LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Hawaii in 2025

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Obtaining an LPC counseling license in Hawaii requires meeting specific state-mandated criteria, reflecting the increasing demand for mental health professionals. Hawaii’s suicide rate is 22% higher than the national average, underscoring the critical need for qualified counselors. This demand translates into strong career prospects and community impact for licensed counselors. The licensing process involves graduate education, supervised experience, and passing the National Counselor Examination.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, outlines the detailed licensure steps, necessary qualifications, and practical advice. It aims to clarify the pathway for prospective counselors to efficiently navigate Hawaii’s licensing system and advance their professional goals.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Hawaii

A master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program is required for LPC licensure in Hawaii.
Applicants must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience within two years.
Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination and a Hawaii-specific jurisprudence exam to qualify for licensure.

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

What degree is required to become an LPC in Hawaii?

The educational pathway for becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Hawaii requires completion of specific accredited degree programs. These degrees ensure candidates meet the state’s standards for competent counseling practice.

Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science: Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as counseling, psychology, social work, human services, or marriage and family therapy prior to graduate study.
Master’s Degree in Counseling or Allied Field: This is the primary credential required for licensure, involving a master’s from an accredited program in counseling or closely related fields like mental health counseling, psychology, or social work.
Doctoral Degree Option: Although not compulsory, a doctoral degree such as PhD, PsyD, or EdD in counseling or an allied discipline from an accredited institution also qualifies for licensure eligibility.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Hawaii?

Meeting the appropriate standards in graduate training is critical for ensuring competent, ethical counseling practice in Hawaii. The core counseling courses required in Hawaii reflect a detailed curriculum designed to prepare candidates for the diverse challenges encountered in professional settings. Below is a summary of the essential coursework aligned with the LPC licensure coursework requirements in Hawaii:

Human Growth and Development: Examines behavioral patterns across all age groups, including both typical and atypical development, equipping counselors to serve clients throughout the lifespan.
Social and Cultural Foundations: Focuses on multicultural issues and societal trends pertinent to Hawaii’s diverse population, fostering culturally competent practice.
Counseling Theories and Applications: Provides comprehensive knowledge of major counseling models and their use in individual and group interventions.
Group Theory and Practice: Covers group dynamics, leadership approaches, and stages of group development, essential for facilitating group counseling sessions.
Career and Lifestyle Development: Introduces theoretical frameworks and practical information on career planning, lifestyle assessment, and decision-making.
Appraisal of Human Behavior: Trains counselors in behavioral assessment techniques using interviews, observations, and testing methodologies.
Tests and Measurements: Emphasizes the administration and interpretation of standardized instruments critical for objective client evaluation.
Research and Program Evaluation: Includes research methods, statistics, and outcome measurement with applicability to program development and assessment.
Professional Orientation and Ethics: Addresses the ethical codes, legal responsibilities, and historical context of the counseling profession.
Practicum or Internship: Requires at least six semester credits involving 300+ hours of supervised clinical experience over two academic terms.

Hawaii mandates a minimum of 48 semester hours of graduate coursework from accredited institutions, reinforcing rigorous academic and practical training standards. Such comprehensive core counseling courses required in Hawaii ensure that counselors are prepared to meet licensure expectations and address community mental health needs effectively. This structure supports professionals aiming for a counseling psychology career salary that is competitive in the field.

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

Hawaii requires Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) candidates to complete 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised counseling experience before licensure. These hours include direct client contact, clinical supervision, and indirect counseling activities, all under board-approved supervisors.

Direct Client Contact: At least 2,250 hours must consist of direct counseling services such as therapy, assessment, or treatment planning with clients.
Face-to-Face Supervision: A minimum of 100 hours must be spent in face-to-face clinical supervision, either in person or via HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing, with qualified supervisors including LPCs, psychologists, social workers, and others approved by the state.
Indirect Counseling Activities: Up to 750 hours can be allocated to indirect activities related to counseling like case consultations, administrative duties, or attending relevant trainings, which support but do not replace direct client contact.
Graduate Practicum/Internship: Prior to the post-master’s experience, candidates must complete at least 300 hours of supervised client contact during practicum or internship within their graduate degree program, typically spanning two academic terms.

All 3,000 post-master’s hours must be completed within a timeframe of two to four years, with thorough documentation validated by supervisors and agencies. Hawaii’s distinct focus on intensive face-to-face supervision aligns with its rural and neighbor island counseling workforce needs, enabling flexible supervision models while maintaining rigorous standards.

When consulting a licensed professional counselor from Hawaii who completed her graduate education locally, she shared that fulfilling the 3,000 supervised hours was both challenging and rewarding. "It took me close to the full four years to complete because I balanced part-time work and family commitments," she explained.

"Finding supervisors on neighbor islands was initially tough, but tele-supervision options made a big difference." She emphasized that meticulous documentation and regular communication with her supervisors eased the process and strengthened her clinical skills, especially during the gradual buildup of direct client hours.

Reflecting on her experience, she noted, "The structured timeline kept me focused, while the diversity of required contact hours ensured well-rounded training in clinical practice." This measured and comprehensive approach, she concluded, was essential to become a confident Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Hawaii’s unique mental health landscape.

What exams are required for LPC licensure in Hawaii?

Examinations serve as a key benchmark in evaluating the competency and readiness of candidates pursuing LPC licensure in Hawaii. The licensing exam for professional counselors in hawaii is structured to ensure that applicants meet rigorous standards in knowledge, ethics, and practical skills. These assessments verify that counselors are prepared to deliver quality mental health services safely and effectively.

National Counselor Examination (NCE): This 200-question multiple-choice exam covers essential areas including human development, psychopathology, group therapy, and professional ethics. Passing the NCE is mandatory for LPC licensure in Hawaii, as it certifies that candidates meet nationwide standards for theoretical knowledge and counseling proficiency.
Criminal Background Check: While not an academic test, this screening ensures applicants have no disqualifying history that could threaten client safety or professional integrity. The background check is integral to maintaining ethical standards and public trust in the counseling profession in Hawaii.

Prospective counselors should note that approval from the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is required before registering for the NCE, highlighting oversight in the licensing pathway.

For those exploring educational options aligned with these requirements, the ranking of the best online counseling degree programs provides comprehensive insights. The combination of exam rigor and ethical screening reflects Hawaii’s commitment to high standards in licensing exam for professional counselors in hawaii.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in Hawaii?

The process for obtaining Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Hawaii involves several clearly defined steps, ensuring candidates meet educational, experiential, and professional standards. Candidates must progress through academic requirements, supervised experience, examinations, and administrative procedures monitored by the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).

Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling or a Related Field: Applicants need a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited institution offering at least 48 semester hours of graduate coursework in counseling topics. Accreditation must be recognized by CACREP or a comparable regional body.
Complete Required Practicum and Internship Experience: During graduate studies, candidates must finish at least two academic terms of supervised practicum or internship totaling a minimum of 300 direct client contact hours. This ensures essential clinical experience under professional supervision.
Accumulate Post-Graduate Supervised Experience: After graduation, at least 3,000 hours of supervised mental health counseling experience must be completed within a two-year timeframe. A qualified supervisor oversees this to validate the candidate’s readiness for independent practice.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE): Following DCCA’s approval, candidates register for and pass the NCE administered through the NBCC. This exam assesses knowledge and skills required for professional counseling.
Submit Official Transcripts and Documentation: Applicants must submit official graduate transcripts and documentation verifying practicum and supervised experience. These materials are sent to the DCCA either by mail or electronically.
Complete and Submit the LPC Application: The formal application, including personal and professional details, is submitted to the DCCA’s Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Undergo a Criminal Background Check: A comprehensive background check is mandatory to uphold professional integrity. Any legal or ethical issues disclosed may require further documentation.
Pay Application and Licensing Fees: Candidates must pay all applicable fees for processing the application and examination. Fee amounts are set by the DCCA and may change periodically.

How many students were in CACREP master's programs in 2023?

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Hawaii typically takes between seven and ten years, spanning from undergraduate education through to completing all licensure requirements. This timeline reflects the extensive training, supervised experience, and examination mandated to ensure competent mental health counseling practice in the state.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: This foundational step normally requires around four years of full-time study, often in psychology, counseling, or related behavioral sciences.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: A CACREP-accredited master’s program, usually taking two to three years, is essential; it must include a minimum of 48 semester hours with supervised practicum experience.
Accruing Supervised Post-Graduate Experience: After the master’s degree, candidates complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised counseling work, which often spans two to four years depending on hours worked weekly and the nature of the setting.
Passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE): Candidates must pass this national exam, typically scheduling it after several months of dedicated study following supervised experience completion.
Applying for Licensure: Submitting documentation to Hawaii’s licensing board concludes the process, with application reviews ranging from several weeks to a few months depending on workload.

When speaking with a licensed professional counselor from Hawaii who completed his education locally, he reflected on the demanding but rewarding journey: “It took me nearly eight years from starting undergrad to earning my license. Balancing coursework with practicum and later accumulating the required supervised hours was challenging, especially managing time alongside personal commitments.”

He mentioned the significance of local community support and the rigor of Hawaii’s supervision standards, which he felt ultimately strengthened his skills. “Passing the exam was a milestone, but the real growth came from the hands-on experience,” he shared, emphasizing that patience and persistence are crucial throughout this process. He encouraged aspiring LPCs to gain practical experience early and to view each stage as essential preparation for a meaningful career in counseling.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in Hawaii?

Many states offer multiple types of LPC licenses—such as provisional, associate, or full licensure—to guide counselors through stages of supervised practice before independent work. These tiers help ensure quality care and support career progression. However, the types of counseling licenses in hawaii differ significantly from this model.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): This is the only professional counseling license available in Hawaii for independent practice. Applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree with at least 48 semester hours in counseling, complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and pass the National Counselor Examination.
No provisional or associate licenses: Hawaii does not issue provisional, associate, or temporary licenses for professional counselors, requiring all supervised experience to be completed before licensure.

For those seeking flexible educational pathways to meet these requirements, exploring the best online graduate counseling certificate program can be beneficial.

Does Hawaii have LPC reciprocity with other states?

Hawaii does not have formal Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) reciprocity agreements with any other state. Professionals licensed elsewhere must apply through the general licensure process and submit proof of their out-of-state license. The state requires verification that the applicant’s education includes a 48-credit master’s degree and at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience.

Even if counselors have passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE), their results can be sent to Hawaii’s licensing board, but additional state-specific criteria may still apply. This process means that licensed counselors cannot automatically transfer their credentials to Hawaii without meeting these standards.

Applicants must demonstrate equivalency in education and supervised experience and comply with Hawaii’s licensing rules rather than benefit from streamlined endorsement or reciprocity. Recent legislative efforts, including the 2023 House Bill 1390, aim to join the Counseling Compact, which would facilitate easier license portability in the future.

Until such measures are adopted, counselors must undergo a full licensure review, highlighting the current absence of true reciprocity. This system can slow the licensure timeline for mental health professionals relocating to Hawaii compared to states with active reciprocity agreements.

What is the demand for LPCs in Hawaii?

The job outlook for licensed professional counselors in Hawaii remains strong due to a combination of population growth, increased mental health awareness, and unique healthcare challenges presented by the state’s geographic isolation and diverse demographics. As more residents seek accessible mental health services, the demand for qualified professionals continues to rise, contributing to a steady expansion of employment opportunities across the islands. These factors underscore the critical role LPCs play in addressing the state’s evolving mental health landscape.

The demand for mental health counselors in Hawaii is highest in varied settings such as schools, hospitals, private practices, community mental health agencies, and telehealth platforms. Schools, in particular, show increased reliance on LPCs to support students’ academic and emotional needs, while healthcare organizations, including integrated systems like Kaiser Permanente, offer competitive salaries nearing $100,000 annually in some Honolulu positions.

Additionally, telehealth options are broadening access to care statewide. Those considering licensure can benefit from understanding the key differences between LCSW and LPC degree programs, which may impact career pathways and employment prospects within this robust market.

What is the projected supply of mental health counselors?

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Hawaii?

Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Hawaii is essential for career advancement for licensed professional counselors in Hawaii. It not only validates professional qualifications but also unlocks access to a wider range of job roles and leadership opportunities in the state’s growing behavioral health sector.

Expanded Job Opportunities: LPC licensure is mandatory for most counseling roles across Hawaii’s public and private sectors, including hospitals, schools, and community agencies, significantly increasing eligible employment options.
Higher Earning Potential: Licensed counselors in Hawaii benefit from competitive salaries, with associates averaging $74,717 annually and clinical psychologists earning median salaries over $100,000, reflecting financial gains linked to licensure.
Eligibility for Private Practice: Only licensed counselors can legally open private practices or bill insurance for mental health services, providing autonomy and a potential increase in income.
Access to Clinical Supervision and Leadership Roles: LPC holders are qualified to supervise counseling interns and are eligible for leadership roles within agencies and healthcare organizations, fostering professional growth.
Opportunities for Specialization: Licensure enables counselors to pursue advanced certifications in areas like trauma or substance abuse, expanding career versatility in Hawaii’s workforce.
Increased Job Security and Market Demand: With a projected 33% growth in mental health counselor employment by 2032, licensure ensures counselors meet qualifications for these rising opportunities.
Professional Credibility and Public Trust: Holding an LPC license signals adherence to ethical standards, enhancing reputation and increasing referrals within the community.

For those investigating specific educational pathways, a valuable resource on what is the most affordable online school counseling degree can support informed decisions about entering the counseling profession in Hawaii.

What do LPCs in Hawaii say about their career?

Completing my LPC program at the University of Hawaii was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in the unique cultural nuances of the islands. Starting my career in a local school allowed me to apply these culturally attuned skills directly to benefit students, fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for their mental health growth. The stability of the profession here combined with the deep community connection makes every day rewarding. I am genuinely passionate about contributing to the wellness of young people in Hawaii’s diverse school settings. Keoni

Pursuing my licensure through Hawaii Pacific University opened a world of professional growth and opportunities within our island communities. Working in academia, I witnessed firsthand how crucial this career is for supporting students’ academic and emotional development, especially given Hawaii’s multiethnic backgrounds. The challenges of integrating cultural awareness into counseling have made me more reflective and adaptive as a practitioner. This path has also allowed me to continue advancing my skills and certifications, which keeps me motivated and evolving. Sophia

The path to becoming a licensed professional counselor in Hawaii brought me immense personal and professional fulfillment, especially after completing my studies at Chaminade University. The chance to serve youth here means embracing the natural environment and cultural diversity in a way that few other places offer. It’s a meaningful challenge to weave traditional values with modern counseling techniques, and this work continually inspires my commitment to community impact. The career advancement opportunities here have allowed me to lead initiatives focused on holistic well-being across schools. David

Other Things You Should Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Hawaii

In Hawaii, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) typically requires a graduate degree specifically in counseling or a closely related field aligned with LPC standards. While a psychology or social work degree provides a strong foundation in mental health, these degrees alone may not fully meet the educational criteria for LPC licensure unless the coursework and clinical training correspond directly to the counseling competencies outlined by Hawaii’s licensing board. Candidates with psychology or social work backgrounds often need to supplement their education with additional counseling-specific coursework or pursue a master’s degree in counseling to qualify. Therefore, holding just a psychology or social work degree without targeted counseling training is generally insufficient to become an LPC in Hawaii.

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

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Hawaii do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While both professionals provide mental health services, LPCs primarily focus on counseling and psychotherapy, addressing emotional and behavioral issues through talk therapy. Psychologists, on the other hand, have a broader scope that includes conducting psychological testing, diagnosis, and treating more complex mental health disorders. This distinction is due to differences in education, training, and licensure requirements established by Hawaii state law, which limits LPCs from performing duties such as psychological assessments reserved for licensed psychologists.

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

In Hawaii, the primary difference between an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and an LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) lies in their scope of practice and regulatory authority. LPCs typically have a broader focus on counseling services across various settings, while LMHCs emphasize mental health diagnosis and treatment, often providing therapy for more severe psychological conditions. Both licenses require a similar educational background and supervised clinical experience, but the LMHC designation is specifically tailored for those who want to work extensively in mental health counseling within the state. For aspiring counselors in Hawaii, understanding these distinctions helps determine the appropriate licensure based on career goals and the populations they wish to serve.

Can LPCs in Hawaii diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

In Hawaii, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are authorized to diagnose and treat mental health disorders within the scope of their training and licensure. LPCs must complete specific educational and supervised experience requirements to obtain licensure through the Hawaii Board of Professional Counselors. Once licensed, they can provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions for individuals facing emotional and psychological challenges. However, LPCs must practice within their defined scope and collaborate with other healthcare professionals when cases require more specialized medical or psychiatric treatment.