By Morgan Smith, LPC-A
So… after time debating if counseling is worth the cost, time, and emotional investment – you decide you’re ready to give it a try. You quickly go online to search for therapists in your area, but notice all licensed counselors have a wide range of letters at the end of their name. What is an LPC? And how is that different from an LPC-A? What about an LCSW or LMFT? What about interns? What do all of these different acronyms mean and how do I know which is best for me? For anyone seeking a counselor, it can be confusing knowing what different credentials mean. To help provide clarity and direction for you, we’ve prepared this guide below:
At Restoring Hope Counseling, our counselors are either LPCs, LPC-As, or Interns.
LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are fully qualified mental health professionals who have met their state’s rigorous educational and clinical requirements. LPCs hold a master’s degree in mental health counseling, have passed a comprehensive national examination, and have completed 1,500 hours of supervised clinical practice. These clinicians have at least two years of counseling experience after completing their education. Restoring Hope Counseling has six LPCs on staff.
LPC-A – Licensed Professional Counselor Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor Associates (LPC-As) are professionals who have completed their educational requirements and are in the process of gaining the clinical experience needed for full licensure. These counselors work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist supervisor (LPC-S), which means they collaborate with their supervisors weekly to ensure the best outcomes for their clients. Restoring Hope Counseling has 4 LPC-A’s on staff.
Interns
Counseling Interns are clinicians who are currently pursuing their master’s degree in counseling and are completing an internship as part of their program. Interns are required to complete a certain number of supervised hours under a licensed professional counselor as part of their academic program. Once they complete their internship hours, graduate from their masters program, and pass the required licensure exam, interns can apply to become LPC-As. Restoring Hope Counseling has 3 interns at our practice!
Other Credentials That Practice Counseling
While Restoring Hope Counseling only has LPCs, LPC-As, and Interns available to see clients, there are several other credentials that you may see online in your search for the best-fit therapist for you! These may include LMFTs, LACs, and LCSWs. An LMFT, or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is a counselor who specializes in working with couples and families. An LAC, a Licensed Addictions Counselor, is a counselor who specializes in working with those who struggle with different forms of substance abuse and addiction. LCSWs are Licensed Clinical Social Workers. While LCSWs can provide therapy for mental health issues, their social work training equips them with a broader perspective that includes social systems and resources (meaning many LCSWs may work in case management/ advocacy settings as opposed to clinical settings). Each of these professionals has also gone through a master’s degree program, completed clinical supervision in their area of expertise, and passed national credentialing examinations.
Choosing the Right Fit
Ultimately, the most crucial factor is finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and understood. Regardless of their level of experience, a good therapeutic relationship is built on trust, empathy, and communication. Don’t hesitate to ask potential counselors about their credentials, areas of expertise, and therapeutic approaches to ensure you find the best fit for your needs. If we can help match you with a therapist at Restoring Hope, please reach out!
