How to Become a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Virginia Beach, VA, for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

With a rising demand for mental health services, Virginia Beach is becoming an increasingly promising place for licensed professional counselors (LPCs). The city’s diverse population and growing healthcare network are driving the need for skilled counseling professionals. For those aspiring to enter the field, understanding Virginia’s specific licensing requirements and the local counseling landscape is essential.

This article outlines the key steps and critical information needed to become an LPC in Virginia Beach, equipping readers with the insights to pursue a successful counseling career in the region.

Key Things to Know About Becoming an LPC in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach offers a strong demand for LPCs due to its diverse population and growing mental health awareness, making it an ideal location for counseling professionals.
The average salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Virginia Beach is approximately $55,000 to $65,000 annually, reflecting competitive regional compensation.
Noteworthy employers include Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, Chesapeake Integrated Behavioral Healthcare, and the Virginia Beach Department of Human Services.

What are the educational requirements to become an LPC in Virginia Beach?
How do you apply for licensure as a counselor in Virginia Beach?
Which schools in Virginia Beach offer programs for aspiring LPCs?
Are there internship or practicum opportunities for counseling students in Virginia Beach?
How much do LPCs make in Virginia Beach?
What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Virginia Beach?
Is Virginia Beach a good place to work as an LPC?
How competitive is the job market for LPCs in Virginia Beach?
How can LPCs specialize in substance abuse counseling in Virginia Beach?
How can LPCs expand their expertise to include marriage and family therapy in Virginia Beach?
How can LPCs diversify their credentials and career paths in Virginia Beach?
What are the continuing education and professional development opportunities for LPCs in Virginia Beach?
Are there counseling associations in Virginia Beach?
Which are the most popular employers of LPCs in Virginia Beach?
Other Things to Know About Becoming a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Virginia Beach

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia Beach involves meeting clearly defined educational standards that lay a strong foundation for professional practice. These requirements reflect current expectations but may evolve as the counseling field adapts to emerging trends and increasing demands for specialized skills. Below is a summary of the key academic and practical components necessary for licensure in this region.

Completion of a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or a closely related field from an institution accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or a comparable accrediting agency.
Engagement with comprehensive graduate coursework covering essential topics such as human development, group counseling dynamics, assessment methods, and ethical counseling practices.
Participation in a supervised internship or practicum, typically requiring between 700 and 900 hours of clinical experience, to apply counseling theories in real-world settings under professional guidance.
Enrollment in programs offered by regional universities like Old Dominion University and Regent University, which aligns their curricula with Virginia’s licensure standards, ensuring candidates meet the state's educational expectations.

Looking ahead, educational requirements for LPCs in Virginia Beach may increasingly integrate advanced technological competencies and cultural responsiveness, reflecting broader changes in mental health care. Institutions could expand experiential learning opportunities or incorporate telehealth training to better prepare future counselors for diverse and evolving client needs.

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia Beach involves meeting specific state licensure criteria set by the Virginia Board of Counseling. The process ensures candidates possess the necessary knowledge, experience, and ethical standards to practice effectively. For those exploring how to apply for counselor licensure in Virginia Beach, understanding these requirements is crucial to a successful application.

Prospective LPCs must complete at least 3,400 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience. This includes a significant portion of direct client contact and ongoing supervision, all verified by qualified professionals. The Virginia Beach LPC licensure application process also requires submitting a comprehensive application with documentation of supervised experience and official exam results.

The required examinations include passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), which assess core competencies. Additionally, candidates must pass the Virginia Jurisprudence Exam, demonstrating knowledge of state-specific counseling laws and ethical standards. Virginia Beach adheres closely to state regulations, with no additional local requirements, but emphasizes maintaining good professional character through background checks as part of the application.

Once licensed, counselors must engage in ongoing continuing education to maintain their credentials and stay current with evolving counseling practices and regulations. The future of counseling licensure may incorporate more digital verification methods and advanced training modules to better serve the community’s needs.

For those considering career growth or specialization, factors like the grief counselor salary reveal potential opportunities within the counseling field.

The following outlines the key steps in the Virginia Beach LPC licensure application process:

Complete 3,400 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience, including direct client contact
Submit a detailed application with all required documentation to the Virginia Board of Counseling
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
Pass the Virginia Jurisprudence Exam on state counseling laws and ethics
Undergo a background check to verify professional character
Maintain licensure through ongoing continuing education credits

Which schools in Virginia Beach offer programs for aspiring LPCs?

Those interested in becoming Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Virginia Beach have several nearby educational options to consider. While direct LPC programs in Virginia Beach are limited, the surrounding area offers accredited counseling degree schools that align with licensure requirements.

Key institutions providing quality programs include:

Regent University in Virginia Beach, offering a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
Old Dominion University in Norfolk, with a Master of Science in Counseling specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, also CACREP-accredited.
Eastern Virginia Medical School, providing a Graduate Certificate in Counseling for professionals seeking to enhance counseling skills, though it is not a full LPC program.

Prospective students should prioritize CACREP-accredited programs to meet Virginia’s LPC licensure standards effectively. The availability of these programs within the region supports a growing demand for mental health professionals, and future trends suggest an expansion in hybrid and online formats to increase accessibility. Exploring the best masters programs in mental health counseling can also provide insights into top-ranked degrees nationwide for those considering broader options.

As the field evolves, Virginia Beach counseling degree schools may integrate emerging counseling techniques and technology-driven training, enhancing practical skills and preparing graduates for diverse clinical settings.

This chart visualizes the distribution of CACREP-accredited counseling programs across various specializations. Understanding the prevalence of accreditation within each specialization offers valuable insights for prospective students and the counseling profession as a whole.

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

Counseling students aiming for LPC licensure in Virginia Beach can access a range of hands-on training opportunities that are integral to meeting licensure prerequisites. These internships and practicum placements offer practical experience under supervision, helping students apply academic concepts in clinical environments. Below is an outline of key local organizations providing such placements, each fostering diverse skill sets essential for future licensed therapists.

Virginia Beach Community Services Board: offers roles involving mental health evaluations, individual and group counseling, and crisis response interventions.
Sentara Healthcare System: provides experiences focused on behavioral health counseling, facilitating psychoeducational groups, and case management within hospital and outpatient contexts.
Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD): specializes in working with youth through therapeutic sessions, family counseling, and collaborative multidisciplinary team efforts.

These placements are structured to fulfill the stringent clinical hour requirements for LPC licensure while promoting professional growth and networking. As the counseling field evolves, such internships may increasingly integrate telehealth components and interdisciplinary approaches to care, preparing students for emerging trends in mental health services.

When I spoke with a practicing therapist from Virginia Beach about her internship experience, she reflected, “Navigating the balance between intense emotional cases and administrative duties was daunting at first, but it taught me resilience and adaptability.” She added that the process “felt like a rigorous yet rewarding journey that truly shaped my approach to client care.”

How much do LPCs make in Virginia Beach?

Becoming a licensed professional counselor in Virginia Beach offers a promising career path as mental health awareness and demand continue to rise. Understanding the financial outlook for this profession can help aspiring counselors make informed decisions about their education and career trajectory. The licensed professional counselor salary Virginia Beach reflects a balance of regional economic factors and industry demand.

On average, LPCs in Virginia Beach earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. This range varies based on experience, specialization, and employer type. Entry-level counselors or those employed by non-profit organizations typically start at the lower end, while experienced professionals in private practice or healthcare settings tend to earn more. The average LPC earnings in Virginia Beach are competitive when compared to related roles such as social workers, who generally earn less, and psychologists, who usually earn more due to higher licensing and educational requirements.

The type of employer plays a crucial role in salary differences. Hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices often offer higher wages compared to government agencies or community-based organizations. Furthermore, LPCs with specialized certifications in areas like substance abuse or marriage and family therapy frequently command premium pay. For those considering advanced education, exploring the top online masters in mental health counseling degree program can be a strategic step toward higher earnings and expanded career opportunities.

As the mental health field evolves, factors such as telehealth expansion and integrated care models may further influence LPC salaries in Virginia Beach. Prospective counselors should weigh these considerations alongside traditional factors like experience and specialization to navigate the dynamic landscape successfully.

What are the supervision requirements for LPCs in Virginia Beach?

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia Beach involves meeting specific supervision requirements designed to ensure practical experience and professional growth. These requirements emphasize hands-on training under expert guidance.

Candidates must complete at least 3,400 hours of supervised professional work, with a minimum of 2,000 hours dedicated to direct client interactions. This extensive supervised experience helps future therapists develop critical counseling skills while benefiting from ongoing professional oversight.

The duration to fulfill these hours generally spans two to three years, influenced by individual work commitments and scheduling flexibility. Importantly, this supervised practice must occur after earning a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and be overseen by a licensed counselor approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling or another qualified mental health expert.

Supervision can take place in diverse environments such as hospitals, private practices, schools, or community mental health centers. What remains constant is the requirement for structured, regular supervisory meetings that provide feedback and promote ethical, competent practice—a standard that could evolve as telehealth and remote supervision gain traction in the counseling profession.

Looking ahead, emerging technologies and innovative supervision models may reshape how these hours are completed, potentially offering more flexible and accessible options for candidates. However, the core objective will remain: to bridge academic knowledge with real-world clinical experience, preparing counselors to meet the growing mental health needs of the Virginia Beach community.

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

Considering a career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia Beach involves evaluating the city’s evolving landscape for mental health professionals. Several emerging trends shape the local environment, offering both opportunities and challenges for counselors. Below are key factors influencing the viability of Virginia Beach as a workplace for LPCs.

Population Expansion Fuels Demand: Steady growth in residents is likely to increase the need for mental health services, creating expanding opportunities across diverse settings such as schools, clinics, and private practices.
Economic and Client Diversity: The blend of military presence, tourism, and service sectors results in a varied client population, though disparities in income levels may limit access to care in certain neighborhoods and impact reimbursement rates for counselors.
State-Level Funding and Regulatory Environment: Mental health policies in Virginia are gradually becoming more supportive, but challenges remain regarding insurance coverage and reimbursement, which can influence the financial stability of counseling practices.
Competitive Market with Professional Support: While the counseling field in Virginia Beach is becoming more competitive, established professional networks and continuing education options offer valuable resources for career advancement and client acquisition.

One Virginia Beach therapist I spoke with shared, “Navigating the balance between a growing client base and the complexities of insurance reimbursement has been tough but rewarding. The local professional community’s support helped me turn initial hurdles into opportunities for growth and deeper client connections.”

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

The job market for licensed professional counselors (LPCs) in Virginia Beach is moderately competitive, offering a balance between opportunity and challenge. This environment reflects broader national trends in counseling, with steady demand fueled by growing awareness of mental health and expanding healthcare access, including telehealth. Compared to larger metropolitan areas, Virginia Beach presents a somewhat less saturated market, which can benefit newly licensed therapists entering the field.

The Virginia Beach LPC employment outlook remains positive due to several factors:

A growing and diverse population increasing the need for mental health services
Expanding integration of mental health into general healthcare frameworks
Legal requirements limiting independent practice to licensed professionals, which reduces competition from unlicensed therapists
Opportunities in both private practice and community health settings

While competition exists, especially in private practices, the outlook suggests ongoing employment growth. For those considering this career path, understanding market dynamics is crucial. Exploring careers with masters in counseling can provide valuable insights into the advantages of licensure and the potential for professional growth in regions like Virginia Beach.

This chart illustrates the number of applicants to CACREP-accredited counseling programs. Examining applicant trends can provide valuable context for understanding the demand and competitiveness within counselor education.

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

Regional mental health trends indicate a rising demand for targeted intervention strategies in substance abuse and addiction. LPCs seeking to enhance their expertise may pursue additional certifications and specialized training that focus on evidence-based practices unique to this field. This pathway often involves enrolling in focused educational programs, gaining supervised clinical experience in addiction treatment, and participating in advanced workshops tailored to substance abuse counseling. Professionals aiming to integrate such specialization into their practice are encouraged to explore opportunities and resources that detail the necessary steps to expand their service offerings, such as how to become a drug counselor in Virginia Beach.

How can LPCs expand their expertise to include marriage and family therapy in Virginia Beach?

Licensed Professional Counselors seeking to broaden their clinical practice can consider specializing in marriage and family therapy. This pathway allows practitioners to address relational dynamics and systemic issues within diverse family structures, meeting an increasing demand for comprehensive mental health services. Clinicians interested in this specialization should familiarize themselves with additional training and certification requirements, as the competencies and guidelines differ from standard LPC licensure. For detailed guidance on the transition process and credentialing specifics, explore how to become a marriage and family therapist in Virginia Beach.

How can LPCs diversify their credentials and career paths in Virginia Beach?

Expanding professional expertise can open new avenues for LPCs in Virginia Beach, allowing them to integrate interdisciplinary skills and broaden their service offerings. Pursuing complementary credentials—such as certifications in specialized therapeutic practices or adjunct qualifications in educational fields—can enhance practice versatility and marketability. For instance, exploring innovative pathways may offer cross-industry opportunities that align mental health expertise with educational initiatives, as seen when professionals assess the cheapest way to become a teacher in Virginia Beach. Strategic credential diversification not only supports career growth but also provides a competitive edge in an evolving local job market.

What are the continuing education and professional development opportunities for LPCs in Virginia Beach?

Licensed Professional Counselors in Virginia Beach can enhance their careers by engaging in targeted continuing education programs and professional development initiatives. Local and national workshops, conferences, and specialized training seminars frequently address emerging clinical practices, legal updates, and innovative therapeutic techniques. Additionally, professional development courses tailored to areas such as digital counseling and culturally responsive therapy provide essential skills for adapting to the evolving mental health landscape. For more detailed guidance on the initial steps and comprehensive career resources, visit our post on how to become a mental health counselor in Virginia Beach.

Are there counseling associations in Virginia Beach?

For those pursuing licensure as a therapist in Virginia Beach, connecting with professional counseling associations is a strategic step for career advancement and ongoing education. These organizations not only provide networking opportunities but also help members stay abreast of evolving best practices and licensing regulations. Engaging with local and national groups can shape the future of counseling through emerging trends and collaborative advocacy.

Virginia Counselors Association (VCA): This statewide organization supports licensed professional counselors (LPCs) in Virginia Beach by offering continuing education, advocacy for counselor licensure laws, and annual conferences. Members benefit from resources tailored to regional challenges and opportunities, fostering professional growth aligned with the latest therapeutic techniques.
American Counseling Association (ACA): As a national body with local chapters accessible to Virginia Beach therapists, ACA provides broad professional development resources, ethical guidelines, and various certification programs. Membership connects counselors with diverse interest groups, enhancing knowledge across multiple counseling modalities, and supports engagement with nationwide initiatives shaping the counseling profession’s future.
Norfolk Psychological Association (NPA): Serving the Norfolk area near Virginia Beach, the NPA caters to psychologists and therapists focused on regional mental health issues. It offers workshops and seminars addressing licensure updates and community-specific challenges, making it ideal for LPCs seeking deeper local involvement and adherence to regional professional standards.

Exploring counseling associations in Virginia Beach is a key part of professional development and maintaining licensure. In addition, those interested in advancing their credentials may consider investigating online school counseling programs that provide flexible pathways to specialization. These resources, combined with active participation in Virginia Beach counseling organizations and resources, position therapists to meet future demands and contribute to the evolving landscape of mental health care.

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

Virginia Beach offers a dynamic landscape for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), with several prominent organizations leading the way in mental health services. These employers not only provide a variety of roles for LPCs but also reflect evolving approaches to therapy and community care. As mental health awareness grows, LPCs can expect expanding opportunities in these and similar settings.

Virginia Beach Department of Human Services: This government agency hires LPCs to deliver mental health and substance abuse counseling, including individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and client assessments. Their work often addresses a broad spectrum of emotional and behavioral challenges, positioning LPCs as essential public health contributors.
Sentara Healthcare: As a major regional health system, Sentara integrates LPCs into outpatient behavioral health and coordinated care teams. Counselors collaborate with psychiatrists and social workers to diagnose and treat mental health conditions, create treatment plans, and lead psychoeducational group sessions, highlighting an interdisciplinary approach to patient care.
The Up Center: A nonprofit focused on trauma-informed counseling, The Up Center engages LPCs in supporting children, families, and adults affected by trauma and domestic violence. LPCs here provide individual therapy, family counseling, and community outreach, embodying a holistic and empowering model of mental health support.

What LPCs in Virginia Beach Say About Their Careers

Working as an LPC in Virginia Beach has allowed me to truly connect with a diverse community while growing both personally and professionally. Graduating from Old Dominion University, I’ve found the local resources and support systems invaluable for expanding my skills and making a meaningful impact. The coastal environment also offers a peaceful backdrop that helps me recharge after emotionally demanding sessions. Maria
Virginia Beach’s unique cultural blend and military presence present distinct challenges that have sharpened my clinical approach and deepened my empathy. Practicing here means I’m constantly learning how to tailor therapy to a broad range of experiences, which keeps my work exciting and rewarding. The city’s support for mental health initiatives has also opened doors for leadership roles in community programs. Jim
As a seasoned LPC raising a family, I appreciate Virginia Beach’s balance of affordable living and professional opportunity. Working at a private practice here allows me to maintain a schedule that prioritizes my home life without compromising client care. The steady demand for counseling services in the area ensures career stability while I continue pursuing advanced certifications. Aisha

Key Findings

Participation in a supervised internship or practicum is required, typically requiring between 700 and 900 hours of clinical experience.
Prospective LPCs must complete at least 3,400 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience.
On average, LPCs in Virginia Beach earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. This range varies based on experience, specialization, and employer type.

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Licensed Therapist (LPC) in Virginia Beach

Can an LPC Associate practice independently in Virginia Beach?

In Virginia Beach, an LPC Associate cannot practice independently. They must work under the supervision of a licensed professional while completing required hours before full licensure. This ensures consistent quality of care and adherence to ethical standards within the community. The current regulatory framework emphasizes supervised experience as a cornerstone for developing competent therapists capable of independent practice in the future.

Looking ahead, evolving telehealth trends and legislative changes might offer LPC Associates more flexibility, but full independent practice remains limited. Virginia’s laws restrict LPCs from diagnosing certain disorders without additional certifications, which could shape the scope of practice as mental health needs grow. Prospective therapists should stay informed about state-specific regulations and emerging opportunities within Virginia Beach.

What degrees qualify for an LPC position in Virginia Beach?

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia Beach requires specific educational backgrounds that prepare candidates for advanced graduate study and professional practice. Choosing the right undergraduate degree can set the foundation for success in this evolving field. Here are three ideal undergraduate programs for aspiring therapists in the region:

Psychology: Offered at Old Dominion University, this program provides a strong understanding of human behavior and mental health, essential for counseling practice.
Human Services: Available at Tidewater Community College, it focuses on community support and social services, aligning well with LPC roles.
Social Work: Offered at Norfolk State University, this degree emphasizes client advocacy and social systems, complementing therapeutic skills.

Are there schools offering accelerated LPC programs in Virginia Beach?

Virginia Beach offers several pathways to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), but currently, there are no widely recognized accelerated LPC programs directly within the city. Prospective students often explore traditional graduate programs in counseling or psychology at local universities. However, accelerated options may be found in nearby metropolitan areas such as Richmond or even in neighboring states like North Carolina, where some institutions offer fast-track formats designed to meet growing demand. Future trends might expand these offerings closer to Virginia Beach to support workforce needs.

Are there telehealth counseling opportunities in Virginia Beach?

Yes, telehealth counseling opportunities are increasingly available in Virginia Beach, reflecting a broader national trend toward remote mental health services. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in the area can often provide therapy sessions via video or phone, expanding access for clients who may face barriers to in-person visits. This shift is supported by recent regulatory adaptations that allow LPCs to utilize telehealth platforms while maintaining professional standards and client confidentiality.

Looking ahead, telehealth is likely to become an integral part of counseling practice in Virginia Beach. Emerging technologies and growing client demand suggest that future LPCs will benefit from developing skills tailored to virtual counseling. This evolution could enhance service reach, particularly for rural populations or those with mobility challenges, positioning telehealth as a crucial component of the LPC profession locally.