Careers in Counseling | Licensed Professional Counselor Jobs

As society becomes more aware of mental health issues, the need for counseling services increases, driving up the demand for qualified counselors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms this, predicting employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, including Licensed Professional Counselors , will grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, with about 42,000 new jobs expected each year.

An LPC is more than a title; it represents a commitment to individual and community health. LPCs are highly trained to conduct assessments, deliver therapeutic interventions, and perform thorough program evaluations and follow-ups. They operate in various settings such as schools, hospitals, private clinics, and religious organizations, demonstrating their crucial role in society.

The scope for LPCs is immense. Dr. Lisa Corbin, LPC, and director of the Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling program at PCOM, highlights the diverse trajectory graduates of this program can take. Higher education beckons for some, with pursuits in psychiatry, psychology, law or business. Others might explore specialized certificates such as the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor or dive into specific therapeutic certifications to hone their expertise. The roles LPCs fill are as broad as the field itself. Administration, education, medical service provision, advocacy, social services, insurance, supervision, research, consultation-these are but a few of the avenues where LPCs are making indelible marks. But how does an aspiring LPC capture these opportunities? Dr. Corbin emphasizes networking's irreplaceable value-keep connections alive and well with peers, as they soon transform into professional allies. She champions volunteering, not only as a gateway to invaluable experience but also as a cornerstone for career progression. Engaging with local or state counseling organizations can also help grow your professional network.

When mapping out a career path, maintain an openness to the multitude of possibilities, Corbin advises. Dive into uncharted waters and apply for roles that may feel just beyond your grasp, as you never know what the company might be looking for or how you can sell yourself.

The world of mental health counseling is full of opportunity for those who believe in change, healing, and growth. For more information about the MS in Mental Health Counseling program and pursuing credentialing as a Licensed Professional Counselor, reach out to the PCOM Office of Admissions, and take the first step towards a fulfilling career, dedicated to the betterment of society's mental health.