How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Baltimore, MD: Counselor License Requirements for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

In Baltimore, where neighborhoods pulse with diverse stories and a complex history of resilience, the need for empathetic, well-trained mental health professionals is more than urgent—it’s vital. Whether you're drawn to community clinics, private practice, or school counseling, earning your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in Maryland is the critical first step to showing up professionally and ethically for the people who need you most.

Yet the path to licensure in Baltimore can feel like its own form of therapy: layered, at times confusing, and filled with paperwork that demands both patience and precision. Between navigating Maryland’s unique academic requirements, supervised clinical experience, and state-specific exams, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why this article exists—not just to list the steps, but to walk you through them with clarity and insight. In this guide, I will break down every stage of the LPC licensure process in Baltimore, MD—from your first graduate course to the moment you receive your official license

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Baltimore

Baltimore offers diverse clinical settings and strong community support, making it an ideal city to practice as an LPC.
The average salary for LPCs in Baltimore is approximately $71,458 annually, reflecting competitive healthcare wages.
Noteworthy employers include Johns Hopkins Hospital, University of Maryland Medical Center, and Sheppard Pratt Health System, all prominent in Maryland’s mental health sector.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Baltimore?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Baltimore?
Which schools in Baltimore offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Baltimore?
How much do LPCs make in Baltimore?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Baltimore?
Is Baltimore a good place to work as an LPC?
Can I specialize in substance abuse counseling as an LPC in Baltimore?
Can LPCs Expand Their Practice to Include Marriage and Family Therapy in Baltimore?
Can Transitioning to Teaching Enhance an LPC’s Career in Baltimore?
What are the opportunities for continuing education and career development as an LPC in Baltimore?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Baltimore?
Are there counseling associations in Baltimore?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Baltimore?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming an LPC in Baltimore

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Baltimore?

Becoming an LPC in Baltimore involves meeting specific educational criteria that lay the groundwork for a successful counseling career. These requirements are designed to ensure comprehensive knowledge and practical experience in the field. Below is an outline of the key academic and experiential components necessary for licensure, reflecting current standards and anticipating future developments in counseling education.

Completion of a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a closely related discipline from a regionally accredited institution, emphasizing foundational counseling knowledge.
Inclusion of coursework covering essential topics such as human development, counseling theories, group counseling techniques, client assessment methods, and professional ethics.
Fulfillment of a supervised clinical practicum or internship, which involves accumulating a required number of direct client contact hours under licensed supervision to develop practical skills.
Enrollment in programs that align with Maryland state educational standards, which may increasingly incorporate innovative training methods and community-based practicum opportunities within Baltimore’s diverse population.
Selection of academic programs offered by institutions with strong regional recognition, such as Johns Hopkins University, Towson University, or University of Maryland campuses, which may expand their curricula to include emerging counseling trends and interdisciplinary approaches.

If you're interested to know what the fastest way to become a counselor is, our team of expert researchers have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the quickest path to licensure.

How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Baltimore?

To apply for licensure as an LPC in Baltimore, candidates must navigate a structured process overseen by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. This ensures that counselors meet professional and ethical standards for safe practice within the state. The steps to apply for LPC licensure in Baltimore emphasize both practical experience and formal examination requirements.

Applicants begin by submitting a completed application along with the required fees to the Maryland Board. They must document at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience completed over a minimum of two years. This supervision must be provided by a qualified licensed professional counselor or an approved equivalent, ensuring that candidates gain relevant hands-on experience.

Next, candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or an equivalent test recognized by Maryland. Additionally, they are required to pass a Maryland jurisprudence exam that covers state-specific counseling laws and ethical regulations. This dual-exam requirement guarantees familiarity with both national standards and local legal frameworks, an essential aspect for anyone considering how to become a licensed professional counselor Baltimore.

Applicants also need to supply official verification of their educational background and supervised experience. A criminal background check is mandatory, reflecting Maryland’s focus on protecting public safety. After licensure, counselors must complete continuing education to maintain their credentials and stay current with evolving best practices.

Looking ahead, the licensure process may increasingly incorporate digital tools for application submission and remote supervision. Those interested in advanced specialization might explore options like a PhD in grief counseling, which could influence future licensure pathways and credentialing requirements.

Here's the list of steps in a nutshell:

Submit a completed application and fees to the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists.
Document at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over two or more years.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or equivalent.
Pass the Maryland jurisprudence exam on state laws and counseling ethics.
Provide official verification of education and supervised experience.
Complete a criminal background check.
Fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.

Which schools in Baltimore offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

To become an LPC in Baltimore, you must complete a graduate-level program in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. Baltimore offers several strong options for aspiring counselors, each with its own strengths and areas of focus.

Johns Hopkins University – Master of Science in Counseling: This program, offered through the School of Education, provides tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. It is CACREP-accredited and emphasizes evidence-based practices, cultural responsiveness, and real-world experience through a well-connected clinical placement network. Flexible course options and part-time scheduling make it ideal for working students.
Loyola University Maryland – Master of Arts in Clinical Professional Counseling: Designed to meet Maryland’s LPC requirements, Loyola’s program offers a strong foundation in counseling theory, ethics, and diagnosis, while integrating Jesuit values of social justice and service. Students complete extensive practicum and internship experiences and benefit from small class sizes and faculty mentorship.
Towson University – Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Towson’s CACREP-accredited program emphasizes practical training and professional development. It includes a comprehensive curriculum covering assessment, multicultural counseling, and psychopathology, and it offers structured opportunities for supervised clinical experience, preparing graduates for licensure and real-world practice.
Coppin State University – Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling: This program is designed to prepare counselors to work with individuals with disabilities and diverse populations. It emphasizes advocacy, community engagement, and culturally competent care, with course offerings available in the evenings to support students balancing work and study.

For those considering advanced education options, you can also take up masters in clinical mental health to deepen your expertise, fulfill licensure requirements, and expand your career opportunities in diverse counseling settings.

Number of Americans affected by the shortage of mental health professionals.

Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Baltimore?

Baltimore offers a diverse array of internship and practicum opportunities for counseling students, providing hands-on experience in various settings. These placements are essential for meeting Maryland’s LPC licensure requirements and for developing practical skills in real-world environments.

Sheppard Pratt Health System: Sheppard Pratt offers comprehensive internships across multiple settings, including residential treatment centers, outpatient mental health clinics, addiction services, and Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams. Interns engage in activities such as individual and group therapy, psychosocial evaluations, treatment planning, and discharge planning. Eligibility typically requires enrollment in a master's-level counseling or social work program from an accredited institution.
University of Maryland School Mental Health Program: This program provides clinical externships for graduate students in counseling, social work, or psychology. Externs are placed in Baltimore City public schools approximately two days per week, gaining experience in mental health prevention, individual and group therapy, and family counseling, all under professional supervision.
Family Crisis Center of Baltimore County: The Center offers internships for students pursuing counseling or social work degrees. Interns participate in direct practice experiences, including intake assessments, crisis intervention, advocacy, and counseling. Advanced students may engage in program planning and policy development.
The Arc Baltimore: Graduate students in counseling or related fields can intern within The Arc's clinical services or foster care departments. Interns work alongside staff in day programs, engaging with individuals with developmental disabilities through various activities and support services.
Families First Counseling & Psychiatry (FFCP): FFCP offers a two-semester internship program for second-year counseling students. Interns receive over 24 hours of didactic training in mental health theories and trauma-based interventions, along with weekly individual and group supervision. They are assigned clients that match their experience level to enhance learning.

Below is a chart breakdown of the number of graduates from CACREP-accredited programs between 2021 and 2023, highlighting recent trends in counselor education.

How much do LPCs make in Baltimore?

According to ZipRecruiter (n.d.), the average annual salary for an LPC in Baltimore is $71,458. That breaks down to about $34.35 per hour, or roughly $1,374 per week and $5,954 per month. While this average provides a solid benchmark, actual earnings can vary widely depending on several important factors.

In Baltimore, LPC salaries typically range between $58,100 (25th percentile) and $79,500 (75th percentile), with top earners (in the 90th percentile) making as much as $100,357 annually. On the higher end, some counselors report earnings up to $113,274 per year. On the lower end, entry-level professionals may earn closer to $34,777.

Here are key factors that influence salary variations among LPCs in Baltimore:

Experience: Counselors with more years in the field—especially those with supervisory roles or specialized expertise—tend to command higher salaries.
Education Level: LPCs with advanced degrees, dual licensure, or additional certifications (like substance abuse or trauma-focused counseling) may earn more.
Type of Employer: Hospitals, private practices, and government agencies may offer higher compensation than nonprofits or school-based programs.
Specialization: Professionals in high-demand niches such as child and adolescent therapy, addiction counseling, or trauma care often receive premium pay.
Setting: Urban clinics, private practice groups, or telehealth platforms may offer better pay than rural or lower-resourced organizations.

Additionally, a significant portion of the population in Baltimore identify as Christians. If you're interested in expanding your qualifications, check out our guide on how to become a Christian Counselor without a degree, which can open additional career pathways.

If you're considering where to apply your counseling skills for the best financial return, the chart below highlights the top-paying industries for therapists and mental health professionals.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Baltimore?

Becoming an LPC in Baltimore isn't just about earning a degree—it's about proving, through structured experience, that you can guide real people through real challenges. That’s where clinical supervision comes in. Supervision is the bridge between academic learning and professional independence, giving future LPCs the chance to apply their knowledge with the safety net of expert oversight.

For master’s-level applicants, the path requires three years of supervised clinical experience totaling at least 3,000 hours. Importantly, two of those years must be completed after you've earned your degree—but the state does allow you to count one year of supervision before graduation, as long as it's properly structured. This offers some flexibility for proactive students looking to get a head start.

For those holding a doctoral degree, the requirement is lighter but still rigorous: two years and 2,000 hours of supervised clinical work, with at least 1,000 hours completed after the doctoral degree is awarded. In both cases, the experience must take place under an approved supervisor, someone licensed and qualified to provide structured feedback, guidance, and assessment.

In short: supervision isn’t a box to check—it’s a proving ground. Baltimore’s supervision requirements are designed to ensure that when you earn your LPC, you're more than ready to sit across from someone in crisis—and help them find a way forward.

Is Baltimore a good place to work as an LPC?

Baltimore can be an excellent location for LPCs, offering a mix of urban energy, diverse communities, and a strong need for mental health services. The city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to major healthcare hubs create a unique environment for counseling professionals. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to expand your practice, Baltimore offers a range of opportunities and advantages.

Diverse Client Base: Baltimore's population is diverse, providing LPCs with the opportunity to work with individuals from various cultural, socioeconomic, and demographic backgrounds. This diversity allows for a wide range of therapeutic approaches and challenges that can enrich professional growth.
Access to Networking Opportunities: The city has a robust professional community, with regular networking events, conferences, and workshops tailored to mental health professionals. This can help LPCs stay updated on best practices and continue professional development.
Proximity to Major Healthcare Institutions: Baltimore is home to world-renowned hospitals and health systems, such as Johns Hopkins and the University of Maryland Medical Center, which can provide collaborative opportunities for LPCs in a clinical or hospital-based setting.
Growing Need for Mental Health Services: With rising awareness of mental health issues, there is an increasing demand for licensed counselors in Baltimore. Whether in schools, private practices, nonprofits, or healthcare settings, LPCs are in high demand to provide counseling services across various populations.
Variety of Work Settings: LPCs in Baltimore can choose from a wide array of settings, including private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, and more. This flexibility allows for specialization in areas like addiction, trauma, family counseling, and more.
Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Baltimore is known for its arts, music, and cultural scenes, providing LPCs with the opportunity to live in an area rich in activities and attractions when not working. This balance of professional and personal fulfillment makes Baltimore a great place to establish a career.

Can I specialize in substance abuse counseling as an LPC in Baltimore?

LPCs in Baltimore have the opportunity to focus on substance abuse counseling as a specialized area of practice. This track requires targeted training and additional certifications that complement the general licensure requirements. Specialized clinical experiences in substance abuse settings further refine practical skills, enabling LPCs to better serve communities facing high rates of substance use-related challenges. For detailed guidance on alternative specialization routes, review how to become a drug counselor in Baltimore.

Can LPCs Expand Their Practice to Include Marriage and Family Therapy in Baltimore?

Licensed Professional Counselors in Baltimore may diversify their practice by pursuing additional licensure in related fields, such as marriage and family therapy. This specialty requires further education, targeted clinical experience, and a separate examination process to fully address the complexities of family dynamics and couple relationships. For professionals seeking to broaden their service offerings and better serve diverse client needs, obtaining dual credentials can open up expanded career opportunities and enhance professional credibility. Detailed information on the additional steps involved can be found in our guide on how to become a marriage and family therapist in Baltimore.

Can Transitioning to Teaching Enhance an LPC’s Career in Baltimore?

LPCs seeking to diversify their professional portfolio may benefit from exploring teaching roles as a complementary career path. This approach not only leverages counseling expertise in educational settings but also opens up opportunities for career stability and community engagement. Professionals can assess the streamlined transition process and associated certification requirements to determine if integrating academic roles aligns with their long-term goals. For practical insights on this pathway, review the cheapest way to become a teacher in Baltimore.

What are the opportunities for continuing education and career development as an LPC in Baltimore?

Continuing education and targeted professional development are essential for sustaining clinical competence and advancing an LPC’s career in Baltimore. Specialized workshops, certification courses, and advanced training programs offer practitioners the chance to refine skills and explore emerging counseling methodologies. Many institutions and local organizations provide flexible learning options—including digital seminars and in-person training—that address evolving mental health challenges and regulatory updates. Additionally, structured mentorship programs and professional networks support career progression and leadership development, ensuring that LPCs stay at the forefront of care practices. For a detailed pathway on expanding your professional qualifications, consult how to become a mental health counselor in Baltimore.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Baltimore?

The job market for LPCs in Maryland is thriving and is expected to continue growing rapidly over the next decade. With an increasing demand for mental health services across the state, LPCs can look forward to robust opportunities, not just in major cities like Baltimore but in various regions throughout Maryland. This growth is driven by greater awareness of mental health issues, expanding healthcare access, and evolving needs across communities.

Current Employment: As of 2022, there are approximately 8,430 LPCs employed in Maryland, serving diverse populations in hospitals, private practices, schools, and community organizations.
Projected Growth: Employment for LPCs in Maryland is expected to grow by a significant 22% between 2022 and 2032. This is a much higher rate than the average for many other professions, highlighting the increasing importance of mental health care.
Projected Job Openings: With 960 annual job openings projected from 2022 to 2032, LPCs can expect a steady flow of opportunities, making the field more accessible and allowing for job mobility within the state.
Increasing Demand: The growing recognition of mental health’s importance—combined with initiatives to increase access to care—will continue to fuel the demand for LPCs, both in urban and rural areas. Additionally, there are emerging opportunities in telehealth counseling, allowing LPCs to work remotely and serve clients across the state.

For those interested in further education, exploring our list of the best rated online masters in marriage and family counseling can provide additional pathways to advanced practice and leadership roles.

Average annual job openings for psychiatrists in the US.

Are there counseling associations in Baltimore?

Baltimore is home to several prominent counseling associations that offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for LPCs. These organizations play a crucial role in supporting mental health professionals, advocating for the counseling profession, and providing platforms for collaboration and growth.

Maryland Counseling Association (MCA): The MCA is a statewide organization dedicated to promoting public confidence and trust in the counseling profession. It influences policies affecting professional counselors and the welfare of diverse clients. The MCA offers various resources, including newsletters, conferences, and networking opportunities, to support its members.
Counselors in the Community Association (CITCA): CITCA is a Baltimore-based organization focused on community engagement and support for counselors. It provides a platform for counselors to connect, share resources, and collaborate on initiatives aimed at enhancing mental health services in the community.
Maryland Counselors for Social Justice (MCSJ): MCSJ is an organization that works to promote social justice advocacy in society by addressing mental health issues caused by social marginalization. It focuses on confronting oppressive systems of power and privilege that affect professional counselors, students, and the clients they serve.
Community Behavioral Health Association of Maryland (CBH): CBH is a statewide association that represents community-based behavioral health organizations. It advocates for policies that support the delivery of quality behavioral health services and provides training and resources for professionals in the field.
Mental Health Association of Maryland (MHAMD): MHAMD is a statewide organization that has been advocating for better mental health in Maryland for over 100 years. It offers training, community outreach, and services oversight to improve the quality of Maryland's public behavioral health system.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Baltimore?

Baltimore offers a variety of employment opportunities for LPCs, with many prominent employers across different sectors of healthcare, education, and social services. These organizations are committed to providing mental health support and counseling services to diverse populations, creating a wide range of career paths for LPCs.

Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System: As one of the leading healthcare institutions in the world, Johns Hopkins provides opportunities for LPCs in both clinical and outpatient settings. Professionals may work in areas such as mental health, addiction treatment, and behavioral health, serving both inpatient and outpatient clients.
University of Maryland Medical System: This healthcare network includes hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout the Baltimore area. LPCs employed here often work in behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, or specialized therapy programs.
Baltimore City Public Schools: LPCs are frequently employed by the public school system to provide counseling services to students, manage mental health crises, and offer therapeutic support. These positions often require specialized experience with children and adolescents.
Maryland Department of Health (Behavioral Health Administration): The state government employs LPCs to work in various community mental health centers and treatment programs. These roles often focus on substance abuse treatment, crisis intervention, and mental health counseling for underserved populations.
Private Practices and Counseling Centers: Many LPCs in Baltimore operate within private practices or small counseling centers. These settings provide a flexible work environment and the opportunity to specialize in various areas of therapy, such as family counseling, addiction therapy, or trauma-informed care.
Nonprofit Organizations and Community Agencies: Numerous nonprofits in Baltimore, such as the Baltimore Mental Health Systems, provide services to individuals facing mental health challenges. These agencies often hire LPCs to work with vulnerable populations, including those dealing with homelessness, substance abuse, and domestic violence.

What LPCs in Baltimore Say About Their Careers

"Working as an LPC in Baltimore has allowed me to deeply engage with a diverse community that constantly inspires personal growth. Graduating from Johns Hopkins, I appreciate how the city's rich cultural fabric challenges me to adapt and broaden my therapeutic approaches daily. The opportunity to witness real change in my clients fuels my passion for this work." - Jillian
"After completing my degree at Towson University, I found Baltimore to be a unique environment for my counseling career. The city's mix of urban challenges and strong neighborhood ties provides a meaningful context for developing innovative treatment plans. The professional support networks here have helped me advance quickly while balancing a fulfilling family life." - Madison
"As a seasoned LPC working in downtown Baltimore, I value the stability and career advancement opportunities available in this city’s healthcare sector. The cost of living compared to other metropolitan areas allows me to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while continuing my education and supervision roles. Baltimore’s resources make it an ideal place to grow professionally and personally." - Charlie

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming an LPC in Baltimore

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Baltimore?

No, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently in Baltimore or anywhere in Maryland. According to Maryland regulations, a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) is prohibited from engaging in the practice of clinical professional counseling without supervision. This means that LPC Associates must always practice under the oversight of a Board-approved supervisor until they obtain full licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Baltimore?

To qualify for a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) position in Baltimore, candidates must hold a master's or doctoral degree in professional counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution. The program should encompass at least 60 graduate semester credits (or 90 quarter credits) and include coursework in areas such as human growth and personality development, social and cultural foundations of counseling, counseling theory and techniques, group dynamics, appraisal, research and evaluation, professional ethics, diagnosis and psychopathology, and psychotherapy. Additionally, the program must involve supervised clinical experience, including a practicum or internship with direct client contact. Meeting these educational requirements is essential for licensure as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) in Maryland.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Baltimore?

Yes, several institutions in Baltimore offer programs designed to expedite the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):

Towson University: Offers a Counseling Psychology concentration with a practitioner track, allowing students to complete up to 1,000 of the 3,000 supervised clinical hours required for licensure during the master's program.
Loyola University Maryland: Provides a Master of Science in Clinical Professional Counseling, which can be completed in approximately 2 years and 4 months, including 600 hours of supervised field experience.
Johns Hopkins University: Offers a Master of Science in Counseling with concentrations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling, designed to meet licensure requirements in Maryland.
Bowie State University: Features a CACREP-accredited Mental Health Counseling program emphasizing culturally responsive training, preparing students for LPC licensure.

These programs are structured to provide the necessary education and supervised experience efficiently, facilitating a quicker transition to licensure.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Baltimore?

Telehealth counseling opportunities in Baltimore are expanding rapidly, driven by advances in technology and evolving healthcare regulations. As Maryland continues to support remote mental health services, licensed professional counselors (LPCs) in Baltimore may find increasing demand for teletherapy, especially post-pandemic. Future trends suggest enhanced integration of virtual platforms with traditional counseling, allowing LPCs to reach underserved populations across the city and state. While current regulations require adherence to state licensure laws, ongoing legislative updates may further facilitate telehealth practice. Prospective LPCs should monitor Maryland Board of Professional Counselors’ guidelines to stay informed on telehealth-related licensure and practice standards.

References:

CACREP. (2024). CACREP 2023 vital statistics report. Cacrep.org. Retrieved 12 May 2025

Family Crisis Center of Baltimore County. (n.d.). Internships. Familycrisiscenter.net. Retrieved 12 May 2025.

Family & Children’s Services of Central Maryland. (n.d.). Internship program. Ffcpmaryland.com. Retrieved 12 May 2025

Maryland Department of Health. (n.d.). Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. Health.maryland.gov. Retrieved 12 May 2025.

Sheppard Pratt. (n.d.). Internships for social workers & counselors. Sheppardpratt.org. Retrieved 12 May 2025.

The Arc Baltimore. (n.d.). Internships. Thearcbaltimore.org. Retrieved 12 May 2025.

University of Maryland School of Medicine. (n.d.). Clinical externship & practicum experiences. Medschool.umaryland.edu. Retrieved 12 May 2025.

US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Occupational employment and wages, May 2023: 29-1129 Therapists, all other. U.S. Department of Labor. Bls.gov. Retrieved 12 May 2025.