What constitutes a failure to comply with the Licensed Professional Counselors Act?

Self-identifying as a Licensed Professional Counselor without proper licensing is indeed a violation of the Licensed Professional Counselors Act. This act is designed to protect the public by ensuring that individuals who present themselves as licensed professionals have met the necessary educational and training standards required to practice. Misrepresenting oneself as a licensed counselor can lead to legal repercussions because it undermines the trust that clients place in licensed professionals and exposes them to potentially harmful practices that lack proper oversight.

While providing free counseling services is generally permissible if it is within legal and ethical boundaries, it does not inherently violate licensing laws as long as the individual is properly licensed. Similarly, engaging in online therapy or conducting group therapy sessions may also be appropriate practices provided the person has the requisite licensure and adheres to the respective guidelines and regulations set by the state. Thus, the only choice that directly represents a failure to comply with the act is the misrepresentation of licensure.