Illinois offers a two-tiered counseling licensure system: the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). This guide walks you through both pathways, helping you understand the requirements, timeline, and steps to practice counseling in the Prairie State.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois has two license levels: LPC (entry-level, supervised) and LCPC (clinical, independent practice)
- A master's degree with 48 semester hours is required for LPC; LCPC requires additional supervised experience
- The NCE or NCMHCE exam is required depending on the license type
- The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) oversees licensure
Understanding Illinois Counseling Licenses
Illinois stands out with its two-tiered licensure system. The LPC is the entry-level license that allows you to practice under supervision, while the LCPC grants full clinical privileges and the ability to practice independently. Most counselors start with the LPC and work toward the LCPC over time.
| Requirement | LPC | LCPC |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Master's (48 credits) | Master's (48 credits) |
| Practicum/Internship | Required in program | Required in program |
| Post-Degree Hours | None required | 2 years supervised |
| Examination | NCE | NCE or NCMHCE |
| Supervision Needed | Yes, ongoing | No, independent |
| Diagnose & Treat | Under supervision | Independently |
| Private Practice | With supervisor | Full independence |
LPC Requirements (Entry-Level License)
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is your first step into professional counseling in Illinois. With this license, you can provide counseling services under the supervision of an LCPC or other qualified mental health professional.
Education Requirements
- Master's or doctoral degree in counseling
- Minimum 48 semester hours of graduate work
- From a regionally accredited institution
- Practicum and internship completed
Required Coursework
- Professional orientation and ethics
- Theories of counseling
- Human growth and development
- Assessment and appraisal
- Group dynamics and counseling
- Research methods
LCPC Requirements (Clinical License)
The Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) is the advanced credential that grants full clinical privileges in Illinois. With an LCPC, you can practice independently, diagnose mental health conditions, and establish your own private practice.
LCPC Additional Requirements
Supervised Experience
- 2 years of supervised clinical experience
- Minimum 3,360 hours total practice
- 1,680 hours must be direct client contact
- Post-master's experience only
Supervision Requirements
- Supervisor must be LCPC, psychologist, or psychiatrist
- 1 hour supervision per 20 client hours
- Face-to-face supervision required
- Supervisor verification forms required
Examination Requirements
Illinois accepts either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) for licensure. Both exams are administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).
NCE National Counselor Examination
- 200 multiple choice questions
- 4 hours testing time
- Covers 8 core counseling areas
- Best for general counseling focus
- Fee: $335
NCMHCE Clinical Mental Health Exam
- Clinical simulation format
- 3 hours testing time
- 10 clinical scenarios
- Best for clinical/LCPC track
- Fee: $335
Application Process
LPC Application Checklist
Additional Requirements for LCPC
License Renewal
Illinois counseling licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal deadline depends on your birth month. Both LPC and LCPC licenses have the same renewal requirements.
Continuing Education
- 30 hours of CE per renewal period
- 3 hours must be in ethics
- Courses approved by IDFPR or NBCC
- Keep records for 5 years
Renewal Fees
- LPC renewal: $75
- LCPC renewal: $75
- Late fee: $20 (within 90 days)
- Online renewal available
Reciprocity and Endorsement
Illinois offers licensure by endorsement for counselors licensed in other states. Requirements vary based on your credentials and experience level. Generally, you must demonstrate equivalent education and examination requirements.
Endorsement Eligibility
- Hold active, unrestricted license in another state
- Meet Illinois education requirements (48 credits)
- Pass NCE or NCMHCE
- For LCPC endorsement: demonstrate equivalent supervised experience
- No disciplinary actions on any professional license
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Illinois LPC application take?
IDFPR typically processes complete applications within 4-6 weeks. However, processing times can vary based on application volume and whether additional documentation is required. You can check your application status online through the IDFPR portal.
What is the difference between LPC and LCPC scope of practice?
LPCs must practice under supervision and cannot independently diagnose or treat mental health conditions. LCPCs can practice independently, diagnose mental disorders, develop treatment plans, and operate a private practice without supervision. LCPCs can also supervise LPCs.
Can I start my own practice with an LPC?
Yes, but with limitations. As an LPC, you can establish a practice but must have a supervision agreement with an LCPC, licensed psychologist, or psychiatrist. Your supervisor must be available for consultation and provide regular oversight of your clinical work.
Is Illinois part of the Counseling Compact?
As of 2025, Illinois has not yet joined the Counseling Compact. Counselors wishing to practice across state lines must obtain separate licensure in each state or work through telehealth provisions where applicable.
Which exam should I take: NCE or NCMHCE?
Both exams are accepted in Illinois. The NCE is a traditional multiple-choice exam covering broad counseling knowledge, while the NCMHCE uses clinical simulations focused on assessment and treatment. If you plan to pursue clinical work, the NCMHCE may better prepare you. Many counselors choose based on their program's recommendation or their testing preferences.
Resources and Contact Information
Illinois IDFPR Contact
- Agency: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Address: 320 W. Washington Street, Springfield, IL 62786
- Phone: (888) 473-4858
- Website: idfpr.illinois.gov
- Online Licensing: ilesonline.idfpr.illinois.gov
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