LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Kansas in 2025

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Obtaining an LPC counseling license in Kansas opens doors to a growing field where demand for mental health professionals rises steadily. In Kansas, licensed counselors enjoy a median salary above the national average, reflecting regional support for their expertise. The licensing process requires a master's degree, supervised experience, and passing examinations, all designed to ensure competent practice. Pursuing this credential is a strategic move for those eager to impact communities while advancing their careers.

This article, crafted by seasoned career planning experts, unpacks Kansas’s LPC requirements clearly. It aims to guide readers through challenges and decisions on the path to licensure with confidence and clarity.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Kansas

Candidates must hold a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from a CACREP-accredited program to qualify for LPC licensure in Kansas.
Applicants need to complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience post-degree, emphasizing diverse client populations and evidence-based practices.
Kansas requires passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) as part of its rigorous testing to ensure counselors meet competency standards for licensure.

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

What degree is required to become an LPC in Kansas?

The path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas opens with specific graduate qualifications that set the foundation for professional readiness. These degrees ensure alignment with state standards while offering a breadth of options for aspiring counselors.

Master’s Degree in Counseling: This degree must come from a program approved by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board and include at least 60 graduate semester hours. The program should be accredited by CACREP or recognized as substantially equivalent, ensuring a rigorous and nationally respected curriculum.
Master’s Degree in a Related Field: Degrees in fields such as psychology or marriage and family therapy also qualify if they meet credit hour requirements and cover necessary counseling coursework. They must be accredited by a regional body recognized by CHEA and uphold standards comparable to CACREP’s, accommodating professionals from various but relevant academic backgrounds.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Kansas?

Choosing the right coursework is a pivotal part of preparing to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas. The curriculum shapes your skills and ensures you are equipped to handle diverse client needs effectively. Below is a clear outline of the essential core counseling courses required in Kansas that build a strong foundation for professional practice:

Counseling Theory and Practice: Covers major counseling theories and practical techniques applicable across various settings, emphasizing versatile approaches.
The Helping Relationship: Focuses on developing skills for forging strong counselor-client bonds, including communication and ethical standards.
Group Dynamics, Processing, and Counseling: Explores managing and leading group counseling, including diverse group populations and techniques.
Human Growth and Development: Examines lifespan development and its influence on behavior and therapeutic intervention planning.
Lifestyle and Career Development: Investigates career counseling methods, theories, and decision-making models essential for guiding clients.
Appraisal of Individuals: Trains in assessment tools and interpreting individual differences critical for diagnosis and treatment.
Social and Cultural Foundations: Addresses cultural diversity, societal influences, and their impact on counseling effectiveness.
Research and Evaluation: Introduces research methodology and statistical analysis to support evidence-based counseling.
Professional Orientation: Highlights ethical practices, counselor roles, legal responsibilities, and organizational structures.
Supervised Practicum and Internship: Provides supervised hands-on experience to integrate academic learning with real-world counseling practice.

Meeting these requirements through accredited programs like CACREP or CORE ensures comprehensive preparation for licensure. For those seeking the fastest way to become a licensed therapist, this focused coursework framework is indispensable in Kansas.

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

Kansas requires 4,000 hours of supervised counseling experience for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure, all completed post-master’s. These hours are thoughtfully structured to ensure practical experience and professional growth under expert guidance.

Total Supervised Hours: Candidates must complete 4,000 hours of professional counseling work after earning their master’s degree, providing a solid foundation of clinical practice in authentic settings.
Direct Client Contact: At least 1,500 hours must involve direct work with clients, such as delivering mental health therapy and assessments, ensuring hands-on engagement with diverse client needs.
Clinical Supervision Hours: A minimum of 150 hours of supervision is essential, maintaining a ratio of one hour of supervision for every 15 hours of client contact, offering regular professional oversight.
Individual vs. Group Supervision: Of these supervision hours, 50 must be face-to-face individual sessions, while the remaining 100 may be completed in group settings with no more than six supervisees, balancing personalized feedback and peer learning.
Frequency of Supervision: Counselors must attend at least two supervision meetings monthly, with at least one session being individual, fostering continuous development and support.
Post-Master’s Requirement: Practicum or internship hours earned during the master’s program do not count toward the 4,000-hour total, emphasizing the importance of advanced experience after graduation.

A licensed professional counselor from Kansas who completed her training locally reflected on the intensity and dedication required for these hours. “It was a rigorous path,” she shared, “balancing client sessions with regular supervision was challenging but incredibly rewarding. It took me just over two years to fulfill all 4,000 hours because I wanted to maintain high-quality work rather than rush the process.” She emphasized how the consistent schedule of supervision meetings kept her motivated and confident, noting, “Those individual sessions especially helped me grow professionally and navigate complex cases.” Her journey highlights that while the process demands time and focus, it lays a vital groundwork for a rewarding career in counseling within Kansas.

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What exams are required for LPC licensure in Kansas?

Exams serve as vital checkpoints on your path to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas, focusing on assessing your expertise and readiness for this rewarding career. Navigating the Kansas LPC licensure exam requirements introduces you to a range of evaluations designed to confirm your counseling knowledge and skills.

National Counselor Examination (NCE): This 200-question multiple-choice exam covers core counseling fundamentals like theories, ethics, and professional practices, making it the centerpiece of the licensing journey and a hallmark of competence recognized nationwide in Kansas.
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) Exam: Required only for those specializing in rehabilitation counseling, this exam dives into disability concepts, advocacy, and counseling techniques unique to this focus, ensuring specialized readiness.
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE): For counselors advancing toward the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor credential, this simulation-based exam tests your clinical judgment and decision-making in realistic scenarios, pushing your expertise beyond entry-level practice.

Exploring these requirements can feel like an adventure, and if you're wondering about alternative paths in mental health careers, learning how to become a therapist without a psychology degree might open new doors.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in Kansas?

Applying for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Kansas takes you on a step-by-step path designed to confirm your readiness to serve clients with skill and professionalism. This journey combines academic achievements, hands-on experience, and official procedures to ensure you meet the state’s standards.

Earn a Qualifying Graduate Degree: Begin by completing a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited school. Your program must include at least 60 graduate semester hours, with a strong focus on core counseling topics and supervised practicum experience.
Complete Supervised Post-Graduate Experience: After graduation, accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised counseling work, including at least 1,500 hours spent in direct client contact. Make sure you receive no less than 100 hours of face-to-face supervision from a qualified professional to refine your practical skills.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE): Successfully clear the NCE, a nationally recognized exam that tests your counseling knowledge and readiness. Your exam scores must be sent directly to the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board to complete your application.
Submit the LPC Licensure Application: Gather all required documents—official transcripts, proof of supervised experience, exam results—and submit your fully completed application form as specified by the board. Accuracy and completeness are essential for smooth processing.
Pay Required Fees: Include the $50 application fee with your submission, and be aware of any additional costs related to exam registration or license renewal. Timely payment ensures your application moves forward promptly.
Satisfy Age, Ethics, and Background Requirements: Confirm you are at least 21 years old and demonstrate good moral character. You may be asked to complete background checks to assure the board of your ethical standards.
Await Application Review and Licensure Decision: Processing typically takes six to eight weeks. Stay engaged by tracking your application status, and prepare to receive official notification once your licensure is granted.

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Kansas is an exciting journey that typically spans six or more years. This timeline reflects the dedication needed for education, examination, and licensure, ensuring that counselors are well-prepared to support their communities.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: This foundational stage usually takes around four years of full-time study, often in psychology or a related field. It provides essential knowledge that sets the stage for advanced counseling education.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: Earning a master’s degree involves around two to three years of graduate coursework, focusing deeply on counseling theories and practices. This step equips candidates with specialized skills required for licensure.
Accruing Supervised Hours: Unlike some states, Kansas does not require post-master’s supervised experience for LPC licensure, allowing candidates to apply immediately after graduation. This unique aspect can shorten the overall time to licensure.
Passing Required Exams: Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination, a standardized test that often requires additional months of preparation. Successfully completing this exam is essential before applying for licensure.
Applying for Licensure: After meeting education and exam requirements, applicants submit their paperwork to the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board. Application processing usually takes six to eight weeks, depending on timing and completeness.

A licensed professional counselor from Kansas, who graduated from a local school, reflected that the entire process felt like a rewarding marathon rather than a sprint. “It took me just over six years from starting my bachelor’s to receiving my LPC license,” he shared. He described navigating course challenges and exam preparation as both daunting and invigorating. “Waiting for the application approval was nerve-wracking, but I appreciated how the state’s streamlined approach helped me start practicing sooner than I expected.” His experience emphasized that while the timeline demands patience and persistence, it ultimately leads to a fulfilling professional path.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in Kansas?

States often design multiple levels of licensing to ensure counselors gain the right experience and supervision before independent practice. Kansas offers a clear progression system that supports professional growth through distinct credential types.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): For master's graduates who have completed 60 graduate credit hours and passed the National Counselor Examination. LPCs provide counseling under supervision, marking the first stage in the counseling career.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): An advanced license requiring 3,000 hours of supervised experience beyond LPC and a clinical exam. LCPC holders practice independently, supervise LPCs, and can take on clinical leadership roles, highlighting the key Kansas LPC vs LCPC license distinction.
Licensure by Reciprocity: Enables licensed counselors from other states to obtain Kansas licensure by verifying their credentials meet state standards, easing transitions for experienced professionals.

For more details on application processes, see counseling license application requirements by state.

Does Kansas have LPC reciprocity with other states?

Kansas does not maintain formal LPC reciprocity agreements with other states, but it offers a pathway for out-of-state counselors to obtain licensure through a process called licensure by reciprocity. This involves several specific criteria, such as having held an LPC or LCPC license in good standing for at least five consecutive years elsewhere. Counselors must also demonstrate that their previous licensure requirements align closely with Kansas standards, ensuring a comparable level of education and professional experience.

The application process requires submitting detailed documentation, including verification of current licensure, a complete record of license history, and proof of professional practice. LCPC applicants face additional demands, such as showing three years of clinical experience in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders and holding a master’s degree in counseling. Kansas might also request extra education or evidence if there are notable gaps between previous training and state-specific requirements. Importantly, licenses must be active and free from disciplinary actions within the past five years to qualify.

What is the demand for LPCs in Kansas?

The demand for licensed professional counselors in Kansas continues to grow steadily, influenced by factors like population expansion in urban and rural areas, rising mental health awareness, and increasing healthcare needs. The evolving landscape encourages more Kansans to seek professional mental health support, which directly impacts the need for qualified professionals. This expanding recognition of mental health challenges aligns with the broader national outlook, spotlighting an inviting environment for those entering counseling. Prospective counselors may find this an excellent time to explore the field and consider the benefits of a masters in counseling for a competitive edge.

LPCs in Kansas find strong opportunities across various settings, including schools, hospitals, private practices, and community mental health agencies. Schools emphasize addressing student behavioral concerns, while hospitals integrate counseling into broader patient care. Community agencies grow with expanded public funding, broadening access to essential services. Notably, job listings remain plentiful and salaries are competitive, with the field expected to grow by at least 6% over the next decade, often outpacing other occupations. This robust mental health workforce shortage in Kansas hints at promising career stability and advancement for counselors willing to engage with diverse populations and settings.

What is the projected supply of mental health counselors?

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Kansas?

Obtaining LPC licensure in Kansas opens doors that transform a counseling career from a hopeful beginning to a flourishing profession. This credential validates a counselor’s expertise and empowers them to explore diverse professional pathways with confidence and credibility.

Expanded Job Opportunities: LPC licensure is essential for accessing a broad range of counseling roles in clinics, hospitals, and schools across Kansas, where over 200 LPC positions are actively available. Employers prioritize licensed counselors for their verified qualifications and ability to practice independently.
Higher Earning Potential: Licensed Professional Counselors earn an average of $64,138 annually in Kansas, with top salaries reaching over $90,000. This salary growth reflects the enhanced responsibilities and expertise that license holders bring to their roles.
Eligibility for Private Practice: Being licensed allows counselors to offer services independently and bill insurance providers, a privilege not granted to unlicensed professionals. This independence lets LPCs establish private practices or join specialized clinics, expanding their career horizons.
Pathway to Clinical Supervision and Advanced Credentials: LPC licensure is a stepping stone toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, opening doors to leadership roles and supervision opportunities for future counselors. This progression supports ambitious professionals seeking to deepen their impact.
Opportunities for Specialization: Holding an LPC license qualifies counselors for certifications from organizations like the National Board for Certified Counselors, enhancing their skills in areas such as substance abuse or marriage therapy. Specialization often leads to better job stability and higher income.
Professional Networking and Development: Membership in associations like the Kansas Counseling Association becomes available with licensure, offering continual education and collaboration prospects that fuel career growth. Networking boosts visibility and professional reputation in the field.
Increased Job Security and Workforce Demand: With a projected 23% increase in counseling jobs nationwide, licensed counselors stand to benefit most from the growing mental health needs and insurance expansions in Kansas. This demand underlines the value of maintaining licensure.

For those considering how to begin or enhance their counseling journey, exploring options such as the cheapest masters in school counseling programs can provide an affordable and supportive path toward licensure and beyond.

What do LPCs in Kansas say about their career?

Completing my counseling program at Wichita State University gave me a solid foundation grounded in both theory and practice, which made stepping into my role as a licensed professional counselor incredibly rewarding. Working within a local school has allowed me to witness firsthand the positive changes we can foster in students’ lives, especially in a community that values resilience and growth. Kansas’s blend of rural and urban environments offers unique challenges, but those challenges have made my work both meaningful and impactful. I feel fortunate to contribute to a supportive educational atmosphere where every child can thrive. Aaron
Beginning my career as a licensed professional counselor in a local school was an enriching experience that helped me develop a deep understanding of the educational system and student needs. The stability of career opportunities in Kansas provided peace of mind while I honed my skills, and the community’s focus on mental health support has been inspiring. Kansas’s strong sense of community allows me to form genuine connections with students and colleagues, fostering both personal and professional growth. The journey has been fulfilling, and I continue to be motivated by the difference we make every day. Sierra
The professional development possibilities as a licensed professional counselor in Kansas are robust, especially given the state's commitment to ongoing training and mental health initiatives across schools. I completed my studies at Fort Hays State University and now feel equipped to take on diverse challenges in our communities. Being part of this field here means engaging with a culturally rich and tight-knit population, which helps me grow both as a counselor and as a person. The joy of supporting young individuals in overcoming obstacles drives my passion for this work. Mindy

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Kansas

In Kansas, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) typically requires a master’s degree specifically in counseling or a closely related field. While degrees in psychology or social work provide valuable foundational knowledge, they alone do not directly qualify applicants for LPC licensure. Individuals with psychology or social work degrees may need to complete additional coursework or obtain a counseling-focused graduate degree that meets the licensing board’s curriculum requirements. Therefore, holding a psychology or social work degree can be a starting point, but further specialized education is generally necessary to meet the LPC counseling licensure requirements in Kansas.

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

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Kansas do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While both professions provide mental health services, LPCs primarily focus on counseling and psychotherapy for individuals, groups, and families, often addressing emotional, behavioral, and life adjustment issues. Psychologists, on the other hand, have broader training that includes administering psychological testing, conducting research, and diagnosing complex mental health disorders. The difference in scope is largely due to variations in educational requirements, with psychologists needing a doctoral degree and LPCs typically holding a master’s degree. Therefore, although there is some overlap in providing therapeutic support, Kansas LPCs cannot perform certain assessments or interventions reserved for psychologists under state law.

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

In Kansas, the titles Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) are often used interchangeably, but the LPC designation is the officially recognized license for counselors in the state. The LPC credential is governed by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board and requires specific educational qualifications, supervised clinical experience, and passing a national exam. Conversely, LMHC is a title more commonly used in other states but does not represent a distinct licensure category in Kansas. For those seeking to practice counseling professionally within Kansas, pursuing LPC licensure is essential, as it authorizes the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders, ensuring compliance with state regulations and professional standards.

Can LPCs in Kansas diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Kansas are authorized to diagnose and treat mental health disorders within the scope of their training and licensure. They provide counseling services aimed at improving clients' emotional, psychological, and behavioral functioning. However, LPCs must practice in accordance with state regulations and ethical standards, and they typically focus on therapy rather than medical interventions. For cases requiring medication or more severe psychiatric care, LPCs collaborate with psychiatrists or other medical professionals to ensure comprehensive treatment.