LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Georgia in 2025

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In Georgia, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) requires a master's degree in counseling or a closely related field, completion of supervised clinical hours, and passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination. The demand for mental health professionals in Georgia is growing rapidly, with a 15% projected employment increase through 2030.

This trend reflects a strong need for qualified counselors, making licensure a valuable credential. Pursuing an LPC license ensures access to diverse career opportunities and competitive salaries across the state. This article, developed by seasoned career planning experts, provides a clear roadmap to navigate Georgia’s licensure process effectively and avoid common pitfalls.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Georgia

Earn a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program with at least 60 semester hours.
Complete 3,000 hours of supervised post-master's counseling experience over a minimum of two years.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the Georgia Jurisprudence Exam before applying for licensure.

What degree is required to become an LPC in Georgia?
What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Georgia?
How many supervised counseling hours are required for LPC licensure in Georgia?
What exams are required for LPC licensure in Georgia?
How do you apply for LPC licensure in Georgia?
How long does it take to be a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia?
What types of LPC licenses are offered in Georgia?
Does Georgia have LPC reciprocity with other states?
What is the demand for LPCs in Georgia?
How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Georgia?
Other Things You Need to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Georgia

What degree is required to become an LPC in Georgia?

To qualify for licensure as a Professional Counselor in Georgia, candidates must hold a graduate degree recognized by the Georgia Composite Board. The following degree types meet the state’s educational criteria for LPC licensure:

Master’s Degree in Counseling or Applied Psychology: This is the standard graduate degree accepted for LPC licensure, awarded by regionally accredited institutions. It directly prepares candidates for counseling roles widely employed in Georgia’s mental health sector.
Specialist Degree in Counseling or Related Field: Degrees such as the Education Specialist (Ed.S.) are accepted and provide advanced coursework beyond the master’s level without being doctorates, offering additional specialization within counseling.
Doctoral Degree in Counseling or Related Field: A Ph.D. or Psy.D. from an accredited institution in counseling, psychology, or a related area is also recognized. Doctoral training supports advanced professional opportunities including supervision and research.
Master’s Degree in Psychology: This degree qualifies for licensure if the program’s coursework is primarily counseling-focused. It allows candidates with broader psychology backgrounds to pursue the LPC credential.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Georgia?

Ensuring the right core coursework is part of your counseling program is essential to meet Georgia’s professional standards for licensing. These courses cover a broad range of knowledge and skills needed for competent practice in the state. Below is a practical breakdown of the core counseling courses required in Georgia for LPC licensure education requirements for Georgia candidates:

Master’s Degree in Counseling or Counseling Psychology: Completion of a master's or higher degree with at least 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours from an accredited counseling program.
Supervised Counseling Internship or Practicum: An approved, primarily counseling-focused supervised internship or practicum providing practical experience.
Core Academic Content Areas: Coursework must include at least eight of 10 areas, such as human growth and development, social and cultural foundations, counseling techniques, group counseling, career development, appraisal/assessment, research and program evaluation, professional orientation and ethics, diagnosis and treatment planning, and psychopathology.

Meeting these LPC licensure education requirements in Georgia ensures you gain comprehensive skills across theoretical knowledge, ethical practice, and applied counseling strategies. Candidates usually spend significant time fulfilling both educational and supervised experience components, often approaching eight years total. For those planning their career path, understanding how long does it take to become a licensed counselor helps set realistic, informed timelines for licensure readiness.

How many supervised counseling hours are required for LPC licensure in Georgia?

Georgia requires 3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience for LPC licensure. These hours must be completed after earning your master’s degree and cannot include practicum or internship hours from your degree program.

Direct Client Contact: At least 1,000 of the 3,000 hours must be face-to-face counseling sessions, providing hands-on clinical experience with clients.
Supervision Hours: A minimum of 105 hours of supervision is required, including both individual and group formats, with at least 35 hours completed each year.
Other Professional Activities: Up to 1,995 hours can be indirect counseling work like case documentation, consultation, or training that supports your development as a counselor.

All supervised hours must be accrued after receiving your master’s degree and while holding the Associate Professional Counselor (APC) credential to ensure proper oversight. Your primary supervisor must be an approved Georgia-licensed Professional Counselor or qualified mental health professional meeting board criteria.

A licensed professional counselor from Georgia, who graduated from a local university, shared her experience completing these requirements. She described the journey as both challenging and rewarding, emphasizing the discipline needed to balance direct client work with required supervision. “It took me about 20 months to finish the full 3,000 hours,” she reflected, “and what helped most was setting clear goals each month and maintaining detailed records of my sessions and supervision.”

She also highlighted how having a supportive, credentialed supervisor made the process smoother, especially when navigating documentation and board requirements. Looking back, she views those hours as crucial not just for licensure but for building confidence in her clinical skills.

What exams are required for LPC licensure in Georgia?

To move forward in the licensing exam for professional counselor Georgia, candidates must pass one of two national exams that confirm their readiness for independent practice. These exams focus on core knowledge and applied skills necessary for effective counseling.

National Counselor Examination (NCE): This exam tests broad counseling knowledge including theory, human development, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Passing the NCE demonstrates competency in essential counseling areas required for ethical practice in Georgia.
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE): The NCMHCE involves clinical case scenarios where candidates apply diagnostic and intervention skills. It evaluates practical problem-solving and clinical judgment important for mental health counseling roles.

Applicants must pass either the NCE or NCMHCE; both are equally accepted for licensure. Preparation for these exams aligns with national standards and ensures safe, effective care, critical as demand grows for qualified professionals in the state. Those exploring career pathways as a mental health counselor career options should plan exam readiness as a key step toward licensure in Georgia.

Infographic showing that 48% of licensed professional counselors (LPCs) hold a master's degree.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in Georgia?

The LPC licensure application process in Georgia involves a clear sequence of steps to verify your education, experience, and competency as a counselor. Each step requires careful attention to documentation and deadlines to ensure your application moves forward smoothly.

Earn a Qualifying Graduate Degree: Obtain a master’s degree or higher in counseling or applied psychology from an accredited program that meets Georgia’s coursework standards.
Obtain Associate Professional Counselor (APC) Credential: Apply for the APC license to start accruing supervised clinical hours unless you already meet LPC experience requirements or hold an equivalent license.
Complete Supervised Clinical Experience: Accumulate three years of supervised experience (two of which must be under an LPC supervisor), or two years if you hold a specialist degree, with proper documentation from your supervisor.
Pass the Licensing Examination: Successfully complete the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), ensuring official score reports are sent to the board.
Gather and Submit Required Documentation: Prepare sealed official transcripts, supervised experience verifications, exam scores, professional references, and background check materials for your application.
Complete and Submit the LPC Application: Download the current form from the Georgia Composite Board’s site, fill it out thoroughly, attach all required documents, and pay the non-refundable application fee.
Await Board Review and Respond If Needed: Wait for the Board’s decision; if denied, you may request a hearing within 30 days or reapply with additional information.

How long does it take to be a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia?

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia involves a structured path from undergraduate education through full licensure, typically spanning six to eight years. This timeline reflects the combined durations of academic preparation, supervised clinical experience, examination, and application processes required by the state.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: This initial phase usually requires four years of full-time study. While any major qualifies, degrees related to psychology or social work can better prepare you for graduate counseling programs.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: A master’s degree accredited for counseling generally takes two to three years full-time and must include specified coursework plus at least 600 hours of supervised practicum or internship.
Accruing Supervised Experience: After earning the master’s degree, you must obtain an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) credential to begin supervised work. Georgia mandates three years of supervised experience, often two under an LPC, which usually takes about two to three years to complete.
Passing Required Examinations: Full licensure requires passing either the National Counselor Examination or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination. Preparing and scheduling your exam can take a few months, but the exam itself is completed shortly after application approval.
Applying for Licensure: Once all prior steps are finished, submitting your application to the Georgia Composite Board starts the final process. Review and licensing typically take a few months depending on application backlog and documentation completeness.

A licensed professional counselor from Georgia, who graduated from a local university, shared his reflections on this journey. He described the experience as a “long but rewarding commitment,” noting how balancing coursework, practicum hours, and later supervised practice required careful planning and resilience. “The supervised experience was particularly challenging,” he recalled, emphasizing the importance of finding quality supervision and managing work alongside personal responsibilities.

He also mentioned the anticipation surrounding exam preparation, explaining that staying focused on the goal helped maintain momentum. Ultimately, he felt the 7-year process provided invaluable professional growth and a deepened sense of purpose, stating, “Looking back, each phase was a crucial building block, and though it demanded patience, becoming an LPC in Georgia was absolutely worth the time invested.”

Statistic showing 68,643 students enrolled in CACREP-accredited master’s programs in 2023.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in Georgia?

States often offer different types of LPC licenses to ensure counselors gain proper experience before independent practice. In Georgia, the two main types of LPC licenses reflect this structured pathway, guiding professionals from supervised practice to full licensure.

Associate Professional Counselor (APC): This license applies to recent graduates with a master’s degree in counseling or related fields. APCs must work under supervision as they accumulate the required clinical hours, making this the initial step toward full licensure.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): After completing supervised experience and passing a national exam, counselors earn full LPC status. This license allows independent practice and supervising APCs, reflecting advanced professional competence in Georgia’s counseling system.

For those concerned about counseling degree cost, understanding these stages helps plan education and career expenses efficiently.

Does Georgia have LPC reciprocity with other states?

Georgia does not have formal reciprocity agreements for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) with other states. Instead, the state offers a licensure by endorsement process, which allows counselors licensed in other states to apply for licensure in Georgia without starting from scratch. Applicants must submit proof of their current, unrestricted license and provide detailed documentation of their education and supervised experience to demonstrate equivalency with Georgia’s standards. Passing either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) is also required.

The Georgia licensing board evaluates each application individually, which means the time and requirements may vary based on the applicant’s specific credentials and previous state licensure. If the board finds any gaps, they may require additional coursework, supervision, or exams. Unlike true reciprocity, there is no automatic license transfer, so counselors should prepare for possible delays and variable demands during the endorsement process.

What is the demand for LPCs in Georgia?

The demand for licensed professional counselors in Georgia is rising steadily due to a combination of population growth, increased mental health awareness, and expanding healthcare needs. As urban areas expand, so does the necessity for comprehensive counseling services tailored to diverse communities. Public acceptance of mental health treatment and broader insurance coverage have also made accessing these services more feasible, enhancing job prospects for LPCs statewide. Prospective counselors should consider these factors carefully when planning their careers.

LPCs find the strongest demand in settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, and community agencies, where counseling services are integral to wellness and educational support systems. School districts and healthcare organizations consistently seek qualified professionals to fill these roles, demonstrating robust LPC job outlook in Georgia. Employment projections indicate continued growth through 2033, supported by initiatives like the Counseling Compact that improve cross-state practice opportunities. Those exploring advanced qualifications may benefit from pursuing a masters in counseling, which prepares candidates to meet this expanding need effectively.

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Georgia?

Obtaining LPC licensure in Georgia plays a significant role in advancing a counseling career, as it opens access to greater professional opportunities and financial rewards. Licensure not only establishes a foundation of credibility but also enables counselors to expand their practice options and leadership roles within the mental health field.

Expanded Job Opportunities: Many counseling positions in hospitals, schools, and private agencies require LPC licensure, which aligns with projected job growth in Georgia’s mental health sector. Licensed counselors form the largest provider group in the state, benefiting from a 32% increase in counseling jobs expected by 2030.
Higher Earning Potential: Licensed professional counselors typically earn higher salaries, with median wages around $49,480 and top earners making up to $103,320. This salary growth reflects the state’s demand for qualified mental health professionals and career advancement prospects.
Eligibility for Private Practice: Only LPCs in Georgia can independently manage or join private practices, allowing direct billing to insurers and private clients. This autonomy supports increased income streams and professional flexibility in career pathways.
Opportunities for Clinical Supervision: Holding an LPC allows counselors to supervise interns and associates, diversifying their roles and enhancing leadership skills. This supervision experience is valuable for career progression and professional standing.
Pathways to Specialization: Licensure is essential to pursue certifications such as the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor or specialized therapeutic approaches, broadening expertise and marketability. For those comparing degrees, understanding the differences between MA and MS in counseling provides additional clarity on advanced credentials.

What do LPCs in Georgia say about their career?

Completing my LPC program at Georgia State University was a transformative experience. The curriculum not only provided rigorous academic training but also emphasized hands-on practice, which was invaluable when I began my career working in a local school setting. Supporting students through their challenges and fostering their emotional growth has been profoundly rewarding. The sense of stability and community within Georgia's educational institutions makes this career path both fulfilling and sustainable. I truly feel privileged to contribute to the well-being of young people daily. Paolo
Starting my career as a licensed professional counselor in a local academic environment opened my eyes to the unique cultural and socioeconomic dynamics that shape Georgia’s communities. My degree from Mercer University prepared me well to navigate these complexities with cultural sensitivity and innovative strategies. This role has challenged me, but it has also provided countless opportunities for meaningful professional development and leadership. Watching individual students flourish is a powerful reminder of why I chose this path. Janine
Pursuing my LPC credential through the University of Georgia was not just a professional milestone—it was a journey of personal growth. Working within Georgia’s diverse populations has deepened my empathy and enhanced my skills in addressing varied mental health needs. I appreciate the unique opportunities that come with serving rural and urban communities, from engaging with nature-based healing practices to advocating for equitable access to care. This career continues to inspire my passion for creating lasting social impact. Romel

Other Things You Need to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Georgia

In Georgia, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) typically requires a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field that aligns with the standards set by the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. A degree in psychology or social work alone does not automatically qualify an individual for LPC licensure unless the coursework specifically meets counseling content requirements. Therefore, those holding psychology or social work degrees often need to complete additional graduate-level counseling courses to satisfy licensure prerequisites. It is essential to review the educational requirements carefully to determine if supplemental coursework or a counseling-focused degree program is necessary for LPC eligibility in Georgia.

Do LPCs in Georgia have the same scope of practice as psychologists?

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Georgia do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While LPCs are trained to provide counseling and therapy focused on mental health and behavioral issues, psychologists possess broader training that includes psychological testing, diagnosis, and treatment of complex mental disorders. Psychologists in Georgia are also qualified to conduct assessments and provide interventions based on extensive research and clinical expertise, which LPCs are not authorized to perform. Therefore, although both professionals contribute significantly to mental health care, their roles and responsibilities differ, reflecting variations in education, training, and legal scope defined by state regulations.

What is the difference between an LPC and an LMHC in Georgia?

In Georgia, the terms Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) essentially refer to the same credential, as the state uses LPC as its official licensure title. Both licenses authorize individuals to provide professional counseling services, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. The primary difference lies in terminology used in other states; some states use LMHC instead of LPC, but in Georgia, LPC is the recognized designation for mental health counselors. Therefore, prospective counselors in Georgia should focus on meeting the LPC licensure requirements, which include education, supervised experience, and passing the National Counselor Examination.

Can LPCs in Georgia diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

In Georgia, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are permitted to diagnose and treat mental health disorders within their scope of practice. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and provide counseling services for a variety of psychological conditions, working directly with individuals to improve their mental well-being. However, LPCs must adhere to state regulations and ethical standards, and more complex cases may require collaboration with or referral to other healthcare professionals such as psychiatrists or psychologists. For those intending to pursue licensure in Georgia, understanding the boundaries and responsibilities related to diagnosis and treatment is essential to practicing effectively and legally as an LPC.