How much does a Licensed Professional Counselor make?
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) earn a solid income that reflects their specialized skills and the importance of their work. These professionals help people navigate their emotional and mental challenges. Their average yearly salary is around $88,956. This figure can change based on several factors, such as experience and location.
The salary for LPCs varies across different percentiles. For example, those in the 10th percentile earn about $43,992 per year. Those in the 90th percentile earn up to $185,544 annually. Most LPCs fall between these two points, earning between $59,720 and $169,816 a year. Such a range shows the potential for growth and the impact of experience and specialization.
What are the highest paying cities for a Licensed Professional Counselor?

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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $196,818
New Haven offers diverse opportunities for mental health professionals. Renowned institutions like Yale-New Haven Hospital provide excellent settings to develop skills. The community's strong support for mental health creates a rewarding environment.
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Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $189,922
In Cedar Rapids, counselors find work in well-regarded health facilities such as UnityPoint Health. The city's commitment to community health fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Residents value mental well-being, making it a fulfilling place to practice.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $180,714
Stamford is home to many thriving clinics and hospitals, including Stamford Health. The city's focus on employee wellness creates many opportunities. Professionals can build strong, lasting relationships with clients in this vibrant community.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $173,442
Honolulu offers a unique setting for mental health professionals. The serene environment helps create a calm workspace. The island's diverse population allows for rich, varied experiences in counseling.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $166,110
Fayettellyville presents a supportive community for mental health workers. Institutions like Northwest Arkansas Behavioral Health provide excellent platforms to grow. The city's emphasis on education and wellness creates many opportunities.
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Wichita, KS
Average Salary: $163,167
Wichita offers a mix of urban and small-town charm for counselors. Companies like Wesley Medical Center provide stable work environments. The community's focus on health and support makes it a great place to practice.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $162,240
Little Rock has a growing need for mental health services. Hospitals like Baptist Health offer many job opportunities. The city's dedication to mental health initiatives creates a rewarding professional experience.
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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $158,584
Jackson provides a warm, welcoming environment for counselors. The city’s healthcare facilities, such as St. Dominic’s Hospital, offer solid career paths. The community’s focus on mental health improvement creates a fulfilling workplace.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $158,253
Fresno's diverse population offers rich experiences for mental health professionals. The city’s large healthcare network, including Community Regional Medical Center, provides many opportunities. The vibrant community culture enriches the work environment.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $157,984
Salem offers a supportive community for mental health workers. The city’s emphasis on wellness creates many opportunities. Working in places like Willamette Family Center allows professionals to make a real difference.
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What are the best companies a Licensed Professional Counselor can work for?

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Brightside Health
Average Salary: $171,714
Brightside Health offers Licensed Professional Counselor jobs with a focus on mental health support. The company operates in multiple locations nationwide, providing telehealth services.
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The NBN Group
Average Salary: $170,000
The NBN Group provides opportunities for Licensed Professional Counselors in various states. They offer competitive pay and flexible work options.
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Newborn Nurses
Average Salary: $170,000
Newborn Nurses seek Licensed Professional Counselors to support their patients. They work in different cities across the country, focusing on family care.
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Great Lakes Psychology Group
Average Salary: $150,313
Great Lakes Psychology Group offers Licensed Professional Counselor jobs with a strong focus on clinical care. They operate in several locations in the Midwest.
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Telemynd
Average Salary: $125,750
Telemynd provides telehealth services and is hiring Licensed Professional Counselors. They work remotely and offer a supportive environment for their staff.
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San Ysidro Health
Average Salary: $118,407
San Ysidro Health offers Licensed Professional Counselor jobs with a mission to provide healthcare to underserved communities. They operate in Southern California.
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Legacy Personnel Inc
Average Salary: $114,847
Legacy Personnel Inc seeks Licensed Professional Counselors for their mental health clinics. They are located in multiple states, offering diverse opportunities.
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Alliant Personnel Resources
Average Salary: $110,800
Alliant Personnel Resources offers Licensed Professional Counselor positions with a focus on client care. They have locations in various regions across the U.S.
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Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc.
Average Salary: $110,000
Healthcare Staffing Professionals, Inc. provides Licensed Professional Counselor jobs with a commitment to healthcare staffing. They operate in several states.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $104,304
CVS Health offers Licensed Professional Counselor jobs with a focus on community health. They have locations nationwide, supporting mental health initiatives.
How to earn more as a Licensed Professional Counselor?
A Licensed Professional Counselor can enhance their earnings through various strategies. Focusing on professional development helps counselors stay current with best practices and new therapies. They can attend workshops, seminars, and conferences. Networking with other professionals can open doors to new opportunities. Specialization in a niche area, like trauma or addiction counseling, can command higher fees. Increasing client load through effective marketing and word-of-mouth can also boost income. Lastly, exploring different work settings, such as hospitals, private practices, or corporate wellness programs, can lead to higher-paying positions.
Consider these factors for increasing earnings as a Licensed Professional Counselor. An organized approach to professional development and networking can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Specialization allows a counselor to cater to specific client needs, which often results in higher fees. Marketing efforts and word-of-mouth referrals help grow a client base. Exploring various work settings offers new avenues for income. Each of these steps can contribute to a more successful and financially rewarding career.
Key factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Invest in continuing education and training.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Specialize in a niche area of counseling.
- Expand marketing and referral strategies.
- Explore different work settings and opportunities.



