Licensed counselors play an essential role in helping people identify mental health issues and adopt healthy coping mechanisms. Like other states, Indiana requires that aspiring counselors meet education, experience, and examination requirements. Fortunately, you can earn a master's in counseling online and complete an in-person internship and practicum at a local healthcare setting.
Explore the requirements for different counseling jobs in Indiana and discover what you need to accomplish to reach your career goals.
Typical Requirements to Become a Counselor in Indiana
Below is a high-level overview of the process for becoming a licensed or certified counselor in Indiana. Each counseling role has its own requirements, but most pathways include these six steps:
Earn a bachelor's degree.
Complete a master's degree in counseling or a related field.
Finish supervised experience requirements (hours vary by credential).
Pass any required licensing or certification exams.
Apply for state licensure or certification.
Complete continuing education to maintain your credential.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Indiana Counselor Licensure Requirements
Before you can work as a counselor in Indiana, you must meet specific state licensure requirements. The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (PLA) administers the licensing process for licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs) and for licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs).
The Indiana Department of Education oversees licensure for all school service employees, including school counselors.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Counselor in Indiana?
The length of time needed to become a counselor in Indiana depends on the license type. A master's degree typically takes two years to complete, followed by two or more years to obtain full licensure.
LMHC and LMFT licenses both require two years of postgraduate experience after obtaining your master's and associate-level credentials. Becoming a proficient or accomplished practitioner in school counseling in Indiana, requires working as a school counselor for two to seven years after earning your master's degree.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Indiana
Licensed professional counselors in Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, and Ohio can apply for the privilege to practice across state lines thanks to the Counseling Compact. As of June 2026, 32 other states and Washington, D.C., are working towards compact membership.
Counselors in non-compact states can apply for licensure by endorsement in Indiana.
Endorsement applicants for LMHC and LMFT licenses must provide the PLA with documentation that they hold a valid license with equivalent requirements, and a passing score on the NCMHCE or AMFTRB exam. Out-of-state school counselors pursuing licensure in Indiana must submit documentation to the Indiana Department of Education License Verification and Information System for review.
Salary Expectations for Counselors in Indiana
Licensed counselors in Indiana earn significantly more than the state's per-capita income of $38,350, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, when reviewing information in the table below, keep in mind that recent graduates may earn significantly less than their experienced peers. Jobs in low cost-of-living areas may pay less, as well.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a 1.5% growth rate for education and healthcare careers as of April 2026. Job-seekers may want to avoid applying to state and local government positions, as the BLS reports a 3.8% contraction in government jobs since November 2025.
| Counseling Career | Median Annual Wage | Total Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage and Family Therapist | $56,810 | 510 |
| Mental Health Counselor | $59,260 | 11,890* |
| School Counselor | $82,670 | 5,610 |
Source: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
*Total employment figures include substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
Professional Organizations for Counselors in Indiana
Indiana Counseling Association: As a state branch of the American Counseling Association, ICA provides continuing education, professional development and networking opportunities, and mental health education and advocacy. Membership benefits include webinars, NCE and NCMHCE exam preparation, job postings, and a 10% membership discount for veterans.
Indiana Association for Marriage and Family Therapy: IAMFT is the primary professional association for Indiana's licensed professionals and students in the field of marriage and family therapy. The association provides professional development opportunities in the form of webinars, training, speaker series, and annual conferences, and information on Indiana licensure regulations.
Indiana School Counselor Association: Since its establishment in 1965, INSCA has provided resources to help school counselors guide students toward academic achievement, personal and social development, and career planning. The association supports its members through workshops, job listings, and recognition programs, including school counselor of the year awards.
ICAADA, a subsidiary of Mental Health America of Indiana, provides educational and credentialing resources for professionals engaged in the prevention, treatment, and recovery of behavioral health concerns. Members receive discounts on credentialing-related fees and training at the MHAI Stanley W. DeKemper Training Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions About Counseling Licensure
All counselor licenses in Indiana require a master's degree or higher from an approved program in the intended counseling field. You also must complete specific supervised experience requirements and receive passing scores on national content-area exams.
