How to Become a Counselor in Texas – Licensing Steps, Education, Salary & Career Path

The mental health profession offers rewarding career opportunities for those passionate about helping others manage emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. If you’re researching how to become a counselor in Texas, you’re exploring a regulated profession requiring advanced education, extensive supervised practice, and state licensure.

Texas employs over 18,000 licensed professional counselors who provide mental health services in schools, private practices, hospitals, and community agencies. Find out licensing requirements, educational pathways, supervision processes, and career development for aspiring Texas counselors in 2026.

About Texas Counseling Profession

Texas ranks third nationally for licensed professional counselor employment. The Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio metropolitan areas contain the highest concentration of counseling opportunities and graduate programs.

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in Texas earn between $42,000 and $75,000 annually. Experienced counselors with private practices or specialized credentials earn over $90,000. Income depends on setting, specialization, location, and years of experience.

Professional Statistics (2026):

• Licensed Professional Counselors in Texas: 18,247
• Licensed Professional Counselor Associates: 12,893
• Average annual salary: $56,800
• Projected job growth (2024-2034): 22%
• Mental health counselor demand increase: 26% (higher than average)
• Private practice counselors: 38% of LPCs

The profession addresses growing mental health needs. Texas faces counselor shortages in rural areas and underserved communities. The COVID-19 pandemic increased demand for mental health services by 47% between 2020 and 2024.

To become a counselor in Texas, you must earn a master’s degree in counseling (60 credit hours minimum), complete 3,000 supervised clinical hours (1,500 direct client contact), pass the National Counselor Examination, and obtain licensure through the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. The process takes 4-6 years total and costs $15,000-$50,000 for education plus licensing fees.

Also Read: How to Become an Electrician in Texas

Regulatory Authority and License Types

The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) regulates all professional counselors in the state. Created in 2019, BHEC consolidated previously separate licensing boards for counselors, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and psychologists.

BHEC Contact Information:

• Phone: 512-305-7700
• Website: www.bhec.texas.gov
• Mailing: 1801 Congress Ave, Suite 7.300, Austin, TX 78701
• Email: [email protected]

Texas Counseling Licenses:

Texas offers three professional counseling credentials when learning how to become a counselor in Texas:

1. Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-Associate)

• Entry-level provisional license
• Requires master’s degree completion
• Allows supervised clinical practice
• Must work under LPC-Supervisor
• Cannot practice independently
• Valid for maximum 5 years

2. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

• Full independent practice license
• Requires 3,000 supervision hours completion
• Allows independent private practice
• Can supervise LPC-Associates
• Renewable every two years
• Most common counselor credential

3. Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S)

• Advanced credential for supervision
• Requires 3 years post-LPC experience
• Allows supervision of associates
• Higher credibility and rates
• Additional training required
• Preferred for leadership roles

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before starting the process of how to become a counselor in Texas, verify you meet fundamental eligibility requirements set by BHEC.

Mandatory Prerequisites:

Age and Legal Status:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• U.S. citizenship not required
• Legal authorization to work in U.S.
• Valid government identification

Educational Minimum:

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution
• Prerequisite for master’s program admission
• Any major acceptable for most programs
• Psychology or social science helpful

Character Standards:

• Good moral character demonstrated
• Honest and trustworthy reputation
• No pattern of unethical conduct
• Professional references required
• Personal maturity and stability

Criminal History:

• No disqualifying criminal convictions
• Felonies reviewed case-by-case
• Recent criminal activity problematic
• Crimes of moral turpitude disqualifying
• Financial crimes carefully examined
• Full disclosure required

Mental and Physical Health:

• Capable of performing counseling duties
• Emotional stability required
• No active substance abuse
• Mental health conditions managed appropriately
• Self-awareness and self-care ability

Disqualifying Factors:

Certain conditions prevent licensure:

• Revoked licenses in other states
• Current chemical dependency
• Recent criminal convictions
• Fraudulent application information
• Outstanding felony warrants
• Sexual misconduct history
• Elder or child abuse convictions

Must Read: How to Become a Private Investigator in Texas

Step-by-Step Licensing Process to Become Counselor

Step 1: Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling

The foundation of how to become a counselor in Texas begins with graduate education. Texas requires a master’s degree specifically in counseling or closely related field.

Degree Requirements:

Minimum Credit Hours: 60 semester hours (48 for some programs grandfathered)

Required Core Curriculum:

Texas mandates specific coursework covering:

1. Professional Counselor Identity (3 hours)
   • Professional roles and functions
   • Ethical and legal standards
   • Professional organizations
   • Credentialing requirements
2. Social and Cultural Diversity (3 hours)
   • Multicultural counseling
   • Cultural competency
   • Social justice issues
   • Diverse populations
3. Human Growth and Development (3 hours)
   • Lifespan development theories
   • Developmental stages
   • Transition issues
   • Crisis and trauma
4. Career Development (3 hours)
   • Career counseling theories
   • Career assessment
   • Occupational information
   • Lifestyle and career development
5. Counseling and Helping Relationships (3 hours)
   • Counseling theories
   • Therapeutic relationship
   • Intervention strategies
   • Evidence-based practices
6. Group Counseling and Group Work (3 hours)
   • Group development stages
   • Group counseling theories
   • Group leadership skills
   • Group dynamics
7. Assessment and Testing (3 hours)
   • Assessment principles
   • Psychological testing
   • Interpretation skills
   • Ethical assessment use
8. Research and Program Evaluation (3 hours)
   • Research methodology
   • Statistical analysis
   • Program evaluation
   • Evidence-based practice
9. Diagnosis of Mental and Emotional Disorders (3 hours)
   • DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria
   • Differential diagnosis
   • Co-occurring disorders
   • Treatment planning
10. Addictions Counseling (3 hours)
    • Substance abuse theories
    • Assessment and treatment
    • Recovery processes
    • Prevention strategies
11. Crisis Intervention (3 hours)
    • Crisis theory and response
    • Suicide assessment
    • Trauma intervention
    • Emergency protocols
12. Practicum (3 hours minimum)
    • 100 client contact hours minimum
    • 40 hours direct service
    • University supervision
    • On-site supervision
13. Internship (6 hours minimum)
    • 600 total hours
    • 240 direct client contact
    • University and site supervision
    • Multiple settings recommended

Accreditation Standards:

Programs must be accredited by:

• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) – preferred
• Regional accrediting bodies recognized by U.S. Department of Education
• Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

CACREP accreditation ensures curriculum meets national standards. Texas increasingly prefers CACREP programs, though non-CACREP graduates can still qualify with proper coursework verification.

Texas Universities Offering Counseling Programs:

Program Selection Considerations:

Choose programs based on:

• CACREP accreditation status
• Specialization options available
• Faculty expertise and research
• Clinical training sites
• Location and format (campus vs. online)
• Cost and financial aid
• Graduation and licensure pass rates

Timeline and Costs:

Master’s programs typically require:

• Duration: 2-3 years full-time, 3-5 years part-time
• Total cost: $15,000-$50,000 (in-state public to private)
• Additional expenses: Books, supplies, liability insurance, travel

Step 2: Complete Required Supervised Experience

After graduation, the next phase of how to become a counselor in Texas involves accumulating supervised clinical hours as an LPC-Associate.

Supervision Requirements:

Total Hours Required: 3,000 hours over minimum 24 months, maximum 48 months

Direct Client Contact: 1,500 hours minimum (50% of total)

Supervision Hours: Minimum 100 hours total

• 50 hours individual supervision
• 50 hours may be group supervision (maximum 6 supervisees)
• At least one hour per week required
• Cannot exceed 4 hours per month

Supervisor Qualifications:

Your supervisor must be:

• Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S)
• Currently licensed in good standing
• Practiced as LPC for 3+ years
• Completed supervisor training course
• Registered with BHEC as your supervisor

Setting Requirements:

Practice settings must involve:

• Clinical mental health services
• Direct client interaction
• Counseling services provision
• Appropriate supervision availability
• Professional environment

Acceptable settings include:

• Community mental health centers
• Private practices
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Schools and universities
• Substance abuse treatment centers
• Veterans affairs facilities
• Employee assistance programs
• Non-profit counseling agencies

Supervision Process:

Effective supervision includes:

• Review of clinical work
• Case conceptualization
• Treatment planning guidance
• Ethical issue discussion
• Professional development
• Skill enhancement
• Feedback and evaluation

Documentation Requirements:

Maintain detailed records:

• Supervision log with dates and hours
• Supervisor signatures
• Client contact hours tracked
• Setting and service type
• Clinical notes and evaluations
• Continuing education certificates

Common Challenges:

Associates face predictable obstacles:

• Finding qualified supervisors
• Balancing work and supervision costs
• Meeting minimum hour requirements
• Managing difficult cases
• Developing clinical confidence
• Building client caseload

Solutions and Strategies:

Successful associates:

• Research supervision costs before accepting positions
• Join professional associations for networking
• Attend peer consultation groups
• Pursue additional training opportunities
• Maintain organized documentation
• Communicate regularly with supervisors

Step 3: Apply for LPC-Associate License

Register as an LPC-Associate before beginning supervised hours. This step in how to become a counselor in Texas provides provisional authorization to practice.

Application Process:

Submit Through BHEC Online Portal:

1. Create account on BHEC licensing website
2. Complete LPC-Associate application
3. Upload required documents
4. Pay application fee
5. Submit for review

Required Documentation:

Educational Verification:

• Official transcripts from all graduate institutions
• Degree conferral confirmation
• Course-by-course evaluation (if degree from non-U.S. institution)
• Practicum and internship completion verification

Personal Information:

• Government-issued photo ID
• Social Security number or tax ID
• Contact information
• Work history

Background Check:

• Fingerprinting completion
• Criminal background authorization
• All household members if providing services in home

Professional References:

• Three professional references
• Cannot be family members
• Must attest to character and fitness
• Contact information required

Supervisor Information:

• Proposed supervisor name and license number
• Supervision plan outline
• Work setting description

Application Fees (2026):

Processing Timeline:

• Simple applications: 4-6 weeks
• Applications requiring additional documentation: 6-12 weeks
• Background check delays: Add 2-4 weeks

Jurisprudence Examination:

Texas requires a jurisprudence exam covering:

• Texas Occupations Code Chapter 503
• BHEC rules and regulations
• Ethical standards and guidelines
• Professional boundaries
• Confidentiality requirements
• Dual relationships
• Recordkeeping standards

Exam format:

• 50 multiple-choice questions
• Online administration
• Open book
• 75% passing score required
• Unlimited attempts
• Must pass before license issuance

Step 4: Accumulate Clinical Hours

With LPC-Associate license active, begin accumulating the 3,000 required hours. This extended phase of how to become a counselor in Texas builds clinical competency.

Hour Tracking:

Track hours in these categories:

Direct Client Contact (1,500 minimum):

• Individual counseling sessions
• Group counseling facilitation
• Family or couples therapy
• Crisis intervention
• Assessment and intake
• Treatment planning sessions

Indirect Professional Activities:

• Case notes and documentation
• Treatment plan development
• Consultation with other providers
• Professional development
• Staff meetings
• Research and preparation

Supervision:

• Individual supervision sessions
• Group supervision participation
• Supervisor feedback review

Timeline Considerations:

Meeting requirements takes:

• Full-time employment (40 hours/week): 18-24 months minimum
• Part-time employment (20 hours/week): 36-48 months
• Maximum time allowed: 48 months from associate license

Calculate weekly hours needed:

• 3,000 total hours ÷ 24 months = 125 hours/month
• 125 hours/month ÷ 4 weeks = 31.25 hours/week minimum

Employment Options:

Associates typically work in:

Community Mental Health Centers:

• Salary: $40,000-$52,000
• Benefits included
• High caseload (25-40 clients/week)
• Diverse client population
• Supervision often provided
• Medicaid and Medicare billing

Private Practice (employed position):

• Salary: $45,000-$60,000 or commission
• Flexible scheduling
• Smaller caseload
• Specific client focus
• Professional development opportunities
• Networking connections

Hospital Settings:

• Salary: $48,000-$62,000
• Benefits and stability
• Acute care experience
• Multidisciplinary teams
• Challenging cases
• Crisis intervention focus

School Settings:

• Salary: $45,000-$58,000
• School calendar schedule
• Summers potentially off
• Child and adolescent focus
• Educational setting
• Different supervision structure

Substance Abuse Treatment Centers:

• Salary: $42,000-$56,000
• Specialized training
• Group therapy emphasis
• Recovery-focused
• Challenging population
• High turnover historically

Step 5: Pass the National Counselor Examination

Near the completion of supervised hours, prepare for the licensing examination. This critical component of how to become a counselor in Texas assesses clinical knowledge and competency.

Examination Details:

National Counselor Examination (NCE):

Administered by National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)

Exam Structure:

• 200 multiple-choice questions
• 160 scored questions, 40 pretest
• Four hours time limit
• Computer-based administration
• Pass/fail scoring (no specific percentage published)

Content Areas:

1. Professional Practice and Ethics (18%)
   • Ethical decision-making
   • Legal standards
   • Professional boundaries
   • Confidentiality rules
   • Multicultural considerations
2. Intake, Assessment, and Diagnosis (17%)
   • Clinical interviewing
   • Mental status examination
   • DSM-5-TR diagnosis
   • Assessment tools
   • Treatment planning
3. Areas of Clinical Focus (15%)
   • Common mental disorders
   • Crisis intervention
   • Trauma counseling
   • Grief and loss
   • Career counseling
4. Treatment Planning (14%)
   • Goal setting
   • Intervention selection
   • Progress monitoring
   • Outcome evaluation
   • Documentation
5. Counseling Skills and Interventions (13%)
   • Therapeutic techniques
   • Evidence-based practices
   • Intervention strategies
   • Therapeutic alliance
   • Resistance management
6. Core Counseling Attributes (11%)
   • Multicultural competence
   • Self-awareness
   • Professional identity
   • Wellness and prevention
   • Advocacy
7. Professional Practice (12%)
   • Practice management
   • Consultation
   • Supervision
   • Research application
   • Technology use

Exam Registration:

1. Apply through NBCC website (www.nbcc.org)
2. Texas residents register for NCE-LPC version
3. Pay examination fee ($335)
4. Schedule at Pearson VUE testing center
5. Receive authorization to test
6. Take exam within 90-day eligibility period

Exam Preparation:

Effective study strategies:

• Review graduate coursework materials
• Use NCE study guides and practice tests
• Join study groups with other associates
• Take online prep courses
• Focus on weak content areas
• Practice test-taking strategies
• Manage exam anxiety

Recommended Study Resources:

• Encyclopedia of Counseling (Rosenthal)
• NCE Secrets Study Guide
• Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination practice tests
• NBCC practice exams
• Graduate program review materials

Study Timeline:

• Begin preparation 3-4 months before exam
• Study 10-15 hours weekly
• Complete multiple practice tests
• Review incorrect answers thoroughly

Pass Rates: National average pass rate: 73-78% First-time test takers: 75-80% Repeat test takers: 55-65%

Retake Policy:

• Can retake after 90 days
• Pay full examination fee again
• No limit on attempts
• Most pass within 1-2 attempts

Step 6: Apply for Full LPC License

After passing the NCE and completing all supervision hours, apply for full licensure. This final step in how to become a counselor in Texas grants independent practice authority.

Application Requirements:

Submit Documentation:

1. Completed LPC application form
2. Supervision completion verification
3. Supervisor final evaluation
4. NCE passing score report
5. Hour log documentation
6. Application fee ($179)
7. Updated background check (if over 2 years)

Verification Process:

BHEC reviews:

• Total hours completed (3,000 minimum)
• Direct client hours (1,500 minimum)
• Supervision hours (100 minimum)
• Supervisor qualifications
• Timeline compliance
• Examination scores
• Continued good standing

Processing Timeline:

• Standard review: 6-8 weeks
• Additional information requests: Add 2-4 weeks
• Complete applications process faster

License Issuance:

Upon approval, receive:

• LPC license certificate
• License number assignment
• Online verification
• Renewal date (2 years from issue)
• Authorization for independent practice

What LPC License Allows:

Full licensure permits:

• Independent private practice
• Direct client billing
• Insurance panel credentialing
• Supervision of associates (with LPC-S)
• Hospital privileges application
• School counseling positions
• Agency leadership roles

Continuing Education Requirements

Maintaining licensure requires ongoing education beyond how to become a counselor in Texas initial steps.

Renewal Requirements:

License Renewal Cycle: Every 2 years

Continuing Education Hours: 40 hours per renewal period

Required Content Areas:

Mandatory Topics (6 hours minimum):

• Ethics (3 hours)
• Cultural diversity (3 hours)

Specialized Areas:

• Suicide prevention training recommended
• Trauma-informed care
• Substance abuse updates
• DSM updates
• Evidence-based practices

Approved Providers:

BHEC accepts CE from:

• NBCC-approved providers
• APA-approved providers
• NAADAC-approved providers
• Universities and colleges
• Professional associations
• BHEC pre-approved courses

Renewal Process:

1. Log into BHEC portal 60 days before expiration
2. Complete renewal application
3. Verify CE completion
4. Pay renewal fee ($140)
5. Update contact information
6. Submit for processing

Late Renewal:

Licenses expired less than 90 days:

• Pay renewal fee plus $50 late fee
• Complete missing CE hours
• Submit renewal application

Licenses expired over 90 days:

• May require reapplication
• Additional requirements possible
• Practice prohibited during lapse

Specializations and Advanced Credentials

After obtaining LPC status in the journey of how to become a counselor in Texas, many counselors pursue specializations.

Common Specializations:

1. Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S)

• Supervise LPC-Associates
• 3 years post-LPC experience required
• 40-hour supervisor training course
• Additional application and fee
• Higher income potential

2. School Counseling

• Requires additional certification
• Texas Education Agency credential
• Work in K-12 settings
• Academic and personal counseling
• Special schedule and benefits

3. Addictions Counseling

• Substance abuse specialization
• Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor option
• Rehabilitation facilities
• Dual diagnosis expertise

4. Trauma and PTSD

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Military and veteran populations
• Disaster response

5. Marriage and Family Therapy

• Systems-based approach
• Couples and family focus
• Relationship counseling
• May pursue LMFT separately

6. Play Therapy

• Child counseling specialization
• Registered Play Therapist credential
• Creative intervention methods
• Elementary-aged children

7. Career Counseling

• Vocational assessment
• Career transitions
• Job search support
• Life planning

National Certifications:

Additional credentials include:

• National Certified Counselor (NCC)
• Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC)
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
• Board Certified Telemental Health Provider
• Approved Clinical Supervisor

Career Paths and Settings

Completing how to become a counselor in Texas opens diverse career opportunities across multiple settings.

Practice Settings:

Private Practice:

• Self-employment
• Income: $60,000-$120,000+
• Flexible schedule
• Insurance credentialing
• Business management responsibilities
• Client acquisition challenges

Group Practice:

• Partnership with other counselors
• Shared overhead costs
• Referral network
• Collaborative support
• Income: $55,000-$85,000

Community Mental Health:

• Non-profit agencies
• Sliding scale fees
• Diverse populations
• Team environment
• Income: $45,000-$65,000

Hospital Settings:

• Inpatient or outpatient
• Medical model integration
• Benefits and stability
• Acute care cases
• Income: $52,000-$75,000

Corporate Settings:

• Employee Assistance Programs
• Organizational consulting
• Stress management
• Business environment
• Income: $58,000-$80,000

Government Agencies:

• VA hospitals
• Military family services
• State agencies
• Job security
• Income: $50,000-$72,000

Universities:

• College counseling centers
• Student mental health
• Academic environment
• Summers lighter
• Income: $48,000-$68,000

Legal and Ethical Standards

Professional conduct matters when implementing how to become a counselor in Texas knowledge. Violations result in disciplinary action.

Ethical Guidelines:

Texas counselors follow:

• American Counseling Association Code of Ethics
• BHEC rules and regulations
• Texas Occupations Code Chapter 503
• Professional practice standards

Key Ethical Principles:

Confidentiality:

• Client information protection
• Limited exceptions for safety
• HIPAA compliance
• Proper record storage
• Secure communication methods

Informed Consent:

• Treatment explanation
• Risks and benefits disclosure
• Fee agreements
• Limits of confidentiality
• Client rights education

Boundaries:

• Professional relationship maintenance
• No dual relationships
• No sexual contact with clients
• Gift policies
• Social media boundaries

Competence:

• Practice within training scope
• Continuing education
• Consultation when needed
• Referral for specialized needs
• Cultural competency development

Mandatory Reporting:

Texas requires reporting:

• Child abuse and neglect
• Elder abuse and exploitation
• Abuse of disabled persons
• Imminent danger to self or others
• Court-ordered disclosures

Disciplinary Actions:

BHEC can impose:

• Written reprimands
• Probation with conditions
• Administrative fines ($100-$5,000 per violation)
• Continuing education requirements
• Practice restrictions
• License suspension
• License revocation
• Criminal prosecution referral

Financial Planning and Income Expectations

Realistic financial expectations help when pursuing how to become a counselor in Texas. Costs and income vary significantly.

Total Investment Breakdown:

Supervision Cost Details:

Associates typically pay for supervision:

• Individual supervision: $50-$150 per hour
• 100 hours minimum required
• Total: $5,000-$15,000 over supervision period
• Some employers provide free supervision
• Group supervision less expensive

Income Progression:

Private Practice Economics:

Solo practitioners face different financial models:

• Client fees: $80-$180 per session
• Insurance reimbursement: $60-$120 per session
• Sessions per week: 15-30 typical
• Overhead costs: 30-50% of revenue
• Variable income months
• Self-employment taxes
• Business expenses

Geographic Variations:

Texas cities show salary differences:

• Austin: $58,000-$82,000 (higher cost of living)
• Houston: $52,000-$75,000 (large market)
• Dallas: $50,000-$73,000 (competitive)
• San Antonio: $48,000-$68,000 (lower cost)
• Rural areas: $42,000-$60,000 (shortage premiums possible)

Additional Resources:

• Texas Counseling Association: www.txca.org
• American Counseling Association: www.counseling.org
• National Board for Certified Counselors: www.nbcc.org
• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs: www.cacrep.org

Statistics and requirements reflect 2026 data from BHEC and BLS. Information accurate as of January 2026 but subject to regulatory changes. Verify current requirements with BHEC before beginning your licensure journey.

Conclusion

You now have complete information about how to become a counselor in Texas covering education requirements, supervised practice, examination, and licensure procedures. The process from bachelor’s degree to full LPC licensure takes 4-6 years with total costs between $18,000 and $65,000. Texas offers strong opportunities for dedicated mental health professionals willing to complete rigorous training and maintain ethical standards.

Start your journey by researching CACREP-accredited master’s programs in your area and contacting the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council at 512-305-7700 for current application materials. The state needs qualified counselors committed to helping Texans address mental health challenges with compassion and clinical expertise.