Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Program Overview

Shenandoah University's Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a hybrid program that prepares students to practice counseling with diverse clientele and diagnoses. The program emphasizes social justice, cultural competency, and evidence-based practices, and offers opportunities for research and collaboration. Graduates are prepared for licensure exams and entry-level positions in various counseling settings.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Name: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Offered by: Shenandoah University, Division of Counselor Education
• Program Focus: Prepares students to practice counseling with diverse clientele and diagnoses, introducing ethical and legal foundations.
• Delivery Mode: Hybrid (online and in-person)
• Program Length: 3 years (full-time) or 4 years (part-time)
• Program Focus: Develops students' theoretical orientation through coursework, practicum, and internships.
• Objectives:
• Equip graduates with a breadth of knowledge and skills for prevention, intervention, and advocacy in clinical mental health settings.
• Cultivate a professional counselor identity and ethical disposition aligned with the ACA Code of Ethics.
• Foster the ability to critically evaluate research and apply it to evidence-based practices.
• Promote the development of self-care and professional quality of life for practitioners.

Outline:

• Year One:
• Full-time:
• Professional Counseling Ethics
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Counseling Theory
• Basic Counseling Skills
• Group Counseling
• Lifespan Development
• Addiction Counseling
• Grief, Loss, Trauma, and Crisis
• Multicultural Counseling
• Human Sexuality
• Part-time:
• Professional Counseling Ethics
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Counseling Theory
• Basic Counseling Skills
• Group Counseling
• Human Sexuality
• Addiction Counseling
• Year Two:
• Full-time:
• Systems Concepts in Counseling
• Individual Practicum
• Diagnostic Processes
• Research Seminar I
• Group Practicum
• Elective
• Research Seminar II
• Assessment Processes
• Field Placement I
• Part-time:
• Lifespan Development
• Multicultural Counseling
• Group Counseling
• Diagnostic Processes in CMHC
• Elective
• Grief, Loss, Trauma, and Crisis Counseling
• Individual Practicum
• Systems Concepts in Counseling
• Research Seminar I
• Group Practicum
• Assessment Processes
• Career Counseling
• Year Three:
• Full-time:
• Research Seminar III
• Career Counseling
• Field Placement II
• Part-time:
• Research Seminar II
• Field Placement I
• Research Seminar III
• Field Placement II
• Year Four (part-time only):
• Career Counseling
• Field Placement I
• Research Seminar III
• Field Placement II

Assessment:

• Coursework:
• Assignments
• Exams
• Group projects
• Case studies
• Research papers
• Presentations
• Practicum and Internship:
• Supervisor evaluations
• Recorded client sessions
• Case presentations
• Reflective journals
• Clinical skills demonstrations
• Comprehensive Exams:
• Written component
• Oral component

Teaching:

• Instructional Methods:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Group discussions
• Case studies
• Role-playing
• Simulations
• Experiential learning activities
• Faculty:
• Experienced professionals with expertise in various areas of mental health counseling.
• Strong academic credentials and practical experience.
• Commitment to student success and professional development.
• Unique Approaches:
• Emphasis on social justice and cultural competency in counseling.
• Integration of research and evidence-based practices.
• Focus on developing strong ethical and professional identities.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths:
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Mental Health Counselor
• Addiction Counselor
• School Counselor
• Career Counselor
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Private Practice Therapist
• College/University Counselor
• Community Mental Health Agency Counselor
• Job Outlook:
• Expected to grow 18% in the next year.
• Average salary: $49,710
• Some licensed professional counselors in private practice can earn around $90,000.
• Program Prepares Graduates for:
• Licensure exams
• Entry-level positions in various counseling settings
• Advanced graduate studies in counseling or related fields

Other:

• Admission Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• Personal statement.
• Interview.
• Program Cost:
• Tuition and fees vary depending on residency status and program length.
• Financial aid options are available.
• Application Deadline:
• Rolling admissions with deadlines prior to the start of each semester.
• Program Highlights:
• Small class sizes
• Individualized attention
• Focus on practical skills and professional development
• Strong faculty mentorship
• Opportunities for research and collaboration
• State-of-the-art facilities