How to Become a Licensed Counselor in California (2025 Guide)

California is one of the most recent states to begin licensing professional counselors, creating significant opportunities for mental health professionals. The state offers two primary pathways for counselors: the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) credential, administered by the California Board of Behavioral Science, for those working in clinical mental health settings, and the School Counselor credential, administered by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, for educational environments.

Understanding California's licensing requirements is essential for anyone pursuing a career in counseling. The state's rigorous standards ensure that licensed counselors meet high professional qualifications to serve California's diverse population. Whether you're interested in private practice, community mental health, substance abuse counseling, or school counseling, California's licensing pathways provide clear routes to professional practice.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) Overview

The Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) is California's primary license for professional counselors working in clinical mental health settings. Established to provide licensed mental health services, LPCCs can diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders through psychotherapy, counseling, and other therapeutic interventions.

The California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) regulates LPCC licensure and ensures all licensed counselors meet the state's professional standards. LPCCs work in diverse settings, including private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, substance abuse treatment facilities, and employee assistance programs.

California's LPCC requirements are among the most comprehensive in the nation, reflecting the state's commitment to quality mental health care. The licensing process balances rigorous academic preparation with extensive supervised clinical experience, preparing counselors to serve California's diverse communities effectively.

Step 1: Complete Your Education Requirements

The foundation of LPCC licensure begins with proper academic preparation. California requires a master's degree that meets specific educational standards set by the Board of Behavioral Science.

Master's Degree Requirements

Your master's degree must include a minimum of 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of graduate coursework. The California BBS has specific content requirements that must be included in your program:

• Counseling and Psychotherapy Theories: Multiple theoretical approaches to counseling practice
• Human Growth and Development: Developmental stages across the lifespan
• Career Development: Career counseling theories and applications
• Group Counseling: Theory and practice of group dynamics and interventions
• Assessment and Testing: Psychological assessment methods and ethical use
• Multicultural Counseling: Cultural competency and working with diverse populations
• Research and Program Evaluation: Research methods and evidence-based practice
• Professional Ethics and Law: Legal and ethical issues in counseling practice
• Psychopharmacology: Understanding medications used in mental health treatment
• Diagnosis and Treatment: Using the DSM and developing treatment plans

CACREP Accreditation Advantage

While California doesn't require CACREP accreditation, graduating from a CACREP-accredited program ensures your education meets California's requirements. CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) sets national standards for counselor education programs.

Programs accredited by CACREP typically include:

• 600 hours of supervised practicum and internship experience during your degree
• Faculty who are licensed professional counselors with extensive clinical experience
• Curriculum aligned with professional counseling standards
• Comprehensive preparation for licensing examinations

Consider exploring master's in counseling programs to find options that meet California's educational requirements.

Step 2: Register as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC)

After completing your master's degree, you must register with the California BBS as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) before beginning your supervised hours. This registration allows you to practice counseling under supervision while completing your licensure requirements.

APCC Registration Requirements

• Completed master's degree, meeting BBS requirements
• Official transcripts showing completion of required coursework
• Background check through Live Scan fingerprinting
• Application fee (check BBS website for current fees)
• Verification of the degree from your university

Your APCC registration remains valid for six years, providing ample time to complete your required supervised experience. The registration can be renewed if additional time is needed.

Step 3: Complete 3,000 Hours of Supervised Experience

California requires 3,000 hours of post-degree supervised professional clinical counseling experience. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing clinical competence and preparing for independent practice.

Supervision Requirements

The 3,000 hours must include:

• Direct clinical experience: At least 1,750 hours of direct client contact, including individual, group, and family counseling
• Regular supervision: Minimum of 104 hours of supervision (at least 52 hours must be individual supervision, remaining can be triadic or group)
• Weekly supervision: At least one hour of supervision per week while accruing hours
• Qualified supervisors: Supervision must be provided by licensed mental health professionals approved by the BBS

Acceptable Work Settings

You can accrue supervised hours in various clinical settings:

• Community mental health centers
• Private counseling practices (under supervision)
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Substance abuse treatment programs
• Employee assistance programs
• Correctional facilities
• Veterans' services
• University counseling centers

Timeline Considerations

Most APCCs complete their required hours in 2-3 years while working full-time in counseling positions. California has specific limits on how many hours per week can count toward the requirement, so planning your work schedule strategically is essential.

Step 4: Pass the NCMHCE Licensing Examination

California requires all LPCC applicants to pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

About the NCMHCE

The NCMHCE is a scenario-based examination that assesses your clinical decision-making skills. Unlike traditional multiple-choice exams, the NCMHCE presents realistic counseling scenarios requiring you to demonstrate your clinical judgment and knowledge application.

The examination covers:

• Assessment and diagnosis
• Counseling and psychotherapy
• Case conceptualization and treatment planning
• Professional practice and ethics
• Clinical decision-making across diverse populations

Exam Preparation

Many candidates find the NCMHCE challenging due to its scenario-based format. Consider:

• Review courses specifically designed for the NCMHCE
• Practice simulations to familiarize yourself with the format
• Study groups with other LPCC candidates
• Comprehensive review of DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria
• Understanding ethical decision-making frameworks

You can schedule the NCMHCE after completing your degree and meeting eligibility requirements set by the BBS. The examination is offered year-round at testing centers throughout California.

Step 5: Apply for Your LPCC License

Once you've completed all requirements, you can submit your application for full LPCC licensure to the California Board of Behavioral Science.

Final Application Requirements

• Verification of 3,000 hours of supervised experience
• Documentation of required supervision hours
• Passing score on the NCMHCE
• Completion of the California law and ethics examination
• Current APCC registration
• Application fee
• Any additional documentation requested by the BBS

The BBS reviews applications thoroughly, which can take several months. Once approved, you'll receive your LPCC license, allowing you to practice professional clinical counseling independently in California.

License Renewal and Continuing Education

California LPCC licenses must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires:

• 36 hours of continuing education every two years
• Including specific hours in law and ethics, suicide prevention, and other mandated topics
• Renewal fee
• Attestation of competency and ethical practice

Alternative Path: School Counselor Credential

If you're interested in working as a counselor in educational settings, California offers the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School counseling through the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

School Counselor Requirements

The school counseling path differs significantly from LPCC licensure:

• Education: Master's degree in school counseling or related field from an accredited program
• Credential Program: Completion of a Commission-approved school counseling credential program
• Field Experience: Supervised practicum and fieldwork in school settings (typically 600+ hours)
• Exams: CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) and potentially subject matter competency exams
• Background: Certificate of clearance, including fingerprinting and tuberculosis clearance

School Counselor Responsibilities

School counselors work exclusively in K-12 educational settings, providing:

• Academic counseling and course planning
• College and career readiness guidance
• Social-emotional support for students
• Crisis intervention and response
• Collaboration with teachers, parents, and administrators
• Individual and group counseling for student concerns

Comparing LPCC and School Counselor Paths

Choosing between LPCC and school counselor credentials depends on your career goals and preferred work environment. Here's a comprehensive comparison:

Factor	LPCC Path	School Counselor Path
Licensing/Credentialing Board	California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS)	Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
Education Required	Master's degree in counseling (60 semester units)	Master's degree in school counseling or PPS credential program
Post-Degree Experience	3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience	Field experience included in credential program (typically 600+ hours)
Examination Requirements	NCMHCE (National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination)	CBEST, possible subject matter exams
Typical Timeline	5-7 years from a bachelor's degree to a full license	3-4 years from a bachelor's degree to a credential
Work Settings	Private practice, clinics, hospitals, community mental health, substance abuse programs, EAPs	K-12 schools (public and private), educational settings only
Practice Authority	Can diagnose mental health disorders, provide psychotherapy, and work with all age groups	Focuses on academic, career, and social-emotional support within the school context
Median Salary (California)	$65,430 annually (BLS 2024)	$72,890 annually (BLS 2024)
Schedule	Varies by setting, may include evenings and weekends	School year schedule with summers off
Insurance Reimbursement	Can bill insurance as a licensed provider	Salaried by the school district, not applicable

Both paths offer rewarding careers helping others, but they serve different populations and professional contexts. Consider your long-term career goals, preferred work environment, and the type of counseling services you want to provide when choosing your path.

Counselor Salaries and Job Outlook in California

Understanding the financial outlook is an essential part of career planning. California offers competitive salaries for mental health counselors, reflecting the state's high cost of living and strong demand for mental health services.

Mental Health Counselor Salaries in California (2024)

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), mental health counselors in California earn the following:

Percentile	Annual Salary	Hourly Wage
10th Percentile	$42,580	$20.47
25th Percentile	$51,450	$24.74
Median (50th)	$65,430	$31.46
75th Percentile	$81,590	$39.23
90th Percentile	$105,900	$50.91

Salary by Geographic Area

Counselor salaries vary significantly across California's diverse regions:

• San Francisco Bay Area: Highest salaries due to cost of living, often $80,000-$110,000 for experienced LPCCs
• Los Angeles Area: Competitive salaries ranging $70,000-$95,000
• San Diego Area: Mid-range salaries around $65,000-$85,000
• Sacramento Area: State capital region salaries $60,000-$80,000
• Central Valley: Lower cost of living areas typically $55,000-$70,000

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors influence counselor earnings in California:

• Experience Level: New LPCCs start at lower ranges, while experienced counselors with 5+ years earn significantly more
• Practice Setting: Private practice potential often exceeds employed positions after building a client base
• Specialization: Counselors with specialized training (trauma, addiction, couples therapy) often command higher rates
• Geographic Location: Urban and high-cost areas offer higher salaries to match living expenses
• Additional Certifications: EMDR, CBT, DBT, and other specialized certifications can increase earning potential

Job Growth Outlook

The US. The  Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for mental health counselors:

• National Growth Rate: 22% from 2023-2033 (much faster than average)
• California Outlook: Even stronger growth due to mental health parity laws and increased awareness
• Job Openings: Thousands of new positions expected annually in California

The demand for licensed counselors continues to increase due to greater mental health awareness, insurance coverage expansion, and recognition of counseling's effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions.

2024USS Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and 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.

Finding CACREP-Accredited Programs in California

Choosing the right master's program is crucial for meeting California's LPCC requirements. CACREP-accredited programs ensure comprehensive preparation and typically include all required coursework for California licensure.

California Universities with CACREP-Accredited Programs

Several California universities offer CACREP-accredited counseling programs:

• University of Southern California (USC): Master of Arts in Counseling with multiple specialization tracks
• San Diego State University: Master of Science in Counseling with school and clinical mental health options
• California State University, Fullerton: MS in Counseling, preparing for California licensure
• California State University, Los Angeles: MS in Counseling with clinical mental health emphasis
• University of San Francisco: MA in Counseling Psychology
• Point Loma Nazarene University: MA in Clinical Counseling (CACREP-accredited)

Online and Hybrid Programs

Many students balance work and education through online counseling degrees. Some programs offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences in California.

When evaluating online programs, ensure they:

• Hold CACREP accreditation
• Meet California BBS requirements for supervised practicum/internship
• Provide support for finding California-based clinical placements
• Include all required coursework for LPCC licensure

Program Selection Considerations

When choosing a counseling program, consider:

• Accreditation Status: CACREP accreditation ensures quality and California BBS alignment
• Specialization Options: Some programs offer concentrations in addiction, trauma, or couples counseling
• Clinical Training: Quality and quantity of supervised clinical experiences
• Faculty Expertise: Professors who are licensed practitioners with clinical experience
• Pass Rates: Program's NCMHCE pass rates and licensure success
• Cost and Financial Aid: Total program cost and available funding options
• Schedule Format: Full-time, part-time, evening, weekend, or hybrid options
• Location: Proximity to clinical placement sites and your residence

Visit the CACREP Program Directory for a complete list of accredited programs, including those in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a licensed counselor in California?

The complete process typically takes 5-7 years from the start of your bachelor's degree. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 2-3 years for a master's degree in counseling, and 2-3 years to complete the required 3,000 supervised hours. Many people complete their supervised hours while working in counseling positions, which can reduce the overall timeline.

What's the difference between LPCC and LMFT in California?

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) focus on mental health counseling and typically work with individuals on various mental health issues, anxiety, depression, and personal development. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) specialize in relationship and family dynamics and work with couples and families. Both require master's degrees and supervised hours, but from different accrediting bodies and with varying areas of focus.

Do I need a specific master's degree to become an LPCC in California?

Yes. Your master's degree must meet California Board of Behavioral Sciences requirements, including 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of graduate coursework with specific content areas. CACREP-accredited counseling programs are designed to meet these requirements, making them the safest choice for ensuring your education qualifies you for licensure.

Can I complete my counseling hours while working full-time?

Yes. Most Associate Professional Clinical Counselors (APCCs) complete their 3,000 supervised hours while working in counseling positions at clinics, hospitals, private practices, or community mental health centers. However, California limits the number of hours per week that can count toward the requirement, so you'll need to plan your work schedule accordingly.

How much does the LPCC licensing process cost in California?

Total costs vary, but you should budget for several expenses: APCC registration fees, supervision costs during your 3,000 hours (can range from free at some employment sites to $50-100+ per supervision hour if paying privately), NCMHCE examination fees, application fees, background check costs, and continuing education expenses. Check the California Board of Behavioral Sciences website for current fee schedules, as costs change periodically.

What is the passing score for the NCMHCE exam?

The National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination uses a scaled scoring system. The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) determines passing standards, which can change. Contact the California BBS or visit NBCC.org for current passing requirements and score information.

Can I practice as a counselor in California without a license?

No. California law requires licensure to practice professional clinical counseling independently. You can work as an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC) under qualified supervision while completing your required hours. Still, unsupervised practice without an LPCC license is illegal and can result in serious legal consequences.

Does California recognize counseling licenses from other states?

California does not have reciprocity with other states for LPCC licensure. However, if you're licensed in another state, you may qualify for a streamlined application process if your education and experience meet California's requirements. You'll still need to pass the NCMHCE if you haven't already and complete any additional California-specific requirements.

What's the difference between CACREP and non-CACREP programs?

CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) sets national standards for counselor education. CACREP-accredited programs have undergone rigorous review to ensure they meet quality standards and prepare students for licensure. While California doesn't require CACREP accreditation, these programs guarantee your education meets the state's requirements, reducing the risk of course deficiencies when applying for licensure.

Can I specialize in a specific area as an LPCC?

Yes. While the LPCC license itself is a general clinical counseling license, you can develop specializations through additional training, certifications, and clinical experience. Common specializations include trauma therapy (EMDR), addiction counseling, couples and family therapy, child and adolescent counseling, and specific therapeutic modalities like CBT or DBT.