How to choose a specality as a new LLPC in Michigan
Don’t. (no seriously, don’t)
As a new LLPC in Michigan (maybe even a New LLPC in Michigan looking for a supervisor? click here) you’re probably in search of your first job as a professional counselor. Hopefully your practicum/internship was successful in giving you an idea of the type of work you’d like to do (or NOT do for that matter). As you’re online, searching for opportunities for limited licensed professional counselors in your area you’ll notice that the search engine results return thousands of options! COVID 19 has put a humongous strain on mental health providers, which, for a new therapist entering the work force, is a good thing. You will not be lacking for opportunities, that is for sure. For you, New Michigan LLPC, it’s going to be about finding a job that is the right fit and gives you the experience (and clinical supervision) you’re looking for.
So let’s talk specialties, and why not to be too concerned with this right away.
Starting out you’re in learner mode, always, Everything is still new, you’re on your own a lot more with clients than you’ve been in the past and that can be intimidating. The most important thing for new counselors, is to find solid supervision with an LLPC supervisor that you feel comfortable with. I’m always surprised at the number of agencies out here in Michigan, that don’t offer built in supervision for LLPCs. These same agency’s staff are made up mostly limited licensed professionals. I understand that supervision is expensive, but the alternative is therapists out in the world making unsafe decisions with/for their clients.
Next thing to consider as a new LLPC in Michigan is what type of work you’d like to do during your 3,000 working hours of limited license experience. Consider, but not let this narrow your job search too much. I’ve met very few people in my life that are 100% sure, without a doubt, exactly, what they’d like to do for work for the rest of their life. Choosing a specialty too early in your career begins to limit the opportunities available to you. An Licensed Professional Counselor license in Michigan allows you to work in so many different professional fields (client facing or not). While it is my belief that limited licensed professional counselors should gain specific experience in a few key areas during their 100 hours of supervised working experience - there are so many options for professional counselors out there, don’t limit the chances you have to learn as much as you can, right out of the gate.
After practicum/internship, start broad! Find an agency that offers the ability to work with different types of clients and has varying opportunities for trainings, supervision and growth. My opinion is the wider the client base, the better.
