How to Become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Idaho
Quick Answer:
To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Idaho, you need a master's degree in counseling from a CACREP-accredited program (60 semester hours), complete 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over at least two years, and pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE). The entire process takes 8-9 years from bachelor's degree to licensure, and Idaho LPCs earn a median salary of $65,240 annually.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Idaho's Counselor Licensing Levels
- Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Idaho
- Idaho Education Requirements in Detail
- Supervision Requirements Explained
- The NCE Exam: What You Need to Know
- Timeline to Licensure in Idaho
- Salary and Career Outlook for Counselors in Idaho
- Cost of Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Idaho
- Idaho LPC vs. Other States
- Career Specializations for Idaho Counselors
- Continuing Education and License Renewal
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Idaho's need for qualified mental health professionals continues to grow, creating strong career opportunities for licensed counselors across the state. If you're considering a counseling career in Idaho, you'll find a clear licensing pathway, competitive salaries that exceed the national average, and diverse practice settings from Boise's urban clinics to rural community health centers.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Idaho. You'll learn about education requirements, supervised experience expectations, the licensing exam, realistic timelines, and what you can expect to earn once licensed. Whether you're just starting your bachelor's degree or already hold a master's and need Idaho-specific licensing information, you'll find the answers here.
Idaho uses a three-tier licensing system for counselors: Registered Counselor Intern (RCI), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). We'll explain each level and help you understand which credentials you'll need for your career goals.
Understanding Idaho's Counselor Licensing Levels
Idaho recognizes three distinct levels of counselor credentials, each with different requirements and practice privileges. Understanding these levels helps you plan your career path and know what to expect at each stage of your professional development.
The Registered Counselor Intern (RCI) is your first credential, obtained while you're enrolled in or have completed your master's program. As an RCI, you work under direct supervision and can't practice independently. This stage is essential for gaining the supervised clinical hours required for full licensure.
The Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is the standard professional license that allows independent practice. Once you earn your LPC, you can work in various settings, bill insurance companies, and provide a wide range of counseling services. Most counselors in Idaho hold this credential.
The Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) represents the highest level of counselor licensure in Idaho. This clinical designation requires additional supervised experience beyond your LPC and authorizes you to diagnose mental health disorders and provide clinical treatment. Many counselors pursue LCPC status after working as an LPC for several years.
| License Level | Education Required | Supervised Hours | Scope of Practice | Independent Practice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Counselor Intern (RCI) | Master's program (enrolled or completed) | In progress | Limited, under supervision only | No |
| Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) | Master's degree completed | 2,000 hours post-degree | General counseling services | Yes |
| Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) | Master's degree + LPC license | 2,000 hours post-LPC | Clinical diagnosis and treatment | Yes |
Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Idaho
Becoming a licensed counselor in Idaho follows a structured path with clear milestones. Here's exactly what you need to do at each stage.
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Your journey begins with a bachelor's degree in any field, though psychology, social work, or a related behavioral science gives you the best foundation. During these four years, focus on maintaining a strong GPA since you'll need it for master's program applications. Take courses in psychology, human development, sociology, and statistics to prepare for graduate-level work.
You don't need to major in psychology specifically, but you'll want at least some coursework in the field. Many successful counselors come from backgrounds in education, social work, nursing, or even business. What matters most is demonstrating your interest in helping others and your readiness for graduate study.
Step 2: Complete a Master's Degree in Counseling (2-3 Years)
Idaho requires a master's degree with at least 60 semester hours in counseling or a closely related field. Your program must cover eight core curriculum areas that we'll detail in the next section. While Idaho doesn't strictly require CACREP accreditation, choosing an accredited program makes your path much smoother and is strongly recommended.
During your master's program, you'll complete both practicum and internship experiences where you begin working with clients under supervision. These early clinical experiences don't count toward your 2,000-hour LPC requirement, but they're essential for developing your counseling skills and determining your areas of interest.
Full-time programs typically take two to three years. Online and part-time options extend this timeline but offer flexibility for working professionals. Your program should include comprehensive training in counseling theories, assessment techniques, ethics, group counseling, and specialized populations.
Step 3: Register as a Counselor Intern (During or After Master's Program)
While enrolled in your master's program or immediately after graduation, you'll register as a Counselor Intern with the Idaho Board of Professional Counselors. This registration allows you to practice counseling under supervision and begin accruing the hours you'll need for full licensure.
The intern registration requires submitting your application, official transcripts, and the registration fee. You'll need to identify a qualified supervisor who holds an LCPC or meets Idaho's supervision requirements. This early registration is important because you can't count any clinical hours toward licensure until you're officially registered.
Step 4: Complete Supervised Clinical Experience (2 Years Minimum)
After completing your master's degree, you'll need 2,000 hours of post-degree supervised clinical experience. Idaho requires these hours to be accumulated over at least two years, so you can't rush this phase even if you work full-time and accumulate hours quickly.
At least 1,000 of your 2,000 hours must be supervised by a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Idaho. The remaining hours can be supervised by other qualified professionals, including psychiatrists, licensed psychologists (clinical or counseling), clinical social workers, or licensed marriage and family therapists.
The supervision structure requires one hour of face-to-face supervision for every 30 hours of client contact. This means you'll have approximately 67 hours of supervision throughout your 2,000-hour requirement. Your supervisor will guide your clinical development, review your cases, and ensure you're providing appropriate care to clients.
You can earn these hours in any state, which offers flexibility if you need to relocate during this period. However, your supervisor must still meet Idaho's qualifications, and you'll need to maintain your registration throughout the process.
Step 5: Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
The NCE is a comprehensive exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Idaho uses this national exam rather than creating its own state-specific test. The computer-based exam is available at testing centers in Boise and across the country, offering flexible scheduling.
You can register for the NCE through the NBCC website. The exam fee is $195, and you'll need to pay Idaho's application fee separately. The test covers eight major content areas, including human growth and development, social and cultural foundations, helping relationships, group work, career development, assessment, research, and professional orientation.
The exam includes 200 multiple-choice questions, and you'll have four hours to complete it. Most test-takers find this sufficient time. Results typically arrive within a few weeks, and if you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after waiting the required period.
Step 6: Apply for the Idaho LPC License
Once you've passed the NCE and completed your 2,000 supervised hours, you're ready to apply for full LPC licensure. Download the application from the Idaho Board of Professional Counselors website. You'll need to submit:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts showing your master's degree
- Verification of your supervised experience with original signatures
- NCE score report
- Application fee
- Any required background check documentation
The board typically processes applications within four weeks, though complex cases may take longer. During busy periods, allow extra time. Once approved, you'll receive your LPC license number and can begin practicing independently.
Step 7: Maintain and Advance Your License
As a newly licensed LPC, you'll need to stay current with continuing education requirements and renew your license in accordance with Idaho's schedule. Many LPCs eventually pursue the LCPC credential, which requires an additional 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience beyond the LPC. The LCPC designation expands your scope of practice and often increases your earning potential.
Idaho Education Requirements in Detail
Your master's degree serves as the foundation of your counseling career, and Idaho has specific requirements for what your program must include.
CACREP Accreditation: Why It Matters
While Idaho doesn't strictly mandate CACREP accreditation, choosing an accredited program is strongly recommended. CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) sets national standards for counselor education. If your program isn't CACREP-accredited, you'll need to submit additional documentation proving your coursework meets Idaho's requirements, which can complicate and delay your application.
CACREP-accredited programs ensure you receive comprehensive training that's recognized across all states. If you ever want to obtain licensure in another state, CACREP accreditation makes that process much easier. Many employers also prefer or require candidates to have graduated from CACREP-accredited programs.
Required Coursework: Eight Core Areas
Idaho requires your master's program to include 60 semester hours covering eight core curriculum areas. Your program must provide substantial training in each area:
- Human Growth and Development - You'll study lifespan development, developmental crises, and how people change across their lives. This foundation helps you understand clients at different life stages.
- Social and Cultural Foundations - This coursework covers multicultural counseling, social justice issues, and how culture influences mental health. You'll learn to work effectively with diverse populations.
- Helping Relationships - The heart of counseling education, this area covers counseling theories, therapeutic techniques, and how to build effective counselor-client relationships.
- Group Work - You'll learn group dynamics, how to facilitate therapeutic groups, and the unique aspects of group counseling versus individual work.
- Career and Lifestyle Development - This includes career counseling theories, vocational assessment, and helping clients make career decisions throughout their lives.
- Appraisal (Assessment) - You'll study psychological testing, assessment techniques, and how to evaluate client needs and measure progress.
- Research and Program Evaluation - This area teaches you to understand research, evaluate programs, and use evidence-based practices in your work.
- Professional Orientation and Ethics - You'll learn about professional identity, ethical decision-making, legal issues, and standards of practice for counselors.
Your program must include both classroom learning and clinical experiences. Most programs require a practicum (usually 100 hours) and an internship (usually 600 hours), during which you work with real clients under supervision.
Finding Idaho Counseling Programs
Idaho offers several master's programs in counseling, and you can also attend out-of-state programs as long as they meet Idaho's requirements. Online programs from CACREP-accredited schools are accepted, giving you flexibility to earn your degree while working or managing family responsibilities.
When evaluating programs, look for CACREP accreditation first. Then consider factors like program length, cost, specialization options, and whether they offer the schedule (full-time, part-time, online, or hybrid) that fits your life. Learn more about specific Idaho counseling programs and what they offer.
Supervision Requirements Explained
The 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience represent the core of your practical training as a counselor. Understanding these requirements helps you plan this critical phase of your professional development.
Idaho's supervision requirements ensure you receive guidance from experienced professionals while you develop your clinical skills. The 2,000 hours must include direct client contact, not just observation or administrative tasks. You're building a foundation of real-world counseling experience under the supervision of qualified professionals.
You must complete these hours over at least two years. This minimum timeframe ensures you experience different situations, client populations, and seasonal variations in mental health needs. Even if you work full-time and could technically accumulate 2,000 hours in less time, Idaho requires the two-year minimum for developmental reasons.
| Supervisor Type | Can Supervise Idaho Interns | Hour Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) | Yes - Required | Must supervise at least 1,000 of your hours |
| Psychiatrist | Yes | Can supervise remaining hours |
| Licensed Psychologist (Clinical or Counseling) | Yes | Can supervise remaining hours |
| Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) | Yes | Can supervise remaining hours |
| Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) | Yes | Can supervise remaining hours |
Supervision Structure and Requirements
For every 30 hours of client contact, you need one hour of face-to-face supervision with your qualified supervisor. This ratio means you'll receive approximately 67 total hours of supervision while completing your 2,000 clinical hours. These supervision sessions can't be conducted via email or telephone; they must be in-person or, in some cases, via live video conferencing.
During supervision, you'll discuss your cases, review your clinical decisions, explore ethical dilemmas, and receive guidance on your professional development. Your supervisor will help you identify areas for growth and ensure you're providing appropriate care to clients. This mentorship relationship is invaluable as you transition from student to professional counselor.
You can complete your supervised hours in any state, which provides flexibility if you need to relocate for personal or professional reasons. The key requirement is that your supervisor must still meet Idaho's qualifications. Keep detailed records of all your supervised hours, including dates, supervisor signatures, and the nature of your clinical work. You'll need these records for your license application.
The NCE Exam: What You Need to Know
The National Counselor Examination stands between you and your Idaho LPC license. Understanding the exam format, content, and preparation strategies helps you approach this milestone with confidence.
Exam Format and Content
The NCE contains 200 multiple-choice questions covering the eight core areas you studied in your master's program. You'll have four hours to complete the exam, which most test-takers find reasonable. The questions assess your knowledge of counseling theory, ethics, assessment, research, and professional practice.
The exam is computer-based and administered at Pearson VUE testing centers. In Idaho, you can test in Boise, or you can choose from testing centers nationwide if you're living elsewhere during this phase. The computer format means you'll receive your score quickly, typically within a few weeks.
To pass, you need to achieve the score set by the NBCC, which periodically adjusts based on exam performance data. The exam is challenging but fair. It tests practical knowledge that competent counselors should possess, not obscure theoretical details.
Registration and Scheduling
Register for the NCE through the National Board for Certified Counselors website. You'll create an account, pay the $195 exam fee, and receive authorization to schedule your test at a Pearson VUE center. Once authorized, you can schedule your exam date, typically within a few weeks to a few months, depending on center availability.
You'll also need to complete Idaho's license application and pay the state's application fee separately. The total cost for the exam and initial licensure application typically ranges from $300 to $400, depending on current fee schedules.
Exam Preparation Tips
Start preparing several months before your exam date. Use NCE study guides and practice tests from reputable publishers. Many test-takers find that forming a study group with colleagues who are also preparing for the exam helps maintain motivation and fill knowledge gaps.
Focus your preparation on:
- Counseling theories and their practical applications
- Ethical decision-making using the ACA Code of Ethics
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Career development theories
- Group counseling dynamics
- Multicultural counseling competencies
- Research methods and interpretation
Your master's program prepared you well for this exam. Trust your education and use study materials to refresh and organize your knowledge. Most candidates who've recently completed their master's degree and commit to focused study pass on their first attempt.
If you don't pass on the first try, don't be discouraged. You can retake the exam after the required waiting period. Review the content areas where you struggled and approach your second attempt with renewed focus.
Timeline to Licensure in Idaho
Understanding the complete timeline helps you plan your career path realistically. Becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in Idaho takes 8-9 years from the start of your bachelor's degree to full licensure.
| Phase | Duration | Cumulative Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | 4 years |
| Master's in Counseling | 2-3 years | 6-7 years |
| Supervised Clinical Experience | 2 years minimum | 8-9 years |
| NCE Exam and Application Processing | 2-4 months | 8-9+ years |
This timeline assumes full-time enrollment and continuous progress. You can often overlap some phases. For example, your master's program includes internship hours, and while these don't count toward your 2,000-hour LPC requirement, they give you a head start on gaining clinical experience.
Part-time enrollment extends the timeline but makes the path accessible for working professionals. Many successful counselors take 10-12 years to complete the journey while balancing careers, families, and education. Online and hybrid programs offer flexibility that can help you maintain this balance.
The supervised experience phase can't be rushed. Even if you work full-time in a counseling position and accumulate hours quickly, Idaho's two-year minimum ensures you gain experience across different seasons and situations. This requirement protects both you and your future clients by ensuring adequate preparation.
Salary and Career Outlook for Counselors in Idaho
Idaho offers competitive compensation for licensed counselors, with salaries that actually exceed the national average. Understanding the financial reality helps you make informed career decisions.
Idaho LPC Salary Data
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2024, mental health counselors in Idaho earn a median annual salary of $65,240. This figure shows the midpoint at which half of the counselors earn more and half earn less.
Entry-level counselors (at the 10th percentile) earn approximately $43,550 annually. These positions typically involve working in community mental health settings or rural areas where the cost of living is lower. As you gain experience and potentially specialize, your earning potential increases significantly.
Experienced counselors (75th percentile) earn around $78,100 annually. These positions often involve supervisory roles, private practice, or specialized treatment areas. The top 10 percent of counselors in Idaho earn $85,960 or more, typically those with advanced credentials like the LCPC, specialized certifications, or successful private practices.
| Region | Median Salary | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $65,240 | $43,550 | $85,960 |
| National Average | $59,190 | $39,090 | $98,210 |
| Difference | +$6,050 (+10.2%) | +$4,460 (+11.4%) | -$12,250 (-12.5%) |
Idaho counselors earn more than the national median, reflecting both the state's growing demand for mental health services and its high cost of living. While top earners in Idaho make less than the highest-paid counselors nationally (often concentrated in expensive urban markets like New York or California), Idaho's overall compensation is strong when adjusted for living costs.
Employment Outlook and Job Growth
The counseling field continues to grow as mental health awareness increases and stigma decreases. Idaho's population growth, particularly in the Boise area, creates expanding opportunities for licensed counselors. Rural and underserved areas of Idaho face particular shortages of mental health professionals, and some are offering loan-repayment programs or signing bonuses to attract counselors.
Employment settings in Idaho include:
- Community mental health centers
- Private practice (solo or group)
- Hospitals and medical centers
- School systems
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Employee assistance programs
- Veterans services
- Correctional facilities
- Telehealth platforms
Specializing in areas like trauma treatment, substance abuse counseling, or adolescent therapy can enhance your marketability and earning potential. The increasing acceptance of telehealth also expands job opportunities, allowing Idaho counselors to serve clients throughout the state and potentially in other states where they hold licensure.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors are based on national and state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
Cost of Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Idaho
The financial investment in becoming an LPC is significant but manageable with planning. Understanding the costs helps you prepare financially and explore funding options.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Master's Program Tuition | $30,000 - $80,000 |
| Books and Materials | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| NCE Examination Fee | $195 |
| Initial License Application | $150 - $300 |
| Background Check | $50 - $100 |
| Continuing Education (annual) | $200 - $500 |
| Professional Memberships | $100 - $300/year |
| Malpractice Insurance (annual) | $200 - $500 |
The largest expense is your master's degree. Public in-state programs in Idaho and neighboring states typically cost $30,000-$50,000 for the complete degree. Private universities and out-of-state programs range from $50,000 to $80,000 or more. Online programs often fall in the middle of this range and may reduce costs by eliminating relocation expenses.
Financial aid options can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Most master's students qualify for federal student loans through the FAFSA. Many universities offer graduate assistantships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching or research assistance. Scholarships specifically for counseling students are available through professional organizations, universities, and foundations.
During your supervised experience phase, you'll typically earn a salary as you accumulate hours. Entry-level counselor intern positions often pay $35,000-$45,000 annually, helping offset your student loan payments and living expenses during this stage.
The return on investment is favorable. With median salaries around $65,240 and the potential to exceed $78,000, most counselors can repay their student loan debt within 10-15 years while building rewarding careers. Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs may benefit counselors working in nonprofit or government settings, potentially forgiving remaining loan balances after 10 years of qualifying payments.
Idaho LPC vs. Other States
If you're considering where to obtain licensure or might relocate in the future, understanding how Idaho's requirements compare to other states helps with your planning.
Idaho's requirements align closely with national standards, making the state neither particularly strict nor lenient compared to others. The 60-semester-hour master's degree requirement and 2,000 supervised hours match most states' expectations. Idaho's use of the NCE, a nationally recognized exam, also facilitates eventual reciprocity or endorsement in other states.
Idaho participates in the National Counselor Certification reciprocity system to some degree, but licensure portability between states remains complex. If you're licensed in Idaho and want to practice in another state, you'll typically need to apply for licensure by endorsement in that state. Your Idaho credentials will help, but each state has its own specific requirements and may require additional coursework, testing, or supervised experience.
Neighboring states have similar but not identical requirements:
Washington requires a master's degree and 3,000 hours of supervised experience, more than Idaho's 2,000. Washington also uses different license titles (Licensed Mental Health Counselor rather than LPC).
Montana requires 2,000 hours, like Idaho, but has different supervisor qualification rules. Montana's LCPC license requires 4,000 total hours of supervised experience.
Utah requires 4,000 hours of supervised experience, double Idaho's requirement, making it one of the more demanding states in the region.
Wyoming has similar requirements to Idaho, with 2,000 hours, but uses slightly different coursework specifications.
Nevada and Oregon each have their own unique requirements that differ in various details from Idaho's standards.
If you know you might relocate, consider obtaining the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential from the NBCC, which many states recognize and can streamline licensure in a new state. Starting with CACREP-accredited education also makes multi-state licensure easier since all states recognize CACREP standards.
Career Specializations for Idaho Counselors
Once you're licensed, you can pursue various specializations that match your interests and Idaho's specific needs. Specializing often increases your marketability and earning potential.
Clinical Mental Health Counseling represents the broadest specialization, preparing you to work with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and other common mental health concerns. Most LPCs practice in this area, working in community mental health centers, private practice, or medical settings. This versatility makes clinical mental health counseling an excellent foundation, even if you later narrow your focus.
Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling addresses Idaho's significant need for addiction treatment services. Counselors in this specialty work with clients recovering from alcohol, drug, and behavioral addictions. You can pursue additional certifications, such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential, to enhance your qualifications in this field. Substance abuse counselors in Idaho often work in dedicated treatment centers, hospitals, or correctional facilities.
School Counseling requires additional certification beyond your LPC, but offers the opportunity to work with children and adolescents in educational settings. School counselors address academic, social, and emotional issues affecting students. This path typically requires a school counseling master's degree, specifically one that includes education coursework beyond standard clinical training.
Marriage and Family Therapy focuses on relationship dynamics and family systems. While this technically requires LMFT licensure rather than LPC in most states, many LPCs incorporate couples and family work into their practice. Idaho has separate LMFT licensure, so if this interests you, research whether pursuing LMFT instead of or in addition to LPC better fits your goals.
Trauma and Crisis Counseling specializes in helping clients who've experienced abuse, accidents, natural disasters, violence, or other traumatic events. Idaho's rural character means counselors often serve communities affected by agricultural accidents, wilderness emergencies, or limited access to emergency services. Trauma certification programs enhance your skills in this demanding but rewarding specialty.
Career Counseling helps clients with vocational decisions, job transitions, and career development across the lifespan. This specialty combines counseling skills with knowledge of labor markets, personality assessment, and career development theory. Career counselors work in colleges, workforce development agencies, private practice, and employee assistance programs.
Each specialization requires additional training beyond your master's degree, either through focused coursework, post-graduate certificates, or professional workshops. Professional organizations like the American Counseling Association offer resources and continuing education to help you develop expertise in your chosen area. To learn more about these and other options, explore counseling career paths in depth to find the right fit for your interests and goals.
Continuing Education and License Renewal
Maintaining your Idaho LPC license requires ongoing professional development through continuing education. These requirements ensure counselors stay current with new research, techniques, and ethical standards.
Idaho requires licensed counselors to complete continuing education hours for each renewal cycle. While specific hour requirements may change, most states require 20-40 hours every two years. Check with the Idaho Board of Professional Counselors for current requirements, as they periodically update these standards.
Your continuing education must come from approved providers. The board accepts workshops, conferences, online courses, and university coursework that relate to counseling practice. Topics can include new treatment modalities, ethical updates, supervision training, cultural competency, or specialized clinical skills.
Many counselors fulfill continuing education requirements by attending annual conferences hosted by professional organizations like the American Counseling Association or the American Mental Health Counselors Association. These conferences offer multiple workshops across several days, letting you earn many credits while networking with colleagues and exploring new practice areas.
Online continuing education has become increasingly popular and convenient, especially for rural Idaho counselors who might otherwise need to travel long distances for training. Ensure any online provider is approved by the Idaho board before registering for courses.
License renewal typically occurs every two years. You'll need to submit your renewal application, pay the renewal fee (typically $100-$200), and document your completed continuing education hours. The board may audit renewal applications, so keep certificates and records of all your continuing education activities.
Failing to renew your license on time results in your license becoming inactive. You'll need to pay late fees and may be restricted from practicing until your renewal is complete. Set reminders well before your renewal date to avoid lapses in licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an LPC in Idaho?
The complete path from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining your LPC license takes 8-9 years. This includes four years for your bachelor's degree, 2-3 years for your master's in counseling, and at least two years for your supervised clinical experience. The actual timeline varies based on whether you attend full-time or part-time and how quickly you complete your supervised hours. Some overlap is possible if you begin accumulating certain hours during your master's program.
Can I get licensed in Idaho with an online counseling degree?
Yes, Idaho accepts online master's degrees as long as the program meets the state's requirements. The program should be CACREP-accredited for the smoothest path to licensure, though non-accredited programs are sometimes accepted with additional documentation. Your online program must include the required 60 semester hours covering all eight core curriculum areas, plus practicum and internship experiences with in-person client contact. Many online programs arrange clinical placements in your local area.
What's the difference between LPC and LCPC in Idaho?
An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) can provide general counseling services and work independently with clients. An LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) has completed additional supervised experience beyond the LPC and can diagnose mental health disorders, provide clinical treatment, and supervise counselor interns. The LCPC represents a higher level of clinical training and often commands higher salaries. You must first obtain your LPC before pursuing LCPC status.
Does Idaho have reciprocity with other states?
Idaho doesn't have automatic reciprocity agreements, but you can apply for licensure by endorsement if you're already licensed in another state. The board reviews your credentials to ensure you meet Idaho's requirements. Having passed the NCE and graduated from a CACREP-accredited program makes endorsement easier. Each case is evaluated individually, and you may need to provide additional documentation or complete supplemental requirements. Plan for several months of processing time if you're moving to Idaho with an out-of-state license.
How much does the NCE exam cost in Idaho?
The NCE examination fee is $195, paid directly to the National Board for Certified Counselors. You'll also pay Idaho's license application fee separately, which typically ranges from $150 to $300. Budget approximately $350- $500 total for exam registration and the initial license application. These fees don't include costs for exam preparation materials or potential retake fees if you don't pass on your first attempt.
Can I practice counseling in Idaho while completing my supervised hours?
Yes, that's exactly what the Registered Counselor Intern (RCI) credential allows. Once you've completed your master's degree and registered as an intern with the Idaho board, you can practice counseling under appropriate supervision while accumulating your 2,000 required hours. Many counselors work full-time in counseling positions during this phase, earning a salary while building experience. You must work under qualified supervision and can't practice independently until you obtain your full LPC license.
What happens if I fail the NCE?
If you don't pass the NCE on your first attempt, you can retake the exam. The NBCC requires a waiting period between attempts, and you'll need to pay the exam fee again. Many people who fail initially pass on their second attempt after identifying their weak areas and focusing their studies. Review your score report to see which content areas need more attention. Consider joining a study group or using additional preparation materials before retaking the exam.
Do I need malpractice insurance as an LPC in Idaho?
While Idaho doesn't legally require malpractice insurance, carrying it is strongly recommended and often required by employers. Professional liability insurance protects you if a client files a complaint or lawsuit related to your counseling services. The cost is relatively modest, typically $200-$500 annually for comprehensive coverage. Most counselors consider this essential protection worth the investment. If you're in private practice, malpractice insurance is practically mandatory.
Can I supervise counselor interns with my LPC?
No, you need the LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) credential to supervise counselor interns in Idaho. The LCPC designation indicates you've completed advanced clinical training beyond the LPC level. This additional requirement ensures supervisors have sufficient experience to guide developing counselors. If supervision interests you, plan to pursue your LCPC after working as an LPC for several years.
How do I maintain my Idaho counseling license?
Maintaining your license requires completing continuing education hours (typically 20-40 hours every two years), submitting your renewal application on time, and paying the renewal fee. You'll need to document your continuing education activities, so keep certificates from all workshops, conferences, and courses you complete. The Idaho Board of Professional Counselors may audit renewals to verify continuing education compliance. Set reminders before your renewal date to avoid a lapse in licensure.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho requires a 60-semester-hour master's degree in counseling, preferably from a CACREP-accredited program covering eight core curriculum areas
- You'll complete 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over at least two years, with 1,000 hours supervised by an Idaho LCPC
- The National Counselor Examination (NCE) costs $195 and tests your knowledge across eight content areas
- The complete timeline from bachelor's degree to LPC licensure takes 8-9 years with full-time enrollment
- Idaho LPCs earn a median salary of $65,240, which is 10.2% higher than the national average for mental health counselors
- Three license levels exist in Idaho: Registered Counselor Intern (RCI), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
- Total costs for your master's degree and licensure typically range from $30,000-$80,000, with financial aid and assistantships available
- Idaho accepts online master's degrees and allows supervised hours to be earned in any state, offering flexibility for your education and training
- Strong job growth is projected for counselors in Idaho, particularly in rural and underserved areas with professional shortages
- Continuing education requirements and biennial license renewal maintain your professional credentials once you're licensed
Next Steps and Resources
Ready to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed counselor in Idaho? Start by researching master's programs that meet Idaho's requirements. Focus on CACREP-accredited programs for the smoothest licensure path.
Visit the Idaho Board of Professional Counselors website for the most current application forms, fee schedules, and regulatory updates. The board provides downloadable applications and helpful guidance documents that answer specific questions about the licensure process.
Register with the National Board for Certified Counselors to learn more about the NCE exam, including test preparation resources and registration procedures. The NBCC website offers practice questions and study guides that help you prepare effectively.
Consider joining professional organizations like the American Counseling Association or the Idaho Counseling Association. These groups provide networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and advocacy for the counseling profession. Student memberships are available at reduced rates while you're still in school.
Connect with licensed counselors in Idaho to learn about their experiences and get advice on navigating the licensure process. Many counselors are happy to mentor students and can provide insights about working in different practice settings across the state.
Additional Resources for Idaho Applicants
- Idaho Psychologist Licensing
- Idaho Social Work Licensing
- Idaho Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Counseling Careers
Ready to Start Your Counseling Career in Idaho?
Explore accredited counseling programs that fit your schedule, budget, and career goals. Find CACREP-accredited master's degrees that meet all Idaho licensing requirements.
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