How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Garland, TX, for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Garland requires meeting specific state requirements set by Texas, where Garland is located. The city’s growing demand for mental health services reflects a positive job outlook for counseling professionals. For aspiring LPCs, understanding local licensure standards and the counseling landscape is essential to launching a successful career.

This article will walk you through the steps and requirements for becoming a licensed counselor in the Garland. Through research and expert insight, it will help you make informed decisions to jumpstart a successful career as an LPC in the city.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Garland, TX

Garland offers a supportive community and growing demand for licensed professional counselors, making it an excellent location to establish a counseling practice.
LPCs in Garland typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, reflecting competitive compensation in the region.
Noteworthy employers include Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, and local mental health clinics serving Garland and nearby Dallas County.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Garland?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Garland?
Which schools in Garland offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Garland?
How much do LPCs make in Garland?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Garland?
How Can LPCs in Garland Enhance Their Professional Development?
How can I specialize in substance abuse counseling in Garland?
Can LPCs Transition to a Marriage and Family Therapist Role in Garland?
Can LPCs Benefit from Complementary Teaching Credentials in Garland?
Is Garland a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Garland?
Are there counseling associations in Garland?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Garland?
How Can I Start My Own LPC Private Practice in Garland?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Garland

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

How to become a counselor in Garland requires meeting educational benchmarks largely shaped by state regulations rather than local mandates. While Garland itself does not set distinct academic criteria, aspiring counselors must align with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors’ standards. The pathway demands a blend of formal education and practical experience, highlighting both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills. Below is a summary of the essential educational prerequisites to consider:

Completion of a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related discipline from a regionally accredited university, ensuring that the program adheres to recognized academic quality.
Coursework encompassing fundamental counseling domains such as human development, ethical practice, counseling theories, assessment techniques, and research methodology, which form the backbone of competent professional practice.
Engagement in supervised practicum and internship experiences, typically amounting to a minimum of 3,000 hours of direct client interaction, reflecting a statewide consistency in training expectations.
Enrollment in programs that emphasize both academic rigor and extensive hands-on clinical training, a combination critical for developing effective counseling competencies.
Consideration of nearby institutions like the University of Texas at Dallas and Texas Woman’s University, which, although outside Garland city limits, offer reputable master’s programs tailored to meet these requirements.

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

Applicants for LPC license in Garland, Texas, must navigate a structured licensure process managed by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. This ensures that all candidates meet the professional standards necessary to provide competent counseling services within the state.

The steps to apply for LPC licensure in Garland include:

Complete the required supervised experience hours post-graduation, which typically involves at least 3,000 hours over a minimum of 18 months under the supervision of a board-approved licensed professional.
Submit an application to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, including all necessary documentation such as proof of supervised experience and professional references.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), mandatory for licensure in Texas.
Complete the Texas Jurisprudence Exam, which tests knowledge of state laws and rules relevant to counseling practice.
Undergo a background check and submit fingerprints as required by the state to ensure ethical and legal compliance.

Applicants should be aware that Texas enforces specific rules regarding supervision and examination that must be followed precisely. While the process in Garland mirrors the general state procedure, attention to Texas-specific regulations remains essential. The steps to become a licensed counselor in Garland Texas require careful preparation of all documentation and adherence to deadlines set by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council.

It is worth questioning whether the current supervised experience hour requirements and examination formats adequately prepare counselors for the diverse challenges they will face in practice. Some argue that more practical training or alternative assessment models might better reflect real-world counseling complexities. Nonetheless, compliance with these standards remains mandatory.

For those exploring jobs in counseling, understanding the licensure journey in Garland is a foundational step toward a professional career in mental health services.

What is the most common major pursued by LPCs?

Which schools in Garland offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

Students seeking licensed professional counselor programs in Garland must often look beyond the city limits to find comprehensive educational offerings. Garland counseling degree schools are limited locally, but several nearby institutions provide strong pathways toward LPC licensure.

Here are key programs accessible to Garland residents:

The University of Texas at Dallas offers a Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP)-accredited Master’s in Counseling, covering human development, counseling techniques, and ethical practice. Located just a short drive from Garland, it is a well-regarded choice for those prioritizing accreditation.
Texas Woman’s University in Denton features a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program emphasizing clinical skills and intervention methods. This program is also CACREP-accredited, ensuring adherence to rigorous counseling education standards.
Amberton University, located in Garland, provides a Master of Science in Counseling geared toward working professionals. Although not CACREP-accredited, it aligns coursework with Texas LPC licensure requirements, offering a practical alternative for local students.

Choosing the right program often involves weighing accreditation against convenience and cost. While CACREP accreditation is widely respected, some students may find non-accredited programs sufficient depending on their career goals. For those exploring career options, comparing social work vs counseling salary can provide additional insight into long-term professional outcomes.

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

For counseling students aiming to become LPCs in Garland, practical experience is a crucial component of their training. Internship and practicum placements not only fulfill supervised hour requirements but also provide exposure to diverse client populations and therapeutic settings. Below are some key organizations in Garland offering such opportunities, each with unique clinical environments and learning outcomes.

These placements allow students to translate classroom theory into clinical practice, but it’s worth considering how varying settings might shape a counselor’s approach and skill set differently. Students may find that some environments emphasize crisis management while others focus on long-term therapy or community outreach, raising questions about the breadth versus depth of their training experience.

Garland Independent School District – supports student mental health through counseling, crisis response, and academic advisement.
Garland Family Services Center – provides therapy for individuals and families dealing with trauma, substance abuse, and other challenges, involving client evaluation and treatment facilitation.
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – offers hospital-based behavioral health internships, where interns assist multidisciplinary teams managing chronic illness and psychological adjustment.

How much do LPCs make in Garland?

Pursuing a career as a licensed therapist in Garland involves understanding both the educational pathway and the financial outlook of the profession. For those considering this career, it's important to examine how salaries align with local demand and experience. The licensed therapist salary Garland professionals earn reflects various factors including employer type and years of practice.

LPCs in Garland typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. This range is consistent with average LPC earnings in Garland Texas and mirrors the broader Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area, where salaries generally fall between $48,000 and $70,000. Entry-level counselors usually start near the lower end, while those with extensive experience, certifications, or supervisory responsibilities may reach or exceed the higher end of the spectrum and become the highest paid counselors.

Salary variations are influenced by the employer’s nature. LPCs employed in private practices or healthcare organizations in Garland often receive higher pay compared to those working for non-profit agencies or government programs, which might offer more modest salaries but include benefits like loan repayment options. Additionally, school counselors and mental health counselors tend to earn somewhat less than those in clinical or hospital settings, reflecting differences in job scope and funding sources. For those exploring advancement, gaining specialized training can be critical, and resources for pursuing a therapist degree online may provide flexible paths to enhance qualifications and earning potential.

Given Garland’s growth, demand for qualified mental health providers is rising, which could positively influence salary trends. However, it remains essential to critically assess assumptions about income stability and consider how evolving healthcare landscapes and educational credentials impact long-term career prospects.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Garland?

For those aiming to become LPCs in Garland, Texas, meeting supervision requirements is a crucial step in the licensure process. The state sets clear standards to ensure candidates gain practical experience under professional oversight. Understanding these guidelines can help prospective therapists plan their path effectively.

Applicants must accumulate a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, a mandate established by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. This experience must span at least 18 months, which raises questions about the balance between time and quality of supervision. While this duration intends to promote comprehensive skill development, some might wonder if flexibility in timeframe could better accommodate diverse learning paces.

The supervised hours are not confined to a single type of setting; rather, candidates can earn experience in various environments such as mental health clinics, hospitals, private practices, community organizations, or school counseling programs. This variety aims to expose candidates to multiple facets of counseling, yet it also prompts consideration of how different settings might impact the depth and relevance of supervision.

Supervision must be provided by an LPC supervisor or a similarly licensed mental health professional who meets state criteria. Typically, candidates engage in regular, often weekly, supervision sessions where clinical work is reviewed and professional growth is supported. This structured approach underscores the importance of ongoing feedback, yet it also invites reflection on how supervision quality and frequency influence readiness for independent practice.

How Can LPCs in Garland Enhance Their Professional Development?

LPCs seeking sustained career growth should explore strategies that extend beyond initial licensure. In addition to mentorship programs and tailored continuing education courses, professionals can benefit from targeted certifications and specialized training that address emerging clinical methodologies and regulatory changes. Evaluating industry trends through local seminars and networking events further refines therapeutic skills and contributes to long-term success. For more detailed guidance on foundational steps and advanced strategies, review how to become a therapist in Garland.

How can I specialize in substance abuse counseling in Garland?

LPCs seeking to address addiction-related challenges can enhance their careers by pursuing specialized training and certification in substance abuse counseling. Garland offers access to accredited courses and practicum opportunities that focus on the nuances of addiction treatment, enabling professionals to build targeted clinical skills. For a detailed guide on the pathway, review how to become a drug counselor in Garland. This specialization not only broadens service offerings but also meets the growing demand for comprehensive behavioral health solutions in the community.

Can LPCs Transition to a Marriage and Family Therapist Role in Garland?

Licensed Professional Counselors in Garland may leverage their clinical experience to transition into marriage and family therapy—a specialization that focuses on relational and family dynamics. This shift involves meeting additional certification requirements and adapting therapeutic approaches to align with the distinct practices of marriage and family therapy. LPCs considering this pathway should evaluate how their current credentialing and clinical hours fit into the new disciplinary framework and whether supplemental courses or supervised experiences are necessary. For comprehensive guidance on the procedural and educational adjustments required, refer to how to become a marriage and family therapist in Garland.

Can LPCs Benefit from Complementary Teaching Credentials in Garland?

LPCs looking to diversify their career options may consider acquiring teaching credentials to work in educational settings where integrated counseling and academic support are valued. This approach can open pathways to roles in school counseling, community education programs, and collaborative mental health initiatives within academic institutions. For professionals evaluating cost-effective options, exploring the cheapest way to become a teacher in Garland can provide a strategic advantage without duplicating their core counseling expertise.

Is Garland a good place to work as an LPC?

Deciding whether Garland is a suitable location to establish a career as an LPC involves weighing several socioeconomic and professional factors. While the city offers promising prospects, it also presents certain challenges that require consideration. Below are key points to understand the local environment for LPCs.

Diverse and expanding population: Garland’s increasing cultural variety fosters demand for counselors skilled in addressing different backgrounds, which can broaden an LPC’s client base and professional experience.
Economic disparities: Some areas within Garland face financial difficulties, potentially limiting clients’ ability to afford services and affecting an LPC’s caseload consistency and payment methods.
Access to regional healthcare systems: Being part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area connects Garland LPCs to extensive healthcare networks, facilitating referrals and collaborative opportunities that may enhance career growth.
Regulatory landscape and telehealth growth: Texas licensing rules shape LPC practices, with recent policies encouraging telehealth. This trend allows for innovative service delivery but also increases competition among providers.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Garland?

The LPC job market in Garland is competitive but holds promise due to Garland’s proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. This region experiences a growing demand for mental health professionals as awareness of mental health issues expands and healthcare access improves. Garland offers more opportunities for LPCs than many smaller Texas cities, particularly in community mental health centers, schools, and private practices. However, competition remains strong as many candidates pursue licensure to meet demand.

Therapists without a license often encounter limited job prospects and lower pay, since many employers prefer or require licensure for clinical roles. Factors driving demand in Garland include population growth, state initiatives to improve mental health services, and increased insurance coverage for counseling. Compared to larger urban centers like Houston or Austin, Garland’s market is less saturated but still challenging for new LPCs. Candidates may need to demonstrate specialized skills or experience to secure positions in this evolving landscape.

Key points to consider about Garland LPC employment opportunities include:

The competitive nature of the job market despite growing demand
The importance of obtaining licensure for better employment and pay prospects
The influence of local demographics and state policies on job availability

For those weighing their educational options, is getting masters in counseling worth it? Exploring your options can provide valuable insight into long-term career benefits in this field.

Is there a demand for counselors in the next 10 years?

Are there counseling associations in Garland?

Licensed therapists in Garland have several professional associations available that support their growth and advocacy efforts. These organizations not only help with networking but also provide resources tailored to the state’s counseling regulations and community needs. Exploring these associations can be vital for those wondering if there are counseling organizations in Garland Texas that truly address local professional requirements.

Texas Counseling Association (TCA): Serving professionals statewide from its Austin headquarters, TCA is a key organization for licensed professional counselors in Garland. It offers continuing education opportunities, legislative updates specific to LPC licensure in Texas, and various networking events. Members benefit from resources that align closely with local counseling laws and the evolving needs of Texas communities.
American Counseling Association (ACA): With a broad national presence including Garland members, ACA promotes the professional identity of counselors through research, ethics, and advocacy. It provides access to conferences, publications, and special interest groups that enrich the skills and knowledge of therapists pursuing specialization. This association serves as a platform for licensed therapists looking to engage with a wider professional community.
Texas Psychological Association (TPA): While primarily for psychologists, TPA’s interdisciplinary workshops and events are relevant for LPCs interested in deepening their understanding of psychological assessment and treatment. Garland therapists can expand their perspectives and collaborative opportunities by participating in TPA activities, bridging counseling and clinical psychology.

Joining these associations not only helps Garland therapists fulfill continuing education requirements but also connects them to a community dedicated to advancing mental health services.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Garland?

LPCs in Garland find employment across various sectors, each offering unique roles that leverage their counseling expertise. While some might assume clinical settings dominate the job market, educational and nonprofit organizations also provide significant opportunities. Examining the most common employers reveals the diversity of environments where LPCs can practice.

Garland Independent School District: LPCs here frequently work as school counselors or mental health specialists, supporting students through individual and group sessions, addressing behavioral challenges, and collaborating with educators and families to foster supportive learning atmospheres.
Texas Health Resources: This healthcare system, including Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital, employs LPCs primarily as clinical counselors or behavioral health therapists. Their duties involve patient assessments, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, often within interdisciplinary medical teams.
The Family Place: As a nonprofit focused on aiding survivors of domestic violence, this organization hires LPCs as crisis counselors and case managers. These professionals provide trauma-informed therapy, develop safety plans, and connect clients with essential community resources to support recovery and safety.

How Can I Start My Own LPC Private Practice in Garland?

For LPCs considering independent practice in Garland, understanding local business regulations and establishing compliant operational procedures is essential. Focus on securing the necessary business licenses, selecting a strategic location, and ensuring adherence to Texas state requirements for client confidentiality and ethical practice. Develop a comprehensive business plan that addresses market analysis, financial strategies, and client acquisition. Additionally, consider incorporating targeted training in practice management and regulatory updates to facilitate a smooth transition from supervised roles to private practice. For in‐depth guidance on aligning licensure with independent practice achievements, review how to become a mental health counselor in Garland.

Here's What LPCs in Garland Have to Say About Their Careers

Working as an LPC in Garland has allowed me to witness firsthand the resilience of our community. Graduating from the University of North Texas, I now practice at a local counseling center where I focus on trauma recovery. The strong sense of connection here fuels my passion and continuously encourages my personal growth. Mae
The diversity of Garland’s population presents unique challenges and opportunities that have sharpened my clinical skills. Since joining a mental health clinic downtown after earning my degree from Texas Woman’s University, I’ve appreciated the city's commitment to accessible care and the professional development workshops available to therapists like me. Jarvis
Balancing family life with my counseling career in Garland feels achievable thanks to the city’s affordable living and supportive community networks. As a seasoned LPC working in a school district here, I value the stability and career advancement options that let me grow professionally while prioritizing my personal life. Claire

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Garland

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Garland?

In Garland, Texas, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently. By state law, LPC Associates must work under the supervision of a fully licensed professional while completing required post-graduate hours. This rule ensures clients receive competent care while counselors gain experience, but it also limits an associate’s ability to establish independent practice or take full responsibility for clinical decisions.

While this supervisory requirement might seem restrictive, it serves as a safeguard for both clients and practitioners. However, it raises questions about the balance between gaining independence and ensuring quality. Prospective LPCs should consider how these state regulations influence their career trajectory in Garland.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Garland?

Becoming an LPC in Garland requires specific educational credentials. While a graduate degree in counseling is mandatory, the choice of an undergraduate major can influence your preparedness and career trajectory. Some degrees align more directly with counseling principles, but alternative paths might also offer valuable skills.

Psychology – Offered at the University of Texas at Dallas, this major provides foundational knowledge of human behavior and mental processes essential for counseling.
Social Work – Available at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, this program emphasizes community resources and client advocacy, complementing LPC practice.
Human Development and Family Studies – Offered by Texas A&M University-Commerce, it focuses on lifespan development and family dynamics, critical to many therapeutic approaches.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Garland?

Prospective LPCs in Garland often seek accelerated programs to enter the profession more quickly. However, Garland itself does not currently offer specifically accelerated LPC programs. Students may consider nearby cities such as Dallas or Fort Worth, where some institutions provide expedited tracks or flexible scheduling. Alternatively, online accelerated programs accredited in Texas present practical options. It is important to evaluate program quality and licensure requirements carefully rather than assume faster completion always ensures better preparation or licensure success.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Garland?

Telehealth counseling opportunities in Garland have grown, especially since regulatory changes expanded remote mental health services. Many LPCs in Garland now offer telehealth sessions, allowing greater flexibility for clients and therapists alike. However, the availability of telehealth can vary depending on insurance coverage and specific practice settings, so it is important for prospective LPCs to understand both state regulations and payer policies regarding telehealth.

While telehealth broadens access, some argue it may not fully replace in-person therapy due to nuances in communication and client comfort. For LPCs in Garland, balancing telehealth and traditional counseling requires careful consideration of ethical standards, technological competence, and client needs, making it a dynamic but promising area of practice.

References:

Garland Alternative Education Center. (n.d.). Counseling. GAEC.
Garland Independent School District. (n.d.). Counseling Services. GISD.
Garland Independent School District. (n.d.). Guidance & Counseling. GSID.
Kelly, S. (2024, March 15). Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. Cliffs Notes.
Monti, J. (2025, April 4). Counseling License Requirements In Texas. Psychology.org.
Remnant Counselor Collective. (2025, January 9). Texas LPC Licensure Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide for Counselors. remnantcounselorcollective.com.