Texas LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) Jurisprudence Exam

Can LPC Interns retain payments made by clients directly to them?

1. YES

2. NO

3. Only with board approval

4. Depends on the practice setting

The correct answer is: NO

The correct response indicates that LPC Interns cannot retain payments made by clients directly to them. This policy is guided by the ethical guidelines and regulations established by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors. LPC Interns are required to operate under the supervision of a licensed professional and typically work as part of a larger organization or practice setting. As such, any payments made by clients should generally be directed to the supervising professional or the organization employing them, instead of being retained by the interns themselves. This ensures proper financial management within the practice and accountability for the services provided. Moreover, this requirement is intended to protect clients and ensure that the financial transactions are handled in a controlled and professional manner. By funneling payments through the appropriate channels, it mitigates the risk of financial misconduct or misunderstandings regarding fees. While certain exceptions may exist in specific scenarios, generally, payments should not be retained by LPC Interns, aligning with responsible practice management and regulatory standards.