How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Riverside, CA, for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Riverside, California, offers a rewarding path in a community with rising demand for mental health services. With California employing over 57,000 counselors as of 2022, opportunities continue to expand across schools, healthcare settings, and private practice. As interest in mental wellness grows, so does the need for qualified professionals.

This article outlines the essential steps to becoming an LPC in Riverside, helping you navigate state licensure requirements and prepare for a meaningful career in counseling.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Riverside, CA

Riverside offers diverse communities and growing mental health needs, making it ideal for LPCs seeking impactful careers.
The average LPC salary in Riverside is approximately $91,128 annually, reflecting competitive pay in California’s counseling field.
Key employers include Riverside University Health System, Kaiser Permanente Riverside Medical Center, and Loma Linda University Health, all supporting LPC roles.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Riverside?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Riverside?
Which schools in Riverside offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Riverside?
How much do LPCs make in Riverside?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Riverside?
What additional certifications can enhance your LPC career in Riverside?
Can integrating marriage and family therapy boost your LPC career in Riverside?
What are cost-effective strategies to optimize LPC education in Riverside?
What are the continuing education opportunities for LPCs in Riverside?
Is Riverside a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Riverside?
Are there counseling associations in Riverside?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Riverside?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Riverside, CA

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

To become an LPC in Riverside, you must fulfill specific educational requirements set by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). These requirements ensure that counselors are well-prepared to address the diverse mental health needs of the community, which cover the following:

Degree Requirements: Obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or psychotherapy from an institution accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or approved by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE).
Program Length: Complete a minimum of 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of graduate coursework.
Core Content Areas: The degree program must include coursework in 13 core content areas, such as counseling theories, human development, and multicultural counseling.
Practicum/Fieldwork: Complete at least six semester units (or nine quarter units) of supervised practicum or field study, including a minimum of 280 hours of face-to-face counseling experience.
Additional Coursework: If not already included in the degree program, complete additional graduate-level coursework in areas specified by the BBS, such as California law and ethics.

Meeting these educational criteria is the first step toward LPCC licensure in California. After fulfilling these requirements, candidates must register as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) to begin accruing supervised clinical experience.

Most common educational attainment among LPCs

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

To apply for licensure as an LPC in Riverside, you must follow the process established by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. This process involves multiple stages, including education, supervised experience, and examinations.

1. Complete Required Education

Obtain a qualifying master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or psychotherapy from an accredited institution.

2. Register as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor

Submit an application for APCC registration to the BBS.
Provide official transcripts verifying your degree.
Complete a fingerprint background check.
Pay the required application fee.

3. Accrue Supervised Experience

Complete 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree professional experience over a minimum of two years.
Ensure supervision is provided by a qualified licensed professional.

4. Pass Required Examinations

Pass the California Law and Ethics Exam.
Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

5. Apply for LPCC Licensure

Submit the LPCC licensure application to the BBS.
Provide verification of completed supervised experience.
Submit examination results.
Pay the licensure application fee.

For those considering career earnings in counseling, it is useful to explore what counselors make the most money to align licensure efforts with career goals.

Which schools in Riverside offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

As of 2023, there are over 983 CACREP-accredited counseling programs across the United States, with Clinical Mental Health Counseling being the most prevalent specialty, accounting for 399 programs. In Riverside, aspiring LPCs have access to several reputable universities offering robust academic pathways toward licensure. These programs integrate comprehensive theoretical instruction with practical training, equipping students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful counseling career.

Riverside counseling degree schools include:

California Baptist University: Offers a Master of Arts in Counseling that emphasizes counseling fundamentals, ethics, and multicultural competence. The program is CACREP-accredited, ensuring graduates meet licensure eligibility requirements.
University of Redlands: Provides a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling focusing on counseling theories, assessment, and supervised clinical practice. It holds CACREP accreditation aligned with national standards.
Azusa Pacific University: Located near Riverside, this Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling integrates evidence-based practices with faith-based perspectives and is CACREP-accredited, supporting LPC licensure in California.

These schools collectively offer rigorous training aligned with California’s LPC standards, preparing graduates to serve diverse communities effectively. When considering these options, students should evaluate curricula and accreditation to ensure their education meets state requirements.

For those interested in career outcomes, understanding the scope of opportunities after graduation is vital. You can explore highest paying jobs with addiction counselor degree to gain insight into potential career paths following licensure.

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

Counseling students in Riverside can access a wide range of internship and practicum placements essential for fulfilling the supervised experience required for LPCC licensure. These placements help students build real-world skills in various clinical and community settings while meeting state licensure requirements. Below is a list of key programs that offer hands-on training across multiple counseling specialties.

Riverside University Health System Behavioral Health Internship: Work directly with clients experiencing mental health issues by conducting intake evaluations, leading individual and group therapy sessions, and collaborating on treatment plans within a multidisciplinary team.
Inland Behavioral & Health Services Internship: Provide support in outpatient settings focused on substance use and trauma, including case management, crisis response, and assisting licensed therapists with therapeutic activities.
Riverside County Office of Education Practicum: Gain experience in school-based mental health by partnering with school counselors and psychologists to manage behavioral concerns, perform psychoeducational evaluations, and create student wellness programs.

A therapist from Riverside shared that completing her internship felt both demanding and rewarding. She recalled feeling initially overwhelmed by the diverse needs of clients, but found that navigating those challenges deepened her confidence and honed her ability to tailor interventions effectively.

How much do LPCs make in Riverside?

Pursuing a career as an LPC in Riverside, CA, offers strong earning potential and a variety of work settings. Understanding average salaries and the factors that affect pay can help aspiring LPCs make informed career decisions.

According to Salary.com, LPCs in Riverside earn an average of over $91,100 per year. Salaries vary based on experience, education, job setting, specialization, and licensure status. Entry-level professionals and those in nonprofits often earn less, while seasoned LPCs in private practice or healthcare systems typically earn more.

LPC salaries remain competitive when compared to related fields. Social workers generally earn slightly less, while clinical psychologists may earn more due to advanced credentials. Pay can also differ within Riverside based on location—urban areas and major healthcare institutions tend to offer higher compensation and better benefits than community mental health centers.

For those interested in advancing their credentials, pursuing popular online masters in marriage and family counseling programs can be a strategic step toward specialization and increased salary opportunities. Overall, LPCs in Riverside can expect a stable career with varied options to enhance their professional and financial goals.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Riverside?

To become an LPC in Riverside, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience as an APCC. This supervision must be conducted under the guidelines set by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

1. Total Supervised Hours

Complete 3,000 hours of post-degree supervised experience over a minimum of 104 weeks.

2. Weekly Supervision

Receive at least one hour of individual or two hours of group supervision per week.
If providing more than 10 hours of counseling in a week, an additional unit of supervision is required.

3. Supervisor Qualifications

Supervisors must hold a valid California license as an LPCC, LMFT, LCSW, LEP, licensed psychologist, or board-certified psychiatrist.
They must have been licensed for at least two years prior to supervising.
New supervisors (as of January 1, 2022) are required to complete 15 hours of supervision training within 60 days of commencing supervision.
All supervisors must complete six hours of continuing professional development in supervision during each license renewal period.

4. Documentation

A Supervision Agreement must be signed within 60 days of starting supervision. Weekly logs of supervision hours must be maintained and signed by both supervisor and supervisee.

What additional certifications can enhance your LPC career in Riverside?

Earning specialized certifications can differentiate professionals in Riverside’s evolving mental health landscape. Targeted credentials in areas such as trauma-informed care, family therapy, or substance abuse counseling not only expand service offerings but also improve competitive positioning. For candidates aiming to diversify their expertise in substance-focused intervention, learn how to become a drug counselor in Riverside to broaden career prospects and meet specific community needs.

Can integrating marriage and family therapy boost your LPC career in Riverside?

Expanding your practice to include marriage and family therapy can open additional avenues for client engagement and professional growth. This specialization enables LPCs to address relational dynamics within families and couples, fostering a broader service portfolio while meeting diverse community needs. Enhancing your clinical repertoire by integrating systemic therapeutic approaches may also position you advantageously in niche markets and competitive job environments. For further insights on this career path, review how to become a marriage and family therapist in Riverside.

What are cost-effective strategies to optimize LPC education in Riverside?

LPC candidates can reduce overall educational expenses by exploring scholarship programs, employer tuition reimbursement plans, and flexible online degree options that meet licensure requirements. Evaluating nontraditional course formats and reviewing local funding opportunities can further minimize financial burdens while maintaining academic quality. For additional guidance on managing educational investments, consider reading our guide on the cheapest way to become a teacher in Riverside.

What are the continuing education opportunities for LPCs in Riverside?

Licensed Professional Counselors in Riverside must stay current with evolving therapeutic practices and regulatory standards through continuing education. Many local institutions, professional organizations, and online platforms offer accredited courses and workshops that cover essential topics such as ethical practice, emerging treatment modalities, and telehealth competencies. These educational opportunities not only support license renewal requirements but also foster career advancement by enhancing client care and professional expertise. For a detailed roadmap on advanced training pathways and further insights, refer to our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in Riverside.

Is Riverside a good place to work as an LPC?

Deciding whether Riverside is a suitable location to work as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) requires understanding the local environment and its impact on career opportunities. Here are key factors that influence the professional landscape for LPCs in Riverside, helping you make informed choices about your practice or employment.

Opportunities

Expanding Mental Health Infrastructure: Riverside County has secured over $333 million in state funding to enhance mental health and substance use services. This investment supports the development of facilities like the Behavioral Health Wellness Center and Harmony Haven Children and Youth Wellness Center, increasing demand for qualified counselors.
Diverse Population Needs: The county's growing and diverse population heightens the need for counselors skilled in multicultural competencies, offering LPCCs opportunities to serve varied communities effectively.
Competitive Salaries: LPCCs in Riverside earn an average base salary of approximately $81,990, with potential earnings up to $91,366, depending on experience and specialization.

Challenges

Economic Disparities: Certain areas within Riverside face economic challenges, which may impact clients' ability to afford private counseling services, potentially affecting income for counselors in private practice.
Regulatory Requirements: California's stringent licensing criteria and reimbursement policies can pose hurdles for new LPCCs, influencing early career stability and growth.

One Riverside therapist shared that navigating the licensing process felt daunting at first, especially with the paperwork and wait times, but the rewarding experience of serving a culturally rich community made the effort worthwhile. He noted, “The diversity here means every day brings new learning opportunities, even if the financial side can sometimes be unpredictable.”

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Riverside?

California’s mental health counselor workforce is expected to grow by 22% between 2022 and 2032, with approximately 6,520 job openings each year.

In Riverside, the job market for LPCs is moderately competitive, with strong potential for growth. The city's expanding population and rising mental health awareness contribute to steady demand for qualified professionals. Unlike larger metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, Riverside's market is less saturated—offering LPCs a more accessible path to employment or private practice.

While newly licensed therapists may face competition due to a steady flow of graduates, LPCs have a distinct advantage over unlicensed counselors. Licensure enhances job prospects, increases earning potential, and is often necessary for insurance reimbursement and independent practice. Continued state funding and behavioral health initiatives further support long-term demand for licensed counselors in the region.

For those considering how competitive is the licensed professional counselor job market in Riverside, it’s practical to focus on strategies such as:

Building a strong professional network within local healthcare systems.
Specializing in in-demand counseling areas.
Pursuing additional certifications or training to enhance qualifications.
Exploring educational options, including what is the most affordable bachelors in substance abuse counseling online, to strengthen foundational knowledge.

Are there counseling associations in Riverside?

For licensed therapists and those pursuing licensure in Riverside, joining local and national counseling associations is a valuable step toward professional development. These organizations offer essential resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy tailored to the needs of counseling professionals. Exploring available counseling associations and resources in Riverside can help you stay informed, connected, and positioned for career advancement.

California Association for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (CALPCC): CALPCC is a statewide organization that offers specialized support for LPCs in Riverside and beyond. It focuses on promoting licensing standards, providing continuing education, and fostering a professional community dedicated to ethical counseling practice. Membership is ideal for therapists who want to stay informed about state regulations and best practices.
American Counseling Association (ACA): Serving counselors nationwide, ACA includes members from Riverside and provides extensive resources such as professional journals, conferences, and advocacy initiatives influencing counseling legislation. ACA’s specialized divisions address various counseling fields like mental health and clinical practice, helping members deepen their expertise and professional network.
Riverside Psychological Association (RPA): This regional group supports psychologists and therapists working in Riverside County. RPA organizes local events, workshops, and networking opportunities that are especially useful for licensed therapists seeking community connections and ongoing professional development within their immediate area.

Engagement with these associations can significantly benefit those exploring what can I do with psychology counseling degree options or seeking to enhance their credentials and career opportunities. Being active in professional organizations ensures counselors remain up-to-date with industry standards and connected to valuable educational and advocacy resources.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Riverside?

For those aiming to become LPCs in Riverside, understanding the primary employers can help target job searches effectively. Several key organizations actively hire LPCs, offering varied roles across different mental health settings. Knowing where to apply and what to expect can streamline the career-building process.

Riverside University Health System (RUHS): LPCs here work mainly in community clinics and hospital environments, conducting client assessments, creating treatment plans, and facilitating individual or group therapy for populations facing issues like trauma, substance abuse, and serious mental health conditions.
Inland Behavioral & Health Services: This organization provides outpatient and residential care, where LPCs focus on counseling individuals with addiction, family challenges, and co-occurring disorders. Duties often include crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Private Practices: LPCs in private settings manage their caseloads independently, delivering evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. These roles emphasize personalized counseling aimed at fostering emotional well-being and personal development.

Number of counselors in psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals

What LPCs in Riverside Say About Their Careers

Working as an LPC in Riverside has allowed me to deeply connect with a diverse community while continuing my own personal growth. Graduating from California State University, San Bernardino, I now serve clients at a local community health center, where the cultural richness of Riverside constantly challenges me to expand my therapeutic approaches. It’s rewarding to see how my work positively impacts families right here in my hometown. Dylan
Riverside’s unique blend of urban access and natural beauty offers a special environment for counseling professionals. After completing my master’s at the University of Redlands, I’ve found that the city’s growing mental health initiatives provide exceptional opportunities for career advancement and collaboration with other specialists. The balance between professional growth and the slower pace of life here creates a fulfilling lifestyle for me and my young family. Kathy
As a veteran LPC practicing in Riverside for over 15 years, I appreciate the stability and variety this city offers. Working at a private practice downtown, I've witnessed how Riverside’s expanding healthcare infrastructure supports both new and experienced counselors. The affordable cost of living combined with strong professional networks makes it an ideal place to continue developing my career while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Zoey

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Riverside, CA

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Riverside?

In Riverside, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently. They must work under the supervision of a licensed professional while completing required post-degree hours. This supervision ensures that associates gain the necessary experience and comply with California Board of Behavioral Sciences regulations.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCs) in California, including Riverside, must adhere to state laws that limit independent practice until full licensure is obtained. LPCs have the authority to provide counseling services independently only after meeting all licensing requirements and obtaining a full license. Compliance with these rules is essential for legal and ethical practice.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Riverside?

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Riverside, choosing the right undergraduate degree is crucial. The degree should build a strong foundation for graduate studies and professional counseling. Here are three effective programs that align well with LPC requirements in Riverside.

Psychology: California State University, San Bernardino offers a solid psychology program that provides essential knowledge of human behavior and mental health, preparing students for advanced counseling studies.
Social Work: The University of California, Riverside has a respected social work program focused on community and clinical support skills, useful for LPC candidates.
Human Development: Riverside City College’s program emphasizes lifespan development and interpersonal skills, which are vital for effective counseling practice.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Riverside?

Aspiring Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in Riverside often seek accelerated programs to fast-track their careers. Currently, Riverside does not offer accredited accelerated LPC programs. However, students can explore nearby cities such as Los Angeles or San Diego, where some universities provide accelerated or flexible LPC tracks. Another practical option is enrolling in online accelerated LPC programs from reputable institutions, allowing for a balance of speed and quality education while meeting California’s licensing requirements.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Riverside?

Yes, there are telehealth counseling opportunities available in Riverside, especially following recent expansions in telehealth regulations. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) can provide remote services, allowing greater flexibility for both therapists and clients. To offer telehealth counseling, LPCs must comply with California’s specific telehealth laws, including secure technology use and informed consent protocols. Understanding these legal requirements is essential to effectively and ethically practice telehealth in Riverside.

For those pursuing LPC licensure, gaining experience with telehealth can enhance job prospects. Many Riverside mental health clinics and private practices incorporate telehealth, increasing access for clients in underserved areas. Networking with local providers and seeking telehealth training can prepare candidates to meet this growing demand in the Riverside counseling market.

References:

O*NET OnLine. (2025, May 13). California employment trends: 21-1014.00 - Mental health counselors. O*NET OnLine. Retrieved May 16, 2025.
Salary.com. (2025, May 1). What is the average Licensed Professional Counselor salary for Riverside, CA? Salary.com. Retrieved May 16, 2025.
SSG. (2021, June 15). Riverside counseling center (RCC). SSG - Special Service for Groups. Retrieved May 16, 2025.
U.S. BLS. (2025, April 18). Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors: State & area data. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved May 16, 2025.