What Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) Can (and Can’t) Legally Do

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs) are one of California’s licensed mental health professions, yet they’re often the least understood. Are they the same as therapists? Can they diagnose? Do they work with families? The answers may surprise you, and help you choose the right provider for your needs.

Here’s what California law actually says about LPCCs, and how they compare to other mental health professionals.

Do LPCCs provide therapy?

Yes, LPCCs are legally authorized to provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups (California Business and Professions Code (BPC) Section 4999.20; and BBS, 2022 Update based on AB462). Their training emphasizes clinical mental health counseling, covering issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and career and life transitions. LPCCs often bring a strengths-based or wellness-focused lens to their work.

Can LPCCs diagnose mental illness?

Yes, LPCCs are authorized to assess, diagnose, and treat mental disorders using the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), just like LMFTs, LCSWs, and psychologists (BPC Section 4999.20(a)).

Can LPCCs work with couples and families?

Yes, as of 2022, LPCCs in California may treat couples or families, as long as they are appropriately trained and clinically competent to do so (BBS, 2022 Update).

Can LPCCs conduct psychological testing?

Only in a limited scope. LPCCs may administer and interpret structured assessments as part of ongoing treatment and within their training.

Assessment means “selecting, administering, scoring, and interpreting tests, instruments, and other tools and methods designed to measure an individual’s attitudes, abilities, aptitudes, achievements, interests, personal characteristics, disabilities, and mental, emotional, and behavioral concerns and development and the use of methods and techniques for understanding human behavior in relation to coping with, adapting to, or ameliorating changing life situations, as part of the counseling process.” BPC 4999.20(c)

However, they are explicitly prohibited from using:

• Projective tests (e.g., Rorschach)
• Individually administered intelligence tests (e.g., WAIS)
• Neuropsychological assessments
• Batteries of three or more tests to evaluate cognitive impairment or criminal behavior

(See BPC §4999.20(c))

Comprehensive psychological testing is reserved for licensed psychologists.

What degree and training do LPCCs have?

LPCCs must have at least a master’s degree in counseling or related field. This generally involves at least two years of education and training after the bachelor’s degree, for a total of about six or more years of higher education.

They must also complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience before becoming fully licensed.

How do LPCCs compare with LMFTs?

Both are master’s-level clinicians licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). LPCCs are trained with a focus on personal and career development, while LMFTs are trained with a relational/systemic lens. Both can work with individuals, couples, and families, provided they are trained to do so.

How do LPCCs compare with LCSWs?

Both are master’s-level clinicians licensed by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). LCSWs are trained in social work and often specialize in case management, advocacy, and community support. LPCCs typically emphasize personal development, clinical insight, and mental wellness.

How do LPCCs compare with psychologists?

Psychologists hold doctoral degrees, are licensed by the Board of Psychology, and have broader authority, especially in the areas of psychological testing and complex diagnostics. LPCCs provide therapy and diagnosis but do not conduct formal psychological evaluations. Both can treat similar clinical issues, but the psychologist’s scope is wider in terms of assessment.

How do LPCCs compare with psychiatrists?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental illness and prescribe medication. LPCCs cannot prescribe or provide medical care but often work alongside psychiatrists as part of a client’s treatment team.

Further Resources

Guide to Laws About Mental Health Professionals in California

What are the Legal and Ethical Requirements for Therapists in California?

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