LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Maryland in 2025

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Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Maryland demands meeting specific educational, supervised experience, and examination requirements. The state reported a 15% growth in mental health counseling jobs between 2020 and 2030, reflecting increasing demand.

This growth underlines the value of pursuing licensure, ensuring both professional credibility and opportunities in diverse settings. Navigating the distinct requirements set by Maryland’s Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists can be complex.

This article, created by experts in career planning, offers clear guidance on licensure eligibility, application processes, and practical tips to overcome common challenges for aspiring LPCs in Maryland.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Maryland

A master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program is essential to meet Maryland’s LPC educational standards.
Applicants must complete at least 60 semester hours of graduate coursework covering core counseling competencies, clinical practice, and ethics.
Maryland requires 3,000 hours of supervised post-master’s clinical experience before LPC licensure is granted, ensuring readiness for independent practice.

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

What degree is required to become an LPC in Maryland?

Achieving licensure as a professional counselor in Maryland demands a solid academic foundation recognized by the state. The degrees accepted reflect both a commitment to rigorous education and alignment with professional standards.

Master's Degree in Clinical Professional Counseling or Related Field: This degree serves as the primary educational pathway, requiring comprehensive graduate-level coursework in counseling or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
Doctoral Degree in Clinical Professional Counseling or Related Field: A more advanced option, this degree involves an extended course of study and may offer some flexibility in licensure prerequisites due to its depth and breadth.
Acceptable Related Fields: Degrees in psychology, social work, or human services may be considered if they sufficiently meet the criteria established by the licensing board, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of counseling.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Maryland?

Choosing coursework that aligns precisely with Maryland’s regulatory standards profoundly shapes a counselor’s readiness and professional trajectory. Meeting these core counseling courses required in Maryland involves a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip future counselors with essential knowledge and skills. Below is a clear outline of the foundational coursework mandated for LPC licensure in this state:

Human Growth and Personality Development: Examines developmental stages and personality concepts to understand client behavior across the lifespan.
Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling: Focuses on cultural, ethnic, and societal influences that affect mental health and therapy.
Counseling Theory: Covers a wide range of fundamental and advanced counseling theories to guide practice.
Counseling Techniques: Offers practical methods and skills used in both individual and group counseling environments.
Group Dynamics, Processing, and Counseling: Addresses leadership roles and interaction processes within therapeutic groups.
Lifestyle and Career Development: Involves strategies related to vocational assessment and career planning.
Appraisal: Trains students in using assessment tools and standardized testing to evaluate client needs.
Research and Evaluation: Provides skills in research methods and evidence-based program evaluation.
Professional, Legal, and Ethical Responsibilities: Focuses on counseling ethics, legal requirements, and professional conduct.
Marriage and Family Therapy: Introduces counseling techniques specific to couples and family systems.
Alcohol and Drug Counseling: Teaches intervention strategies for substance use disorders.
Diagnosis and Psychopathology: Covers identification and classification of mental health disorders.
Psychotherapy and Treatment of Mental and Emotional Disorders: Describes therapeutic modalities for various psychological conditions.
Supervised Field Experience (Practicum/Internship): Requires a minimum of 125 direct client contact hours to apply clinical skills.

Maryland’s insistence on rigorous coursework ensures that aspiring counselors gain a deep and varied understanding of their profession, which is critical as the state projects ongoing demand for licensed counselors. For those planning to build a counseling career salary in Maryland’s regulated environment, establishing this strong educational foundation is essential. Graduate students aiming for licensure should consider these course requirements carefully as they represent a crucial bridge from theory to practice in counseling.

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

Maryland requires candidates for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) licensure to complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, typically over a minimum of three years. These hours are thoughtfully divided to ensure both practical client engagement and professional development under qualified supervision.

Direct Client Contact: At least 1,500 hours must involve face-to-face counseling, including individual, group, family, or couples therapy, as well as intake, assessment, diagnosis, and crisis intervention. This immersive experience is fundamental for refining clinical skills.
Supervision Requirements: A minimum of half of the total hours (1,500) must be completed under the guidance of a Board-approved licensed clinical professional counselor, ensuring quality oversight and feedback throughout the training period.
Indirect Clinical Activities: Up to 1,500 hours may be allocated to indirect tasks like case management, professional consultations, treatment planning (outside direct client settings), record keeping, and attendance at trainings or seminars; these duties build essential competencies beyond direct counseling.
Post-Master’s Completion: At least 2,000 of the 3,000 supervised hours are to be earned after obtaining a master’s degree, confirming advanced readiness for independent practice.
Graduate Practicum/Internship: Up to 1,000 hours can come from graduate-level supervised fieldwork, such as practicum or internship experiences, provided they meet Board standards, including a minimum of 125 face-to-face counseling hours.

Talking with a licensed professional counselor from Maryland who graduated from a local university brought these requirements to life. She recounted that meeting the 3,000-hour threshold was both rigorous and rewarding, explaining, “It took me just over three years to complete all the supervised hours, balancing my post-master’s work with ongoing supervision and occasional indirect activities.”

The challenge wasn’t just about logging hours but maintaining consistent quality and reflective practice under her Board-approved supervisor’s watchful eye. She noted how the blend of direct client time and indirect professional growth shaped her confidence and competence. “Looking back, the structured supervision was invaluable—it kept me grounded and continuously developing,” she shared, underscoring the importance of this well-defined process in Maryland’s licensure journey.

What exams are required for LPC licensure in Maryland?

Examinations form a cornerstone in establishing the professional readiness of counselors in Maryland. They guarantee that candidates demonstrate both strong clinical knowledge and a firm grasp of state-specific legal requirements, promoting responsible and ethical practice.

National Counselor Examination requirements in Maryland: This 200-question multiple-choice exam evaluates core counseling competencies including human development, psychopathology, ethics, assessment, and treatment planning. Passing the NCE ensures counselors meet nationally recognized standards, reflecting a comprehensive understanding necessary for effective clinical practice.
Maryland Law Assessment exam for counselors: Focused exclusively on Maryland’s laws and regulations, this exam tests knowledge of legal and ethical mandates unique to the state, such as client confidentiality and reporting requirements. Its purpose is to certify that counselors are prepared to operate within Maryland’s specific regulatory framework, safeguarding both the practitioner and the public.

Typically, applicants take the national counselor examination requirements in Maryland after completing graduate coursework but before finishing supervised clinical hours. Successfully passing both this and the Maryland Law Assessment exam for counselor positions candidates to obtain initial licensure and proceed toward full practice. For those exploring career outcomes, reviewing mental health counselor salary data can provide a valuable perspective on this profession’s opportunities.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in Maryland?

Applying for LPC licensure in Maryland requires careful preparation and a clear sequence of steps. Each stage builds on the previous one, ensuring that candidates are both qualified and ready to provide professional counseling services under appropriate supervision and standards.

Earn a Master’s or Doctoral Degree: You must graduate from a regionally accredited institution with a counseling program approved by Maryland, including at least 125 hours of direct client counseling experience during your studies. This foundational education ensures you have both theoretical knowledge and practical exposure.
Obtain the Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) Credential: Before starting supervised clinical practice, apply for the LGPC credential by submitting your transcripts and paying a $200 fee. This allows you to work under supervision and gain essential experience while pursuing full licensure.
Complete Supervised Clinical Experience: Accumulate 3,000 hours over at least three years if you hold a master’s degree, or 2,000 hours over two years for doctoral graduates, with supervision from a Maryland-approved supervisor. This stage is critical for developing your professional skills in a real-world setting.
Pass Required Exams: Successfully complete the National Counselor Examination and the Maryland Law Assessment Exam. Passing these demonstrates your competency in both general counseling knowledge and specific state laws governing your practice.
Submit the Application for LCPC Licensure: After meeting all prior requirements, submit your application along with proof of supervised experience, exam results, transcripts, and a $200 fee through the Maryland Board’s online portals. Attention to detail in your submission helps avoid delays.

20,148 students from CACREP-accredited programs in 2023.

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Maryland is a multi-step process that generally takes between six to eight years from starting undergraduate studies to obtaining full licensure. This timeline reflects the balance of academic requirements, practical experience, and examination processes necessary to ensure competence and readiness for professional practice.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: The journey usually starts with a four-year bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a similar field, providing the foundational knowledge needed for advanced study.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: Next, a master’s degree is required, typically taking two years of full-time study, with Maryland mandating at least 60 graduate credits to qualify for licensure.
Accruing Supervised Clinical Experience: After the master’s program, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, generally over two years, to develop practical skills under professional guidance.
Passing Required Exams: The licensure process involves passing the National Counselor Examination and the Maryland state exam, with preparation and scheduling adding a few months to the timeline.
Applying for Licensure: Finally, candidates submit their applications to the Maryland Board, which includes background checks and fees, with approval times ranging from weeks to a few months before full licensure is granted.

Reflecting on this timeline, a licensed professional counselor from Maryland, who graduated from a local university, shared that his own path took about seven years. He remarked that while the academic stages progressed predictably, the most challenging part was the supervised clinical experience. He recalls, “Finding the right supervisor and balancing work hours was tougher than I expected,” and that “the waiting and exam preparations required patience and focus.” Despite the hurdles, he viewed the entire process as a meaningful journey that solidified his commitment. “Each phase built not only my skills but also my confidence, which made finally getting licensed all the more rewarding.” His experience underscores how personalized and impactful this professional path can be.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in Maryland?

States use different LPC license types to ensure counselors develop skills progressively through supervision and experience before independent practice. These tiers support ethical standards and career growth within counseling professions. Exploring the types of LPC licenses in Maryland reveals tailored opportunities for various specialties and levels of training.

Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC): A provisional license for recent graduates who complete supervised clinical hours over two to three years before pursuing full licensure.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): Full independent licensure requiring exam passage and supervised experience, allowing for private practice and insurance billing.
Graduate and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (GADC, CADC): Specialize in substance abuse counseling, progressing from supervised to full clinical licensure.
Graduate and Clinical Marriage and Family Therapy (GMFT, CMFT): Licenses for counselors focusing on family systems, advancing from graduate to clinical status.
Graduate and Clinical Professional Art Therapy (GPAT, CPAT): Designed for art therapy practitioners requiring specialized education and supervision.

Those seeking specialized paths may benefit from pursuing the best online marriage and family counseling masters degree as part of their professional development within Maryland LPC license options.

Does Maryland have LPC reciprocity with other states?

Maryland does not have formal LPC reciprocity agreements with other states, which means counselors cannot simply transfer their licenses to practice without further steps. Instead, Maryland offers licensure by endorsement, requiring applicants to prove their education and supervised experience meet or exceed state standards. This involves submitting the Out of State LCPC Application, verification of an existing license, official transcripts, documented supervised clinical experience, and National Counselor Examination scores. Passing the Maryland Law Assessment and undergoing a criminal background check are also necessary. This process ensures that counselors meet Maryland’s specific criteria before practicing, reflecting the state's commitment to maintaining professional standards.

While this endorsement approach is more involved than true reciprocity, it provides a clear path for experienced counselors relocating to Maryland. If any discrepancies arise in credentials, the Board may require additional coursework or supervised hours to align with state requirements. This balance between flexibility and rigor helps protect clients while allowing qualified professionals to continue their work without restarting the entire licensing journey. Understanding these nuances aids counselors in planning their interstate career moves thoughtfully.

What is the demand for LPCs in Maryland?

LPC job outlook in Maryland highlights strong opportunities across various settings, including schools, hospitals, private practices, and community agencies. These diverse environments offer numerous paths for counselors to engage with different populations. Local health departments actively recruit LPCs, often providing competitive salaries and career advancement options. Private practice is also growing in popularity, offering flexibility and a chance to serve diverse clients. Community mental health centers and telehealth services continue to expand, reflecting modern trends in care delivery.

National data support these observations, projecting an 18% growth in employment for behavioral health counselors through 2032. For candidates interested in understanding more about related mental health credentials, it’s helpful to explore resources like the difference between LCSW and LPC degree programs, as this can clarify pathways within the profession.

The demand for licensed professional counselors in Maryland continues to grow steadily due to the state's population increase and rising mental health awareness. More people are seeking professional support, which has expanded the need for accessible mental health services. Additionally, evolving healthcare challenges, such as economic fluctuations and public health concerns, have underscored the vital role that LPCs play in addressing behavioral health needs. This environment creates a promising job outlook in Maryland for those entering the counseling profession.

The behavioral health market is expected to grow up to $136.5 billion by 2032.

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Maryland?

Licensure as an LPC in Maryland marks a pivotal step for counselors aiming to deepen their impact and professional standing. It validates a counselor’s expertise and opens doors that are otherwise closed, ensuring that they meet rigorous ethical and competency standards required by the state. The value of the license extends beyond validation, significantly influencing career advancement for licensed professional counselors in Maryland.

Expanded Job Opportunities: Holding an LCPC license broadens access to diverse counseling roles in hospitals, schools, private practices, and government sectors where licensure is often mandatory for independent clinical work.
Higher Earning Potential: Licensed counselors can command salaries that reflect their advanced qualifications, often earning substantially more than unlicensed counterparts, with some specialties offering even greater financial rewards.
Eligibility for Private Practice: An LCPC license is required to open an independent practice in Maryland, allowing counselors to set their own schedules and client fees, thereby increasing autonomy and income potential.
Opportunities for Clinical Supervision and Leadership: Experienced LCPCs can mentor licensed graduate counselors, enhancing leadership skills and paving the way for roles in administration or education.
Specialization and Professional Development: Licensure grants access to advanced training in specialized therapeutic areas, which strengthens a counselor’s skill set and reputation within the mental health community.

For those wondering what can you do with a bachelor's degree in counseling, obtaining LPC licensure dramatically enriches career trajectories by meeting essential qualifications for meaningful professional growth.

What do LPCs in Maryland say about their career?

Pursuing my LPC credential through Towson University was a transformative experience that grounded me in both theory and practice tailored to Maryland’s diverse population. Starting my career at a local school, I quickly realized how fulfilling it is to support students navigating academic and personal challenges. The stability of the role, combined with meaningful community engagement, has deepened my commitment to this career. The cultural richness of Maryland provides unique opportunities to reach a broad spectrum of youth and families, which keeps my work deeply rewarding. - Marnie
Completing my counseling program at Morgan State University gave me not only excellent academic training but also connections to a supportive professional community. Beginning work as a licensed professional counselor in a local school setting allowed me to see firsthand the impact I could make in enhancing mental health awareness among students. Maryland’s emphasis on comprehensive student services fosters an environment for ongoing professional development and growth. The challenge of addressing diverse student needs here has sharpened my skills and passion for counseling. - Alina
Graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park equipped me with strong clinical skills and an appreciation for Maryland’s unique cultural landscape. My role as an LPC in a local academic institution has been a journey of personal growth and professional advancement. I thrive on contributing to my community’s well-being and enjoy the collaborative spirit among Maryland’s counseling professionals. This career continues to inspire me daily, especially when I witness the positive changes in the lives of young people I work with. - Charles

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Counselor in Maryland

In Maryland, a degree in psychology or social work alone does not directly qualify an individual to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The state requires candidates to hold a graduate degree specifically in counseling or a closely related field that meets the LPC educational standards. While a psychology or social work degree provides valuable foundational knowledge, additional coursework or certification aligned with counseling competencies is typically necessary to meet licensure requirements. Therefore, individuals with these degrees often need further specialized training to pursue LPC licensure in Maryland.

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

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Maryland do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While both professionals provide mental health services, LPCs primarily focus on counseling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and groups, but they are not trained or authorized to conduct psychological testing or diagnose complex mental disorders to the extent psychologists do. Psychologists in Maryland have advanced training in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and research, often holding doctoral degrees, which allows them to perform specialized evaluations and develop treatment plans for a broader range of psychological conditions. Therefore, although LPCs and psychologists share some counseling functions, their education, scope, and methods differ significantly within the state.

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

In Maryland, both Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) are recognized credentials, but the LPC designation is the primary licensure for professional counselors. The LPC credential in Maryland requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, supervised clinical experience, and passing a national exam, allowing practitioners to provide a broad range of counseling services. The LMHC title, often used interchangeably in other states, is not officially issued by Maryland’s licensing board; thus, aspiring counselors in Maryland typically pursue LPC licensure for clinical practice. Understanding this distinction is important for students and professionals to align their educational and professional goals with Maryland’s regulatory requirements for counseling practice.

Can LPCs in Maryland diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

In Maryland, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are authorized to provide counseling services and treat mental health disorders within the scope of their training and licensure. LPCs can diagnose and treat a variety of mental health conditions, but their diagnostic authority is limited to those conditions they are trained to assess. It is important to note that while LPCs can diagnose and treat mental health disorders, they must practice in accordance with state regulations and ethical standards, often collaborating with other healthcare providers when necessary. This makes LPC licensure in Maryland a viable pathway for professionals seeking to provide comprehensive mental health care in outpatient and community settings.

References:

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists. (n.d.). Maryland State Resources. AAMFT
Coppin State University. (2025). Professional Counseling (LCPC) Licensure. CSU
Cornell Law School. (n.d.). Md. Code Regs. 10.58.12.05 - Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors. Cornell Law
Maryland Department of Health Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. (n.d.). Professional Counselor Licensure Requirements (LCPC). MDH
Monti, J. (2025). How to Become an Licensed Counselor in Maryland. Psycholgy.org
Online Counseling Programs with edX. (n.d.). How to Become a Counselor in Maryland. OCP with edX
Towson University. (2025). Maryland Counselor Licensure Information. Towson University
Zippia. (2025). Licensed professional counselor education requirements. Zippia
Zippia. (2025). Licensed professional counselor demographics and statistics in the US. Zippia