How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Long Beach CA: Counselor License Requirements for 2025

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Pursuing a career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Long Beach offers strong prospects in a fast-growing field. National employment for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 16.2% through 2033—well above average. Long Beach, as part of the Los Angeles metro area, ranks high in the nation for employment in this profession, with over 12,000 therapists working locally.

This guide, prepared by experts in career planning, outlines the key steps to becoming an LPC in California—helping aspiring counselors navigate education, supervision, and licensing requirements to launch a successful career in one of the country’s top regions for mental health professionals.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Long Beach

Long Beach offers diverse clinical settings and a supportive mental health community, making it an ideal location for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) to grow their practice.
The average salary for LPCs in Long Beach ranges from $72,000 to $143,000 annually, reflecting competitive compensation within California’s mental health field.
Noteworthy employers include Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, Community Hospital Long Beach, and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Long Beach?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Long Beach?
Which schools in Long Beach offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Long Beach?
How much do LPCs make in Long Beach?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Long Beach?
How can LPCs specialize in substance abuse counseling in Long Beach?
How can LPCs access advanced training and mentorship programs in Long Beach?
What are the continuing education and license renewal requirements for LPCs in Long Beach?
What future trends will impact LPC careers in Long Beach?
Is Long Beach a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Long Beach?
Are there counseling associations in Long Beach?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Long Beach?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Long Beach

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Long Beach?

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Long Beach, you must meet California’s educational requirements, which emphasize both academic rigor and hands-on clinical training. While licensure standards are set at the state level, local programs often tailor training to reflect the cultural and socioeconomic diversity of the Long Beach community.

Key educational requirements include:

Earning a master’s degree in counseling or a related field such as clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, or social work.
Completing graduate-level coursework in counseling theories, human development, psychopathology, and professional ethics.
 Participating in supervised clinical training that integrates academic learning with real-world experience. Students must complete a minimum of 300 supervised clinical hours during their graduate studies.
 Gaining exposure to a diverse client population, which is especially important in a community as varied as Long Beach.

Although Long Beach has limited LPC-specific programs, nearby schools like California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) offer strong counseling curricula that combine theory with practical training. These programs are designed to prepare future counselors for the complex needs of the local population. For those considering advanced programs, consider the most popular masters programs in mental health counseling.

How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Long Beach?

While the requirements align with statewide standards, Long Beach’s diverse population and local mental health demands add unique considerations. After completing the necessary educational prerequisites, the licensure process begins with the LPCC Associate registration, which authorizes applicants to start accumulating supervised clinical hours.

The counselor licensure process Long Beach requires a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised experience over at least two years. Of these, at least 1,750 hours must involve direct client counseling under supervision by a BBS-approved supervisor. This extensive practical training is essential to ensure competency and readiness for independent practice.

Applicants must also pass the California Law and Ethics Exam, demonstrating knowledge of state-specific legal and ethical standards. Following this, candidates take either the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) or the National Counselor Examination (NCE), depending on current requirements. These exams assess clinical knowledge and decision-making critical to professional practice.

Finally, candidates submit their LPC licensure application with documentation of supervised hours, exam results, and a background check. Long Beach agencies often value multilingual skills and cultural competence, reflecting the city’s rich demographic diversity. For those considering further education, exploring a masters in clinical mental health can provide deeper insight into advanced counseling techniques and specialization options.

Which schools in Long Beach offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

Aspiring Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) have strong academic options to begin or advance their careers in counseling. Two local institutions provide relevant pathways depending on your current level of education.

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

CSULB offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology designed to meet California’s licensure requirements for both LPCC and LMFT credentials. The program emphasizes trauma-informed care, multicultural counseling, substance abuse treatment, and family systems therapy. Students can choose between two-year and 2.5-year program tracks, with classes held in the evenings and some weekends to accommodate working professionals. The curriculum includes both in-person and synchronous online formats, ensuring flexibility without sacrificing quality.

CSULB’s program is approved by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and provides the academic and clinical training needed to pursue licensure in California.

Long Beach City College (LBCC)

LBCC offers an Associate in Arts in Psychology for Transfer (AA-T), which provides a foundational understanding of psychology and prepares students to transfer to a four-year university such as CSULB. This route offers a cost-effective way to begin your educational journey toward LPCC licensure.

Together, CSULB and LBCC provide a comprehensive, local path—from undergraduate preparation to graduate-level licensure training—for those pursuing a career in counseling in Long Beach.

Prospective students interested in universities offering LPC degrees in Long Beach may also benefit from exploring related fields. For example, an addiction counseling degree can complement LPC qualifications and expand professional opportunities. This broader perspective encourages critical evaluation of available counseling pathways and licensure strategies.

Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Long Beach?

Yes, there are several internship and practicum opportunities for counseling students. These programs provide essential hands-on experience and are often integrated into academic curricula.

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)

CSULB's Counseling Psychology program requires students to complete a total of 500 hours of supervised experience: 150 hours in a practicum (COUN 609) and 350 hours in fieldwork courses (COUN 643D & 644D). These placements occur both on-site at CSULB’s Community Clinic and off-site at approved nonprofit agencies. Students engage in diverse clinical settings, gaining experience with various populations and issues.

VA Long Beach Healthcare System

The VA Long Beach Healthcare System offers a part-time practicum program for psychology doctoral students from select accredited institutions. The program focuses on generalist training, providing supervised clinical experiences in a healthcare setting. Applications for the 2025–2026 training year are due by January 17, 2025.

WomenShelter of Long Beach

WomenShelter provides internship opportunities for students interested in case management and crisis intervention related to domestic violence. Interns must undergo a background check, TB testing, and civil rights training. The program offers practical experience in a nonprofit setting focused on supporting survivors of domestic abuse.

The LGBTQ Center Long Beach

The LGBTQ Center offers mental health internships for graduate students or post-graduate trainees. Interns receive clinical supervision and engage in direct therapy practices, including individual, couples, family, and group therapy. The program emphasizes LGBTQ+ affirmative and trauma-informed care.

How much do LPCs make in Long Beach?

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) earn an average salary of about $101,500 per year. This is higher than the national average for this role, reflecting the city’s strong demand for mental health professionals and its high cost of living. Entry-level LPCs typically start around $72,000, while experienced counselors or those in specialized areas like trauma or substance abuse can earn up to $143,000 annually.

Salaries vary depending on experience, employer type, and area of focus. Private practices and healthcare systems often pay more than nonprofit or school-based positions. Long Beach also ranks competitively among California cities for LPC pay—just behind places like Bakersfield and San Jose, and slightly below Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Additional certifications, bilingual skills, and dual licensure (such as holding both LPCC and LMFT credentials) may boost earning potential. Overall, LPCs in Long Beach benefit from both a diverse client base and a robust job market that supports continued growth in compensation.

Those interested in advancing their qualifications might explore educational paths such as a Christian counseling degree online, which can complement practical nursing experience and open doors to specialized counseling roles.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Long Beach?

To become a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Long Beach, California, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience over a minimum of two years. These hours should be accrued while registered as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).

The supervised experience must include at least 1,750 hours of direct counseling with individuals, groups, couples, or families. The remaining 1,250 hours can involve non-clinical activities such as client advocacy, consultation, and supervision-related tasks.

Supervision must occur weekly, with a minimum of one hour of individual or two hours of group supervision in any week where experience is gained. Supervisors must be licensed mental health professionals (e.g., LPCC, LMFT, LCSW, LEP, licensed psychologist, or board-certified psychiatrist) with at least two years of clinical experience in the past five years and must complete a minimum of 15 hours of supervision training within 60 days of commencing supervision. Candidates have up to six years to complete the required supervised hours and must pass the California Law and Ethics Exam during this period to maintain their APCC registration.

How can LPCs specialize in substance abuse counseling in Long Beach?

Licensed Professional Counselors looking to advance their careers can consider pursuing specialized training in substance abuse treatment. This additional focus not only enhances clinical expertise in managing addiction-related challenges but also meets the increasing demand for targeted intervention services within the community. Dedicated coursework, focused workshops, and certification programs tailored to substance abuse counseling provide practical strategies and advanced therapeutic techniques. Interested professionals may review resources on how to become a drug counselor in Long Beach for further guidance on entering this specialization.

How can LPCs access advanced training and mentorship programs in Long Beach?

Local professionals can leverage structured development initiatives available through regional organizations and academic institutions. These programs offer targeted workshops, specialized clinical training sessions, and mentorship pairings that promote skill enhancement and leadership growth. Opportunities include focused seminars on innovative therapeutic techniques and emerging practices tailored to the local cultural landscape. For further guidance on entering a specialized clinical role, review how to become a marriage and family therapist in Long Beach.

What are the continuing education and license renewal requirements for LPCs in Long Beach?

Licensed Professional Counselors must periodically renew their licenses to ensure they remain updated with evolving clinical practices, legal standards, and ethical considerations. In California, renewal typically requires the completion of 36 hours of continuing education per cycle, with a specific allocation for ethics and cultural competence. Applicants must compile and submit proof of their completed coursework along with a renewal application and fee by the designated deadline established by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. Professionals seeking to expand their career options and integrate complementary credentialing strategies might also explore the cheapest way to become a teacher in Long Beach to broaden their professional expertise.

What future trends will impact LPC careers in Long Beach?

Emerging trends—such as the accelerated integration of telehealth and digital tools—are redefining service delivery models for mental health professionals in Long Beach. Regulatory adjustments and evolving reimbursement frameworks are likely to influence clinical practices and treatment protocols. Additionally, the growing emphasis on cultural competence and specialized training is anticipated to further refine care approaches tailored to the city’s diverse community. Professionals seeking to stay ahead in the field should consider exploring targeted certifications and educational resources, including how to become a mental health counselor in Long Beach, to enhance career prospects in this evolving landscape.

Is Long Beach a good place to work as an LPC?

Yes, Long Beach is considered a strong location for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) due to its diverse population, high demand for mental health services, and competitive salaries. As part of the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, it ranks #1 in the U.S. for employment of marriage and family therapists, with over 12,400 professionals employed in the field—highlighting the region’s robust mental health workforce.

Long Beach offers a wide range of job settings, from hospitals and schools to nonprofit organizations and private practices. The city’s demographic diversity also provides counselors with valuable experience working across cultures, languages, and client needs. Specializations such as trauma-informed care, substance abuse counseling, and child and adolescent therapy are especially in demand.

The average LPC salary in Long Beach—around $101,500 per year—is higher than the national average, and job growth for mental health professionals is projected to rise by over 16% through 2033. This combination of career opportunities, community need, and professional support makes Long Beach a promising environment for both new and experienced LPCs.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Long Beach?

The job market for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) in Long Beach is moderately competitive, offering a steady demand for qualified professionals across various settings. The city's diverse population and ongoing mental health needs contribute to consistent employment opportunities.

Multiple organizations, including LifeStance Health, are actively seeking LPCCs, offering flexible work arrangements and competitive salaries ranging from $117,000 to $134,000 annually. Educational institutions like Long Beach Community College also hire counselors, with positions offering salaries between $93,103 and $135,193 per year.

While opportunities are abundant, candidates with specialized skills, such as bilingual abilities or experience in telehealth, may have a competitive edge. For those exploring career advancement options, understanding how long does it take to become a counseling psychologist can also provide insight into pathways that blend counseling and nursing expertise, broadening their professional scope.

Are there counseling associations in Long Beach?

Yes, Long Beach is home to several counseling associations and professional networks that support Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) and other mental health professionals. These organizations offer opportunities for networking, continuing education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Local and Statewide Associations

California Association of School Counselors (CASC): A state-level organization that provides resources, training, and advocacy for school counselors throughout California, including those in Long Beach.
Student Counseling Student Association (SCSA) at CSULB: A student-led group at California State University, Long Beach, fostering dialogue, mentorship, and professional development among school counseling students.

National Organizations with Local Presence

American Counseling Association (ACA): A national organization that supports professional counselors through resources, advocacy, and continuing education opportunities.
American School Counselor Association (ASCA): A national body that provides support and resources for school counselors. Notably, ASCA is hosting its 2025 Annual Conference in Long Beach, offering local professionals a chance to engage with national peers.

Community-Based Organizations

ROADS-MCA Behavioral Health Center: Formerly Memorial Counseling Associates, this center has served the Long Beach community for over 30 years, offering a range of behavioral health services and serving as a hub for mental health professionals.
The LGBTQ Center Long Beach: Provides inclusive counseling services and resources for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a network of affirming mental health professionals.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Long Beach?

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Long Beach find employment primarily in community mental health centers, educational institutions, private practices, and healthcare facilities. Community mental health centers play a vital role by serving diverse populations, including underserved and low-income groups, offering LPCs the chance to work collaboratively on issues such as trauma, substance use, and chronic mental illness. Schools and universities employ LPCs to address student mental health concerns, focusing on developmental and academic challenges faced by children and young adults. Private and group practices allow counselors to specialize in areas like family therapy or career counseling, while hospitals and outpatient clinics integrate LPCs into multidisciplinary care teams to support comprehensive patient treatment.

Despite these opportunities, LPCs in Long Beach face several challenges that impact their career paths and effectiveness:

High demand for mental health services: Long Beach’s diverse and socioeconomically varied population creates significant need, but also strains resources and service capacity.
Complex insurance and funding landscapes: Navigating insurance reimbursement and securing sustainable funding for community programs remains difficult, potentially limiting service availability.
Shortages in specialized counseling fields: Areas such as trauma and substance abuse therapy experience workforce gaps, which may increase demand but also pressure LPCs to develop specialized skills rapidly.
Competitive private practice environment: With more LPC graduates entering the field statewide, establishing a successful private practice requires strategic differentiation and strong professional networks.
California-specific regulations and continuing education: Ongoing licensure maintenance demands adaptability to evolving state requirements, which can pose time and financial burdens for counselors.

What LPCs in Long Beach Say About Their Careers

Working as an LPC in Long Beach has allowed me to witness firsthand the resilience of our diverse community. I feel deeply connected to the people I serve, especially through local outreach programs that support underserved populations. This career has truly deepened my sense of purpose and belonging. – Marina

Practicing at a multidisciplinary clinic downtown, I appreciate how the city’s vibrant arts scene and community resources enhance my approach to therapy. It’s rewarding to grow professionally in such a dynamic environment while addressing complex client needs. – Ruffa

Balancing my career and family life in Long Beach has been a major advantage of being an LPC here. After earning my degree from the University of Southern California, I chose to work at a local school district, where job stability and supportive administration help me thrive. – Ernie

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Long Beach

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Long Beach?

No, Associate Professional Clinical Counselors (APCCs) in California, including Long Beach, cannot practice independently or open their own offices. They must work under supervision until they obtain full LPCC licensure. Engaging in independent practice without a license is considered unlicensed practice and may lead to disciplinary action by the Board of Behavioral Sciences.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Long Beach?

To qualify for an LPCC position in Long Beach, candidates must hold a master's or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from an institution accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The degree should include specific coursework and supervised clinical experience as mandated by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Long Beach?

Yes, Long Beach City College offers the Accelerate Program for Adult Learners, enabling students to earn a psychology degree within two years. This program is designed for individuals balancing work and family obligations. Additionally, California State University, Long Beach provides a Counseling Psychology program with 2-year, 2.5-year, and 3-year tracks, preparing students for LPCC licensure.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Long Beach?

Yes, Long Beach offers numerous telehealth counseling opportunities. As of 2024, there are over 500 telehealth therapist or counselor job openings in the area, reflecting a growing demand for remote mental health services. Organizations like Daybreak Counseling Center also provide tele-therapy services, allowing therapists to offer psychotherapy via video conferencing.