What do the differing licensure level's (LPC, LPC-Associate, etc.) mean for me as a client?

Because our counselors have varying licensure statuses, ETCG is able to offer counseling services on a sliding fee scale. In addition to contracting with counselors who are fully licensed through the state of Texas, we also function as a training site for therapists that are seeking full licensure or are currently completing their graduate level training through a university practicum or internship.

 

Below is a description of each licensure status, and how you may benefit from receiving counseling services with a therapist currently at that status: 

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PhD Clinician: Dr. Melanie Roudkovski earned a Ph.D. In Counseling, which is an educational status that indicates attainment of the highest-level credential for the discipline of counseling. Dr. Roudkovski also uses this credential to teach at the graduate level to train new therapists. She has been practicing for over 20 years and also carries the distinction of LPC-Supervisor (LPC-S). For more information regarding experience and expertise, follow the link to Dr. Roudkovski’s profile.

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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): An LPC indicates that a clinician has received masters-level training and is fully licensed by the state of Texas to provide counseling services. They are no longer under the supervision of another therapist and are therefore qualified to be practicing independently. LPCs have generally been practicing for a longer period of time, have established or are working toward identified specializations, and have spent more time receiving continuing education trainings in a variety of therapies. If you are seeking a therapist with a specific specialization and are able/willing to pay the LPC rate, an LPC may be the right choice for the next part of your story.

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Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate (LPC-A): An LPC-A indicates that a clinician has completed their masters degree, passed a national counselor exam (NCE), and is currently seeking licensure while under supervision. LPC-As at ETCG are under the supervision of  Dr. Melanie Roudkovski. Attending counseling with an LPC-A means that you would benefit from the experience of two therapists, the LPC-A who is your personal therapist and their supervisor. At ETCG, many of the LPC-As are eclectic in nature—they treat a wide range of mental health symptoms, as well as have previous careers and life experiences prior to becoming a counselor. If you are seeking high-qualified counseling at a very affordable rate, an LPC-A may be the right choice for the next part of your story. 

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Graduate Intern: A graduate intern is in the final phase of completing their masters-level training. These counselors have completed all prerequisite coursework and are approved by their graduate faculty to provide clinical services. Interns at ETCG go through a rigorous application and interview process and are selected based on mission fit and clinical ability. Interns are under the supervision of experienced therapists, meaning their clients benefit from both the experience of their supervisor as well as their personal counseling intern. If you are seeking high-quality, low-fee counseling services, a graduate intern may be the right choice for the next part of your story.