LPC vs. LCSW vs. LMHC: What’s the Difference?

Programs Currently Accepting Applicants

Northwestern University : Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Northwestern University : Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.)

Walden University : MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University : MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited, six specializations to choose from)

Grand Canyon University : Master's Degree in Counseling (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition.)

Grand Canyon University : Degrees in Social Work (As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. No GRE Required.)

Syracuse University : Master of Social Work (CSWE accredited. Standard and Advanced Standing tracks. No GRE required.)

Liberty University : MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (Online with required intensives)

The Chicago School : M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online Programs. CACREP Accredited.)

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The mental health field offers numerous paths for making a direct, positive impact in the lives of clients. If you’re someone who’s passionate about mental health, if you enjoy getting to know people, and if you’re interested in learning more about clinical practice, a counseling profession may be right for you.

The question is, which career and license path should you follow? Three of the most common counseling licensed are Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). While some overlap exists among the three license paths, some significant areas of distinction also exist.

Read more to consider what it would mean for you to become an LPC vs. LCSW vs. LMHC.

LCSW vs. LPC

LCSW stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), clinical social work may be defined as “a specialty practice area of social work which focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness, emotional, and other behavioral disturbances.” As an LCSW, you’ll be able to provide therapy at the individual, family, or group level. However, therapy is just one part of the social worker’s job; you’ll also help connect your clients with community resources or social services that can help them optimize their mental health and well-being.

Learn More: LPC vs LCSW

To become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, you’ll need to obtain an undergraduate degree, as well as a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Additionally, you’ll need a certain number of supervised clinical hours, which state licensing boards determine. Social workers may work for individual and family services, for government agencies, and for ambulatory health services.

LPC stands for Licensed Professional Counselor. The American Counseling Association reports that counselors provide services to empower “diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.”

Counselors tend to help their clients address specific issues, which may include substance use or mental health issues. Counselors can also provide specialized types of counseling, such as counseling that’s focused on marriage or relationship issues. A master’s degree in counseling is required, followed by an internship including supervised clinical experience. Counselors may work in outpatient mental health facilities, in hospitals, for government agencies, or for addiction rehabilitation facilities.

LCSW vs. LMHC

LMHC stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor. The American Counseling Association reports that counselors provide services to empower “diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.”

LMHC vs. LPC

The primary distinction between an LMHC vs. LPC is one of practice breadth and focus. LMHCs are highly trained in assessing, diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illness. If you seek a career in this profession, your job will largely focus on working with mentally ill clients.

By contrast, while LPCs receive training in mental illness and can help clients navigate the effects of mental health disorders, they may focus on other areas of counseling, such as marriage and family issues or career issues.

Editor’s note: LPCs and LMHCs often have very similar roles and responsibilities, as both are typically able to provide mental health care for individuals, families, and groups. In many cases, the distinction will be based on the official license type in the state where you reside—where one state offers an LPC license, another will offer an LMHC license. Additionally, in some states, LPC is the highest level of licensure a counselor is able to obtain, whereas in other states, LPCC or LCPC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor or Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) is the highest level of licensure that one can obtain. Similarly, some states will offer an LMHCA (Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate) designation for individuals who are still working to obtain independent licensure, and LMHC is the highest level of licensure one can obtain within that particular discipline. As always, it’s important to learn the laws of your particular state to understand which license type will apply to your work as a counselor.

Wondering the difference between a LMHC and a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT)? Check out our lmhc vs lmft guide to learn more.

LMHC vs. LPC vs. LCSW Salary

As you consider your career prospects, it’s certainly helpful to think about educational requirements, basic job descriptions, and beyond. However, you may also have some questions about earnings expectations.

What does the data tell us about LMHC vs. LPC vs. LCSW salary ranges?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t specifically record data for LMHCs, but it reports that the median annual salary for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $48,520 in 2021.

The BLS entry for other types of counselors shows a median annual salary of $45,160 in 2021.

The BLS reports that the median annual salary for social workers was $50,390 in 2021.

Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program

School and Program Information	Online Program? Entry Requirements	Course Information
Northwestern University Online MA in Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available Learn More
Northwestern University Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More
Walden University MS in School Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More
Walden University MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online GRE scores not required	Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More
Grand Canyon University Master's Degree in Counseling HLC and NASAC Accredited	✔ Online	Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More
Grand Canyon University Degrees in Social Work Bachelors and Masters	✔ Online No GRE Required	Grand Canyon University now offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs that are suited to a future career in social work. You can apply to the Bachelor of Social Work degree program or several graduate programs such as the Master of Social Work program to further your education. Currently in Candidacy status with the Council on Social Work Education. Learn More
Syracuse University Master of Social Work CSWE accredited	✔ Online No GRE Required	Syracuse University’s CSWE-accredited online Master of Social Work program is preparing the next generation of social work leaders through an emphasis on digital innovation and social justice. Learn More
Liberty University MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Online with required intensives	Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More
The Chicago School M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Bachelor's Degree Required.	This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

☰ For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs

Scope of Practice

When it comes to mental health care, LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors) and MSWs (Master of Social Work) are two professions that have a lot in common. Both types of professionals provide counseling and therapy services to help individuals, couples, and families cope with mental health challenges and achieve their goals. They are also trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and guide and support clients facing various life challenges.

To become a licensed Clinical Social Workers one has a broader practice scope, including case management, social services, and advocacy. In addition to providing counseling and therapy services, LCSWs may help clients access community resources, navigate complex systems, and advocate for their rights. This often means that LCSWs work in healthcare settings, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

Education Requirements

To become an LPC or an MSW, one typically needs to complete a Master's degree in their respective fields, which takes about 2-3 years. Both programs require supervised clinical hours, which can vary by state. They may also include additional requirements such as internships, practicums, or research projects.

While both LPC and MSW programs cover counseling theories and techniques, ethics and professional standards, human development, and psychopathology, MSW programs also cover social work theory, policy, and practice. They may also include community organizing, social justice, and advocacy topics.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a positive job outlook for all three professions, with faster-than-average growth expected in the coming years. The increasing need for licensed mental health counselor (LMHC)s and services in various settings such as healthcare, schools, and community agencies has increased the demand for LPCs and MSWs.

Likewise, the BLS predicts favorable job prospects for LCSWs due to the growing need for social workers in healthcare settings and other organizations. LCSWs may have an advantage in certain job markets due to their broader scope of practice, which includes case management, social services, and advocacy. According to the BLS, the employment of social workers is projected to grow 9% from 2021 to 2031, which will be faster than the average for all occupations.

Online MA in Counseling Program at Northwestern University

Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Northwestern University

Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

MS in School Counseling Program at Walden University

Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Walden University

Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Master's Degree in Counseling Program at Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)

Degrees in Social Work Program at Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University - Degrees in Social Work (NASAC Accredited)

Master of Social Work Program at Syracuse University

Syracuse University - Master of Social Work (CSWE Accredited)

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) Program at Liberty University

Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)

M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at The Chicago School

The Chicago School - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

MSW vs. LPC (Master’s in Counseling)

Curriculum

The MSW curriculum is generally divided into two broad categories: generalist and specialist. In the generalist portion, students are taught how to assess clients and evaluate and adjust client services to address their needs.

The following generalist-year courses are required for all MSW students:

Required background courses:
- Human Behavior and the social environment I & II
- Social work research
- Social welfare policy
Three generalist practice courses:
- Foundations of social work practice
- Direct practice with individuals, families, and groups
- Advocacy in social work practice

Learners take the following courses during their specialized year:

Two practice courses
A required course in the field of practice
Specialized research course
Field education

The specialist part focuses on particular fields within the social work profession. For example, students are taught how to work in hospital environments, correctional facilities, or the child protection system. Specialist courses can help students use the knowledge gained through their core courses to make assessments of clients and create intervention plans.

If you plan to take a master’s in counseling course, completing the program will take approximately two to three years.

The Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP) describes master’s in counseling curricula as having two primary components:

The foundation and core curriculum cover professional counseling orientation, ethical practice, social and cultural diversity, human growth and development, and assessment and testing.
Courses in specialty areas include clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, addiction counseling, and rehabilitation counseling.

Licensure Requirements

The licensure requirements for LPCs, MSWs, and LCSWs vary by state but generally require completing a graduate degree from an accredited program, supervised clinical hours, and passing a licensure exam. Some states may also require continuing education credits to maintain licensure.

While LCSWs have similar licensure requirements to LPCs and MSWs, they may have additional social services and advocacy requirements. LCSWs must typically complete an MSW degree from an accredited program, complete supervised clinical hours, and pass a licensure exam. Some states may also require LCSWs to have a certain number of years of experience in social work practice.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for MSW and LPC professionals is similar, as both professions focus on providing counseling and therapy services to a number of clients.

LPCs scope of practice:

These professions provide mental health counseling and therapy services to clients to help them overcome mental health challenges and achieve their goals.
LPCs are trained professionals with the skills and knowledge to diagnose and treat mental health disorders and provide guidance and support to clients facing life challenges.

MSW’s scope of practice:

These professionals have the expertise to provide counseling and therapy services to clients to help them manage their mental health challenges and achieve their goals.
Their practice includes case management, social services, and advocacy. MSWs professions can help clients access community resources, navigate complex systems, advocate for their rights, and provide therapy services.
MSWs are also trained in social work theory, policy, and practice. They often work in healthcare settings, schools, non-profit organizations, learning institutions, and government agencies.

Explore the Difference Between LPC, LCSW, and LMHC

While all three of these counseling credentials allow you to make a direct impact in the lives of patients and to devote at least part of your practice to mental health advocacy, the three fields ultimately have some notable differences.

The best way to explore what’s different in the LPC, LCSW, and LMHC career paths is to take a closer look at different degree programs, including online learning opportunities. Take some time to investigate online counseling degrees.

Compare More Licensure Options:

Sources:
American Counseling Association, 20/20: Consensus Definition of Counseling
Indeed, LMHC vs. LCSW: What They Are and How They Compare
National Association of Social Workers, Clinical Social Work
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Counselors, All Other
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social Workers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors

Still Looking for a Counseling Degree?

Here are some of the most popular online counseling programs. On each page you will find a detailed write-up of the program, specific courses, and schools that offer that program that are currently accepting applicants.