More about clinical supervision

1:1 Supervision for Michigan Limited Licensed Counselors (LLC)

Michigan Limited Licensed Counselors (LLC) are mandated to complete 100 supervised working hours within a two-year period to qualify for full LPC licensure. Elizabeth ensures personalized 1:1 supervision for all her supervisees, aiming to provide tailored guidance and support for personal, professional, and clinical development. Explore the following details to understand what to expect during clinical supervision. Individual supervision is $90 per hour.

Group Supervision for Michigan Limited Licensed Counselors (LLC)

Group supervision serves as an invaluable supplement to 1:1 supervision for Michigan Limited Licensed Counselors (LLC). It offers a unique opportunity for collaborative learning and growth among peers within the professional counseling field. These supervision groups convene monthly, accommodating no more than five LLCs along with at least one supervisor. Group Supervision is $70 per hour and groups are limited to 5 LLPCs and a supervisor.

***NEW GROUP start anticipated Spring 2025***

Supervisor Supervision in Michigan: Continuing Education Requirements

In Michigan, supervising limited licensed counselors mandates completing 30 hours of continuing education (CE) focused on clinical supervision. However, this is just the starting point. Continuous professional and clinical growth is paramount, with ongoing development being crucial. Explore ways to further enhance your supervisory skills and enrich your clinical practice by clicking here. Supervision for supervisors is $125 per hour.

FAQ about Supervision

What to expect during Limited Licensed Counselor Supervision in Michigan

FAQs

What about immediate client concerns that I need help with?

Your supervisor understands the urgency of client emergencies that may arise outside of scheduled supervision sessions. If you encounter safety concerns with your clients that you're unsure how to handle, please don't hesitate to contact your supervisor immediately. You can reach them via call or text for prompt assistance.

How much will supervision cost?

The cost of supervision is $90 per hour for individual sessions and $70 per hour for group sessions. Our Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) groups are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 5 participants at a time. Currently, there are spaces available in our Friday groups.

How often do I need to have supervision?

According to the expectations set by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), LLPCs are required to have "consistent supervision." In our practice, we define "consistent" as meeting at least bi-weekly. For new counselors entering the field, we recommend weekly individual sessions until the supervisor feels confident in your work. This frequency helps ensure proper support and development as you grow in your counseling practice.

How is supervision scheduled?

For Limited Licensed Counselors (LLC), supervision sessions are typically scheduled in convenient 1-hour blocks, available either virtually via Zoom (compliant with state regulations) or in person. It's imperative to maintain regular 1:1 meetings with your clinical supervisor, ensuring at least bi-weekly sessions for consistent support and professional development.

What do I need to have prepared for supervision sessions?

Your supervisor expects you to come prepared with questions, concerns, and topics for discussion during your supervision sessions. While your supervisor will gradually gain insight into your therapeutic style and client cases as you work together, clinical supervision is YOUR time. Feel free to prioritize specific areas for discussion or seek guidance on particular challenges you're facing in your practice.

Group LPC supervision vs. Individual, how do I know what’s best for me?

The Michigan LPC Supervisor recommends individual supervision, at least bi-weekly, especially for new counselors. While group supervision offers valuable insights and peer support, 1:1 time with your supervisor is crucial, particularly as you're starting out in your counseling journey. Some LLPCs opt to supplement their individual sessions with participation in group supervision to further enrich their learning and professional growth.

Can you help me with non-clinical issues, like building a therapeutic business?

Certainly! Supervisors possess extensive experience working with diverse populations and settings, making them invaluable resources for building a therapeutic business. Supervision covers all aspects of professional counseling, including business development. Time spent in supervision focusing on business-building also contributes toward your required supervised working hours.

How does supervision for supervisors work?

Supervisors, like any counselor, benefit from continuous learning and growth. After completing supervisor training, you may find yourself seeking support in your role of guiding therapists. Supervision for supervisors operates similarly to other forms of supervision and can be customized to address clinical, supervisory, or business-related needs. It offers an opportunity for ongoing professional development and personal growth.

Can I start my own private practice as an LLPC?

Yes, you can establish your own private practice as a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC), albeit with restrictions. Many LLPCs aspire to launch their practices, and your Michigan LPC Supervisor can provide invaluable assistance in this pursuit. However, commencing a private practice entails navigating ethical, legal, and clinical considerations, where guidance and support are crucial. With proper support and guidance, it's entirely feasible to establish a thriving private practice as an LLPC.

What is needed to become a fully licensed LPC in Michigan

These requirements are taken straight from the Counseling Licensing Guide on LARA's website

  • You must have your Limited Licensed Counselor (formally Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC) in order to begin counting hours toward your full licensure

  • Official LLC supervision sessions also begin AFTER the Limited Licensed Counselor license is received

  • You must earn 3,000 hours of mental health service practice in no less than a 2 year period

  • You must complete 100 face-to-face hours with your LLC supervisor (post COVID, for those who begin supervision with me after 3/2021 , 100% of supervision is able to be virtual.)

  • You need to renew your Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC) annually through MIPlus. You can do so for up to 10 years, during that 10th year you must be prepared to complete your full LPC license application, as your LLC cannot be renewed after the 10th year

  • Your Limited Licensed Counselor must remain in active status throughout your supervision period for accrued hours to count towards full licensure

  • YOU need to ensure that you keep up to date with new rules and regulations published by LARA - The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

Michigan LARA LPC Requirements; expanded

Michigan LARA requires that a Limited Licensed Counselor, LLC (formally Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC) complete 3,000 working hours, POST degree (and POST issuance of the LLC) in no less than a 2 year period. During this 3,000 hours of supervised working experience, the Michigan Limited Licensed Counselor must complete 100 hours of supervision “in the presence of” their LLC supervisor.

*** LATEST UPDATE FROM LARA REGARDING VIRTUAL SUPERVISION (last checked 6/2023) 100% of supervision is now able to be virtual.***

This works out to be about 1 hour of supervision per week during that 2 year period, if LLC supervision is completed consistently.

These expectations for Limited Licensed Counselors in Michigan are incredibly vague. 100 hours of what TYPE of supervision? What is to be learned during supervision? How is progress measured?

The Michigan LPC Supervisor expands on what is required of Limited Licensed Counselors in Michigan by LARA, making the requirements of completing supervised experience for full LPC licensure in Michigan more well rounded and specific to gaining experience working as a therapist. The Michigan LPC Supervisor does NOT require MORE than what the state requires for full licensure, we just strongly encourage that LLCs get some experience in several different aspects of professional counseling.

During supervised working ours, The Michigan LPC Supervisor’s Limited Licensed Counselors (supervisees) are expected to gain the following experience:

  • Utilization of the DSM 5 to make diagnosis and compile a comprehensive bio-psycho-social assessment

  • At least 1 method of crisis screening/intervention

  • Basic utilization of at least 1 assessment tool (delivering, scoring, interpreting results)

  • Ongoing, long term, individual therapy (individual, couples, families) utilizing at least 2 different evidence-based models of treatment

  • Ongoing facilitation and/or co facilitation of group therapy

  • Development of an ongoing plan for continued learning and training in the field of counseling

  • Utilization of case management techniques and resources

  • Skills for coordination of care with other health providers

  • Development of an understanding of client resources in and around their area of practice

  • Ability to compile and present a client's case

  • Discussion and development a better understanding of a clinical area, or areas of expertise regarding LLPC's practice

You can read the full Supervision agreement between The Michigan LPC Supervisor and a new Limited Licensed Counselor here

Michigan LPC Supervision Requirements: Updated Rules for 2023

Are you a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) in Michigan? Staying compliant with Michigan’s new supervision rules is essential for your journey to full licensure as an LPC. Effective April 26, 2023, these updated Administrative Rules bring important changes for both LLPCs and their supervisors. Read on for a complete guide to the new Michigan LPC supervision requirements, including key updates, supervisor qualifications, telehealth guidelines, and steps to find the right LPC supervisor in Michigan.

Key Changes in Michigan LPC Supervision Rules

What is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Supervisor?

Under Rule 338.1751(f), an LPC supervisor in Michigan is defined as a Licensed Professional Counselor trained in supervision. All LPC supervisors must meet specific licensing and experience requirements to qualify.

Who Can Supervise Michigan LLPCs?

According to Rule 338.1751(g), supervisors must be licensed as professional counselors in Michigan. For those seeking out-of-state supervisors, it’s essential that they meet equivalent licensing and experience requirements.

  • Michigan-Based Supervisors Only: Rule 338.1774(2) states that Michigan LLPCs must be supervised by an LPC in good standing within Michigan.

  • Experience Requirement: Rule 338.1781(c) requires that all supervisors who began supervision after May 5, 2022, must have at least 5 years of post-master’s counseling experience.

Supervision Requirements for Michigan LLPCs

Virtual Supervision Options

LLPCs in Michigan can now complete all required supervision hours virtually, provided real-time audio and visual technology is used (Rules 338.1774(c)(i) and (ii)). This allows for greater flexibility while ensuring direct, interactive supervision.

Continuous Supervision Requirement

To maintain compliance, LLPCs must receive continuous supervision from the issuance of their limited license until they achieve full LPC licensure. Gaps in supervision could affect the licensure timeline, so staying connected with your supervisor is crucial.

Application Requirements for Michigan LLPCs

  • Supervisor Identification: Rule 338.1772(d) requires that LLPC applicants submit a formal statement identifying their supervisor, detailing their qualifications.

  • Hardship Exemptions: If you are nearing the 10-year limit on your limited license, Rule 338.1777(4) allows you to request an extension. Be sure to follow the specified timelines and provide the necessary information for your application to be considered.

New Rules for Telehealth Services in Michigan

Michigan has set new standards for LPCs offering telehealth services. Rule 338.1758 outlines these requirements to ensure that teletherapy meets state regulations. Following these guidelines will help you offer compliant and effective virtual counseling services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What qualifications are required to be an LPC supervisor in Michigan?
A: Michigan requires LPC supervisors to hold an LPC license, have 5+ years of post-master’s experience, and be trained in counseling supervision.

Q: Can I complete all my LLPC supervision hours virtually?
A: Yes, 100% of supervision hours can now be conducted virtually using real-time audiovisual technology, allowing for flexible supervision.

Q: How do I find a qualified LPC supervisor in Michigan?
A: Contact us for assistance in connecting with an LPC supervisor who meets Michigan’s supervision requirements.

Need Help with LPC Supervision in Michigan?

Navigating Michigan’s new supervision rules can be challenging, but we’re here to help! If you’re an LLPC seeking a qualified supervisor or need guidance on telehealth and supervision requirements, reach out today. Our experienced team is ready to support you on your path to full licensure.

For more information and to stay updated on Michigan LPC supervision requirements, subscribe to our blog and explore our resources!