Your First Steps as an LPC

To the newly licensed LPCs who feel like they’re starting from scratch this is for you.

You’ve done the work. You’ve logged the hours, survived supervision, and finally crossed that finish line. Now you’re officially an LPC. But instead of feeling ready, maybe you feel… stuck.

You have the passion. You have the credentials. But now that it’s time to build your own private practice, especially online, you’re wondering where to even begin.

If you're feeling a little lost, overwhelmed, or unsure, take a breath. You're not behind. You're not unqualified. You're just new to this part of the journey. And you're not alone.

Here are just some tips.

1. Register Your Business and Get Legal Basics in Place

In Texas, you’ll need to register your business with the Secretary of State or your county (depending on your setup). I actually went with a lawyer but that's because I didn't know any other way. 

Many LPCs operate as sole proprietors, PLLCs, or LLCs. You’ll also need a Tax ID (EIN) from the IRS, and make sure to have professional liability insurance. It sounds overwhelming, but it’s all step-by-step. You’ve navigated harder things.

2. Know Your Telehealth Rules

Texas allows LPCs to provide therapy online, but you must follow the telehealth guidelines set by the Texas BHEC. That includes using HIPAA-compliant platforms, having an emergency plan in place, and documenting client locations at each session. Learn the rules so you can practice with confidence.

3. Start With Simple Systems

You don’t need a massive tech stack. Many LPCs use platforms like SimplePractice or TherapyNotes to handle scheduling, documentation, billing, and video sessions all in one place. Choose one that fits your budget and style. Let technology make your life easier, not more complicated.

4. Build an Online Presence That Feels Like You

Start with a clean, clear website that reflects your voice and niche. You don’t need a marketing degree just speak to the person you want to help. Add a Psychology Today profile to boost visibility or look into other similar platforms. Share a little about your story, your values, and how you help. People are drawn to realness.

5. Trust the Process (and Yourself)

You don’t have to have everything figured out. Private practice is a living, growing thing. You’ll learn as you go. Your first client might find you next week or next month. Don’t rush! Keep showing up, keep refining, and keep believing that you belong in this space. You can work on your business and network. 

Credentialing is where I am at right now. Went with Headway while I figure it out. Will share my experience later! 

Remember, you didn’t come this far just to come this far. Those were the words I had to tell myself each time I felt unmotivated. You have something unique to offer, your empathy, your insight, and your presence. The world needs more therapists who care deeply and lead authentically. So start messy, start small but start. Andale!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

El Peso del Tiempo: Cuando la Carga Duele Más que el Problema

No es la carga lo que más pesa, sino el tiempo que la llevamos a cuestas. Esa frase me vino a la mente un día cualquiera, cuando me di cuenta de que no siempre son los problemas los que nos rompen… sino la manera en que los arrastramos. Lo que en un principio parecía manejable, con el paso del tiempo se convierte en algo agotador. No porque el problema haya crecido, sino porque nuestro cuerpo, mente y corazón ya no pueden con el desgaste que implica cargarlo por tanto tiempo. Las preocupaciones, el estrés, la tristeza, la culpa… son parte de la vida. Nadie se salva de sentir. Y eso está bien. Pero ¿qué pasa cuando dejamos que esos sentimientos se queden con nosotros por demasiado tiempo, sin darles espacio para transformarse, soltarse o sanar? Con el tiempo, lo que empezó como algo pequeño puede volverse insoportable. No porque el dolor crezca, sino porque lo hemos cargado en silencio, sin pausa, sin procesarlo, sin compartirlo. Y ahí es donde comienza el verdadero peso: en el silen...
Read more

Cuando Selena Te Sana: El Poder de la Música Nostálgica (y Por Qué Está Bien Llorar Bailando)

Vas manejando a casa después de un día larguísimo y, de repente, suena “...Baby One More Time”. Sin aviso, tienes 11 años otra vez, llevas mariposas en el cabello, y cantas como si ese mini desamor de preadolescente fuera lo más real que te había pasado. Eso, mi gente, es la música nostálgica haciendo su magia. Y sí, tiene poder. La música de principios de los 2000 y antes, ya sea Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez o, mi favorita de toda la vida… Selena, puede provocar alegría, consuelo, lágrimas, y hasta una fiesta improvisada en la sala. ¿Pero por qué estas canciones nos pegan tan fuerte? Fácil: son la banda sonora de nuestras vidas. Y nuestros cerebros, esos seres emocionales, nunca olvidan. Música = Recuerdo + Emoción Canciones como: “Toxic” – Britney Spears: Para cuando te sientes atrevida, rebelde, o lista para bloquear a tu ex y recuperar tu poder. “Man in the Mirror” – Michael Jackson: Para reflexionar. Ideal en esos días en los que quieres ser mejor persona pero e...
Read more

When Selena Heals You: How Nostalgia Music Hits Different (and Why That’s Okay)

You’re driving home after a long day, and suddenly “...Baby One More Time” comes on. Without warning, you're 11 again, wearing butterfly clips, shouting the lyrics like your preteen heartbreak actually made sense. That, my friend, is nostalgia music doing its thing and don’t underestimate its power. Nostalgic music from the early 2000s and before, whether it’s Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, or my favorite of all time...Selena, can stir up everything from joy and comfort to tears and, yes, a spontaneous living room dance party. But what makes these songs so emotionally loaded? Simple: they’re the soundtrack to our lives. And our brains, emotional creatures that they are, remember. Music = Memory + Emotion Songs like: “Toxic” – Britney Spears: Perfect for when you’re feeling sassy, rebellious, or ready to block your ex and reclaim your power. “Man in the Mirror” – Michael Jackson: Deep reflection vibes. Ideal for days when you’re trying to be a better human but also...
Read more