Understanding the difference between LPC, LCPC and LCSW

Licensed Professional Counselor.  LPCs may NOT practice independently and must operate at all times under the order, control, and professional responsibility of a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, or a psychiatrist as defined in Section 1-121 of the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code.

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. LCPC is a higher level than a LPC and can practice and diagnosis independently. LCPCs require more post-masters clinical hours plus have two or more years of supervised clinical experience before receiving their LCPC license. LCPCs are allowed to supervise LPCs.

Many LPCs eventually become LCPCs with further testing and supervision.

LCPCs/LCSWs are authorized to diagnose and treat complex mental illnesses. While LPCs can also diagnose, they generally do so under supervision and may be limited to specific settings like agencies or schools.