Texas LPC Licensure: Complete 2025 Guide to Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas opens doors to a rewarding career helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Texas has one of the largest populations of licensed counselors in the nation, and the demand continues to grow. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the licensure process, from education requirements to your first renewal.

Whether you're a graduate student planning your career path, a counselor relocating to Texas, or someone considering a career change into mental health, this guide provides the detailed, accurate information you need to navigate the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) requirements with confidence.

Semester Hours Required

3,000

Supervised Hours

70%

NCE Pass Rate

2-3 yrs

Typical Timeline

Understanding Texas LPC Licensure

The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) credential in Texas authorizes you to practice professional counseling independently. This includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions for mental health conditions. The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), formed in 2019 by merging several licensing boards, now oversees LPC licensure along with other behavioral health professions.

Texas offers two primary counseling credentials: the LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) and the LPC-S (Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor). The LPC allows independent practice, while the LPC-S additionally qualifies you to supervise LPC Associates working toward full licensure.

The LPC Associate Stage

Before obtaining full LPC status, you must first become an LPC Associate (formerly called LPC-Intern). As an LPC Associate, you can practice counseling under the supervision of an approved LPC-S while accumulating your required supervised experience hours. This interim credential allows you to gain valuable clinical experience while working toward full licensure.

Important Terminology Change

As of September 2019, "LPC-Intern" was renamed to "LPC Associate" to better reflect the professional nature of this credential. You may still see both terms used interchangeably in older documentation.

Education Requirements

Texas requires a graduate degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. The specific requirements depend on whether your program holds CACREP accreditation.

CACREP-Accredited Programs

+ 60 semester hours minimum
+ Coursework requirements automatically met
+ Streamlined application review
+ Practicum and internship built-in
+ Easier reciprocity with other states

Non-CACREP Programs

+ 60 semester hours minimum
+ Must document specific coursework areas
+ Additional transcript review required
+ May need course syllabi for verification
+ Longer application processing time

Required Coursework Areas

Regardless of CACREP status, your graduate program must include coursework in the following core areas. Non-CACREP graduates must demonstrate completion of these subjects through official transcripts:

Required Coursework Checklist

Counseling theory and practice (minimum 3 hours)
Human growth and development across the lifespan
Career development and counseling
Group counseling theory and practice
Assessment, appraisal, and testing
Research methods and program evaluation
Professional ethics and legal issues
Social and cultural foundations (multicultural counseling)
Psychopathology/diagnosis (DSM familiarity)
Supervised practicum (100 hours minimum)
Supervised internship (300 hours minimum)

Supervised Experience Requirements

After completing your graduate degree and obtaining LPC Associate status, you must accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. This is where you develop your skills as a practicing counselor while receiving guidance from an experienced supervisor.

Hour Requirements Breakdown

3,000 Hours Breakdown

1,500 hours minimum - Direct client contact (face-to-face counseling)
1,500 hours maximum - Indirect services (documentation, consultation, training)
1 hour supervision - Required per 30 hours of client contact
Minimum 100 hours - Total supervision over the experience period

Supervision Requirements

Your supervisor must hold an active LPC-S (LPC-Supervisor) credential in Texas. The supervision relationship is formalized through a Board-approved supervision agreement that must be filed with BHEC before you begin accumulating hours.

Acceptable Supervision Formats

+ Individual supervision (one-on-one)
+ Group supervision (max 6 supervisees)
+ Combination of individual and group
+ In-person or synchronous video
+ Phone supervision (limited portion)

Supervision Rules

+ Must meet at least monthly
+ 1 hour per 30 client contact hours
+ Supervisor reviews all client cases
+ Documentation required for all sessions
+ LPC-S verifies hours upon completion

Timeline Tip

Working full-time (40 hours per week), you can complete 3,000 hours in approximately 18-24 months. Part-time associates may take 3-4 years. Plan your supervision schedule accordingly and maintain consistent documentation throughout.

Examination Requirements

Texas requires passage of both a national counseling examination and the Texas Jurisprudence Exam. You can take the national exam either before or after completing your supervised hours, but many candidates choose to take it while the academic material is fresh.

National Examination Options

Texas accepts either of two national examinations administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC):

NCE (National Counselor Examination)

+ 200 multiple-choice questions
+ 3 hours and 45 minutes
+ Tests foundational counseling knowledge
+ Pass rate approximately 70-75%
+ Fee: $335 (as of 2025)
+ Most common choice for Texas LPC

NCMHCE (Clinical Mental Health)

+ 10 clinical simulations
+ 3 hours total
+ Tests clinical decision-making
+ Pass rate approximately 65-70%
+ Fee: $335 (as of 2025)
+ Required for NCC certification

Texas Jurisprudence Exam

All LPC candidates must pass the Texas Jurisprudence Exam, which tests your knowledge of Texas laws, rules, and ethical standards specific to counseling practice in the state. Key details:

Texas Jurisprudence Exam Details

Format: Online, open-book examination
Questions: 50 multiple-choice questions
Passing Score: 75% (38 correct answers)
Fee: $58 per attempt
Retakes: Unlimited attempts, 24-hour wait between
Content: Texas Administrative Code, BHEC rules, ethics

Application Process

The Texas BHEC uses an online licensing portal for all applications. The process involves two main applications: first for LPC Associate status, then for full LPC licensure after completing supervised experience.

Step 1: LPC Associate Application

LPC Associate Application Checklist

Completed online application through BHEC portal
Application fee: $100 (non-refundable)
Official transcripts sent directly from institution
Proof of degree conferral (if transcripts pending)
Supervision agreement form (with approved LPC-S)
Criminal background check authorization
Passport-style photo (digital upload)

Step 2: Full LPC Application

After completing your 3,000 supervised hours and passing both examinations, you can apply for full LPC licensure:

Full LPC Application Checklist

Completed upgrade application through BHEC portal
Upgrade fee: $50
Verification of 3,000 supervised hours (supervisor attestation)
NCE or NCMHCE passing score verification
Texas Jurisprudence Exam passing score
Updated criminal background check (if needed)

Application Fees Summary

Total Cost Breakdown

LPC Associate Application $100
NCE or NCMHCE Exam $335
Texas Jurisprudence Exam $58
LPC Upgrade Application $50
Criminal Background Check $40
Total Estimated Cost $583

Processing Timeline

BHEC typically processes complete applications within 4-6 weeks. Incomplete applications or those requiring additional documentation may take longer. Check your portal regularly for status updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

LPC vs. LPC-S: Understanding the Difference

Once you obtain your LPC, you may eventually want to become an LPC-Supervisor (LPC-S) to train the next generation of counselors. Here is how the two credentials compare:

LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor)

+ Independent counseling practice
+ Diagnose and treat mental health conditions
+ Accept insurance reimbursement
+ Work in private practice or agencies
+ Provide telehealth services
+ Cannot supervise LPC Associates

LPC-S (LPC Supervisor)

+ All LPC privileges plus...
+ Supervise LPC Associates
+ Verify supervised hours
+ Additional income opportunity
+ Leadership role in profession
+ Requires 5+ years LPC experience

LPC-S Requirements

To become an LPC-Supervisor in Texas, you must meet additional requirements beyond the standard LPC:

LPC-S Eligibility Requirements

Hold an active, unrestricted Texas LPC license
Minimum 5 years of LPC practice experience (60 months)
Complete 40 hours of approved supervisor training
No disciplinary actions against license
Submit LPC-S application and fee ($50)

License Maintenance and Renewal

Texas LPC licenses are valid for two years and require renewal with continuing education. Keeping your license active ensures uninterrupted practice and maintains your professional standing.

Continuing Education Requirements

24 Hours Per Renewal Cycle

3 hours - Ethics (required each cycle)
2 hours - Cultural diversity/social justice
2 hours - Evidence-based practices
17 hours - Elective topics in counseling
6 hours max - Self-study/home study allowed

Renewal Fees and Deadlines

License renewal fees and timelines are structured to encourage timely renewal:

Renewal Fee Structure

Standard LPC Renewal (on time) $117
LPC-S Renewal (on time) $142
Late Renewal (within 90 days) +$50 late fee
Expired License Reinstatement $200+

Critical Reminder

Set calendar reminders 90 days before your license expiration date. Practicing with an expired license is a violation that can result in disciplinary action and potential legal consequences. BHEC sends renewal reminders, but you are ultimately responsible for timely renewal.

Reciprocity and Out-of-State Licensure

If you hold a counseling license from another state and wish to practice in Texas, the reciprocity process depends on your qualifications and the requirements of your original state.

Requirements for Out-of-State Applicants

Reciprocity Checklist

Active license in good standing from another U.S. state
Graduate degree meeting Texas education requirements
NCE, NCMHCE, or equivalent exam passage
Pass Texas Jurisprudence Exam (all applicants)
License verification from originating state
Criminal background check
Application fee: $150

Counseling Compact

Texas is currently considering joining the Counseling Compact, an interstate agreement that would allow LPCs to practice across member states without obtaining separate licenses. As of 2025, this legislation is still in progress. Monitor BHEC announcements for updates on compact membership.

AASCB Membership

The American Association of State Counseling Boards (AASCB) provides license portability services that can streamline your reciprocity application. Their license verification system is recognized by Texas BHEC and can expedite processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most common questions about Texas LPC licensure:

How long does it take to become licensed as an LPC in Texas?

The complete timeline from starting your graduate program to full LPC licensure typically takes 4-6 years. This breaks down to approximately 2-3 years for your master's degree (60 semester hours), followed by 18-24 months to complete 3,000 supervised hours if working full-time. The application and examination process adds another 2-3 months. Part-time work during the supervised experience period extends the timeline accordingly.

What is the difference between LPC and LPC-S in Texas?

An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) can practice counseling independently and provide mental health services to clients. An LPC-S (LPC Supervisor) has all LPC privileges plus the ability to supervise LPC Associates who are completing their supervised experience requirements. To become an LPC-S, you need at least 5 years of LPC experience and 40 hours of supervisor training.

Can I practice counseling while accumulating my supervised hours?

Yes. Once you receive your LPC Associate credential, you can practice counseling under the supervision of an approved LPC-S. This is how you accumulate the required 3,000 supervised hours. Many LPC Associates work at community mental health centers, private practices, hospitals, or other clinical settings during this period.

How much does Texas LPC licensure cost in total?

The direct licensing costs total approximately $583, including the LPC Associate application ($100), national exam ($335), Texas Jurisprudence Exam ($58), LPC upgrade application ($50), and background check ($40). This does not include the cost of your graduate education, study materials, or any exam retake fees if needed.

Do I need a CACREP-accredited program to get licensed in Texas?

No, CACREP accreditation is not required for Texas LPC licensure. However, graduates of CACREP-accredited programs have a streamlined application process because their coursework automatically meets Texas requirements. Non-CACREP graduates must document that their coursework covers all required content areas, which may require additional verification.

Can I take the NCE before completing my supervised hours?

Yes. Texas allows you to take the NCE or NCMHCE at any point after completing your graduate degree. Many candidates choose to take the exam shortly after graduation while the academic material is still fresh. You must pass the exam before applying for full LPC status, but you do not need to wait until your supervised hours are complete.

What happens if my license expires?

If your license expires, you cannot legally practice counseling in Texas. You can renew within 90 days of expiration by paying a late fee in addition to the standard renewal fee. After 90 days, you must apply for reinstatement, which involves additional fees, updated background checks, and potentially additional continuing education requirements.

How do I find an LPC-S supervisor in Texas?

You can search for LPC-S supervisors through the BHEC license verification portal, professional counseling associations like TCA (Texas Counseling Association), or networking at local professional events. Many private practices and community mental health centers employ LPC-S supervisors who work with associates. Consider factors like specialty areas, supervision style, cost, and location when selecting a supervisor.

Your Path Forward

Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas requires dedication, but the process is clear and achievable. Whether you are just starting your graduate studies or preparing to submit your final LPC application, each step brings you closer to a fulfilling career helping others.

Remember that the journey itself is valuable. Your supervised experience provides irreplaceable learning opportunities, and the relationships you build with supervisors and colleagues often last throughout your career. Stay organized, maintain thorough documentation, and do not hesitate to reach out to BHEC with questions.

Key Takeaways

->Texas LPC requires 60 graduate semester hours, 3,000 supervised hours, and passing two exams
->The LPC Associate credential allows you to practice while completing supervised experience
->Total licensing costs are approximately $583, not including education
->License renewal requires 24 CE hours every two years, including 3 ethics hours
->LPC-S status requires 5 years of experience and 40 hours of supervisor training
->The Texas Jurisprudence Exam is required for all applicants, including out-of-state transfers

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