How long does it take to get LCPC in Maryland?

Minimum 3 years due to the 36-month calendar floor. Most full-time candidates complete 3,000 hours within that window.

Can a doctoral degree reduce my hours?

Yes. Doctoral candidates can reduce to 2,000 hours. The 36-month calendar floor still applies.

Moderate ComplexityComing SoonLicensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) → Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)

Maryland LGPC → LCPC Supervision Requirements

Everything you need to know about completing your 3,000 supervised hours in Maryland.

Total Hours

3,000

Calendar Minimum

36 months

Supervision

100

Direct Hours Floor

Not specified

Why This State Is Complex

Maryland's counseling pathway has a 36-month calendar minimum (longer than most states). The Maryland Law Assessment (MLA) is required, and doctoral candidates can apply a 1,000-hour reduction to 2,000 hours.

Key Requirements at a Glance

Master's or doctoral degree in counseling from Board-approved program (60+ graduate semester hours)

3,000 hours supervised clinical counseling experience (2,000 for doctoral candidates)

100 hours face-to-face supervision with Board-approved LCPC supervisor

36-month minimum supervised practice period

Pass NCE or NCMHCE

Pass Maryland Law Assessment (MLA)

Criminal background check

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

The 36-month calendar floor is longer than most states — cannot compress below 3 years

Using a supervisor who is not Board-approved LCPC with supervisor status

Doctoral hour reduction (1,000 hours) must be explicitly applied — not automatic

Frequently Asked Questions

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