You Applied to Be a Texas LPC? Hold Your Horses (But Not Literally, We Need You Calm)
Hey there, counselor-in-the-making! So you took the plunge and applied to be a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the great state of Texas. You wrangled your transcripts, lassoed your references, and hit submit with the grace of a rodeo champion. Now you're chomping at the bit (terrible horse metaphors, I know, but we're rolling with it) to know where your application stands.
The Quest for Status: Don't Panic (Much)
First things first, breathe! Becoming an LPC in Texas is a marathon, not a stampede. While you naturally want to check in on that application, there's no need to channel your inner Wyatt Earp and bust down the doors just yet.
Here's the Lowdown:
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is in charge of LPC licensure. They have a fancy online portal called the Online Licensing Services (https://vo.ras.dshs.state.tx.us/), but be warned - you can't actually check the status of your application there (unless you're some kind of digital wizard, in which case, we need your help with these darned student loans).
So How Do We Play This Game?
Fear not, grasshopper! There are a couple of ways to find out how your application is faring:
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The Phone Call: Yes, the good ol' fashioned phone. Pick up that receiver (or use your fancy mobile device) and dial (512) 458-2200. Ask for the LPC licensing department and be prepared to unleash your most charming phone voice. Be patient - government offices can sometimes move at the speed of a molasses spill in January.
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The Email Route: If you're more of a keyboard cowboy, you can try emailing the LPC licensing department at [email address removed]. Just be sure to craft a polite and professional email with your name, application reference number (if you have one), and a clear question about the status of your application.
Bonus Tip: Patience is a Virtue (Especially in Bureaucracy)
Remember, processing times can vary depending on how busy they are and how complex your application is. Don't badger them every other day. A friendly check-in every few weeks is perfectly fine, but try not to become the squeaky wheel.
While You Wait:
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Channel Your Inner Therapist: Use this time to practice your active listening skills. Maybe your pet goldfish needs a good vent session about that pesky algae problem.
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Brush Up on Your Texas Two-Step: You'll be one step closer to counseling Texans in their natural habitat, so why not perfect your ability to two-step?
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Celebrate Small Victories: Did you fold all your laundry today? High five! Every small win brings you closer to that LPC licensure.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a licensed counselor in Texas. Just remember, stay calm (and maybe avoid questionable horse puns during your interview), and good luck!