How to Become a Counselor in Colorado: A Step-by-Step Path to LPC License

19.55% of Colorado residents struggle with some form of mental illness—making it the third-highest rate in the country. A career as a counselor in Colorado isn’t just meaningful—it’s a profession that people just need right now.

Colorado ranks 40th among all states in mental health support, which creates great opportunities for aspiring counselors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14% growth in counseling careers from 2023 to 2033. Colorado’s substance abuse and mental health counseling positions should grow even faster at 19%. The state’s mental health crisis is evident as 59% of Coloradans felt mental health pressure last year. This has created a rising demand for qualified Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). Becoming a licensed therapist in Colorado requires completion of a 60-credit master’s program, 700 hours of practicum, and 2,000 hours of supervised post-master’s practice. The career rewards are substantial—substance abuse and mental health counselors in Colorado earn $62,380 on average per year.

This detailed guide will direct you through Colorado’s LPC requirements. You’ll learn about education, internships, examinations, and licensing fees that will help shape your counseling career.

Education Requirements in Colorado

A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) career in Colorado starts with meeting the state licensing board’s educational requirements. Your path begins with the right degree.

The Colorado State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners wants candidates to complete a master’s or doctoral degree in professional counseling from a regionally accredited institution. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation stands as the highest standard for these programs.

Students who enrolled after August 31, 2014, need to complete at least 60 semester credit hours. This matches CACREP’s current national standard requirement of 60-credit hours. Several institutions like the University of Colorado Denver, Colorado State University, and Adams State University offer programs that meet these requirements and prepare students for licensure.

Your counseling program must cover these eight core content areas:

• Human Growth & Development
• Social & Cultural Foundations
• Helping Relationships
• Groups
• Lifestyles & Career Development
• Appraisal
• Research & Evaluation
• Professional Orientation

Students from non-CACREP programs have alternative paths available. They can demonstrate educational equivalency through Board-approved programs that meet CACREP standards, or submit their credentials to the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE) for review. CCE now handles these evaluations, which were previously managed by DORA/DPO.

The degree program requires 700 hours of supervised professional practice. Students without this component must show evidence of post-degree work experience.

You can take the National Counselor Examination during your final semester after completing your education. This leads to the next step – supervised post-graduate experience – which needs 2,000 hours spread across at least 24 months.

Your educational foundation shapes your counseling career’s future and the licensure process in Colorado.

Counseling Programs in Colorado

Colorado has several outstanding counseling programs that meet educational requirements for LPC licensure. At the time you’re choosing a program, look for schools that meet the 60-credit hour requirement and CACREP accreditation standards.

Adams State University stands out with its on-campus and online master’s programs in clinical mental health counseling. Their CACREP-accredited program gives working professionals flexibility while meeting all state requirements.

Regis University in Denver provides another excellent CACREP-accredited path. Their Master of Arts in Counseling program has specializations in clinical mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy. You can tailor your education to match your career goals.

Other notable CACREP-accredited programs in the state include:

• University of Colorado Denver – Master’s in Counseling with clinical mental health counseling focus
• University of Northern Colorado – Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Colorado Christian University – Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Naropa University – Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (mindfulness-based approach)

Many Colorado schools now offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with periodic in-person intensives. Full-time students typically complete these programs in 2-3 years. Part-time options can extend to 4+ years.

Your path to becoming a counselor in Colorado should factor in more than just accreditation. Program costs vary by a lot between schools. Public universities usually offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents. Each program’s practicum and internship placement assistance matters too, since quality supervised experience meets Colorado LPC requirements.

Some programs offer specialized tracks in high-demand areas like substance abuse counseling, trauma therapy, or school counseling. These specializations can make you more marketable once licensed. The program’s National Counselor Examination (NCE) pass rates are worth checking since you’ll need this credential for Colorado licensure.

The right counseling program for you will balance location, cost, format, and specialization options. Make sure the curriculum meets all Colorado LPC requirements.

Internship and Other Requirements

Getting your master’s degree marks the beginning of your journey to become a licensed counselor in Colorado. The path continues with specific internship and supervised experience requirements after graduation.

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) candidates in Colorado must complete 2,000 hours of post-degree supervised professional practice. You need to spend at least 1,500 hours in direct client contact through psychotherapy or counseling services. The requirements also include 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. Group supervision works too, but it can’t go beyond 50 hours of your total supervision time.

Your supervisor needs these qualifications:

• An LPC license
• At least three years OR 3,000 hours of post-degree clinical expertise
• Three Professional Development Hours specific to clinical supervision each renewal period
• One of four additional qualification options (graduate-level supervision course, Approved Clinical Supervisor certification, doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, or specific supervision training)

Your master’s program prepares you with practicum and internship experiences. Most CACREP-accredited programs require:

• A practicum with supervised counseling experience in a university-based clinic
• A 600-hour internship with at least 240 direct client contact hours
• Weekly individual or triadic supervision
• Regular group supervision through your university

These experiences take several semesters and happen at approved sites. Universities work with community agencies, healthcare facilities, schools, and counseling centers to create placement opportunities.

You should start learning about potential internship sites a semester before you plan to begin. Some programs let students complete internships at their current workplace if they have proper supervision and counseling responsibilities.

Keep detailed records of your hours and supervision sessions throughout your internship. These documents will support your licensure application later.

Examinations

Getting your Colorado LPC license requires passing required examinations after completing your education and supervised experience. You must pass two different tests that check your clinical knowledge and legal understanding.

The state wants you to pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE). The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) administers both tests. The NCE has 200 multiple-choice questions that check your knowledge and skills to work as a counselor. The NCMHCE tests how well you solve clinical problems through 10 mental health counseling cases. This test shows your skills in assessment, diagnosis, counseling, and psychotherapy.

Good news – many Colorado universities let graduate students take the NCE before finishing their degree. Adams State College, Colorado State University, Denver Seminary, Regis University, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, University of Colorado at Denver, University of Denver, and University of Northern Colorado offer this chance. Students from CACREP-accredited programs can earn their National Certified Counselor credential right after graduation by taking this test early.

The state jurisprudence examination is also mandatory in Colorado. This open-book test with multiple-choice questions checks if you understand:

• General mental health statutes
• Confidentiality and privilege regulations
• Prohibited activities and violations
• Board rules
• Emergency procedures
• Disciplinary provisions and proceedings

You can find study materials for both tests easily. Study guides, practice tests and specialized prep classes can help you pass the jurisprudence exam. Your dream of becoming a licensed professional counselor in Colorado comes closer once you pass these tests.

Licensing Fees

Financial preparation plays a vital role in your counseling licensure experience in Colorado. You need to understand all costs to budget properly through the licensure process.

The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) and its Division of Professions and Occupations require several fees during the LPC licensure pathway. You’ll need $70.00 for your original LPC application. The provisional LPC license application costs $70.00 while you complete your post-graduate supervised experience.

The Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination costs $18.00. This exam will give a clear understanding of Colorado’s legal and ethical requirements.

Licensed Professional Counselors must pay $193.00 as renewal fees. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) pay $150.00 which is lower.

School counseling credentials require 90 hours of continuing education each renewal cycle with a $90.00 renewal fee.

DORA requires separate renewal fees for each credential in Colorado. To name just one example, see how LPC and addiction counselor license holders must submit separate renewal applications and fees.

Additional costs you might face:

• Background check fees
• University’s transcript submission fees
• Supervision documentation processing
• Continuing education expenses for license maintenance

These licensing fees represent investments in your career as you progress from graduate student to licensed counselor. Think about them among other expenses as you plan your path to become a licensed professional counselor in Colorado.

Counseling Salaries in Colorado

Your earning potential as a counselor in Colorado depends on several factors. A clear picture of the salary landscape will help you set realistic expectations while completing your education and licensing requirements.

Colorado’s mental health counselors earn a median annual salary of approximately $51,590, which is higher than the national median of $49,710. The salary range starts at $36,000 for newcomers and can reach $76,000+ for experienced counselors with specialized expertise.

Your location in Colorado affects your earning potential significantly. Urban areas like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs pay better than rural regions. Counselors in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan area earn 10-15% more than their counterparts in less populated areas.

Your chosen specialization plays a big role in your income. Substance abuse counselors start around $45,000, while family therapists begin near $50,000 annually. Industrial-organizational counselors are among the top earners, with salaries often reaching above $70,000.

Education level makes a difference. A master’s degree meets the minimum LPC requirements in Colorado, but counselors with doctoral degrees earn 15-20% more than those with master’s degrees. Getting specialized certifications in high-demand areas like trauma therapy or addiction counseling can boost your market value.

Different workplace settings come with varying pay structures. Private practice offers the best earning potential, especially after you build a stable client base. Community mental health centers and nonprofit organizations pay less but often provide better benefits packages and loan forgiveness options.

The job outlook looks bright as Colorado works to address its mental health provider shortage. The growing demand has led to competitive salaries and sign-on bonuses, especially in underserved communities and specialized treatment settings.

Counseling Organizations in Colorado

Professional counseling organizations play a significant role in building your career as a counselor in Colorado. These associations give you great resources, support services, and networking opportunities that help you grow from a student to a licensed practitioner.

The Colorado Counseling Association (CCA) is the state’s main professional organization for counselors of all specialties. Being a branch of the American Counseling Association, CCA members get access to continuing education events, an annual conference, and chances to connect with peers while working toward LPC licensure.

Mental health counselors can benefit from the Colorado Mental Health Counselors Association’s specialized resources. The association works at the legislative level to protect counselors’ interests. Their events and workshops help fulfill the continuing education requirements needed to renew your license.

Several specialty groups provide focused support:

• Colorado Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT) – Great for counselors interested in family therapy
• Colorado School Counselor Association (CSCA) – Perfect for school counseling credentials
• Colorado Association for Addiction Professionals (CAAP) – Vital for substance abuse counselors

Graduate students get extra value from early membership in these organizations. Many groups offer student discounts and mentorship programs that connect you with experienced professionals. These connections often lead to internship placements and job opportunities after graduation.

These organizations keep you updated about regulatory changes that affect your LPC status in Colorado. You’ll receive regular updates about legislation, board rule changes, and continuing education requirements.

The organizations also provide professional liability insurance options, legal consultation services, and clinical resources to improve your practice.

Membership in these professional communities helps your personal growth and strengthens counseling professionals’ collective voice across Colorado. Your career advances while you help move the profession forward.

Counseling Scholarships in Colorado

Getting your counseling degree and license in Colorado costs less with financial aid programs. Many options exist to help fund your path to becoming a counselor in the state.

The Behavioral Health Incentive Program is a major funding source that helps rural and low-income Colorado students get behavioral health credentials. SB21-137 created this initiative with $9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to pay eligible students’ in-state tuition at approved Colorado schools. The Colorado Department of Higher Education gave out $5 million in grants to five universities. Nearly 400 students will benefit from this program in its first two years.

Students can get funding at these schools:

• Colorado Mesa University (Social Work degrees and Addiction Studies certification)
• Colorado State University (various counseling and social work programs)
• University of Northern Colorado (Mental Health Counseling and related programs)
• University of Denver (Master of Social Work)
• University of Colorado Colorado Springs (Master of Social Work)

Adams State University got a $1,437,098 grant for their Master of Arts in counseling program with a clinical mental health specialty track. Colorado residents from rural areas, Pell grant eligible students, or those hit hard by COVID-19 can apply.

Future school counselors should check out the School Counselor Corps Grant Program (SCCGP). This program helps increase effective school-based counseling services. Local Education Providers get priority if they haven’t hired licensed school counselors recently or have too many students per counselor.

Metropolitan State University of Denver has special scholarships for counseling students. These include the Jan Embree-Bever Scholarship for students who plan to work in juvenile justice or addiction treatment. The Charles Branch Scholarship honors a former dean of MSU Denver’s School of Education.

Counseling students at the University of Northern Colorado can apply for various scholarships. They need to fill out the UNC Universal Scholarship Application through Ursa on the “Financial” tab.

Get Your Colorado Counseling Career Started Today

A career as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado needs dedication and persistence, but the experience is worth every effort. This piece shows you the complete path to licensure. You’ll need a 60-credit master’s degree and 2,000 hours of supervised experience.

Your education serves as the life-blood of your counseling career. Colorado has several CACREP-accredited programs that meet the academic requirements. These programs include 700 hours of supervised practicum experience needed to qualify for your license.

The next step is your examination phase. You must clear either the National Counselor Examination or the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam. The Colorado jurisprudence test is also mandatory. These tests prove your clinical knowledge and legal understanding before you start practicing.

The money you spend on education and licensing fees pays off well. Colorado counselors make more than the national median salary. This is true especially in urban areas and for those with specialized credentials. Many financial assistance programs can help with educational costs when you commit to serving underrepresented communities.

Professional organizations in Colorado are a great way to get support throughout your career. These associations help you network better and stay current with continuing education. They also advocate for your profession, which helps you become more effective as a counselor.

The demand for qualified mental health professionals in Colorado keeps growing substantially. The state faces high rates of mental illness and lacks enough providers. Your choice to become a counselor means job security and a chance to help your community.

Note that each step brings you closer to changing people’s lives – from picking your graduate program to getting your license. The path has its challenges, but helping Coloradans through their mental health struggles makes it all worthwhile.