LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Mississippi in 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Mississippi requires prospective Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) to complete a master's degree in counseling or a related field, followed by 3,000 hours of supervised postgraduate experience. The state’s mental health sector is growing, with a 12% increase in demand for counseling services over five years. This rise reflects an urgent need for qualified LPCs, making licensure a valuable credential. LPCs in Mississippi earn a median annual wage 15% above the state average, enhancing career prospects.

This article, crafted by career planning experts, outlines Mississippi’s LPC licensure requirements and offers practical guidance for navigating the process effectively.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in Mississippi

A master’s degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited program is required for LPC licensure in Mississippi.
Applicants must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over two years post-degree before applying for full licensure.
Passing the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the Mississippi jurisprudence exam is mandatory for licensure approval.

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

What degree is required to become an LPC in Mississippi?

Mississippi requires specific graduate degrees for individuals seeking licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). These qualifications ensure candidates possess adequate training aligned with state standards for independent counseling practice.

Master’s Degree in Counseling: Completion of a 60 semester-hour or 90 quarter-hour master's degree in counseling, or a program explicitly titled “counseling,” is mandatory for licensure.
Doctoral Degree in Counseling or Closely Related Field: A doctoral degree such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D. in counseling or a related discipline qualifies if the program meets the counseling education criteria set by Mississippi.
Degree Program with “Counseling” in the Title: Only degrees specifically including “counseling” in their title are accepted, excluding most behavioral science or psychology degrees unless formally designated as counseling programs.

Since January 2017, Mississippi has enforced a minimum of 60 semester hours for counseling master’s degrees obtained after that date. As of 2023, there are over 2,000 actively licensed LPCs across the state, highlighting the recognized importance of these educational credentials within Mississippi’s behavioral health sector.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in Mississippi?

Completing specific core coursework is critical for meeting state standards and developing the competencies necessary for effective counseling practice in Mississippi. The state's licensing requirements ensure that candidates gain comprehensive knowledge across various counseling domains, which supports professional readiness and ethical decision-making. Below is an outline of the essential courses mandated for LPC licensure in Mississippi, reflecting the core counseling coursework requirements in Mississippi:

Human Growth and Development: Provides an understanding of typical and atypical developmental processes throughout the lifespan, essential for accurate client assessment.
Social and Cultural Foundations: Focuses on the impact of cultural and social factors on counseling, enhancing competence with diverse populations.
Counseling and Psychotherapy Skills: Develops foundational and advanced techniques for client engagement and therapeutic relationships.
Group Counseling: Covers group dynamics and leadership, preparing counselors to facilitate therapeutic groups effectively.
Career and Lifestyle Development: Introduces theories and strategies to assist clients with career and life planning decisions.
Appraisal or Testing: Teaches use and interpretation of assessments to inform counseling interventions.
Research and Program Evaluation: Emphasizes research methodologies and program analysis to support evidence-based counseling.
Professional Orientation and Ethics: Addresses professional history, ethics, and Mississippi’s legal standards for counselors.
Diagnosis and Treatment: Provides training on mental disorder classification and treatment planning using the DSM.
Marriage and/or Family Counseling: Prepares counselors to work effectively with couples and families using systemic approaches.
Addiction Counseling: Focuses on addiction theories and treatment approaches vital to behavioral health services.
Crisis Intervention: Equips counselors with skills in responding to emergencies, including suicide prevention and trauma.

A minimum of 60 semester hours in graduate counseling studies, including all twelve required courses, is compulsory for licensure eligibility for degrees awarded after 2017. Notably, demand for qualified licensed counselors in Mississippi is projected to increase by almost 13% from 2020 to 2030, further underscoring the value of adhering to these core requirements.

Those seeking guidance on how to become a licensed therapist can benefit from understanding these fundamental educational mandates to ensure alignment with Mississippi’s licensure standards.

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

Mississippi requires Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) applicants to complete a total of 3,000 supervised counseling hours earned after a master’s degree, accumulated over at least 18 months in a clinical setting under proper supervision.

Direct Client Contact: At least 1,200 hours must consist of face-to-face or synchronous counseling services including individual, group, or family counseling, as well as assessment activities, to develop meaningful clinical experience.
Supervision Hours: A minimum of 100 hours of individual face-to-face supervision with a Mississippi Board-approved LPC-S supervisor is required, following a set ratio ensuring one supervision hour per every 40 total service hours or 25 direct client contact hours; up to 50 of these hours can be group supervision.
Other Professional Activities: Mississippi does not mandate specific hours for other activities like case management or administrative tasks within the supervised experience, placing primary emphasis on client contact and supervision.
Timing of Hours: While up to 1,750 hours may be credited from practicum or internship components of a qualifying master’s program, at least 1,250 hours must be earned post-graduation, under supervision in a clinical employment setting as a Provisional-LPC (P-LPC).
Weekly Limitations: Candidates may log no more than 40 total supervised hours weekly, with a cap of 25 direct client contact hours per week to maintain quality training and prevent burnout.

A licensed professional counselor from Mississippi who graduated from a local university reflected on her experience completing these requirements. She shared that although the 3,000-hour requirement seemed daunting initially, pacing herself according to the weekly limits helped manage stress and maintain work-life balance. She explained how the process of submitting documented supervision hours through the state’s online system demanded meticulous organization and communication with her LPC-S supervisor. It took her just over 24 months to complete her supervised hours, slightly longer than the minimum due to balancing clinical responsibilities and personal commitments. “The journey was challenging but rewarding,” she noted, highlighting that consistent supervision and real-world client interactions profoundly shaped her confidence and competence before obtaining full licensure. Her experience underscores how Mississippi’s structured requirements serve to produce skilled, ethical counselors ready to serve the community effectively.

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

What exams are required for LPC licensure in Mississippi?

Examinations are a fundamental component of the Mississippi LPC licensure exam requirements, verifying that candidates possess essential professional knowledge and state-specific legal understanding. These rigorous tests ensure the preparedness of counselors to meet both national and local standards for ethical and competent practice.

National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE): Candidates must pass either the NCE or the NCMHCE, both administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors. The NCE evaluates broad counseling knowledge areas including human development and professional orientation, while the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination Mississippi focuses on clinical scenarios and decision-making critical to mental health practice.
Mississippi Jurisprudence Examination: This state-specific exam tests knowledge of Mississippi laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing counseling. It ensures that applicants understand local legal responsibilities, which helps maintain public safety and professional integrity within the state.

Only candidates who fulfill educational and supervised experience prerequisites can attempt these exams, reflecting the state's commitment to high standards. For those assessing how much does it cost to become a mental health counselor in Mississippi, passing these exams is a mandatory step in securing licensure and professional credibility.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in Mississippi?

Applying for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in Mississippi involves completing specific education, supervised experience, and examination requirements regulated by the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors. The process ensures that candidates meet state standards before practicing independently.

Complete Required Education: Applicants must hold a graduate degree in counseling or a related field from a regionally accredited institution. The degree program must include at least 60 semester hours of graduate study, meeting coursework standards set by the Board.
Submit Official Transcripts: Official transcripts verifying the required degree and relevant coursework must be sent directly from the educational institution to the LPC Board to confirm academic qualifications.
Secure Supervision Agreement and P-LPC Status: Before accumulating supervised experience, candidates establish a supervision agreement with a Board-approved LPC-Supervisor and submit it along with a Declaration of Practice through the Board’s online system. Approval grants Provisional LPC status, permitting practice under supervision.
Complete Supervised Professional Experience: The Board mandates a designated number of supervised clinical hours under an LPC-S, with supervision logs maintained and approved electronically. These hours are critical before full licensure can be granted.
Pass National and State Examinations: Candidates must pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), as well as the Mississippi Jurisprudence Exam covering state laws and ethics. Official scores are submitted to the Board for verification.
Submit LPC Application and Fees: Once requirements are met, applicants apply through the online portal, paying a $50 fee for full LPC licensure or a $100 fee for initial P-LPC status. Complete, accurate submissions ensure timely processing.
Board Review and Approval: The Board reviews all documentation and, if all conditions are satisfied, grants LPC licensure. Applicants receive email notification regarding final licensing steps.

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

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Mississippi involves a multi-step process typically spanning six to eight years, beginning with undergraduate education and ending with full licensure. This timeline includes earning the necessary academic credentials, gaining supervised counseling experience, passing required exams, and successfully completing application procedures.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: Most candidates spend about four years completing an undergraduate degree. While any major can fulfill this requirement, coursework related to psychology or counseling can provide a helpful foundation for graduate studies.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: A master’s degree specialized in counseling or a closely related field is mandated and generally takes two to three years. Mississippi requires at least 60 semester hours focusing on key counseling content areas to qualify.
Obtaining Provisional Licensure and Accruing Supervised Hours: After the master’s degree, candidates apply for provisional LPC status and must complete at least 3,500 supervised hours over a minimum of two years. This includes 1,750 hours of direct client counseling and 100 hours of individual supervision by a licensed supervisor.
Passing Required Examinations: Candidates must pass a nationally recognized exam approved by the Mississippi Board, such as the NCE or NCMHCE. Scheduling and preparing for these exams can require several additional months.
Applying for Full LPC Licensure: Once all educational, supervision, and exam requirements are satisfied, candidates submit their full license application. The review process may take several weeks to months, varying with application completeness and Board workload.

A licensed professional counselor from Mississippi, who graduated from a local university, shared insights about this journey. He described the transition from school to supervised practice as the most challenging phase, noting, “The hours were demanding, but having a supportive supervisor made a big difference.” He also reflected on the waiting periods involved in exam scheduling and license approval, saying, “It required patience and persistence; you’re building a career, not rushing through a checklist.” Overall, he emphasized the value of the thorough process in preparing competent counselors and remarked that the total time frame, close to eight years in his case, felt well worth the effort for the confidence it instilled in his professional abilities.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in Mississippi?

States offer various types of LPC licenses to accommodate counselors at different professional stages, from supervised entry to independent practice and supervision roles. Mississippi provides a tiered licensing system that supports career progression and maintains high standards of practice, addressing the needs of over 1,800 counselors statewide.

Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor (P-LPC): Designed for recent graduates, requiring a 60-semester-hour master’s degree and supervised practice under an LPC-S, this license allows gaining essential post-graduate experience.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): The primary independent practice license, requiring two years of post-master’s supervised experience and passage of a national counseling exam like the NCE.
Licensed Professional Counselor by Universal Recognition: For counselors licensed in other states with at least one year of experience and no disciplinary history, facilitating licensure transfer.
Licensed Professional Counselor by Comity: For experienced counselors practicing independently elsewhere for five years, enabling smooth transition with verification of good standing.
Licensed Professional Counselor – Supervisor (LPC-S): For counselors with five years’ experience and supervisor education, authorizing them to mentor P-LPCs and LPC trainees.

For those considering a counseling career and asking, "Is counseling degree affordable?" It’s helpful to determine the answer to this question before pursuing licensure paths like those in Mississippi.

Does Mississippi have LPC reciprocity with other states?

Mississippi does not have formal LPC reciprocity agreements with any other state. Instead, counselors seeking licensure must pursue licensure by comity, which requires submitting verification of their out-of-state license and professional work history. Applicants need a valid, independent-level license in good standing and at least five years of experience. Each application undergoes individual evaluation to ensure compliance with Mississippi’s education, experience, and examination standards.

The Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors may also request additional documentation and requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Approval is discretionary and not guaranteed, emphasizing state-specific regulations over automatic transfers. This process ensures that only licensed counselors meeting Mississippi’s rigorous criteria can practice, complicating mobility compared to states with formal reciprocity agreements.

What is the demand for LPCs in Mississippi?

The demand for licensed professional counselors in Mississippi remains strong and is expected to grow due to increasing mental health awareness, population changes, and evolving healthcare needs. As stigma around mental health decreases, more residents seek counseling for issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. These factors contribute to sustained job prospects, making the state an appealing option for professionals entering the counseling field.

LPC job opportunities in Mississippi are concentrated in community mental health agencies, schools, hospitals, private practices, and expanding telehealth services. The rise of telehealth has extended access to counseling in underserved rural areas, highlighting a shift in service delivery that supports workforce growth. Although specific growth rates are not provided, numerous active job openings indicate healthy demand, especially for counselors specializing in youth, substance abuse, or crisis intervention. Prospective counselors may benefit from exploring the diverse career paths with a masters in counseling that align with these state needs.

What is the average salary of professional counselors?

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in Mississippi?

Obtaining LPC licensure in Mississippi significantly enhances a counselor’s career growth by providing access to specialized roles and greater professional legitimacy. Licensure not only validates expertise but also opens doors to advanced opportunities and higher earning potential within the field. For those exploring career advancement opportunities for LPCs in Mississippi, several key benefits stand out.

Expanded Job Opportunities: Licensed Professional Counselors qualify for diverse counseling positions in hospitals, schools, clinics, and community agencies. Employers often require licensure for roles involving independent client care and therapeutic services.
Higher Earning Potential: LPCs earn an average annual wage of $68,109 in Mississippi, with top professionals making up to $95,653. This is markedly higher than non-licensed counselors, reflecting increased responsibilities.
Eligibility for Private Practice: Licensure is mandatory for counselors wishing to operate or join private practices. This status enables independent billing of insurance companies and direct client payments, boosting income possibilities.
Opportunities for Clinical Supervision: Only licensed counselors can supervise interns and associate counselors, expanding their roles into leadership and mentorship positions within the profession.
Specialization and Advanced Credentials: LPCs may pursue specialized certifications such as CAADC or training in therapies like CBT and IFS, opening niche career paths and higher fees for services rendered.
Job Market Growth and Security: The demand for LPCs in Mississippi is projected to grow by 17% from 2020 to 2030, presenting strong job stability and increasing opportunities for licensed counselors.
Continuing Education and Professional Development: LPCs must complete 24 hours of continuing education biennially, ensuring they stay current with best practices and legal standards, which supports sustained career advancement and professional competency.

For individuals choosing between educational paths in counseling, understanding the differences between MS and MA in counseling can further inform strategic career planning in conjunction with LPC licensure benefits for professional counselors in Mississippi.

What do LPCs in Mississippi say about their career?

Pursuing my degree at the University of Southern Mississippi provided a solid academic foundation that prepared me thoroughly for licensure and practice. Starting my career as a licensed professional counselor in a local school system was both rewarding and challenging, as I was able to make tangible differences in students' lives by addressing mental health proactively. The stability of this profession in Mississippi’s school districts has been a tremendous benefit, allowing me to grow professionally while fostering a supportive environment for youth. The community impact and daily connections with families have deepened my passion for advocacy in mental health. Juliana
After finishing my program at Mississippi State University, I embraced the opportunity to work as a licensed professional counselor within a local academic institution. This role has provided tremendous professional development opportunities and the chance to work with diverse populations unique to Mississippi’s cultural landscape. Navigating these challenges has strengthened my counseling skills and expanded my understanding of how social and economic factors influence well-being. The rewarding aspect is knowing that my work enables students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. Nat
Graduating from Jackson State University was a defining moment for me, opening doors to a career dedicated to personal growth and community service. Practicing as an LPC in Mississippi allows me to engage deeply with issues specific to our region, such as rural mental health access and cultural sensitivity. Each day brings new opportunities to support individuals in overcoming barriers often linked to under-resourced environments. This career path has enriched me personally and professionally, reaffirming my commitment to making a meaningful difference. Danielle

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming an LPC in Mississippi

To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Mississippi, a degree specifically in counseling or a closely related field is generally required, which means that having a psychology or social work degree alone may not directly qualify an individual for LPC licensure. While a psychology degree provides a strong foundation in mental health, candidates typically need to complete additional coursework in counseling theories and techniques to meet LPC educational requirements. Social work degrees lead to licensing under a different credential, such as Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), rather than the LPC. Therefore, those with psychology or social work degrees must verify if their education aligns with Mississippi’s LPC requirements or consider pursuing a counseling-focused graduate program to qualify for licensure as an LPC in the state.

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

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Mississippi do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While LPCs provide counseling and therapeutic services focused on emotional and mental health, psychologists have broader authority that includes psychological testing, diagnosis, and treatment of complex mental disorders. Psychologists typically hold doctoral degrees and receive extensive training in assessment and research, which LPCs do not. Therefore, the two professions overlap in counseling roles, but psychologists have a wider scope, particularly in clinical assessment and certain treatment modalities.

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

In Mississippi, the terms Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) are often used interchangeably, but they represent different licensing titles in various states rather than distinct roles within Mississippi itself. The state primarily issues the LPC credential to qualified mental health professionals who have met education, supervised experience, and examination requirements. While an LMHC license is common in other states, Mississippi’s LPC licensure encompasses the scope of practice typically associated with LMHCs, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. Therefore, for students and professionals in Mississippi, pursuing the LPC license is the recognized path to independent counseling practice, with no separate LMHC credential available in the state. Understanding this distinction helps clarify licensure requirements and streamlines the process of entering the counseling profession in Mississippi.

Can LPCs in Mississippi diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

In Mississippi, licensed professional counselors (LPCs) are permitted to diagnose and treat mental health disorders within the scope of their training and licensure. The Mississippi Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors authorizes LPCs to provide diagnosis, assessment, and counseling services to individuals experiencing a range of mental health issues. However, LPCs must practice in accordance with state regulations and ethical standards, often working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals when necessary. This ability to diagnose and treat makes LPC licensure in Mississippi a valuable credential for those seeking to provide comprehensive mental health care in diverse clinical settings.