How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Colorado Springs, CO for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado Springs can be an exciting opportunity in a city with a rapidly growing need for mental health professionals. With increasing demand for counseling services, LPCs are positioned to make a significant impact on the community. To pursue this rewarding career, aspiring counselors must meet specific education, supervision, and examination requirements set by the state.

In this article, I will outline the essential steps, provide insights into key considerations, and explore factors such as career paths and salary expectations for LPCs in Colorado Springs.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers a strong demand for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) with supportive community mental health resources and a growing population.
The average salary for LPCs in Colorado Springs is approximately $55,000 to $65,000 annually, reflecting competitive compensation in the region.
Noteworthy employers include UCHealth Memorial Hospital, Colorado Springs Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Peak View Behavioral Health, all prominent local organizations hiring LPCs.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Colorado Springs?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Colorado Springs?
Which schools in Colorado Springs offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Colorado Springs?
How much do LPCs make in Colorado Springs?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Colorado Springs?
Is Colorado Springs a good place to work as an LPC?
Can specialized certifications enhance an LPC’s career in Colorado Springs?
What are the financial considerations for pursuing LPC licensure in Colorado Springs?
Can LPCs Expand Their Careers Into Teaching?
What professional development opportunities help LPCs excel in Colorado Springs?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Colorado Springs?
Are there counseling associations in Colorado Springs?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Colorado Springs?
Other Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Colorado Springs

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Colorado Springs?

Embarking on the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado Springs demands a blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience, carefully crafted to mold compassionate and competent mental health professionals. The journey is anchored in a solid educational foundation coupled with essential practical training. Below is a concise outline of the critical educational elements aspiring LPCs must fulfill in this region:

Master’s degree in counseling. Obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related discipline from an accredited program, ideally one recognized by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or a comparable authority.
Counseling coursework. Engage in specialized coursework covering key topics such as human development, counseling theories, group counseling dynamics, and ethical practices, all oriented toward clinical mental health counseling.
Supervised internship. Complete approximately 600 hours of supervised clinical internship during graduate studies, providing vital real-world counseling experience under professional supervision.
Program selection. Select graduate programs wisely, considering institutions that offer robust curricula aligned with licensure prerequisites.
State standards compliance. Meet state educational standards without unique local deviations, ensuring that training adheres to Colorado’s overarching requirements for clinical competence and ethical practice.

How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Colorado Springs?

To become a licensed counselor in Colorado Springs, candidates must navigate a well-defined counselor licensure application process Colorado Springs that ensures both competence and ethical practice. The journey begins with accumulating substantial supervised professional experience, a rite of passage that hones skills and grounds theory into practice. Specifically, applicants must complete 2,000 hours of supervised post-graduate experience within Colorado, verified by a licensed supervisor who understands the nuances of local regulations.

Once this foundation is laid, applicants submit their credentials and fees to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), a gatekeeper of standards and quality. The process also demands passing two critical exams: the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the Colorado Jurisprudence Exam, which together form a crucible testing both national competence and local legal and ethical knowledge. Alongside these steps, a criminal background check safeguards the integrity of the profession.

Maintaining the license is a continuous dance, requiring 40 hours of continuing education every two years, with state-mandated content ensuring counselors stay current and conscientious. This rigorous system reflects Colorado’s commitment to public safety and professional excellence in mental health care.

For those curious about broader career trajectories, exploring jobs in counseling psychology can illuminate paths beyond initial licensure, blending personal passion with professional possibilities.

Which schools in Colorado Springs offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

For those pursuing a path to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Colorado Springs, selecting the right educational program is a crucial first step. Several institutions in and near the city offer accredited counseling degrees designed to meet licensure standards and prepare students for the realities of clinical practice.

Exploring schools offering LPC programs in Colorado Springs reveals a handful of strong contenders. These programs emphasize ethical practice, counseling theories, and hands-on clinical experience, ensuring graduates are ready for professional challenges. Consider these notable options:

Colorado College. They offer a Master of Arts in Counseling focused on core competencies and accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a vital benchmark for LPC licensure.
University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). They provide a Master’s in Counseling with emphases in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling, also CACREP-accredited and aligned with LPC requirements.
Regis University in Denver. The university boasts a comprehensive Master of Arts in Counseling program with coursework in family therapy, substance abuse counseling, and multicultural counseling, accredited by CACREP.

For those curious about career trajectories beyond licensure, exploring addiction counselor degree careers can expand your understanding of counseling professions. These Colorado Springs counseling degree programs collectively offer rigorous training and accreditation, forming a solid foundation for future counselors aiming to serve diverse communities.

Based on the chart below, the majority of CACREP-accredited counseling programs are offered by public institutions (56.4%), suggesting a strong reliance on state-funded education for counselor training. The low percentage of private not-for-profit schools (1.8%) highlights limited availability in that sector, potentially narrowing options for students seeking alternative institutional models.

Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Colorado Springs?

For aspiring Licensed Professional Counselors in Colorado Springs, gaining hands-on experience is not just a checkbox—it’s a transformative journey into the heart of therapeutic practice. The city’s vibrant mental health community offers a spectrum of internships and practicums that immerse students in real-world clinical environments. These placements are gateways to refining skills, navigating diverse client needs, and meeting the state’s supervised practice requirements.

Here are some key internship opportunities that stand out:

Peak Vista Community Health Centers. Engage with underserved populations by conducting client intakes, facilitating counseling sessions, and assisting in case management under supervision.
Focus on the Family. Support family-oriented counseling initiatives, contribute to crisis response efforts, and help deliver psychoeducational programs in a nonprofit setting.
Penrose-St. Francis Health Services. Gain experience in outpatient mental health by performing assessments, crafting treatment strategies, and collaborating with multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

These internships act as crucibles for growth, blending academic knowledge with the unpredictable nuances of human experience, while also building networks that can open doors to future employment in Colorado Springs.

How much do LPCs make in Colorado Springs?

Embarking on a career as a licensed professional counselor in Colorado Springs invites a blend of opportunity and challenge shaped by the local landscape and professional demand. For those curious about the financial prospects, understanding the average LPC salary in Colorado Springs offers a practical glimpse into what lies ahead. This region’s LPC salaries typically range from $45,000 to $65,000 annually, with the median settling near $55,000. These figures mirror statewide trends yet tend to sit just below what’s common in larger urban hubs like Denver. Naturally, experience is a key variable—entry-level counselors earn closer to the starting point, while seasoned professionals with specialized certifications or niche expertise, such as trauma or substance abuse counseling, can command higher salaries.

Licensed professional counselor pay in Colorado Springs is also influenced by the employment setting. Those in private practices or healthcare organizations often see better compensation than their counterparts in nonprofits or public school systems. Moreover, LPCs who take on supervisory roles or develop unique specialties enhance their earning potential. Compared with related fields like social work or marriage and family therapy, LPCs enjoy competitive pay that reflects the depth of their training and licensure demands. For prospective students and professionals considering this path, exploring the best online masters in mental health counseling degree program can be a strategic step to boost credentials and future income prospects.

According to the chart below, therapists working in physician offices earn the highest average salary at $99,190, followed by those in specialized commercial industries. This suggests that industry type significantly affects salary, with medical and corporate environments typically offering higher compensation due to increased funding, billing rates, and the complexity of care provided.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Colorado Springs?

Embarking on the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado Springs is a journey deeply rooted in mentorship and hands-on experience. Beyond academic achievement, the state insists on a rigorous period of supervised practice, where budding therapists transform theory into meaningful client connections. This stage is where emerging counselors hone their craft under expert eyes.

The Colorado licensure process mandates accumulating 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised counseling, stretching over at least two years. This extended timeline encourages a steady immersion in diverse therapeutic scenarios rather than a rushed tally of hours. Candidates can dedicate up to 40 hours weekly to this supervised work, blending exposure with reflection.

Integral to this experience are a minimum of 100 hours spent in direct, face-to-face supervision. These sessions, whether one-on-one or in small groups, serve as the crucible for professional growth, guided by seasoned practitioners who hold valid LPC licenses themselves. Such mentorship ensures that new counselors not only build skills but also internalize the ethics and nuances of their role.

The supervised practice unfolds across a mosaic of settings—from bustling hospitals and community agencies to serene private practices and schools. This variety nurtures adaptability and breadth, preparing candidates to meet the complex emotional landscapes they will encounter. The supervisors’ expertise and credentials act as a beacon, shaping the next generation of capable, confident therapists in Colorado Springs.

Is Colorado Springs a good place to work as an LPC?

Choosing to build a career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado Springs means navigating a landscape rich with both opportunity and challenge. The city’s unique social fabric shapes the counseling field in ways that can deeply influence an LPC’s professional journey. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Colorado Springs a distinctive place for mental health practitioners:

Expanding Client Base. With a population that continues to grow, the demand for mental health support rises in tandem, promising an increasing pool of clients for counselors to engage with.
Economic Inequality Impact. While the city enjoys economic growth, disparities in income create obstacles for some residents seeking counseling, which can limit access and present challenges when serving lower-income clients.
Funding Fluctuations. State and local investments in mental health are subject to change, sometimes causing instability in public sector roles that many LPCs rely on, affecting job security and continuity of care.
Military Community Influence. The strong military presence introduces a specialized demand for therapists skilled in addressing issues like combat stress and trauma, carving out niches for LPCs with targeted expertise.

Can specialized certifications enhance an LPC’s career in Colorado Springs?

Specialized certifications allow LPCs to target niche areas of practice, addressing local community needs and signaling advanced expertise to employers and clients. In Colorado Springs, areas such as substance abuse counseling, trauma-focused therapy, and school-based counseling are increasingly in demand. Obtaining a specialty credential not only bolsters clinical skills but can also lead to improved compensation and career advancement. For example, professionals interested in substance abuse can learn more about achieving this focus by exploring how to become a drug counselor in Colorado Springs. This targeted approach enables LPCs to stand out in a competitive market while ensuring they remain adaptable to evolving regulatory and community health trends.

What are the financial considerations for pursuing LPC licensure in Colorado Springs?

Pursuing LPC licensure in Colorado Springs involves several financial commitments that prospective counselors must plan for carefully. These include tuition for accredited graduate programs, application and examination fees, costs associated with accumulating the required supervised practice hours, and expenses related to continuing education. For those exploring similar therapeutic paths, understanding the financial roadmap is crucial to long‐term professional planning. Prospective LPCs might also consider reviewing our guide on how to become a marriage and family therapist in Colorado Springs for additional insights into alternative career pathways and associated costs.

Can LPCs Expand Their Careers Into Teaching?

LPCs with extensive clinical experience may consider broadening their career paths by engaging in academic or training roles. Leveraging practical insights in mental health, these professionals can contribute to higher education or specialized training programs while maintaining active counseling practice. For those exploring a transition into education, reviewing the cheapest way to become a teacher in Colorado Springs can provide a cost-effective entry into the teaching field without compromising current professional pursuits.

What professional development opportunities help LPCs excel in Colorado Springs?

LPCs can benefit from diverse professional development initiatives that foster career advancement and enhance clinical expertise. Local conferences, specialized workshops, and mentorship programs provide avenues for networking and skill refinement in emerging areas such as telehealth and evidence-based therapy. Additionally, advanced certification courses and targeted training modules offered by universities and independent training organizations further support lifelong learning. For a comprehensive guide on specialized training and growth strategies, consult how to become a mental health counselor in Colorado Springs.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Colorado Springs?

The job market for licensed therapists in Colorado Springs moves with a steady pulse—less congested than Denver’s rush hour but lively enough to keep professionals on their toes. For those wondering how competitive the licensed therapist job market in Colorado Springs really is, the answer lies in a blend of opportunity and challenge. Here's why:

Steady growth in mental health service demand. Mental health awareness is blooming, and with it, the demand for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) rises steadily.
Less saturated but competitive market compared to Denver or Boulder. Compared to sprawling metropolitan hubs, Colorado Springs offers a somewhat less saturated environment, yet competition remains real due to an influx of qualified counselors eager to serve this growing community.
Influence of military and community factors on job availability. Military presence and local dynamics add a unique layer, increasing the need for specialized counseling services.
Licensure as a key requirement for better job prospects and pay. Therapists without an LPC license often find themselves navigating a narrower path, facing fewer job openings and lower salary offers since many employers require licensure for independent practice.

To thrive in this evolving market, prospective counselors might consider sharpening their skills or acquiring certifications that set them apart. Exploring avenues like the most affordable online counseling degrees can also be a strategic move toward gaining credentials efficiently.

most common educational attainment of LPCs

Are there counseling associations in Colorado Springs?

For licensed professional counselor associations, Colorado Springs offers a rich tapestry of groups that weave together community, education, and advocacy. These organizations are vital for anyone navigating the complex journey of becoming a licensed therapist.

Colorado Counseling Association (CCA). This cornerstone organization serves mental health professionals statewide. Its members, primarily licensed professional counselors (LPCs), benefit from conferences, workshops, and timely advocacy efforts. The CCA is a hub for those seeking updated licensing information and peer connections within Colorado Springs and beyond.
Colorado Psychological Association (CPA). While broadly catering to psychologists, CPA warmly includes counseling professionals in its fold. It emphasizes professional development, ethical practice, and legislative advocacy, crucial for LPCs deciphering Colorado’s regulatory landscape. Annual meetings and specialized training keep therapists aligned with evidence-based practices.
American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA). A national powerhouse with a strong Colorado presence, AMHCA zeroes in on licensed mental health counselors. Its offerings include certification programs, clinical resources, and dual-level advocacy. Membership here boosts professional credibility and supplies practical tools for career advancement in Colorado Springs.

Engaging with these counseling networks and groups in Colorado Springs is not just about affiliation; it’s about immersion in a professional ecosystem that nurtures growth, innovation, and adherence to evolving standards. For those curious about the pathways and opportunities that a psychology counseling degree can unlock, exploring careers with psychology counseling degree through resources like careers with psychology counseling degree can illuminate the journey ahead.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Colorado Springs?

In the vibrant mental health ecosystem of Colorado Springs, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) find themselves woven into a tapestry of impactful roles. Diverse settings beckon, each shaping the therapeutic journey in unique ways. Here’s a glimpse into some of the leading employers where LPCs craft their professional narratives:

Penrose-St. Francis Health Services. This bustling hub is where LPCs act as integral mental health therapists embedded within multidisciplinary teams. They navigate the delicate dance of individual and group therapy, crisis management, and seamless collaboration with physicians and psychologists to nurture patients’ emotional resilience.
Colorado Springs Counseling Center. This private practice pulses with intimate outpatient counseling, where LPCs wear the hats of therapists and clinical counselors. Their mission revolves around guiding clients through the labyrinth of anxiety, depression, and trauma, crafting personalized treatment blueprints, and deploying evidence-based strategies across age groups and family dynamics.
Peak Vista Community Health Centers. LPCs here are frontline screeners and brief therapy providers, champions of holistic wellness who synchronize efforts with healthcare peers to deliver comprehensive mental health support.

What LPCs in Colorado Springs Say About Their Careers

"Pursuing my LPC license in Colorado Springs allowed me to deeply connect with a community that values mental health as much as I do. Working at Springs Family Counseling, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the city’s blend of urban and natural settings helps clients feel grounded in their healing journeys. Graduating from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs gave me the tools I needed, and every day here feels like an opportunity to grow alongside those I serve." - Maya
"The unique challenges of counseling in Colorado Springs, with its diverse population and proximity to military families, have broadened my clinical skills in ways I never expected. After earning my LPC through Colorado Christian University, I took advantage of the city’s abundant professional development workshops and networking events, which have been vital for advancing my career. The balance between professional growth and the area’s outdoor lifestyle has truly enriched my approach to therapy." - Daniel
"As a seasoned LPC nearing retirement, I appreciate how Colorado Springs offers a manageable cost of living that supports a healthy work-life balance—especially important for raising my family while maintaining a private practice. Starting out after completing my degree at Regis University, I found this community welcoming and stable, with ample opportunities to collaborate with schools and nonprofits. My passion now lies in mentoring new counselors entering this rewarding field." - Elena

Other Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Colorado Springs

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Colorado Springs?

No, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently in Colorado Springs. They must work under the supervision of a fully licensed professional while accruing the required hours and experience. This supervised period ensures that associates develop the necessary skills and ethical standards before stepping into solo practice.

Colorado’s regulations emphasize client safety and professional accountability. Even licensed LPCs face limitations, such as restrictions on prescribing medication and specific requirements for continuing education. These rules create a balanced environment where therapists grow responsibly within the community.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Colorado Springs?

Embarking on the path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado Springs begins with selecting the right academic foundation. Certain undergraduate degrees set the stage for graduate studies and licensure success. Psychology provides an in-depth understanding of human behavior, preparing students for advanced counseling methods.

Human Services equips students with practical skills in support and advocacy, which are essential for client-centered therapy. Social Work combines theory and fieldwork, offering a holistic understanding of community and individual needs, and is crucial for fostering effective counseling practices. Each of these programs aligns well with Colorado’s LPC requirements and provides the necessary preparation for a successful counseling career.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Colorado Springs?

Colorado Springs offers several pathways to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), but if you’re hunting for accelerated LPC programs, the local scene is sparse. Currently, no schools within Colorado Springs provide truly expedited LPC tracks. However, ambitious students might explore options in nearby Denver or Fort Collins, where some universities offer accelerated or streamlined counseling programs. Alternatively, online accelerated LPC programs approved for Colorado licensure expand opportunities beyond city limits, enabling faster entry into the profession without relocating.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Colorado Springs?

Yes, telehealth counseling opportunities do exist in Colorado Springs, reflecting a broader national trend toward digital mental health services. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Colorado can provide therapy via virtual platforms, expanding access to clients who may face geographic or mobility barriers. The state's regulations support telehealth practices, provided counselors adhere to confidentiality standards and maintain proper licensure within Colorado.

For aspiring LPCs, embracing telehealth means adapting to new technologies and ethical considerations unique to online therapy. Colorado Springs’ growing demand for mental health services, combined with telehealth’s convenience, offers a promising landscape for counselors ready to innovate beyond traditional office walls.

References:

Banyantree Counseling Organization in Colorado Springs. (n.d.). Banyantree. https://banyantreecounseling.org/

Colorado Counseling Association. (n.d.). Home. https://www.coloradocounselingassociation.org/
Divisions of Professions and Occupations. (n.d.). Professional counselor home. State of Colorado. https://dpo.colorado.gov/ProfessionalCounselor
Farmer, J. (n.d.). Healing and recovery are possible — Jeff Farmer, MA, LPC, NCC: Counseling & therapy in Colorado Springs. Mountainwell Therapy. https://mountainwelltherapy.com/

Find Therapist Jobs. (n.d.). Child adolescent mental health therapist LPC LCSW LMFT outpatient private practice. https://careers.lifestance.com/jobs/therapist/co/colorado-springs/child-adolescent-mental-health-therapist-lpc-lcsw-lmft-outpatient-private-practice/

Intermountain Counseling | Colorado Springs Therapy. (n.d.). Intermountain Counseling. https://www.intermountaincounseling.com/

Mental Health Jobs Recruiter. (n.d.). Child therapist - LPC licensed professional counselor job in Colorado Springs, CO. https://jobs.wsijobs.com/index.smpl