How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Chicago, IL for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Mental health care is no longer on the sidelines, it is now a critical part of community well-being across Illinois. In 2022 alone, the state employed approximately 13,640 Mental Health Counselors, underscoring the urgent and growing demand for licensed professionals. In Chicago, this need is even more pronounced, driven by a diverse population and a rising awareness of mental health’s role in overall quality of life.

In this article, we will provide a clear overview of the licensure process. We will also share the steps needed to establish a rewarding counseling career in Chicago.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Chicago

The average annual salary for an LPC in Chicago is $70,278.
Anxiety Therapist roles in Chicago can pay up to $46,989 (66.9%) more than the average LPC salary.
Employment for LPCs in Illinois is projected to grow 17% from 2022 to 2032, reaching 16,010 jobs by 2032.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Chicago?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Chicago?
Which schools in Chicago offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Chicago?
How much do LPCs make in Chicago?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Chicago?
Can LPCs Transition into Substance Abuse Counseling Roles in Chicago?
How Can LPCs Accelerate Their Professional Growth in Chicago?
Can LPCs Transition into Teaching Roles in Chicago?
Is Chicago a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Chicago?
Are there counseling associations in Chicago?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Chicago?
What are the requirements for LPC license renewal in Chicago?
Other Things You Should Know About Being an LPC in Chicago

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Chicago requires meeting clear academic and practical training standards. Candidates must complete specific educational steps that lay the groundwork for effective counseling practice. The following list outlines these essential requirements to guide aspiring LPCs through the process.

Earn a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related discipline from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or a comparable accrediting body.
Complete a curriculum that thoroughly addresses core counseling areas, including counseling theories, ethical standards, human development, group counseling, and psychopathology.
Fulfill a state-mandated minimum number of supervised practicum or internship hours during graduate training, ensuring practical experience in clinical settings.
Choose programs that offer diverse clinical placements to gain exposure to a wide range of client populations, reflecting Chicago’s demographic diversity.
Consider graduate programs offered by reputable local institutions such as Illinois Institute of Technology and Loyola University Chicago, which provide solid preparation aligned with LPC standards.
Explore alternatives at nearby universities like Northwestern University or the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign if local options do not fully meet individual educational or clinical training needs.

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

In 2016, Chicago was home to 7,933 professional mental health counselors, highlighting the city’s vital role in supporting mental well-being across its diverse communities. As the need for mental health services continues to grow, so does the importance of ensuring that professionals are thoroughly trained and qualified.

To apply for an LPC license in Chicago, candidates must navigate a detailed licensure process regulated by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). This process ensures that all applicants meet the state’s professional standards for competence and public safety. Below is a practical outline of the main steps involved in obtaining licensure:

Submit a completed application to the IDFPR along with the required fee to initiate the licensing process.
Provide verified documentation of supervised clinical experience totaling at least 3,000 hours accumulated over a minimum of 24 months, including 100 hours of direct supervision by a qualified professional.
Pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), both accepted by Illinois for licensure.
Complete a criminal background check as part of the application to meet Illinois’s legal and ethical standards.
Submit official transcripts and verification of education that satisfy Illinois’s degree requirements for licensure.
Maintain continuing education credits after licensure to renew the LPC credential in accordance with Illinois regulations.

When reviewing counselor licensure requirements, Chicago emphasizes ethics and cultural competence, which are integrated into both supervision and examination processes. Given Chicago’s diverse population, cultural awareness is critical as a professional competency for counselors practicing in the city. This regional focus prepares candidates to effectively serve various communities.

For those wondering how long does it take to become a grief counselor, understanding the layered requirements and time commitment involved in supervised hours and exams is essential. Planning ahead with these factors in mind will streamline the licensure journey and support successful credentialing in Illinois.

Which schools in Chicago offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

Several reputable institutions in Chicago offer programs tailored for individuals pursuing licensure as LPCs. These programs combine essential coursework and clinical experiences to meet Illinois state requirements. When considering the best counseling programs in Chicago, it is important to focus on accredited options that provide comprehensive training aligned with licensure standards.

Northwestern University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling featuring core counseling theories, ethical practice, and supervised clinical training. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), which is vital for licensure eligibility.
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) provides a Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s degree emphasizing evidence-based treatment and practical internships. UIC’s CACREP accreditation ensures the curriculum meets professional benchmarks consistent with Illinois LPC standards.
Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for LPC licensure through theoretical knowledge and extensive clinical practicum. This program also maintains CACREP accreditation.

These Chicago LPC accredited graduate programs represent strong options for those seeking rigorous and recognized training. For individuals interested in related fields, exploring addiction counselor degree jobs can provide additional career pathways connected to counseling and mental health services.

The chart below from US BLS shows the metropolitan areas with the highest employment of therapists.

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

Counseling students pursuing licensure as LPC in Chicago must complete practical training through internships or practicum placements. These experiences are critical for applying classroom knowledge, honing clinical skills, and fulfilling the state’s supervised hour requirements. Below is an overview of key internship options available in Chicago’s mental health community, designed to help students navigate this essential phase.

Internship opportunities in Chicago are varied and often situated within organizations that serve diverse populations with different mental health needs. Students gain hands-on experience by engaging in activities such as client intake, therapeutic interventions, and multidisciplinary collaboration. These placements not only satisfy Illinois licensing prerequisites but also prepare students for real-world counseling challenges.

Chicago Department of Family and Support Services – Assists with mental health evaluations, leading group therapy sessions, and conducting client intakes.
Thresholds – Provides case management, crisis response, and direct therapeutic support to individuals with serious mental illness.
Rush University Medical Center Behavioral Health – Performs clinical interviews, developing treatment plans, and coordinating care with healthcare teams.

When I spoke with a therapist from Chicago about her internship journey, she reflected on the emotional complexity of the process: "Balancing the intensity of client crises with my own learning curve was challenging, but it pushed me to grow professionally." She also noted that securing a placement required persistence and adaptability, emphasizing that those experiences were invaluable in shaping her confidence as a counselor.

average psychiatrist annual job openings

How much do LPCs make in Chicago?

Becoming an LPC in Chicago involves understanding the educational requirements and the financial outlook. Salaries for LPCs in this city vary widely depending on experience, specialization, and employer type. For those planning their career path, knowing the average LPC salary in Chicago can help set realistic goals and expectations.

Licensed Professional Counselors in Chicago earn an average annual salary of $70,278, which breaks down to approximately $33.79 per hour, or about $1,351 per week and $5,856 per month. While individual earnings can vary, most LPC salaries fall between $57,200 (25th percentile) and $78,200 (75th percentile). At the high end, top earners in the 90th percentile make up to $98,699 annually, while entry-level positions may start around $34,203.

Notably, Anxiety Therapist jobs in Chicago can pay up to $46,989 (66.9%) more than the average LPC salary, highlighting the financial value of specialization in high-demand areas. These figures reflect the competitive landscape for counseling professionals in Chicago, where demand for mental health services continues to rise.

These figures reflect the competitive landscape for counseling professionals in Chicago, where demand for mental health services continues to rise. Compared to similar roles, such as social workers and marriage and family therapists, LPCs generally enjoy a favorable earning potential. Salary differences often depend on factors like work setting—private practices and specialized healthcare facilities tend to offer more, along with geographic location within the city and employer size.

Continuing education and professional development are essential for salary growth and career advancement. Understanding how different mental health degrees affect earning potential is also important. For a detailed comparison, consider reviewing MSW vs MS in counseling vs MS in psychology salary to make informed decisions about your educational investments and career trajectory.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Chicago?

Becoming an LPC in Chicago requires completing a substantial amount of supervised clinical experience. This hands-on training is a key step to ensure readiness for independent practice in the mental health field. Understanding the supervision requirements is essential for planning your path to licensure.

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requires candidates to accumulate a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience. These hours must be logged over at least two years after earning a master’s degree in counseling or a related discipline. This timeframe allows for steady, consistent professional development under supervision.

Supervision must be conducted by a licensed mental health professional who meets state qualifications, such as an LPC, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The supervisory relationship typically includes direct observation of your work, detailed case evaluations, and ongoing feedback sessions. This structure supports the development of your clinical skills and ensures that your practice aligns with professional standards.

You can gain supervised hours in a variety of approved settings, including community mental health agencies, private counseling practices, hospitals, or educational institutions. It’s important that your work involves direct client interaction and counseling activities consistent with the LPC scope of practice in Illinois. The process usually takes between two and three years, depending on your schedule and access to qualified supervisors.

Can LPCs Transition into Substance Abuse Counseling Roles in Chicago?

LPCs seeking to expand their expertise into substance abuse counseling can pursue specialized training and certification beyond traditional LPC requirements. This transition may involve targeted clinical experiences, supplemental coursework, and adherence to industry-specific ethical standards. Local institutions and professional development programs in Chicago offer tailored pathways to support this move into a more focused area of practice. For detailed information on the necessary steps and opportunities for this career transition, refer to how to become a drug counselor in Chicago.

How Can LPCs Accelerate Their Professional Growth in Chicago?

LPCs in Chicago can expand their careers by pursuing targeted certifications, engaging in specialized training, and leveraging mentorship programs available through local professional networks. Focusing on advanced skill sets, such as family systems therapy and trauma-informed care, can also open pathways into leadership roles or niche clinical practice. Additionally, exploring alternative disciplines like from learning how to become a marriage and family therapist in Chicago can complement existing qualifications and distinguish practitioners in a competitive market. Regular participation in industry conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs further supports the pursuit of higher responsibilities and diversified practice areas.

Can LPCs Transition into Teaching Roles in Chicago?

LPCs in Chicago may diversify their career paths by integrating educational roles with their counseling expertise. Pursuing teaching credentials can offer an additional avenue for professional growth and community engagement, especially in environments where mental health intersects with educational support. Evaluating the distinct requirements for teaching versus counseling can help professionals determine how to balance these responsibilities effectively. Exploring opportunities that bridge these fields may lead to enhanced networking, diversified income, and a broader impact in the community. For cost-effective guidance on entering the teaching sector, consider the cheapest way to become a teacher in Chicago.

Is Chicago a good place to work as an LPC?

Choosing Chicago as a location to work as an LPC involves weighing several practical factors that influence your career path. The city offers a dynamic environment shaped by its population, economy, healthcare systems, and licensing procedures. Below are key considerations to help you evaluate if Chicago matches your professional goals.

Varied Clientele Demands: The city’s multicultural and economically diverse population ensures a wide scope of counseling needs, allowing LPCs to develop specialized skills across different communities.
Economic Challenges: Significant income inequality means some clients may struggle to afford services, making it important for counselors to adapt through flexible payment options or community programs.
Strong Healthcare Network: Chicago’s extensive mental health facilities and hospitals create multiple avenues for employment and professional collaboration, enhancing career stability.
Licensing Process Complexity: Although Illinois provides clear guidelines for LPC licensure, the process can be lengthy and requires careful planning to avoid delays before starting practice.

A therapist from Chicago shared that navigating the licensing timeline initially felt overwhelming but ultimately rewarding as it opened doors to diverse clinical experiences. He reflected, “The city’s mix of clients pushed me to grow, even though balancing affordability and accessibility was often a tightrope walk.”

The chart below from US BLS displays the industries where most therapists work.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Chicago?

The job market for LPCs in Chicago is moderately competitive but largely positive. The city’s large and diverse population creates a consistent demand for mental health services, offering more opportunities than smaller cities or rural areas. The profession is expected to experience a 17% growth in employment from 2022 to 2032, with projected employment reaching 16,010 by 2032. More so, there are an estimated 1,450 annual job openings projected throughout this period, driven by both growth and the need to replace departing professionals.

Compared to therapists without licensure, LPCs hold a distinct advantage since many clinical jobs require licensure and insurance reimbursement depends on it. Nationally, counselor employment is expected to grow faster than average, and Chicago reflects this trend due to increased mental health awareness and expanded healthcare coverage. Factors like the city’s focus on mental health initiatives and a wide range of client needs help sustain demand for LPCs.

For those planning a career in counseling, practical steps include:

Pursuing necessary education and supervised clinical hours to obtain licensure
Targeting employment opportunities in Chicago’s diverse healthcare settings
Considering specialized training or certifications to stand out
Exploring programs such as an online biblical counseling degree to expand qualifications

Understanding the dynamics of Chicago LPC employment opportunities can help candidates strategically navigate this moderately competitive market and position themselves for success.

Are there counseling associations in Chicago?

Yes, several organizations provide valuable resources, networking, and professional development opportunities. Joining these associations can help you stay informed on local regulations and advance your career in the Chicago area.

Illinois Counseling Association (ICA) – This group focuses on counselors practicing within Illinois, offering advocacy for licensure laws, professional workshops, and statewide networking. It is particularly helpful for LPCs seeking to remain updated on state-specific counseling practices and policies.
Chicago Psychological Association (CPA) – Serving psychologists and therapists in Chicago, CPA provides programming on ethics, clinical skills, and legislative advocacy. Members benefit from access to conferences, publications, and referral networks that help maintain high professional standards.
American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Illinois Division (AAMFT-IL) – Catering to marriage and family therapists, this division offers licensure guidance, continuing education, and opportunities to engage with local professionals. It is ideal for LPCs focusing on systemic and family-centered counseling approaches.

For those pursuing a career as a licensed therapist, understanding these counseling organizations in Chicago Illinois is crucial. They not only provide essential support but also ensure you remain connected and equipped to deliver quality care. If you are considering graduate programs to advance your credentials, learning about the differences between a masters in clinical mental health and other counseling degrees can guide your educational decisions effectively.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Chicago?

For those pursuing a career as an LPC in Chicago, understanding the key employers in the area is essential. Several organizations stand out for their demand for LPCs, each offering unique roles and responsibilities. Bloomberg ranks as the top-paying company for LPCs, offering an average salary of $106,340 annually, or approximately $51.13 per hour. Knowing where to focus your job search can streamline your career path.

Chicago Department of Public Health: LPCs here typically work within community mental health initiatives, providing counseling to diverse populations. Their duties include conducting client assessments, crafting treatment plans, and facilitating both individual and group therapy, with a strong emphasis on serving underserved communities and applying culturally informed approaches within public health contexts.
Presence Health: This healthcare system employs LPCs for both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services. Professionals collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to assist patients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use issues. Responsibilities often include crisis intervention, educating patients, and coordinating care that complements medical treatments.
University of Chicago Medicine: LPCs in this setting work within psychiatry and counseling departments, providing therapy for patients with complex mental health conditions. They also engage in research and training activities, integrating evidence-based practices tailored to the needs of Chicago’s urban population.

What are the requirements for LPC license renewal in Chicago?

Maintaining licensure in Chicago mandates ongoing professional development and compliance with state regulations. LPCs must earn a prescribed number of continuing education credits per renewal cycle, covering areas such as ethics, legal updates, and cultural competence. Additionally, timely submission of renewal documentation and evidence of completed professional training is required by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. For detailed guidelines on the entire process, refer to how to become a mental health counselor in Chicago.

What LPCs in Chicago Say About Their Careers

Working as an LPC in Chicago has allowed me to deeply connect with diverse communities and witness tangible growth in my clients. Graduating from Loyola University Chicago gave me a strong foundation, and practicing here has sharpened my cultural competence in ways I never expected. The city's rich tapestry of stories fuels my passion to contribute meaningfully every day. - Maia
Chicago's unique urban challenges have pushed me to develop innovative therapeutic approaches, especially while working at a community mental health center on the South Side. The access to ongoing professional workshops and collaborations with local universities like UIC has greatly accelerated my career development. Balancing the fast-paced environment with my family life here feels manageable and rewarding. - Jameson
As a seasoned LPC nearing retirement, I appreciate Chicago’s steady demand for mental health professionals, which has provided job stability throughout my career. Earning my degree at DePaul University and practicing in various neighborhoods has been a continuous learning journey. I take pride in mentoring younger counselors and helping shape the future of therapy in this vibrant city.- Rosalie

Other Things You Should Know About Being an LPC in Chicago

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Chicago?

No, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently in Chicago. In Illinois, LPC Associates must work under the supervision of a licensed professional counselor or another qualified mental health provider. This supervised practice is mandatory until the associate completes the required hours for full licensure as an LPC.

LPCs in Illinois, including Chicago, can practice independently once fully licensed. However, they must adhere to state regulations, including continuing education and ethical standards. LPCs cannot diagnose or treat outside their scope, and maintaining supervision during the associate phase ensures competency and client safety.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Chicago?

To become an LPC in Chicago, your educational background plays a crucial role. Choosing the right undergraduate degree can set a strong foundation for graduate studies and licensure requirements. Here are three ideal programs to consider:

Psychology – Offered at the University of Illinois at Chicago, this program provides a solid understanding of human behavior and mental processes, essential for counseling practice.
Social Work – Available at Loyola University Chicago, social work emphasizes practical skills in client support and community resources, useful for LPC roles.
Human Services – Offered by DePaul University, this program focuses on direct client assistance and case management, aligning with counseling competencies required in Illinois.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Chicago?

Becoming an LPC in Chicago requires completing a master’s degree in counseling or a related field. Prospective students often seek accelerated programs to enter the workforce faster. Currently, Chicago does not offer many accelerated LPC programs specifically; however, some universities in nearby states like Indiana and Wisconsin provide accelerated tracks that can be completed in about 12 to 18 months.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Chicago?

Yes, there are telehealth counseling opportunities in Chicago for LPCs. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation supports telehealth services as a valid form of mental health care delivery. LPCs must comply with state laws, including maintaining licensure and adhering to telehealth-specific regulations, such as informed consent and confidentiality standards. Telehealth expands access to clients across the state, making it a practical option for many counseling professionals.

To pursue telehealth counseling in Chicago, LPCs should ensure their practice management systems are secure and HIPAA-compliant. Additionally, staying updated on Illinois telehealth policies and insurance reimbursement rules will help maintain compliance and maximize opportunities in this growing field.

References:

O*NET OnLine (2025). Illinois Employment Trends 21-1014.00 - Mental Health Counselors. Retrieved from https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/21-1014.00?st=IL
Statista (2016). Professional Mental Health Counselor Number U.S. 2016, by state. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com/statistics/813268/professional-mental-health-counselors-in-us-by-state/
US BLS (2024). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023 29-1129 Therapists, All Other. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes291129.htm