Can I Become a Licensed Professional Counsellor (LPC) in BC?
If you are entering the world of counselling through a professional counsellor program, you may have heard talk of licensing and becoming a licensed professional counsellor (LPC). So how does a counsellor go about becoming licensed in BC?
The truth is, you can’t become licensed in BC—but you can become registered!
The term Licensed Professional Counsellor (or LPC) originates from the US and doesn’t apply to most of Canada. In fact, British Columbia currently does not have a regulatory college responsible for licensing and overseeing counselling professionals. Instead, graduates of an accredited counselling program will meet the criteria for membership in the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada (ACCT) and will be eligible to write the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) qualifying exam. Passing this exam will allow you to become a registered professional counsellor.
Can I Become a Registered Counsellor After Completing Sprott Shaw’s Professional Counsellor Program?
Yes, you can! Sprott Shaw’s Professional Counsellor Program is designed to provide students with the skills and hands-on experience needed to become registered counsellors with the ACCT and the CPCA.
In addition to these eligibilities, Sprott Shaw’s counselling students receive qualification exam preparation and study guides, practicum experience with respected BC institutions, and lifetime access to employment service specialists to help them find a job after graduation.
Graduates of our accelerated, 73-week program are eligible to work in employee and family assistance programs, private practices, health and wellness clinics, educational institutions, and more!
The Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists (ACCT) is the first community service cooperative for competency-based counsellors. Incorporated under the Cooperative Association Act of British Columbia, the ACCT is home to counsellors across Canada who demonstrate competency and excellence in the counselling profession.
The Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists (ACCT) is the first community service cooperative for competency-based counsellors. Incorporated under the Cooperative Association Act of British Columbia, the ACCT is home to counsellors across Canada who demonstrate competency and excellence in the counselling profession.
How Do I Become a Professional Counsellor?
Our advisors are your first step to starting your counselling career. Whether you are looking for general information about the field, have questions about our program, or are ready to jump into your new career, our advisors are here to help! Contact our team to get started!
