Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Licensed Professional Counselor Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for licensed professional counselor in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
COUNSELING
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,710 median (21% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet West Virginia eligibility requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to COUNSELING and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in West Virginia
With a median salary of $46,710, Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia earn 21% below the national median of $59,190. West Virginia ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$46,710Hourly estimate
$22.4621% below national median
Difference: -$12,480
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLicensed Professional Counselor Salary Ranking
#49 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $46,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $58,320 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $57,820 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $58,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $51,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $56,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
COUNSELING
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8005203852
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | $168,390 | Degree required | 2-3 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $45,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Licensed Professional Counselor licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Licensed Professional Counselor salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia is $46,710. Salaries range from $32,000 (10th percentile) to $77,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Licensed Professional Counselor salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia earn 21% below the national median of $59,190, with a state median of $46,710.
How many Licensed Professional Counselors work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,970 Licensed Professional Counselors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to West Virginia from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Licensed Professional Counselors in West Virginia?
The licensing agency is COUNSELING. Review agency details at http://www.wvbec.org/.
How often do you renew a Licensed Professional Counselor license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.