Why Choose an LPC-Associate?

By: Tara Kong, MS, NCC, LPC-Associate Supervised by Melissa Barton, MA, LPC-S When someone is seeking counseling and calls our practice, they have the option of having a student, LPC-Associate, or an LPC. Many people do not know what an LPC- Associate is. I know I didn’t before I started my counseling program. So first, what is an LPC-Associate? LPC stands for a licensed professional counselor. An LPC-Associate is someone who has been highly trained and completed two years of a rigorous master’s degree program where they had to complete 700 hours of direct counseling experience before graduation. During their training, they received education on many different counseling techniques, assessments, diagnostic skills, ethics, and other courses related to the field of counseling. After graduation, LPC-Associates take the national licensing exam, which gives them their license to practice in their state. LPC- Associates complete an additional 3,000 hours of counseling work before receiving their unsupervised license. During the 3,000 hours, they are under supervision and meet for group and individual consultation with their supervisor. Here are five reasons to choose an LPC-Associate:

An LPC-Associate Costs Less

LPC-Associates charge lower fees than an LPC. This can help those people who do not have insurance to cover the cost of sessions. Receiving sessions at a lower cost makes counseling more accessible to those who otherwise could not afford it. LPC-Associates are currently $115 per session.

Two Heads Are Better Than One, an LPC-Associate is Supervised

Due to LPC-Associates being under supervision means the client gets to also work indirectly with the supervisor. Cases are discussed in weekly supervision sessions so the client gets the benefit of two counselors for one price. The supervisor’s job is to make sure the client is getting the best care possible. Also, if the therapist needs some direction or guidance for a particular issue, they have the chance to talk it over with their supervisor. Clients get an opportunity to have their therapist and a more seasoned therapist at their service.

LPC-Associates Have Group Consultation

LPC- Associates also meet in groups for consultation. This is a chance for the therapist to gain different perspectives, resources, and information from their peers. If you are concerned about your information being shared, there is no need to be alarmed. LPC-Associates and their supervisors are bound by confidentiality and will not share any names or identifiable information. Associates give need-to-know information while never using real or full names.

An LPC-Associate May Have Additional Experience

Many of the LPC-Associates are second-career professionals. They have experience in other various fields, which contributes to their knowledge as a counselor. LPC- Associates have graduated with a Master’s degree, completed about 700 hours of field experience, passed a licensing exam, and come to the therapy room with years of life experience. They have faced their own adversities, successes, and overcome obstacles which leads to experience that is valuable.

Experience Does Not Always Mean Better Therapy

A therapist who is more experienced does not always make a better therapist. The counseling world is constantly changing to better meet the needs of clients, and an LPC-Associate has likely been exposed to modern techniques and up-to-date interventions. LPC-Associates are able to bring fresh ideas and viewpoints to their sessions. LPC-Associates are excited and eager to help their clients and to learn all they can about the field of counseling. That’s not to say LPCs are behind on techniques. They also stay current with continuing education and consultation. These are just a few of the many reasons why choosing an LPC-Associate may be the right choice for you!

Begin Therapy With an LPC-Associate in Katy, TX!

If you are ready to start counseling with an LPC-Associate, one of the therapists at The Center at Cinco Ranch can help! We provide mental health counseling, as well as other mental health services. To begin counseling in Katy, TX follow these three steps:

• Contact our office to set up an appointment or to learn more information
• Meet with one of our compassionate therapists
• Find ways to thrive through therapy with an LPC Associate today!

Other Therapy Services We Offer: 

Here at The Counseling Center at Cinco Ranch, we offer counseling services for people of all ages in areas including counseling for kids, counseling for young adults, teen counseling, couples counseling, eating disorder treatment, men's issues, women's issues, anxiety treatment, depression therapy, trauma counseling, family therapy, and group counseling. Our therapists strive to post blogs regularly. We provide helpful information on a variety of mental health topics. To learn more about our therapists and our counseling services, please reach out to the Counseling Center today!