How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LPCC) in Minnesota
To become a counselor in Minnesota, you need a master's degree from a CACREP-accredited program, completion of supervised clinical hours (2,000 for LPC or 4,000 for LPCC), and passing scores on an approved national examination. The Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy oversees licensure for both Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC).
Minnesota offers two distinct pathways for professional counseling licensure, each designed to meet different career goals and practice needs. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or a graduate preparing for licensure, understanding the requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is essential for planning your career path.
The state's licensing system recognizes that professional counselors play a vital role in addressing mental health needs across diverse communities. From rural areas to urban centers, licensed counselors provide critical services to individuals, couples, and families. The distinction between LPC and LPCC licensure reflects different levels of clinical training and scope of practice, particularly regarding insurance reimbursement.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the licensure process in Minnesota, from selecting an accredited graduate program to passing your licensure examination. For a broader overview of counseling career paths, explore our guide to starting a counseling career.
Table of Contents
Minnesota Counselor License Types
The Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy provides licensure for two distinct categories of professional counselors. Understanding the differences between these licenses is crucial for planning your career trajectory and determining which pathway aligns with your professional goals.
Understanding LPC vs. LPCC
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is an entry-level counseling license in Minnesota. It requires 2,000 hours of supervised post-degree clinical practice. The Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) represents the state's advanced clinical license, requiring 4,000 hours of supervised experience, double the requirement for the LPC.
The most significant practical difference between these licenses relates to insurance reimbursement. Work performed by LPCs may not be recognized as insurance reimbursable in Minnesota, which can limit practice settings and client accessibility. LPCC holders, by contrast, typically qualify for insurance reimbursement, expanding their ability to work in private practice and serve clients who rely on insurance coverage.
| License Feature | LPC | LPCC |
|---|---|---|
| Education Required | Master's degree (CACREP-accredited) | Master's degree (CACREP-accredited) |
| Supervised Hours | 2,000 hours | 4,000 hours |
| Direct Client Contact | Not specified | Minimum 1,800 hours |
| Total Supervision Hours | 100 hours | 200 hours |
| Insurance Reimbursement | May not be recognized | Typically recognized |
| Examination | NCE, NCMHCE, CRCE, or EPPP | NCE, NCMHCE, CRCE, or EPPP |
Which License Should You Pursue?
Most counseling professionals in Minnesota ultimately pursue the LPCC license due to the insurance reimbursement advantages. If you plan to work in private practice or in settings where insurance billing is standard, the LPCC provides greater flexibility and career opportunities. Some counselors start with the LPC while accumulating additional hours toward LPCC licensure.
Consider your career timeline and practice goals. If you need to begin working sooner and plan to practice in settings that don't require insurance reimbursement (such as certain community agencies or cash-pay practices), the LPC may serve as a stepping stone. For most applicants, planning for the full 4,000 hours required for LPCC licensure from the beginning creates the most direct path to complete clinical independence.
Educational Requirements
Both the LPC and LPCC licenses require completion of a master's-level graduate degree or higher. Minnesota's licensing board emphasizes the importance of program accreditation and comprehensive training in counseling theory, techniques, and ethics.
Master's Degree Requirements
You must earn your degree from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). CACREP accreditation ensures that your program meets national standards for counselor education, including curriculum requirements, faculty qualifications, and clinical training components.
Most CACREP-accredited master's programs in counseling require 60 credit hours and take two to three years to complete. Programs typically include both classroom instruction and practicum experiences, during which you'll begin developing clinical skills under supervision.
CACREP Accreditation
CACREP accreditation isn't just a preference in Minnesota—it's a requirement for licensure. When selecting a graduate program, verify that it holds current CACREP accreditation. Programs may offer specializations in areas like clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, or addiction counseling, all of which can lead to licensure if the program is CACREP-accredited.
Minnesota universities offering CACREP-accredited counseling programs include institutions across the state. When researching programs, confirm the accreditation status directly with the program and check the CACREP directory to ensure your chosen program meets Minnesota's requirements.
Core Curriculum Areas
Your graduate program will cover essential counseling areas, including counseling theory and practice, human growth and development, social and cultural diversity, group counseling, career development, assessment, research methods, and professional ethics. These foundational areas prepare you for both the supervised practice phase and the national examination.
Programs also include supervised clinical experiences through practicum and internship placements. These early clinical experiences provide the foundation for the post-degree supervised hours required for licensure.
Supervised Clinical Experience
Supervised clinical experience represents the bridge between academic training and independent professional practice. Minnesota's supervision requirements ensure you receive adequate oversight and mentoring as you develop clinical competencies.
LPC Supervision Requirements
The LPC license requires 2,000 hours of supervised post-degree clinical practice. During these 2,000 hours, you must receive 100 hours of supervision at a ratio of two hours of supervision for every 40 hours of professional practice. At least 75% of your supervision must occur in person, and at least 50% must be individual supervision (rather than group supervision).
LPCC Supervision Requirements
The LPCC license requires 4,000 hours of supervised post-degree clinical practice, with no fewer than 1,800 hours involving direct client contact. You must complete 200 hours of supervision at the same ratio of two hours of supervision for every 40 hours of practice. The exact requirements regarding in-person supervision (75% minimum) and individual supervision (50% minimum) apply.
| Requirement | LPC | LPCC |
|---|---|---|
| Total Practice Hours | 2,000 hours | 4,000 hours |
| Required Direct Client Contact | Not specified | Minimum 1,800 hours |
| Total Supervision Hours | 100 hours | 200 hours |
| Supervision Ratio | 2 hours per 40 practice hours | 2 hours per 40 practice hours |
| In-Person Supervision | Minimum 75% | Minimum 75% |
| Individual Supervision | Minimum 50% | Minimum 50% |
When Can You Start Accruing Hours?
You can begin accruing supervised hours before your application is formally approved, provided you're working with an approved supervisor listed in your submitted supervision plan. This flexibility allows you to start gaining clinical experience while your application is under review. Submit your supervision plan with your initial application, and ensure your supervisor meets the Board's qualification requirements.
Maintaining detailed records throughout your supervision period is essential. Document your practice hours, supervision sessions, and clinical activities carefully. Good record-keeping ensures a smooth review process when you submit your final licensure application.
Licensure Examinations
Minnesota accepts passing scores on four different national examinations for counselor licensure. Each exam assesses the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for professional counseling practice, though they differ in format and focus.
Accepted Examinations
The National Counselor Examination (NCE) consists of 200 multiple-choice questions designed to assess knowledge and skills required for counselor licensure. You'll receive your score within eight weeks of taking the exam. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) administers the NCE and offers study guides to help you prepare.
The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) uses a different format, presenting 10 simulated clinical mental health counseling cases. This performance-based exam samples a broad range of clinical competencies. Results are available within six weeks. The NBCC also administers this exam and provides preparation resources.
The Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRCE) consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, administered over a 3.5-hour testing window. You'll receive your score within five weeks of the examination. The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification offers practice tests to help you prepare.
The Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) includes 175 scored items plus 50 pre-test items presented in multiple-choice format. Test scores become available within three business days of the 15th and the last day of each month. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards provides practice tests.
| Examination | Format | Number of Items | Score Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Counselor Examination (NCE) | Multiple choice | 200 questions | Within 8 weeks |
| National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) | Clinical simulations | 10 case scenarios | Within 6 weeks |
| Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination (CRCE) | Multiple choice | 175 questions | Within 5 weeks |
| Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) | Multiple choice | 175 scored + 50 pretest | Within three business days |
Choosing Your Examination
Most counseling candidates select either the NCE or NCMHCE, as these exams align directly with counselor training and practice. The NCE tests broad counseling knowledge through traditional multiple-choice questions, while the NCMHCE assesses clinical decision-making through realistic case scenarios. Consider your learning style and clinical training when selecting your exam.
The CRCE focuses specifically on rehabilitation counseling, making it the natural choice for those specializing in this area. The EPPP is primarily designed for psychologist licensure, but is accepted by Minnesota for counselor applicants. Discuss exam selection with your graduate program faculty and supervisor to choose the assessment that best matches your training and career focus.
Step-by-Step Licensure Process
Understanding the licensure timeline helps you plan your educational and career path effectively. While individual circumstances vary, most counselors follow a similar progression through the licensure process.
Step 1: Complete Your Master's Degree (2-3 years) - Enroll in and complete a CACREP-accredited master's program in counseling. Your program will include coursework, a practicum, and an internship that will prepare you for supervised practice.
Step 2: Prepare and Submit Your Supervision Plan - Before beginning your supervised hours, develop a supervision plan and submit it with your application. Identify a qualified supervisor who meets the Board's requirements. The Board must approve your supervisor.
Step 3: Complete Supervised Clinical Hours - Begin accruing supervised clinical hours (2,000 for LPC or 4,000 for LPCC). This phase typically takes 1-2 years for LPC or 2-4 years for LPCC, depending on whether you work full-time or part-time in clinical settings.
Step 4: Register for and Pass Your Licensure Examination - Schedule your chosen examination and prepare thoroughly using study guides and practice materials. Many candidates take their exam during or near the completion of their supervised hours.
Step 5: Submit Your Complete Application - Once you've completed your supervised hours and passed your examination, submit your final application to the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy with all required documentation, including verification of your supervised experience.
Step 6: Receive Your License - After the Board reviews your application and verifies all requirements are met, you'll receive your LPC or LPCC license. The review process typically takes several weeks, so plan accordingly.
From start to finish, the process — from beginning your master's program to receiving your LPCC license — typically takes 5-7 years. The LPC can be achieved in approximately 3-5 years. These timelines assume full-time study and work commitments.
Salary and Career Outlook in Minnesota
Professional counselors in Minnesota earn competitive salaries that reflect their education, training, and expertise. Understanding the salary landscape helps you make informed decisions about your investment in counseling education and licensure.
According to May 2024 data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Minnesota employs approximately 7,910 mental health counselors, substance abuse counselors, and behavioral disorder counselors. The annual mean wage for these professionals is $59,020, with the median yearly salary at $58,720.
Salary ranges vary based on experience, specialization, practice setting, and geographic location within Minnesota. Entry-level counselors typically earn toward the lower end of the range, while experienced practitioners and those in specialized areas command higher salaries.
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,210 | Entry-level counselors |
| 25th Percentile | $49,880 | Early career professionals |
| Median (50th) | $58,720 | Mid-career counselors |
| 75th Percentile | $64,370 | Experienced practitioners |
| 90th Percentile | $75,530 | Senior counselors, specialists |
Career opportunities for licensed counselors continue to grow as Minnesota addresses mental health service needs across the state. Licensed counselors work in diverse settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, private practices, substance abuse treatment facilities, and correctional institutions. The demand for qualified mental health professionals creates strong job security and opportunities for career advancement.
LPCC-licensed counselors often have additional earning potential through private practice, where they can bill insurance companies directly and set their own fees. Many counselors build hybrid practices, combining agency work with part-time private practice to maximize both income and service diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between LPC and LPCC in Minnesota?
The main difference is the required supervised clinical hours. LPC requires 2,000 hours while LPCC requires 4,000 hours, including at least 1,800 hours of direct client contact. The LPCC license also typically qualifies for insurance reimbursement, while insurance companies may not recognize LPC work. Most counselors pursue the LPCC for greater practice flexibility.
How long does it take to become a licensed counselor in Minnesota?
The complete process takes approximately 3-5 years for LPC or 5-7 years for LPCC. This includes 2-3 years for your master's degree, 1-2 years to accumulate LPC supervised hours (or 2-4 years for LPCC hours), plus time for examination and application review. Working full-time in clinical settings allows you to complete hours more quickly than part-time positions.
Can I start accumulating supervised hours before my application is approved?
Yes. Minnesota allows you to begin accruing supervised hours before your application is formally approved, as long as you're working with an approved supervisor who's listed in your submitted supervision plan. This helps you start gaining clinical experience without delay. Submit your supervision plan with your initial application.
Do I need to graduate from a CACREP-accredited program?
Yes. Minnesota requires a master's degree or higher from a CACREP-accredited program for both LPC and LPCC licensure. CACREP accreditation ensures your program meets national standards for counselor education. Verify your program's accreditation status before enrolling, as non-accredited degrees won't qualify you for licensure in Minnesota.
Which licensure exam should I take?
Minnesota accepts four exams: NCE, NCMHCE, CRCE, and EPPP. Most counseling candidates choose the NCE or NCMHCE, as these align with counselor training. The NCE uses multiple-choice questions to test broad counseling knowledge, while the NCMHCE assesses clinical decision-making through case simulations. Discuss your options with faculty and supervisors to select the exam that best aligns with your training and strengths.
Can I practice counseling while completing my supervised hours?
Yes, completing your supervised hours requires you to practice counseling under qualified supervision. You'll work in clinical settings providing counseling services to clients while receiving regular supervision from an approved supervisor. This supervised practice is how you develop the competencies needed for independent licensure.
Does Minnesota offer license reciprocity with other states?
Minnesota participates in some reciprocity agreements, though requirements vary. If you're licensed in another state and wish to practice in Minnesota, contact the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy to discuss your specific situation. They'll evaluate your credentials and determine what, if any, additional requirements you must meet for Minnesota licensure.
Key Takeaways
- Minnesota offers two counselor licenses: LPC (2,000 supervised hours) and LPCC (4,000 supervised hours), with LPCC providing insurance reimbursement recognition
- You must earn a master's degree from a CACREP-accredited counseling program to qualify for either license
- Supervised clinical experience requires consistent oversight at a ratio of 2 supervision hours per 40 practice hours, with at least 75% in-person and 50% individual supervision
- Four national examinations are accepted: NCE, NCMHCE, CRCE, and EPPP, with most counselors selecting the NCE or NCMHCE
- You can begin accruing supervised hours before formal application approval when working with an approved supervisor
- Minnesota mental health counselors earn a median annual wage of $58,720, with experienced specialists earning up to $75,530 or more
- The complete licensure process typically takes 5-7 years from starting your master's program to receiving LPCC licensure
Schools with Degree Programs Accepting Students from Minnesota
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Additional Resources for Minnesota Applicants
- Minnesota Psychologist Licensing
- Minnesota Social Work Licensing
- Minnesota Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Counseling Careers
2US4 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures USd job growth projections for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health, and Mental Health Counselors are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
