LPC Associate

What does LPC-Associate stand for?

LPC-Associate stands for Licensed Professional Counselor Associate

Is an LPC-Associate a student ?

No. An LPC-Associate has completed a Master’s Degree in Counseling or a related field (sociology, psychology) that includes 48 hours of counseling related courses, and completed at least 300 hours of counseling experience known as “practicum.” A Master’s student working with clients to gain experience is typically referred to as a “Practicum Student.”

What’s the difference between an LPC and an LPC-Associate?

The difference between an LPC-Associate and an LPC is three-fold.

1. An LPC-Associate is someone who holds a provisional license. This means he/she has met all the educational and competency requirements to be an LPC in the state of Texas, but the state wants this person to accumulate more hours of counseling experience and training.
2. An LPC-Associate is in the process of completing 3,000 professional counseling hours. It typically takes LPC-Associate two to five years to complete 3,000 hours. An LPC has completed said hours and had them approved by the State LPC Board.
3. An LPC-Associate is supervised. LPC-Associates are required to be trained and guided by a state-approved LPC Supervisor. An LPC is no longer required to have official supervision, and is able to lead their own private practice.

Is an LPC-Associate experienced enough to help with my problems?

Yes! The various graduate school programs and State Board have decided each LPC-Associate is equipped with enough knowledge and experience to provide beneficial psychotherapy to others. LPC-Associates have studied and practiced counseling specifically for years before sitting with you in a therapy session.

LPC-Associate – $50 per individual session / $80 for couples/family sessions (Average Cost)

Practicum Student – $20 per individual session / $30 for couples (Average Cost)