A professional counselor is a masters- or PhD-level mental health professional who is approved by a state licensure board to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. For example, a professional counselor might help a client overcome depression or anxiety. In addition, a professional counselor can help clients with non-medical issues, like helping a couple better communicate and thereby improve their relationship. The exact name of a professional counselor’s license can vary by state but some of the most common are: Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).