Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) help people deal with problems or conflicts they are unable to solve alone, including substance abuse, family, parenting and marriage conflicts, managing stress, depression, suicidal thoughts, career concerns and problems with self-esteem.  The counselor may work with individuals, couples, families, or may conduct group sessions with people having similar problems.

Areas of Specialization
Counselors may specialize in substance abuse, marriage counseling, school counseling, and vocational counseling or to work with patients in specific age groups.

Work Environment
Most licensed professional counselors work in private practice, counseling centers, family service centers, schools, hospitals, government agencies or other non-profit organizations. A 40-hour workweek is standard, with some evening and weekend hours depending on area of specialty.