- Joined
- Mar 22, 2018
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- 4
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I am currently entering the internship phase of my LPC program, though I am excited about graduating and starting my career, I am a feeling a little discouraged. I currently work in the field as a therapeutic day treatment counselor, and I enjoy it. However, I am looking forward to being able to do more. I enjoy individual counseling. However, I read any posts/articles online stating that counseling degrees are a waste of time and you won't make any money in the field. The figures that are reported as "average" are horribly low. And I am certain that these averages are off due to the fact that I am working in the field at the Bachelor's degree level and I am making more than the reported incomes for those who are licensed professional counselors (I do believe that location probably plays a large part in salary as well). So my question is, are there any LPCs out there that are happy in their careers and are making a salary that is rewarding (upwards of 60K)? Mental illness is such a large part of today's world and has so much to do with our overall health. I am wondering why this field gets so little respect. I am considering continuing my education further, either PsyD, PhD or MD (psychiatry). I am interested in mental health, however, I would like to be comfortable financially as well. Is there anyone out there willing to share their experience as a licensed counselor/ salary range, years of experience, etc. I guess what I am trying to figure out if this degree is worth the blood, sweat and tears, and student loan debt.