What is the required supervision ratio for interns working towards their LCPC in Maryland?

In Maryland, the required supervision ratio for interns working towards their Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) certification is one hour of supervision for every 40 hours of client contact. This ratio is designed to ensure that interns receive adequate guidance and support as they gain practical experience in their counseling roles.

The rationale behind this specific supervision ratio is to strike a balance between providing enough oversight to address any potential issues that may arise in clinical practice while also allowing interns sufficient opportunities to engage with clients. Effective supervision is crucial during this stage of professional development to promote competency, ethical practice, and client safety.

This standard aligns with the overarching goal of ensuring that intern counselors develop the necessary skills and knowledge before they qualify for their licensure, thereby protecting the interests of both the clients they serve and the professional integrity of the counseling field in Maryland.