits: Washington requires LPCs to complete continuing education (CE) courses to renew their licenses.
Specialize in Niche Areas: Counselors can pursue specialized education in areas such as addiction counseling or grief therapy to enhance their career prospects.

What steps can I take to pursue a career as a licensed counselor in Washington?

To pursue a career as a licensed counselor in Washington, you should start by understanding the educational and licensure requirements. This typically involves earning a master's degree in a field related to counseling and completing supervised experience hours. For detailed information on the process, you can refer to the guidelines on how to become a licensed mental health counselor in Washington.

What specializations are available for LPCs in Washington?

As you pursue your career as an LPC in Washington, it’s important to recognize that counseling is a diverse field with various specialization options. Choosing a specialization allows you to tailor your practice to a specific population or type of therapy. Here are some of the key specializations that LPCs in Washington can consider:

1. Mental Health Counseling

Mental health counseling is one of the most common and broadest specializations for LPCs in Washington. As a mental health counselor, you will work with individuals, couples, and groups to address a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. Mental health counseling often involves using therapeutic techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients manage their mental health concerns.

2. Marriage and Family Therapy

For those interested in working with families and couples, marriage and family therapy is a popular choice. As a marriage and family therapist (MFT), you will specialize in relationship issues, family dynamics, and communication problems. This specialization requires additional training in family systems theory and therapy techniques aimed at improving interpersonal relationships.

While Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) has its own distinct licensure in many states, LPCs in Washington can specialize in this area by incorporating family therapy training into their practice.

3. Substance Abuse Counseling

Washington State, like many others, faces significant challenges related to substance abuse. As a substance abuse counselor, you will provide therapy and support to individuals struggling with addiction. This specialization involves understanding the complexities of substance use disorders and offering both individual and group counseling aimed at helping clients achieve sobriety and long-term recovery.

Substance abuse counseling often includes working with other healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan for clients.

4. School Counseling

For those passionate about working with students, school counseling is a rewarding and impactful specialization. School counselors work in educational settings, helping students navigate academic, social, and emotional challenges. They may also assist in career development and college preparation. While becoming a school counselor may involve additional training specific to the education system, LPCs with a passion for youth development can often transition into this role with the right certification.

5. Art Therapy

An exciting and growing field, art therapy blends traditional counseling techniques with creative expression. This specialization focuses on using art as a therapeutic tool to help clients explore and communicate their feelings. As an art therapist, you will work with individuals who may struggle with traditional talk therapy, such as children, those with trauma, or individuals with disabilities.

Art therapy programs require additional specialized training beyond the standard LPC education. If this interests you, you may want to explore the best art therapy programs to find accredited options for advanced education in this unique field.

6. Trauma Counseling

Another critical area of specialization is trauma counseling, which focuses on helping clients heal from the effects of trauma, such as abuse, combat, or major accidents. Trauma counselors are trained in specific therapeutic techniques designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic events. This specialization often requires specialized training in trauma-informed care and may involve certifications or workshops in trauma therapy techniques like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

7. Grief Counseling

Grief counseling is a specialized field that focuses on supporting individuals through the grieving process after a loss. Counselors who specialize in grief help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of bereavement, loss, and mourning. This can be an especially rewarding area for those who wish to support individuals in some of their most difficult times.

8. Geriatric Counseling

As Washington’s population ages, geriatric counseling has become an increasingly important specialization. Geriatric counselors work with older adults to address issues such as age-related mental health concerns, loneliness, dementia, and life transitions. This area requires a strong understanding of the unique challenges faced by the elderly and often includes family involvement in therapy.

Other Things You Should Know About How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Washington

What are the salary differences between LMHCs and Certified Counselors in Washington?

In Washington, there is a salary difference between Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) and Certified Counselors.

LMHCs generally earn more due to their broader scope of practice. Salary information suggests a range of $72,000 - $88,700 annually.

The scope of practice of certified counselors is more limited, thus their salaries are likely on the lower end of the spectrum compared to LMHCs. The mean annual wage according to BLS data in 2023 was $53,360 with a range of $33,300 - $79,880.

Can I start working as a counselor in Washington before I am fully licensed?

In Washington, you generally cannot provide counseling services to clients independently before you are fully licensed. However, there are a couple of ways to gain experience in the field while working towards your license.

Most counselor licensure paths in Washington require several hours of supervised experience under a qualified supervisor. This supervised experience can provide valuable training and hands-on experience working with clients.

There might be some counselor-related roles where you can assist with administrative tasks or provide limited support services under the supervision of a licensed counselor. These roles, however, would not involve directly providing therapy or counseling services to clients.

Can I use my volunteer work to fulfill the supervised experience requirement in Washington?

Using volunteer work to fulfill the supervised experience requirement for counselor licensure is generally not possible in Washington.

The Washington State Department of Health, which governs counselor licensure, mandates supervised experience under a qualified supervisor. A qualified supervisor is typically a licensed mental health counselor who meets specific criteria set by the department. Volunteer settings may not always have LMHCs on staff to provide the required clinical supervision.

Supervised experience goes beyond volunteering. It involves working directly with clients under the close guidance and oversight of a qualified supervisor. The supervisor observes your client interactions, provides feedback, and helps you develop your clinical skills. Volunteer work might not always involve the level of client interaction or supervision required for licensure.

Are there any tuition assistance programs for aspiring counselors in Washington?

While there is no single, centralized tuition assistance program specifically for aspiring counselors in Washington, there are several avenues to explore for financial aid to help you pursue your counseling master’s degree:

Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans: Available for graduate students, including those in master's counseling programs. Interest rates may be higher for unsubsidized loans.
TEACH Grant: Can be applicable for master's programs in counseling specialties designated as high-need by the Department of Education. Check TEACH Grant program requirements for specific qualifying fields.
Scholarships: Many scholarships target students pursuing master's degrees. Explore options offered by counseling organizations, mental health foundations, and universities with master's programs in counseling. Look for scholarships specifically mentioning Washington or relevant counseling specialties.
Loan Repayment Programs: These programs typically target mental health professionals working in underserved areas after graduation, not necessarily tuition assistance. They can, however, help manage student loan debt after completing your master's degree.

What types of supervised experience are required for LPC licensure in Washington?

To obtain LPC licensure in Washington, candidates must complete a specific amount of supervised experience. This includes 3,000 hours of postgraduate supervised experience in counseling over a minimum of two years. Of these hours, 1,200 must be direct client contact. Supervision must be provided by a licensed mental health professional who meets the state's criteria, ensuring quality guidance and support. This experience allows candidates to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop practical counseling skills, and gain exposure to various client issues and therapeutic techniques. The structured supervision process is crucial for preparing competent and effective Licensed Professional Counselors in Washington.