Learn More – M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Prepare to pursue professional counselor licensure through a CACREP-accredited program that combines comprehensive coursework with hands-on practicum and internship experience.
Available in Chicago, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and Online.
Take Your Next Step Toward Licensure
Fill out the form to receive information about tuition, admissions, upcoming start dates, and other program details.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)*
Time to Completion
3-4 years, depending on campus
Fieldwork Opportunities
Practicum and internship offer hands-on training
Find the CMHC Experience That’s Right For You
Each M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and offers a distinct training experience designed to prepare you to pursue professional counselor licensure.
Chicago
Community-Based Counseling Training in a Major Metro Area
• Training grounded in ethical practice, multiculturalism/social justice, and advanced clinical practice
• Preparation for counseling roles in social service agencies, mental health agencies, college counseling centers, nonprofits, private practice, and other settings
• A transformational, community-based counseling experience focused on serving underserved communities
Online
Flexible Online Learning with Hands-On Training
• Online coursework designed to support working professionals
• Two mandatory in-person residencies that prepare you for practicum and internship experiences
• A student-centered learning experience that supports personal and professional growth
Dallas
HyFlex Learning for Busy Professionals
• Preparation for trauma-informed counseling in interdisciplinary team environments
• A focus on serving diverse communities and mental health provider shortage areas
• Hybrid learning with online coursework and in-person Saturday classes
Washington, D.C.
Counseling Training for Community Impact
• Exposure to diverse communities and advocacy opportunities
• Emphasis on wellness, prevention, advocacy, and holistic care
• Training to support individuals, families, and groups across a wide range of community settings
Develop the Clinical Skills Today’s Counselors Need
Because counseling takes place across a range of settings, the program prepares you for in-person, hybrid, and telehealth care. Guided by faculty who are board-certified telebehavioral health practitioners, you will develop the practical skills and ethical awareness needed to provide effective counseling in today’s evolving clinical environment.
Choose from full-time and part-time study options to fit your schedule. You will also receive personalized guidance from a dedicated faculty member who will guide you throughout your academic journey.
Upon graduation, you will possess a broad toolkit of competencies, including:
- Counselor Identity
- Ethical and Professional Issues
- Diversity and Multiculturalism
- Diagnosis, Assessment, and Treatment Planning
- Research Methods and Program Evaluation
- Advocacy and Social Justice
The program follows CACREP standards and incorporates eight core counseling content areas recognized by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). This comprehensive preparation helps you build the academic knowledge and clinical competencies needed to pursue professional counselor licensure and begin practicing at the master’s level.
Begin your journey to become a transformative mental health professional with our M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.
*Accredited locations: Chicago, Dallas, Online, and Washington, D.C.
Career Pathways
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at The Chicago School is committed to educational experiences that provide training in mental health counseling for a variety of clinical settings, such as:
- Couples/family counseling
- Social service and mental health agencies
- College counseling centers
- Non-profit organizations
- Private practice
Focusing on three core areas of ethical practice, multiculturalism/social justice, and advanced clinical practice, the program prepares students to work with a range of diverse clientele, including those within underserved communities.
Locations
Chicago
Our flagship location offers an unrivaled education along with field experience and networking opportunities.
Dallas
Engage with like-minded colleagues and gain unique training opportunities in the greater Dallas area.
Online
The Chicago School’s online learning experience allows you to transform your life without putting it hold.
Washington, D.C.
Take on innovative fieldwork opportunities in an engaging historical and political setting.
Our Approach
The Chicago School Approach is an immersive, applied learning model focused on developing professionals who can address present challenges and anticipate future needs. It combines four core elements of The Chicago School experience—Education, Innovation, Community, and Impact—to give students a practical and solutions-oriented education.
Education
Preparing tomorrow’s integrated health professionals.
Innovation
Embracing next-gen learning and practice.
Community
Creating connection, inclusion, and belonging.
Impact
Supporting individuals, organizations, and communities.
