When looking into how to become an LPC in Idaho, one must consider the academic standards and licensing requirements for Counselor Idaho.
- The state of Idaho provides licensure to professional counselors.
- Two divisions of Counseling in Idaho are: 1)Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); 2)Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
- School counselors have their own process for credentialing.
For more information on Counseling Certification, please click here.
Future LPC: For Idaho High School Student or High School Graduate
Your First Step:
Though you may choose the major of your choice as an undergraduate, we recommend that you select something specific to human services, such as Psychology or Social Work. Ideally, you should demonstrate high grades and a true dedication to the counseling profession.
Your Second Step:
Gain some invaluable working and volunteering experiences to bolster your application. Look for clinics and centers that need your help.
Bachelor’s Degree College Graduates
(
CACREP– The Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs). Rehabilitation counseling programs are usually accredited by
CORE (The Council on Rehabilitation Education).
First:
Research counseling programs that are in line with your interests to start making yourself a competitive candidate. References should be submitted on time.
Many programs require a test such as the GRE.
Second:
- Those pursuing professional counseling should enter a valid Master’s program. The program will ideally have accreditation through CACREP or CORE and/or adhere to Idaho’s specific requirements for coursework. The academic program should encompass a minimum of sixty semester hours of appropriate coursework. Those currently in a program with CACREP-accreditation may take their first licensing exam near the end of their program.
- Those pursuing school counseling are well-advised to enter a Master’s program with state approval through the state of Idaho or the board of another state. The academic counseling program must include a minimum of 700 hours of total experience (supervised).
Third:
Get started on the necessary paperwork. You will initially be licensed as an intern.
Fourth:
One needs to complete 1,000 hours of practice (supervised) prior to being licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor. One must also complete the National Counselor Examination.
You will need a minimum of 2,000 hours of supervised practice before rising to the level of Clinical Professional Counselor.
For more information on licensing in Idaho, please click here.
Idaho Counselor Agencies
Idaho Licensing Board of Professional Counselors
Idaho State Department of Education
We wish you the best of success in your pursuit of becoming a counselor in Idaho.