Everett S Ackerman

What they do

Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in Florida diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions using counseling, psychotherapy, crisis intervention, and treatment planning. They work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to address depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance use, relationship issues, life transitions, and adjustment disorders. LMHCs may apply cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma-focused approaches, motivational interviewing, and other evidence-based modalities.

LMHCs in Florida practice in community mental health centers, group and solo private practice, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, substance use treatment programs, and faith-based or non-profit counseling agencies. Many specialize in working with specific populations such as children, adolescents, veterans, survivors of trauma, or LGBTQ+ communities. They often coordinate care with psychiatrists, primary care providers, schools, and family members. Florida's growing demand for mental health services makes the LMHC workforce essential to filling access gaps statewide.

Licensing in Florida

To become licensed, candidates earn a master's degree from a qualifying counseling program, complete supervised clinical experience as a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (typically two years and at least 1,500 face-to-face client hours under board-approved supervision), pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, and complete the Florida Laws and Rules examination. Renewal is biennial with documented continuing education in mandated topics. The Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling oversees licensure.

How to verify or report

Verify an LMHC license through the Florida MQA license search. To report ethical violations, unprofessional conduct, or boundary violations, file through the Florida Department of Health complaint form or by phone at 850-488-0796.