How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Saint Paul, MN: Counselor License Requirements for 2025

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Figuring out Saint Paul’s LPC requirements, logging supervised hours, preparing for the NCE exam, and finding the right post-graduate role—each step can feel overwhelming. Recent psychology grads, career changers, and counseling interns often face confusion, delays, or lack of clear direction.

Without the right guidance, it’s easy to get stuck. With LPCs in Saint Paul earning between $60,547 and $80,433 annually, the path is worth it—but only if you know how to navigate it. This article breaks down each step and shows you exactly how to move forward. It’s built by experts in career planning to help you meet your goal with confidence.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Saint Paul

Minnesota mandates a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field, with 700–1,000 hours of supervised clinical work, preferably from CACREP-accredited programs for a streamlined licensure path.
Applicants must complete 3,000 post-master’s supervised hours over two years, pass the NCE or NCMHCE, and undergo fingerprint-based background checks and a jurisprudence exam.
LPCs in Saint Paul earn a median salary of $69,713, with top employers including Ramsey County Mental Health Center and HealthPartners offering roles in outpatient care, crisis response, and integrated health services.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Saint Paul?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Saint Paul?
Which schools in Saint Paul offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Saint Paul?
How much do LPCs make in Saint Paul?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Saint Paul?
Can LPCs Specialize in Substance Abuse Counseling in Saint Paul?
Can additional certifications boost your LPC career in Saint Paul?
Can LPCs Transition to Educational Careers in Saint Paul?
Are there robust continuing education and professional development opportunities for LPCs in Saint Paul?
Is Saint Paul a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Saint Paul?
Are there counseling associations in Saint Paul?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Saint Paul?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Saint Paul

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Saint Paul?

Minnesota requires a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a program that includes specific coursework and supervised experience.

As the counseling profession grows more standardized, programs accredited by CACREP or offering structured clinical training may offer a clearer route to licensure. The checklist below outlines the key academic and practicum requirements every aspiring LPC must meet in Saint Paul.

A master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or marriage and family therapy from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or an equivalent recognized accrediting body is essential.
Completion of comprehensive graduate coursework covering fundamental topics such as human development, counseling theories, ethics, psychological assessment, and multicultural counseling to build a well-rounded knowledge base.
Enrollment in programs that incorporate significant supervised practicum or internship experiences, typically involving approximately 700 to 1,000 hours of direct client contact, aligning with Minnesota’s licensing board standards.

As the profession advances, candidates might expect future curricula to integrate emerging counseling methodologies and technologies, alongside expanded fieldwork opportunities to address diverse client needs in evolving social contexts.

How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Saint Paul?

Applying for LPC licensure in Saint Paul involves meeting all requirements set by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy. This includes education, supervised experience, exams, and legal clearances.

Key steps to apply for LPC licensure in Saint Paul

Candidates must follow each step carefully to gain approval and begin practicing legally in Minnesota while keeping up with counseling therapy and psychology requirements that may evolve over time.

Submit a complete application to the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy, including all required forms and fees.
Document supervised experience: Complete at least 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised clinical experience over a minimum of two years. Ensure at least 1,000 of those hours involve direct client contact.
Verify supervisor credentials: Supervision must be conducted by a board-approved licensed mental health professional. Supervisors must meet Minnesota’s standards for LPC supervision.
Pass a required national exam: Minnesota accepts either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
Demonstrate legal and ethical knowledge: Complete a jurisprudence exam or otherwise show familiarity with Minnesota counseling laws and ethical standards.
Complete a criminal background check: Submit fingerprints as part of the required background screening process.

Additional steps for out-of-state applicants:

Professionals licensed in another state must also:

Provide verification of current licensure and proof of good standing.
Meet Minnesota’s supervised experience and exam standards if not previously fulfilled.
Submit records of continuing education credits, if applicable.
Pass any required jurisprudence or ethics assessments.
Undergo a criminal background check with fingerprinting.

Which schools in Saint Paul offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

Saint Paul offers several respected options that prepare students for LPC licensure with a focus on evolving clinical competencies and ethical practice in counseling. These programs emphasize foundational coursework, supervised clinical hours, and alignment with state licensure requirements, reflecting trends towards more inclusive and culturally responsive counseling education.

Notable institutions include:

University of St. Thomas: Provides a Master of Arts in Counseling with CACREP accreditation, emphasizing clinical skills, ethical standards, and diverse populations.
Hamline University: Offers a Master of Arts in Counseling with specializations in clinical mental health and school counseling, integrating theory and extensive supervised experience while meeting Minnesota’s LPC standards.
University of Minnesota in Minneapolis: Features a Counseling and Student Personnel Psychology program known for strong regional recognition despite lacking CACREP accreditation, focusing on counseling theories and assessment techniques.

These Saint Paul LPC counseling degrees collectively address the academic rigor and practical experience required for licensure, positioning graduates to adapt to future shifts in mental health care delivery and technology integration. Prospective students may also find value in exploring related fields, such as Christian counseling, with reputable programs detailed in resources like best Christian counseling master's programs.

Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Saint Paul?

Counseling students in Saint Paul have access to a variety of valuable internship and practicum placements that are essential for gaining the supervised clinical experience required for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure. These opportunities allow students to develop hands-on skills in diverse settings, preparing them for evolving demands in mental health care.

Below is an overview of some prominent local internships that support the growth of future therapists.

Saint Paul-Ramsey County Public Health: offers involvement in community-based mental health programs, including client assessments, treatment development, and crisis response under professional supervision
Amherst H. Wilder Foundation: provides experience in family and youth therapy, facilitating counseling sessions, performing evaluations, and working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
Nystrom & Associates: focuses on outpatient services where interns lead therapy sessions, conduct client evaluations, and maintain clinical records in a private practice setting

These placements not only fulfill licensure requirements set by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy but also expose students to a broad range of client populations and therapeutic techniques.

How much do LPCs make in Saint Paul?

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Saint Paul typically earn between $60,547 to $80,433 per year, with the median base salary around $69,713. Actual earnings depend on experience, employer type, and area of specialization.

LPCs starting out usually earn toward the lower end of the range. With several years of experience or added credentials, salaries often rise closer to the top of the scale. Those working in government agencies or large healthcare systems often receive higher and more consistent pay, while income can vary more in private practice or nonprofit roles.

Specializing in areas like trauma, substance use, or family counseling can also boost income. Some professionals expand their credentials through programs like the most popular online masters in marriage and family counseling, which can open doors to new roles and increase earning potential. The growing demand for mental health support and a strong local emphasis on wellness contribute to steady job growth and wage stability.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Saint Paul?

Supervised clinical experience is a core requirement for LPC licensure in Saint Paul. Candidates must complete at least 2,000 hours of post-graduate work under professional oversight to qualify for independent practice.

At least 1,000 of these hours must involve direct client contact, such as conducting assessments, providing therapy, and facilitating interventions. The remaining hours can include related tasks like documentation, treatment planning, peer consultation, and continuing education.

Key supervision details

The following points outline the key supervision standards set by the state for LPC candidates.

The experience must span at least two years after completing a qualifying graduate degree.
Supervisors must be licensed mental health professionals approved by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy.
Approved settings include hospitals, schools, community agencies, and private practices.

This combination of structured clinical hours and professional oversight helps prepare candidates for the ethical and practical responsibilities of counseling. Emerging tools—such as virtual supervision and telehealth integration—may offer expanded opportunities for flexible learning and mentorship.

Can LPCs Specialize in Substance Abuse Counseling in Saint Paul?

LPCs looking to expand their scope in Saint Paul can enhance their careers by specializing in substance abuse counseling—a field increasingly integral to community mental health. By obtaining focused training and certification, professionals can offer targeted interventions that address addiction and related challenges. This specialization not only augments client care but also bolsters career resilience amid shifting industry demands. For professionals interested in this transition, detailed guidance is available on how to become a drug counselor in Saint Paul.

Can additional certifications boost your LPC career in Saint Paul?

Emerging industry trends suggest that pursuing further certifications can diversify practice areas and enhance client service capabilities. For example, expanding credentials to include marriage and family therapy may open new avenues for clinical practice and increase professional marketability. This additional specialization aligns with evolving client needs and can strategically position LPCs for advanced roles in integrated behavioral health settings. Learn more about how to become a marriage and family therapist in Saint Paul for detailed guidance on broadening your expertise.

Can LPCs Transition to Educational Careers in Saint Paul?

LPCs in Saint Paul may leverage their clinical expertise to explore roles within the educational sector, enriching school environments with mental health perspectives. Transitioning into educational careers often requires additional certification and targeted training, which can pave the way to hybrid roles combining counseling with academic responsibilities. For professionals interested in this cross-disciplinary path, exploring the cheapest way to become a teacher in Saint Paul can provide a cost-effective route to obtaining the necessary credentials. Strategic partnerships between mental health services and educational institutions continue to evolve, offering LPCs new opportunities to contribute to school-based programs, crisis intervention planning, and teacher support systems.

Are there robust continuing education and professional development opportunities for LPCs in Saint Paul?

Continuing education is critical for maintaining licensure and advancing clinical skills. In Saint Paul, LPCs benefit from structured workshops, accredited courses, and specialized training sessions that address emerging practices such as telehealth integration, trauma-informed care, and digital therapeutic techniques. Local institutions and counseling associations offer programs tailored to address state-specific requirements and evolving industry trends. Professionals seeking focused guidance on aligning ongoing education with career advancement can review detailed strategies from our guide on how to become a mental health counselor in Saint Paul.

Is Saint Paul a good place to work as an LPC?

Saint Paul presents a distinctive setting for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) shaped by its evolving social and economic landscape. For those considering a counseling career here, several factors highlight both opportunities and challenges.

Rich Cultural Diversity: The city’s mix of immigrant and refugee populations increases the demand for counselors with expertise in multicultural and trauma-informed care, encouraging LPCs to develop specialized cultural competencies.
Economic Variability with Supportive Infrastructure: While Minnesota’s overall economy is steady, some neighborhoods in Saint Paul face economic hardships that limit healthcare access, urging counselors to engage creatively with underserved communities.
Progressive Mental Health Legislation: State policies favor expanding mental health services, potentially offering LPCs more stable employment and funding avenues as these initiatives grow.
Increasing Professional Competition: The expanding pool of mental health providers in the Twin Cities means LPCs may need to carve out niche areas or collaborate with established organizations to secure clients.

How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Saint Paul?

LPCs in Saint Paul face a moderately competitive job market, supported by steady demand and an expanding focus on mental health services across the metro area.

Licensed counselors are more likely to secure higher-paying roles and stable employment, as licensure remains a key qualification for most mental health positions in the region. Unlicensed professionals often face limited options and lower compensation, especially in regulated clinical settings.

Key job market insights

Here are the key insights into the job market for LPCs in Saint Paul:

Mental health demand is rising, driven by greater public awareness and increased insurance coverage.
LPC licensure is essential for access to most professional roles and competitive salaries.
Community agencies and private practices attract more applicants, raising competition in those settings.
Ongoing education and specialization—including programs tied to masters in counseling jobs—can significantly improve job prospects.

Pursuing targeted professional development or exploring opportunities related to masters in counseling jobs can help candidates stay competitive and responsive to evolving industry demands.

Are there counseling associations in Saint Paul?

Therapists pursuing licensure in Saint Paul can greatly benefit from engaging with local professional groups. These counseling associations in Saint Paul offer vital resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities that support career growth and licensure maintenance. As the field evolves, these organizations are likely to expand their digital offerings and collaborative efforts to address emerging mental health challenges.

Minnesota Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (MAMFT): Serving licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) and licensed professional counselors (LPCs), MAMFT provides continuing education, state-level advocacy, and a network focused on family, couple, and individual therapy. Members gain essential updates on licensure regulations and evolving counseling standards in Minnesota.
Minnesota Mental Health Counselors Association (MMHCA): This association supports LPCs through legislative advocacy, professional training, and community outreach. MMHCA works to improve licensure portability and reimbursement rates, offering workshops, conferences, and local events tailored specifically for mental health counseling professionals in Saint Paul.
American Counseling Association (ACA) – Minnesota branch: Connecting licensed therapists to a nationwide community, ACA provides extensive resources such as ethical guidelines, research publications, and specialized interest groups. Saint Paul therapists benefit from access to national trends and tools designed to enhance clinical skills.

For those exploring educational pathways and professional development, participation in these Saint Paul therapist professional organizations can be complemented by enrolling in affordable online school counseling programs. Such programs are increasingly integrating association-led training and emerging telehealth practices to prepare future counselors for a dynamic mental health landscape.

Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Saint Paul?

As the landscape of behavioral health evolves, several key organizations continue to lead in hiring LPCs, offering diverse roles that combine therapy, case management, and collaborative care. These employers are likely to expand their services in response to increasing community needs and innovations in treatment approaches.

Ramsey County Mental Health Center: Employs LPCs mainly for individual and group therapy, crisis response, and managing client cases. Counselors in this setting work with a broad range of populations, including families, adolescents, and adults, using evidence-based methods to promote mental wellness and recovery.
Neighborgood Mental Health Center: Recognized for its extensive outpatient programs, where LPCs act as therapists and care coordinators. Their duties often involve assessing mental health conditions like anxiety and trauma, formulating treatment plans, and collaborating with various healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive client support.
HealthPartners: A prominent healthcare provider in the Twin Cities, integrates LPCs into multidisciplinary teams within primary care environments. LPCs here focus on early intervention for mental health issues, including mood and substance use disorders, delivering both individual and family therapy while coordinating closely with medical staff.

What LPCs in Saint Paul Say About Their Careers

Becoming an LPC in Saint Paul offered a clear and structured path toward a meaningful career in counseling. The process was rigorous, but the guidance from mentors and the comprehensive preparation helped me build confidence in my professional skills. — Isa

The journey to becoming an LPC in Saint Paul came with its challenges, but I found it rewarding. The supportive network of professionals and the resources available helped me along the way, and now I can help a wide range of clients in my practice. — Leif

Becoming an LPC in Saint Paul has been an enriching experience. The focus on mental health and the availability of diverse opportunities in the city made it easier to establish a career where I could contribute to the well-being of others. — Marcellus

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Saint Paul

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Saint Paul?

In Saint Paul, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently. They must work under the supervision of a fully licensed professional while completing required post-graduate hours. This supervision ensures adherence to ethical standards and professional development, reflecting Minnesota’s commitment to quality care. Looking ahead, evolving telehealth regulations and potential legislative updates may expand LPC Associates’ scope, possibly allowing more autonomous roles. However, current state law maintains clear boundaries to protect clients and uphold the integrity of counseling services in Minnesota.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Saint Paul?

To qualify for an LPC position in Saint Paul, candidates must hold a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a closely related field. Undergraduate programs in psychology, social work, or human services provide the foundational knowledge in human behavior, social systems, and client support. These programs equip students with essential skills that prepare them for the rigorous education and training required for advanced counseling education, licensure, and a successful career as an LPC.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Saint Paul?

Saint Paul offers several respected counseling programs, but currently, accelerated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) programs are not widely available within the city. Prospective students seeking faster routes to licensure often explore options in nearby Minneapolis or neighboring states like Wisconsin, where some universities have begun piloting condensed formats. As demand for mental health professionals grows, it is possible that Saint Paul institutions may introduce accelerated LPC tracks in the coming years, aligning with emerging trends in flexible graduate education.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Saint Paul?

Telehealth counseling opportunities are growing in Saint Paul for licensed professional counselors (LPCs). Minnesota has embraced telehealth, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing LPCs to provide remote services to clients facing barriers like transportation or scheduling conflicts. As telehealth becomes more integrated into counseling, LPCs can expect expanded options, including broader client access and digital tools. Staying updated on licensure requirements and telehealth practices will be crucial for LPCs looking to thrive in this evolving field.

References:

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Saint Paul College. (2025, January 15). Psychology Transfer Pathway - Saint Paul College. https://www.saintpaul.edu/programs/psychology-transfer-pathway/
Salvia, B. V. (2024, October 15). Counseling state licensure & degree programs in Minnesota (MN). Counseling Schools. https://www.counselingschools.com/licenses/minnesota
M.A. Counseling and Psychological Services | SMUMN. (2025, March 5). Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. https://www.smumn.edu/m-a-in-counseling-and-psychological-services/
Integrated Behavioral Health FAQ. (n.d.). U Of M - CCAPS. https://ccaps.umn.edu/integrated-behavioral-health-masters-degree/faq
Minnesota Counseling Licensure | Resources and requirements. (2022, November 9). Public Health. https://www.publichealthonline.org/mental-health/minnesota-counseling-license/
Social work/ Counseling jobs in St. Paul Minnesota | Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Career Center. (n.d.). Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. https://jobs.minnesotanonprofits.org/c-social-work-counseling-l-st-paul,-minnesota-jobs.html
Minneapolis-ST. Paul SUD & Mental Health Careers & Internships. (2023, June 1). Progress Valley. https://progressvalley.org/about/careers/
TherapyDen. (n.d.). The 10 BEST Therapists in Saint Paul, MN (for 2025). https://www.therapyden.com/therapists/us/mn/saint-paul