Yes, I do have an update :) Basically the BBS (board of behavioral sciences) is accepting applications for the LPCC now. The grandfathering period ends on Dec 31, 2011…so if you want to apply under the grandfathering period you should do it ASAP! At this point you’d be applying to be an “intern”, meaning that you’re working towards your hours to be licensed, and I’m unsure whether this is covered by the grandfathering period. You’d need to research this further on the BBS website.

If the BBS doesn’t accept your application as an intern, I think it’s wise to stay in Philly until you get your LPC and then apply for reciprocity in CA. Take it from me—if you’re not registered with the BBS the jobs are few and far between. It is possible to get them, but you’ll be very limited in your career.

I hope this helps and good luck! Let us know how it goes and what you decide.
- Liz

First of all, thank you so much for posting all of this helpful information and for advocating on behalf of the mental health (art therapy) field!! I am a Drexel Creative Arts Therapy Graduate (’10) as well! I emailed you a few months back, I think. I have been planning a move to CA – SF Bay area – in March 2012. Can you give an update on the LPC and licensure status in CA? Have the laws changed since you last wrote?

I have my MA (from Drexel), and I have accumulated about 300 hours towards my LPC license here. I suppose all of this weighs in on my decision to move as I do not want to be set back so much. There is work in Philly. I may consider getting my LPC here, and then applying for reciprocity.

Also, I am from the South, and may consider moving back there.

Anyway, thanks for hearing my thoughts. I hope you are well and I appreciate any information you have on the subject.

Take care,
Rachael Morgan

I think I’ll make this a separate blog post, so that it’s easily searched and read by others.

Thank you for your question!
- Liz

Any type of information would be really helpful! Thanks.

Thanks for the helpful information!

Thanks for checking in! I’ve been doing various continuing ed courses, some of which are outside of the art therapy field (mainly having to do with web design). I’m trying to figure out ways to use my education in new and diverse ways…especially since I’m somewhat doubtful that the BBS will accept my degree.

In terms of the VA…I’m not seeing any counseling positions in CA posted anywhere…and I assume will be the case until the BBS actually issues the license.

Good luck with your work, Jen. It sounds like you’re on the right track!
- Liz

just wondering how things are going with you… i posted about a year ago, and am still keeping the hope alive that california will get with the program sooner than later–i understand we can apply this february (after a delay), and it could take four months to even review applications.
i’ve been doing alot of continuing ed and also getting certified in emdr in hopes of working with post-combat veterans with ptsd.
the other hurdle is that even though the V.A. by law must accept professional counselors, i see no job postings as such for clinical counselor positions….

thanks for keeping this post going–it helps to know others are in the same, hopefully turning about, boat.
p.s. there appears to be someone on the ACA site who is actively advocating for counselors in our interests;)
thanks liz,
jen

I removed your email address from your comment, since I wasn’t sure if you wanted it to be posted for everyone to see :)

Supposedly the BBS will be ready to accept LPCC applications in Feb 2011. Good luck to us all!