WHAT IS A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR (LPC) OR A LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST (LMFT)?
Since the law does not require that counselors be licensed, clients who are not willing or able to evaluate training or check credentials may be assured that LPC’s & LMFT’s have met the standards identified by the State of Oregon as being necessary to ensure competent service. The licensing board has verified that the licensee holds a degree from a recognized school, has completed appropriate courses and training, has completed supervised experience, and has passed an examination to identify a minimum standard of knowledge. In addition, licensees are held accountable to the state. State law and the licensing board’s Code of Ethics require that conduct meets acceptable standards and all licensees must provide clients with a professional disclosure statement explaining their approach, credentials, and client rights.
