LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in North Dakota in 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Pursuing a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license in North Dakota demands meeting specific education, supervised experience, and examination criteria. Approximately 25% of mental health professionals in the state hold an LPC credential, reflecting its significance in addressing rising demand for counseling services. While some may question the necessity of licensure given alternative paths, the LPC provides critical credibility and access to broader employment opportunities.

This article analyzes current requirements, potential hurdles, and regional labor market factors influencing licensure value. Prepared by experts in career planning, the discussion offers clear guidance to help prospective counselors navigate the North Dakota LPC licensure landscape effectively.

Key Things to Know About LPC Counseling Licensure Requirements in North Dakota

A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution is required to qualify for LPC licensure in North Dakota.
Applicants must complete at least 60 semester hours of graduate coursework covering core counseling competencies, which ensures comprehensive preparation but may vary slightly by program.
Post-degree supervised experience totaling 3,000 hours is mandatory before full licensure, reflecting North Dakota’s commitment to practical training alongside academic credentials.

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

What degree is required to become an LPC in North Dakota?

North Dakota’s standards for counseling licensure emphasize a strong academic foundation in counseling or a related discipline. The degrees accepted reflect this priority, ensuring candidates meet consistent educational criteria.

Master’s Degree in Counseling: Applicants must hold at least a master’s degree in counseling from an accredited institution, which represents the baseline educational qualification for LPC eligibility in the state.
Doctoral Degree in Counseling or Related Field: A doctoral degree, such as a PhD or EdD, in counseling or a closely related area is also accepted, recognizing advanced scholarly preparation as meeting licensure requirements.
Degree from an Accredited Program: Regardless of level, the graduate degree must come from a program meeting the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners’ academic standards, ensuring educational quality and relevance.

What core coursework is required for LPC licensure in North Dakota?

Selecting the appropriate coursework in counseling programs plays a pivotal role in preparing candidates for competent and ethical practice. The North Dakota LPC core coursework requirements emphasize a comprehensive foundation, balancing theory, practical skills, and professional ethics. Below is a detailed overview of these essential content areas:

Counseling Theories and Techniques: Focuses on major counseling models and evidence-based interventions to address diverse client issues effectively.
Human Growth and Development: Covers physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes across the lifespan to understand client backgrounds better.
Social and Multicultural Foundations: Prepares candidates to identify and engage with diverse cultural and societal factors influencing counseling.
Career Development and Counseling: Addresses career theories and decision-making processes relevant to evolving workforce trends in North Dakota.
Helping Relationships: Develops interpersonal and therapeutic skills essential to build and maintain effective counseling alliances.
Group Counseling: Explores group dynamics, leadership, and therapeutic techniques specific to group work.
Assessment and Appraisal: Provides tools and principles for evaluating client needs and progress accurately.
Research and Program Evaluation: Builds competency in research methodologies and program efficacy assessment applicable to counseling settings.
Professional Orientation and Ethics: Emphasizes legal standards, ethical practice, and the counselor’s professional identity within the field.
Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: Focuses on clinical evaluation and formulating treatment plans aligned with North Dakota’s growing behavioral health demands.

Graduate programs meeting these requirements often mandate 48 to 60 semester hours, aligning with both state and national standards. Such standards distinguish accredited institutions, like CACREP-accredited counseling programs in North Dakota, which aim to rigorously prepare future counselors. Prospective students should also consider exploring counseling psychologist requirements to understand overlapping competencies that might enhance their professional versatility.

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

In North Dakota, aspiring Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) must complete a minimum of 100 hours of supervised counseling experience over a two-year period, strictly following the completion of their master’s degree. This supervision is carefully structured to ensure comprehensive practical training under qualified oversight.

Direct Client Contact: Candidates must accumulate at least 400 hours of face-to-face counseling with clients, emphasizing hands-on experience essential for clinical competence.
Individual Supervision: A minimum of 60 hours of one-on-one supervision with a licensed LPC or LPCC is required. These sessions may be conducted in person or via secure electronic means to support detailed case discussion and professional development.
Group Supervision: Up to 40 hours can be acquired in group settings such as case conferences or professional meetings, providing broader perspectives while still maintaining accountability.
Post-Master’s Completion: All supervised hours must be earned after the master’s degree is awarded; practicum or internship hours counted during graduate education do not qualify toward this specific requirement.
Supervisor Qualifications and Setting Restrictions: Supervision must be provided exclusively by certified LPC or LPCC professionals, excluding doctoral-level psychologists or other mental health practitioners, and cannot take place in an applicant-owned practice to avoid conflicts of interest.

This rigorous framework reflects North Dakota’s commitment to high standards in counselor preparation, limiting supervision to those with advanced LPC credentials to ensure consistency and quality.

When I spoke with a licensed professional counselor from North Dakota who completed her education at a local university, she shared that fulfilling these supervised hours was both challenging and rewarding. “It took me just over two years to complete the full 100 hours, balancing the intense individual supervision with the direct client work. Finding the right supervisor who met the state’s strict criteria was not easy at first,” she explained. She noted that the requirement to accrue hours strictly post-master’s made early preparation during her graduate internship feel disconnected from the licensure process. However, she valued how the extended supervision period allowed her to gain confidence and competence before practicing independently. Reflecting on the journey, she emphasized, “It wasn’t just about logging hours; it was about meaningful guidance that shaped how I approach therapy today.”

What exams are required for LPC licensure in North Dakota?

Examinations are essential components in assessing the qualifications of candidates pursuing LPC licensure in North Dakota, ensuring they meet professional and ethical standards. The national exams provide objective evaluation criteria but also raise questions about the effectiveness of standardized testing for capturing clinical competency.

National Counselor Examination (NCE): This 200-question multiple-choice exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) measures foundational counseling skills, including assessment, diagnosis, and ethics, reflecting comprehensive competency required for LPC licensure.
National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) (for LPCC): While not mandatory for LPC licensure, the NCMHCE is required for advancement to LPCC and evaluates clinical problem-solving through simulated cases, emphasizing skills necessary for independent clinical practice.

Candidates must gain approval from the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners before scheduling exams at Pearson VUE centers statewide. Those interested in understanding how much does it cost to become a mental health counselor might consider these licensure components in their planning. Incorporating the national counselor examination north dakota ensures standardized evaluation while meeting the lpc licensure exam requirements north dakota.

How do you apply for LPC licensure in North Dakota?

The process for obtaining Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure in North Dakota involves meeting strict educational, supervised experience, examination, and application requirements set by the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners. Each step plays a critical role in ensuring candidates are adequately prepared for professional practice.

Complete Required Graduate Education: Candidates must hold a master’s or higher degree in counseling or a closely related field with at least 60 graduate semester hours. This education must include specific core counseling subjects and a practicum or internship totaling 700 hours, with 280 hours of direct client contact.
Fulfill Supervised Post-Graduate Experience: After graduation, applicants complete a two-year supervision plan requiring 400 hours of direct client interaction and 100 hours of supervision, including 60 hours of one-on-one mentorship. This ensures practical skills under licensed guidance.
Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE): Passing the NCE, a comprehensive 200-question exam, demonstrates mastery of core counseling knowledge. This exam is mandatory for both Associate and full LPC licensure levels.
Gather and Submit Required Documentation: Applicants must compile official transcripts, verified supervision hours, and reference letters, then submit a notarized application form from the Board’s website. Attention to detail here prevents processing delays.
Complete and Submit the Application: Most first-time applicants apply as Licensed Associate Professional Counselors (LAPC) with an option to advance to LPC later. The full, notarized application and all materials must be mailed to the Board's Mandan office.
Pay Application Fees: An initial application fee of $150 applies, with a $100 fee for those advancing from LAPC to LPC. Fees must accompany the submitted paperwork to be processed.
Await Review and Decision: The Board reviews applications over several weeks and may request additional information. Once approved, the candidate receives LPC licensure, permitting independent practice within North Dakota.

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

The pathway to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in North Dakota generally takes between six and eight years from the start of undergraduate education to obtaining full licensure. This period encompasses formal education, supervised clinical experience, examination, and completing licensure applications, all regulated to ensure readiness for professional practice.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: Typically, a bachelor’s degree requires about four years of full-time study. Although the degree can be in various fields, many candidates focus on psychology, social work, or related disciplines to build a solid foundation.
Completing a Master’s in Counseling: Pursuing a master’s degree takes approximately two to three years and must include specific coursework and a practicum as mandated by the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners. This graduate education is crucial for developing advanced counseling skills.
Accruing Supervised Experience: After graduation, candidates complete a two-year supervised experience period that involves at least 400 hours of direct client contact and 100 hours of supervision. This phase bridges academic knowledge and professional autonomy while under approved oversight.
Passing Required Examinations: Passing the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) is mandatory before applying for full licensure. Test preparation and scheduling may extend this stage by a few months depending on individual circumstances and testing availability.
Applying for Licensure: Once education, supervision, and examination criteria are met, applicants submit their licensing application to the state board. Processing times vary, but candidates should anticipate several weeks to a few months for final approval.

When speaking with a licensed professional counselor from North Dakota who graduated from a local university, he reflected on his own timeline, which slightly exceeded the typical six to eight years. He noted, “The supervised experience phase was both challenging and rewarding—balancing client hours with ongoing learning took commitment beyond academics.” He also pointed out that navigating the exam scheduling required patience, saying, “It wasn’t just about passing the test but being ready mentally and professionally, which doesn’t happen overnight.” His experience underscores the variation that can occur within the process, shaped by personal pace and external factors, yet remains a deeply formative journey towards full professional status in counseling.

What types of LPC licenses are offered in North Dakota?

States often create multiple types of LPC licenses to accommodate counselors at different experience levels while maintaining public safety and professional standards. North Dakota’s tiered system allows for progressive development from supervised practice to full clinical independence, reflecting a structured career progression within its counseling workforce.

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC): Entry-level license for those meeting educational criteria but lacking full supervised experience; requires supervision by an LPC or LPCC and submission of transcripts, references, and a background check with a $150 fee.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Standard license for counselors who completed supervision and passed exams, allowing independent practice with a master’s degree, coursework in key areas, and at least 700 practicum hours.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC): Advanced license authorizing clinical mental health counseling, including diagnosis and treatment, requiring additional coursework plus 3,000 post-master’s supervised hours and direct supervision.

This structured licensure process addresses the variations in qualifications and responsibilities among counselors, helping to clarify distinctions between the LPC vs LPCC licenses in North Dakota. For those exploring advanced counseling education, options like a PhD in counseling online offer further specialization to complement these licenses.

Does North Dakota have LPC reciprocity with other states?

North Dakota does not have formal reciprocity agreements for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) with other states. This means it does not automatically recognize LPC licenses issued elsewhere, which can create challenges for counselors relocating into the state. Instead, North Dakota offers licensure by endorsement, requiring applicants to demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and examination credentials align closely with state standards. This process is more rigorous than reciprocity, as it involves submitting an application, paying fees, and providing verification of current licensure and pertinent licensing laws from the original state.

The state licensing board carefully reviews these materials to ensure equivalency, and applicants may be asked to supply additional documentation or evidence of supervised clinical work. If discrepancies arise, candidates might need to complete further coursework, supervision, or pass the national counseling exam again. This approach prioritizes maintaining consistent standards but can limit workforce mobility for counselors seeking immediate practice rights in North Dakota compared to states with formal reciprocity agreements.

What is the demand for LPCs in North Dakota?

The demand for licensed professional counselors in North Dakota is influenced by the state’s steady population growth and increasing awareness of mental health issues. As healthcare priorities evolve, communities are placing greater importance on behavioral health services, creating a favorable environment for LPC employment. While economic and demographic factors support a positive job outlook, prospective counselors should consider how rural and urban dynamics affect accessibility and demand across the state. This nuanced landscape suggests opportunities for LPCs may vary regionally, requiring adaptability and resilience.

LPCs are most in demand in urban centers but are also needed in large rural, small rural, and isolated rural communities throughout North Dakota. Employment opportunities commonly exist in schools, hospitals, community mental health agencies, and private practices. Furthermore, the growth of telehealth and remote counseling has expanded access, particularly benefiting underserved regions. Although specific growth rate projections for mental health counselor job opportunities North Dakota are limited, open positions frequently include salaries ranging from $76,000 to $89,000 annually. For those considering educational pathways, exploring an affordable bachelors degree in substance abuse counseling online can be a practical step toward entering this expanding field.

How does LPC licensure affect career growth in North Dakota?

Obtaining LPC licensure in North Dakota plays a significant role in advancing a counseling career. It not only validates professional qualifications but also aligns counselors with the state's regulatory standards, impacting their career advancement opportunities for LPCs in North Dakota in meaningful ways.

Expanded Job Opportunities: Licensed counselors are eligible for a wide range of positions across mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and private agencies. This credential opens doors to more stable employment options within the state’s growing behavioral health sector.
Higher Earning Potential: Licensure is strongly linked to salary increases, with licensed professionals in North Dakota reporting annual earnings between $76,000 and $103,000. Those with advanced credentials typically reach the higher income brackets, reflecting the value placed on verified expertise.
Eligibility for Private Practice: LPC licensure grants counselors the legal authority to independently operate private practices and bill clients directly. Without this, counselors face restrictions that can limit their professional autonomy and financial growth.
Opportunities for Clinical Supervision and Leadership: Experienced LPCs can progress to supervisory roles or attain Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor status, roles that offer greater responsibility and compensation. These leadership positions enable counselors to influence organizational practices and mentor newer professionals.
Specialization and Professional Development: The LPC credential facilitates entry into specialized areas such as trauma or addiction counseling and supports ongoing education. Organizations in North Dakota offer resources that enhance career growth by encouraging expertise development and networking.

For individuals wondering what are some jobs you can get with a counseling degree, LPC licensure is often a pivotal qualification that shapes those options by unlocking access to diverse roles and career pathways.

53% of public schools reported an increase in students seeking mental health services.

What do LPCs in North Dakota say about their career?

Completing my counseling degree at the University of Mary was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in the values and needs of our community. Starting my career in a local school allowed me to build meaningful relationships with students facing unique challenges here in North Dakota, from rural isolation to economic stress. The stability of working in an academic setting, combined with the opportunity to support young people’s mental and emotional growth, fills me with purpose every day. I appreciate that my work contributes to a future where children feel seen and heard in our state. Jenny
The decision to pursue licensure in North Dakota has opened doors I never imagined, allowing me to develop professionally through continuing education and diverse client experiences. Graduating from Minot State University equipped me with the tools to navigate the distinct cultural dynamics of our communities, especially when addressing mental health in both urban centers and tribal areas. This career path demands both dedication and compassion, but it also offers a truly rewarding chance to influence positive change across generations. I’ve found every day to be an opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally. Manuel
Training as a licensed professional counselor through Concordia College highlighted the importance of empathy and resilience, qualities I rely on while serving North Dakota’s youth. Working primarily within local schools has been both challenging and inspiring, as I witness firsthand how addressing mental health can reshape futures. The strong connection to nature and community here enriches my approach, providing unique perspectives that influence my counseling methods. This career has deepened my commitment to fostering hope and well-being for young minds. Jia

Other Things You Should Know About Being an LPC in North Dakota

In North Dakota, becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) typically requires a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field that adheres to CACREP accreditation standards. While a psychology or social work degree provides valuable knowledge, these degrees alone generally do not meet the academic requirements for LPC licensure unless the coursework aligns closely with counseling-specific content. Applicants with psychology or social work backgrounds may need to complete additional coursework or a counseling-focused graduate program to qualify. It is essential to review the North Dakota Board of Counselor Examiners’ education criteria to ensure that your degree meets the necessary standards for LPC eligibility.

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

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in North Dakota do not have the same scope of practice as psychologists. While LPCs are trained and authorized to provide mental health counseling and therapy, their practice is generally limited to diagnosing and treating mental health disorders through counseling techniques. Psychologists, however, have broader qualifications that include psychological testing, assessment, and more extensive research training, enabling them to conduct evaluations that LPCs are not licensed to perform. This distinction ensures that although both professionals contribute valuable mental health services, psychologists have a wider range of clinical tools and responsibilities under North Dakota law.

What is the difference between an LPC and an LMHC in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) credentials often cause confusion, but they essentially refer to the same professional designation governed by the state's Board of Counselor Examiners. While some states differentiate these titles based on scope or educational requirements, North Dakota primarily recognizes the LPC credential for independent practice in mental health counseling. The LPC license requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, supervised clinical hours, and passing the National Counselor Examination. Therefore, for aspiring counselors in North Dakota, pursuing the LPC licensure is the standard path, as the LMHC title is not separately distinct or commonly used in this state’s licensure system.

Can LPCs in North Dakota diagnose and treat mental health disorders?

In North Dakota, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are authorized to diagnose and treat mental health disorders within the scope of their training and licensure. LPCs undergo rigorous education, supervised clinical experience, and must pass a national exam, which equips them to provide assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions. However, their ability to diagnose is limited to mental health conditions and must align with the state’s counseling practice laws and ethical standards. While LPCs are equipped to treat a range of psychological issues, certain severe or complex psychiatric disorders may require collaboration with or referral to psychiatrists or other medical professionals for comprehensive care.