How long does it take to get an LPC in Arizona?

The minimum supervised experience period is 24 months. Most candidates complete the 3,200 hours in 2–3 years depending on caseload. Including the master’s degree (typically 2–3 years), the total timeline from starting graduate school to full LPC is approximately 4–6 years.

Can I do supervision remotely or via telehealth in Arizona?

Yes, but with limits. Up to 90 of your 100 required supervision hours can be via videoconference and telephone combined. However, no more than 15 of those may be by telephone alone. You must have at least 2 hours of face-to-face supervision every 6-month period. Each supervision session must be at least 30 minutes.

Do I still need to track indirect hours in Arizona?

No. Since SB 1089 was signed in March 2021, indirect client hours no longer need to be tracked. However, your supervisor must attest that you demonstrated satisfactory competency in clinical documentation, consultation, collaboration, and coordination of care. You still need to track your 1,600 direct hours and 100 supervision hours.

What exams does Arizona accept for the LAC/LPC?

Arizona accepts three national exams: the National Counselor Examination (NCE), the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), and the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Exam (CRCE). You only need to pass one, and the exam you pass for your LAC satisfies the LPC exam requirement.

Can I start working before my LAC is issued?

As of 2025, Arizona offers a 90-day licensure exemption for recent graduates from accredited programs who have a fingerprint clearance card and are applying for an associate-level license. During this period you can work under qualified supervision, and direct client contact hours count toward your LPC requirements.

How does Arizona compare to other states for LPC supervision?

Arizona’s requirements (3,200 hours / 1,600 direct / 100 supervision / 24 months) are on the higher end nationally but straightforward — no phases, no buy-back credits, and no indirect hour tracking since 2021. States like Arkansas have more complex phase systems and buy-back options. Arizona was also one of the first Counseling Compact states, giving LPCs easier interstate mobility.

Is there a fee waiver for the LPC application?

Yes. Arizona waives the $250 LPC application fee if you apply within 90 days of paying your LAC application or renewal fee. Additionally, military spouses, recently discharged veterans (within 2 years), and applicants with family income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level can get the initial application fee waived.

CredentialTraxLicensure Compliance

Moderate ComplexityComing SoonLicensed Associate Counselor (LAC) → Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

Arizona LAC to LPC Supervision Requirements

Everything you need to know about completing your 3,200 supervised hours in Arizona.

Total Hours

3,200

Calendar Minimum

24 months

Supervision

100

Direct Hours Floor

1,600

Why This State Is Complex

Arizona's LAC to LPC path is relatively straightforward with no phase system and no buy-back credits. The 2021 elimination of indirect hour tracking simplified documentation significantly. However, supervision delivery rules are detailed — with specific caps on remote supervision, telephone hours, group sizes, and a mandatory 10-hour direct observation requirement that candidates must plan for carefully.

Key Requirements at a Glance

Complete 3,200 total hours of supervised work experience in professional counseling over at least 24 months

Accumulate at least 1,600 hours of direct client contact involving psychotherapy (no more than 400 may be psychoeducation)

Obtain 100 hours of clinical supervision, with at least 25 hours individual and at least 50 hours from an LPC

Ensure at least 10 hours of supervision involve direct observation (live, audio, or video recordings)

Maintain at least 1 hour of clinical supervision in every month you provide direct client contact

No more than 90 of 100 supervision hours may be via videoconference/telephone (max 15 by telephone)

Pass one of three approved national exams (NCE, NCMHCE, or CRCE) — exam taken for LAC counts for LPC

Complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years including 3 hours ethics, 3 hours cultural competency, and the AZ Statutes Tutorial

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Failing to get at least 10 hours of direct observation — staff meetings and case consultation do not count toward this requirement

Exceeding the 400-hour psychoeducation cap within the 1,600 direct contact hours

Not obtaining supervision from an LPC for at least 50 of the 100 hours — other disciplines can only cover the remaining 50

Using more than 6 supervisors total during the supervised work experience period

Exceeding the 15-hour telephone supervision cap (telephone is a subset of the 90-hour remote cap)

Not maintaining monthly supervision documentation — at least 1 hour is required each month of direct client contact

Frequently Asked Questions

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