| Aspect | Lmhc | Licensed Professional Counselor |
|---|
| Credentials | Master's degree in mental health counseling, supervised clinical hours, state licensure as Lmhc | Master's degree in counseling or related field, supervised clinical hours, state licensure as LPC |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, mental health clinics, private practices, community agencies | Private practices, clinics, hospitals, schools |
| Industry Usage | Primarily in California, where Lmhc is a licensed mental health counselor | Used nationwide, as LPC is a common license in many states |
The main difference between an Lmhc and a Licensed Professional Counselor is the geographic and licensing scope. Lmhc is specific to California, requiring state-specific licensure, while LPC is a broader designation used across many states. Both roles involve providing mental health counseling, but the credentials and licensing requirements vary slightly based on location.