Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in Ohio, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board of Ohio
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$56,990 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Ohio
With a median salary of 56,990, Licensed Professional Counselors in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $59,190. Ohio ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$56,990Hourly estimate
$27.404% below national median
Difference: -$2,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#33 of 50 statesfor Licensed Professional Counselor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 79,220 |
| #2 | New Mexico | 70,770 |
| #3 | Oregon | 69,660 |
| #4 | North Dakota | 66,450 |
| #5 | Utah | 65,920 |
Nearby States Comparison
Licensed Professional Counselor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $56,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $59,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $58,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $46,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $51,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $49,280 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board of Ohio
77 S. High Street, 24th Floor, Room 2468, Columbus, OH, 43215-6171
Phone: 6144660912
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| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Licensed Professional Counselors in Ohio?
Ohio lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Licensed Professional Counselors.
What education do you need to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in Ohio is 56,990. Salaries range from $39,210 (10th percentile) to $83,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in Ohio earn 4% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of 56,990.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 16,690 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Ohio from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Professional Counselors in Ohio?
The licensing agency is Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Therapist Board of Ohio. Review agency details at https://www.cswmft.ohio.gov/.