How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Arizona 2025
To become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, you'll need a master's degree of at least 60 semester credit hours (CACREP-accredited programs are preferred and pre-approved), complete 3,200 hours of supervised experience as a Licensed Associate Counselor (including 1,600 direct client contact hours and 100 hours of clinical supervision), and pass one of three national exams (NCE, NCMHCE, or CRC). The process typically takes 6-8 years, with median salaries of $63,830 annually in Arizona.
Men and women who feel a calling to help others improve the quality of their lives may be well-suited for a career in counseling. Whether you're counseling individuals, families, or groups, or overseeing prevention and support programs, a career as a licensed counselor offers diverse opportunities in settings including large hospital systems, residential treatment facilities, governmental agencies like the VA, schools, and private practices.
Before pursuing a career as a counselor in Arizona, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the education and licensing requirements set forth by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Why Pursue Counseling in Arizona
Arizona offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring counselors. Between 2020 and 2030, the number of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor jobs in the state is expected to grow by 54%, far outpacing the national projected growth rate of 22% for this broader counselor category. This growth projection applies to the general mental health counselor occupation rather than specifically to LPCs, but indicates strong demand for qualified counseling professionals across specialties.
During this period, Arizona should see about 1,170 annual job openings among licensed counselors due to a combination of new job growth, retirements, and natural job turnover.
This growth translates to strong career prospects and competitive salaries for qualified counselors. With Arizona's diverse population and expanding mental health services, licensed counselors can build rewarding careers helping individuals, families, and communities across the state.
Education Requirements for Arizona Counselors
To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona, you must complete a master's degree or higher in counseling or a related field. The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners requires that your degree program consist of a minimum of 60 semester credit hours (or 90 quarter hours).
CACREP Accreditation vs. Board-Approved Programs
The most direct path to meeting Arizona's education requirements is earning a degree from a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP-accredited programs are pre-approved to meet all of Arizona's standards and naturally include the required supervised practicum experience.
However, CACREP accreditation is not mandatory. Non-CACREP programs must:
- Be from a regionally accredited institution recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
- Include at least 60 semester credit hours
- Cover eight core content areas with at least 24 semester hours across these topics
- Include the required 700-hour practicum with 240 hours of direct client contact
Graduates of non-CACREP programs will need to provide additional documentation showing how their curriculum meets Arizona's Board-approved standards during the application process.
Core Coursework Requirements
Your CACREP-accredited program must include comprehensive coursework covering:
- Ethical practice - Professional standards and ethical decision-making in counseling
- Social and cultural diversity - Understanding diverse populations and multicultural counseling competencies
- Human growth and development - Lifespan development theories and developmental challenges
- Career development - Career counseling theories and practical career guidance approaches
- Helping relationships - Counseling theories, therapeutic models, and intervention strategies
- Group work - Principles of group dynamics, leadership styles, and group counseling techniques
- Assessment and testing - Psychological assessment methods and interpretation
- Research methods - Qualitative and quantitative research design and evaluation
Practicum Requirements
All programs, whether CACREP-accredited or not, must include a supervised practicum of at least 700 clock hours in a professional counseling setting. Of these 700 hours, at least 240 must involve direct client contact. CACREP-accredited programs automatically meet this requirement, while non-CACREP programs must demonstrate compliance during the application process.
This hands-on experience provides essential preparation for your future work as a Licensed Associate Counselor.
Program Format Options
Many graduate programs in counseling are now offered in hybrid or online formats to accommodate busy, working professionals and those with geographical limitations. If your professional and personal responsibilities make attending on-campus courses difficult or impossible, you may want to explore the benefits of completing an online master's degree in counseling.
Arizona residents should verify that out-of-state online programs meet CACREP standards and Arizona's specific educational requirements before enrolling.
Note: More details on the state's program requirements can be found in Title 4, Chapter 6, Article 5 of the Arizona Administrative Code.
Supervised Professional Practice as a Licensed Associate Counselor
After meeting the education requirements, you'll apply to become a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and begin working toward your LPC license by completing the required supervised experience. This critical phase bridges your academic training and independent professional practice.
Supervision Hour Requirements
During your time as an LAC, you must complete at least 3,200 hours of supervised work experience in professional counseling involving psychotherapy, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment over a minimum of 24 months. This experience requirement includes:
- 1,600 hours of direct client contact involving the use of psychotherapy
- Of those 1,600 direct contact hours, no more than 400 hours may be in psychoeducation
- 100 hours of clinical supervision (at least 25 hours must be individual supervision, with at least 10 hours involving direct observation or review of tapes)
- The remaining hours can include documentation, training focused on psychotherapy, and other professional activities related to psychotherapy practice
Important Note: Arizona requires that supervised hours be related specifically to psychotherapy practice. Hours spent in case management or general psychoeducational services that don't involve psychotherapy typically don't count toward the 3,200-hour requirement, though hours in supervision, documentation, and training specifically focused on psychotherapy may be credited.
Supervisor Requirements
All experience must be supervised by a licensed and Board-approved professional holding one of these credentials:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC)
- Licensed Independent Marriage and Family Therapist (LIMFT)
Your supervisor must have at least two years of clinical experience post-licensure and be approved by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Supervision Structure
The 100 hours of required clinical supervision must meet specific Board standards:
- At least 25 hours must be individual supervision (one-on-one with your supervisor)
- At least 10 hours must involve direct observation or review of recorded sessions
- Group supervision is acceptable for a portion of hours:
- Up to 75 hours may be in groups of two supervisees
- Up to 50 hours may be in groups of three to six supervisees
- At least 50 of the 100 supervision hours must be provided by a Licensed Professional Counselor (the remainder can be from other qualified mental health professionals)
Supervision typically occurs through face-to-face sessions, though limited videoconferencing and telephone supervision may be accepted. Most LACs receive 1-2 hours of supervision weekly. You'll need to maintain detailed documentation of all supervision hours and client contact for Board review.
Where LACs Work
Common practice settings for Licensed Associate Counselors include:
- Community mental health centers
- Hospital behavioral health units
- Residential treatment facilities
- School-based counseling programs
- Government agencies (VA, Indian Health Service)
- Group practices under licensed supervision
- Substance abuse treatment centers
Important Limitation: As an LAC, you must practice under supervision and cannot open a private practice, bill insurance independently, or practice without oversight from a qualified supervisor.
LAC vs. LPC: Understanding the Difference
Understanding the distinction between Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is crucial for planning your career path in Arizona.
| Credential | Education | Supervision Status | Exam Required | Private Practice | Independent Billing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LAC (Licensed Associate Counselor) | CACREP master's degree | Accumulating 3,200 hours | No | No | No |
| LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) | CACREP master's degree | 3,200 hours completed | Yes (NCE, NCMHCE, or CRC) | Yes | Yes |
The key difference is practice authority. LACs work under supervision and cannot practice independently, while LPCs have full independent practice authority, can own private practices, bill insurance directly, and supervise other counselors.
Examination Requirements to Become an Arizona LPC
Once you've satisfied the required experience as an LAC, you'll apply with the Board to become an LPC in Arizona. The application requires a $250 fee. Once the Board approves your application, you'll be eligible to take one of three counselor exams recognized by the Board.
Exam Options
| Exam | Administrator | Format | Focus Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NCE (National Counselor Examination) | NBCC | 200 multiple-choice questions | General counseling knowledge | Counselors seeking a broad-based assessment |
| NCMHCE (National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination) | NBCC | 10 clinical simulations | Clinical mental health counseling | Counselors focusing on the mental health specialty |
| CRC (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor) | CRCC | 175 multiple-choice questions | Rehabilitation counseling | Counselors specializing in rehabilitation services |
Most Arizona counselors choose either the NCE or NCMHCE. The CRC is typically selected by counselors specializing in working with clients with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities.
After Passing Your Exam
Once you pass one of the three national exams, you'll earn your license to practice as an LPC in Arizona. You'll need to renew your license every two years, at which time you must have completed at least 30 clock hours of approved continuing education and pay a $325 license fee to maintain active status.
Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Become an LPC in Arizona?
Most Arizona counselors complete the LPC licensing process in 6-8 years from starting their master's degree. The timeline can vary significantly based on whether you pursue education and clinical hours full-time or part-time. Here's the typical timeline:
Years 1-2 (or 1-3): Master's Degree (60+ semester credits)
- Complete a 60-credit master's program in counseling (CACREP-accredited or Board-approved)
- Full-time students: 2-2.5 years
- Part-time students: 3-4 years
- Includes 700-hour practicum with 240 hours of direct client contact
Years 3-5 (or longer): Licensed Associate Counselor Experience
- Accumulate 3,200 supervised hours, including 1,600 direct client contact and 100 clinical supervision hours (minimum 24 months)
- Full-time work (40 hours/week of qualifying work): 2-2.5 years
- Part-time work extendsthe timeline proportionally (working 20 hours/week could take 4-5 years)
- Note: Not all work hours may qualify, only those involving psychotherapy practice
Year 5-8: Licensing Examination and Final Application
- Application processing: 2-3 months
- Exam scheduling and preparation: 1-3 months
- Preparation time varies by individual
Total Timeline: 6-8 years from starting a master's degree to full LPC licensure for full-time students and practitioners. Part-time students or those working part-time during their LAC phase may take 8-10 years or more to complete all requirements. The variation depends heavily on your ability to accumulate qualifying psychotherapy hours at your work setting.
Salary and Job Outlook for Arizona Counselors
Arizona offers competitive compensation for licensed counselors, with salaries reflecting both the state's strong job market and the critical need for mental health services.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors in Arizona
As of May 2024, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Arizona earned a median salary of $63,830 annually, exceeding the national median salary of $59,190 for this profession. These figures represent the broader category of mental health counselors, which includes but is not limited to Licensed Professional Counselors.
| Experience Level | Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | 10th Percentile | $42,130 |
| Early Career | 25th Percentile | $50,650 |
| Mid-Career | Median (50th) | $63,830 |
| Experienced | 75th Percentile | $79,990 |
| Top Earners | 90th Percentile | $95,860 |
Career Progression
Counselors fairly new to the profession in Arizona can expect to earn around $50,650 (25th percentile), while those with significant experience and specialized credentials can expect to earn $79,990 to $95,860 (75th to 90th percentile). Factors influencing salary include:
- Years of experience and clinical expertise
- Practice setting (private practice typically earns more)
- Specialized certifications and training
- Geographic location within Arizona (urban areas tend to pay more)
- Client population and specialty area
Related Counseling Careers in Arizona
Other counseling professionals in Arizona also earn competitive salaries. Rehabilitation counselors, who work with clients with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities to overcome challenges and live independently, earned a median salary of $40,180 as of May 2024, while those at the top of their profession (90th percentile) earned about $51,250.
All other types of counselors in Arizona earned a median salary of $47,180 as of May 2024, while those in the 90th percentile earned approximately $63,020.
Finding CACREP-Accredited Counseling Programs in Arizona
Selecting the right counseling program is a critical decision that will shape your career. When evaluating programs, consider:
- CACREP accreditation status - Essential for Arizona licensure
- Program format - On-campus, online, or hybrid options
- Specialization tracks - Clinical mental health, school counseling, addiction counseling, etc.
- Practicum and internship placements - Quality of clinical training sites
- Faculty expertise - Research areas and clinical backgrounds
- Program outcomes - Graduation rates, licensure exam pass rates, job placement
- Cost and financial aid - Tuition, assistantships, scholarships
Find CACREP-accredited counseling degree programs in Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an LPC in Arizona
How long does it take to become an LPC in Arizona?
Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona typically takes 6-8 years. This includes 2-3 years for a 60-credit master's degree (CACREP-accredited or Board-approved) and 2-3 years completing 3,200 hours of supervised experience as a Licensed Associate Counselor (including 100 hours of clinical supervision), plus time for the licensing exam application and testing. Part-time students and practitioners may take 8-10 years or longer.
What's the difference between an LAC and an LPC in Arizona?
A Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) has completed their master's degree but is still accumulating supervised hours and has not passed the licensing exam. LACs must work under supervision and cannot practice independently. A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) has completed all requirements, including 3,200 supervised hours and a national exam, allowing independent practice and private practice ownership.
Can I practice privately as an LAC in Arizona?
No. LACs must work under the supervision of a licensed professional and cannot open a private practice, bill insurance independently, or practice without qualified supervision. You must complete all LPC requirements and pass a licensing exam before practicing independently.
Does Arizona accept out-of-state LPC licenses?
Arizona may offer licensure by endorsement for counselors licensed in other states, but you must meet Arizona's specific requirements. Contact the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners to determine if your out-of-state license and education meet Arizona standards.
What happens if I fail the licensing exam?
You can retake the exam. Each testing organization (NBCC for NCE/NCMHCE, CRCC for CRC) has specific policies regarding retesting, waiting periods, and fees. Many counselors find additional study preparation helpful before retaking the exam.
Can I complete supervision hours part-time?
Yes. While you must complete a minimum of 3,200 hours over at least 24 months, you can work part-time during this period. Part-time work will extend your timeline proportionally. For example, working 20 hours per week would take approximately 3-4 years to accumulate the required hours.
What types of counseling can LPCs practice in Arizona?
Arizona LPCs can practice various counseling specialties, including individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, group counseling, substance abuse counseling, trauma counseling, and career counseling. Your specific competencies depend on your training, supervision experience, and continuing education.
How much do the licensing exams cost?
Exam fees vary by test. The NCE and NCMHCE (NBCC exams) typically cost around $335-$395 each. The CRC exam costs approximately $375-$475. These fees are separate from the $250 Arizona LPC application fee and don't include any exam preparation materials you might purchase.
Are there specializations within the LPC license in Arizona?
While Arizona doesn't offer separate specialty licenses within the LPC credential, you can develop specialized expertise through additional training and certification. Common specializations include trauma counseling, addiction treatment, marriage and family therapy techniques, child and adolescent counseling, and career counseling.
What continuing education is required to maintain my LPC license?
Arizona LPCs must complete at least 30 clock hours of Board-approved continuing education every two years to renew their license. These hours must be relevant to professional counseling practice and may include workshops, conferences, academic courses, or approved online training.
- Arizona's 54% projected job growth for mental health counselors broadly (2020-2030) far exceeds the national average, creating exceptional career opportunities for LPCs
- The complete licensing path requires a 60-credit master's degree (CACREP-accredited preferred but not mandatory), 3,200 supervised hours as an LAC (including 100 hours of clinical supervision), and passing a national exam
- Arizona mental health counselors earn a median salary of $63,830 (May 2024), with experienced counselors earning $80,000-$95,000+
- The typical timeline from starting your master's degree to full licensure is 6-8 years, with significant variation based on full-time vs. part-time status
- LACs must work under supervision and cannot practice independently until achieving full LPC licensure with exam passage
Ready to Start Your Arizona Counseling Career?
Explore CACREP-accredited master's programs accepting Arizona students. Compare options, specializations, and formats to find your best fit.
Find Arizona Programs
Additional Resources for Arizona Counselor Applicants
As you explore the many possible careers in counseling in Arizona, such as child and pediatric counseling, domestic violence counseling, grief counseling, and addiction treatment, you may also want to review similar professions and their state licensure requirements:
- Arizona Psychologist Licensing
- Arizona Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Arizona Social Worker Licensing
- Mental Health Counselor Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors represent the broader mental health counselor category (which includes but is not limited to Licensed Professional Counselors) and are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
