11 Best Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Programs That Lead to Licensed Practice [2026 Guide]

The numbers tell an amazing story about mental health counseling master’s programs. Top institutions report their alumni achieving 100% employment rates. These statistics make a compelling case for anyone thinking over this fulfilling career path.

Finding the perfect clinical mental health counseling master’s program might seem daunting, but the results prove its value. The best programs showcase remarkable achievements. Students graduate on time 92% of the time, stay enrolled at 80%, and some even achieve perfect scores on the National Counselor Examination. The career prospects look bright too – 94% of graduates land jobs within six months after finishing their degree.

Your program choice is a vital step toward getting licensed. Quality programs help students reach a 54% licensure or credentialing rate. This preparation becomes essential when you want to practice in states like Florida or join prestigious groups like the Academy of Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselors.

In this guide, we get into the 11 best mental health counseling programs that prepare you for licensed practice. We’ve put together a detailed look at everything from course content to admission requirements, helping you chart your professional path forward.

1. CUNY Lehman College

Program name: Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CUNY Lehman College takes a modern approach to clinical mental health counseling education that prioritizes availability and cultural understanding. The college’s urban-focused curriculum makes it unique among mental health counseling master’s programs across the country.

Program Overview

CUNY Lehman College provides a 60-credit Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through a full-time, cohort-based program. Students can complete it in two years of year-round study. Graduates can pursue New York State licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and qualify for a limited permit in New York State right away. The program gives you the skills needed to work in various settings like private practice, substance misuse counseling, community organizations, government agencies, and healthcare facilities.

Key Features of CUNY Lehman College

The program stands out with its project-based learning approach. Students learn essential skills to address complex problems affecting individuals, families, and communities. The curriculum includes:

• A specialized multimodal approach that combines synchronous, asynchronous, and in-person instruction
• Options to choose specialty areas and develop advocacy skills
• Experiential learning activities and clinical intensives

Students work on specialized projects that promote advocacy, leadership, and equity for social justice. The program aims to develop “culturally affirming, ethical, caring, data-informed school and clinical mental health counselors with intersectional expertise”.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) accredits Lehman College. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program arranges its curriculum according to Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards while preparing its self-study. The program prepares students well for New York State licensure requirements, creating a clear path to professional practice.

Tuition and Financial Aid

New York State residents pay tuition of $5,545 per semester for full-time study or $470 per credit for part-time enrollment. Non-resident rates are $855 per credit. Students also pay these fees:

• Student Activity Fee: $98.15 (full-time) or $65.15 (part-time)
• Technology Fee: $125 (full-time) or $62.50 (part-time)
• Consolidated and Student Senate Fees: $16.45 combined

The college’s financial aid office offers various support options.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet these selective standards:

• Official transcripts showing a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA from your completed degree program
• Two recommendation letters evaluating your counseling potential
• Current resume detailing relevant experience
• 1,100-word essay responding to application questions
• Group interview for qualified applicants

The program accepts applications only for fall enrollment with a March 15 deadline.

CUNY Lehman College Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable tuition compared to private universities
• Strong focus on social justice and culturally responsive practices
• Full 60-credit curriculum meeting licensure requirements
• Cohort model promotes professional community
• Available location serving Bronx and surrounding communities

Cons:

• Full-time structure may not suit working professionals
• Fall-only admission limits entry opportunities
• Still pursuing CACREP accreditation (not yet fully accredited)
• Limited flexibility due to cohort-based progression

2. University of Florida

Program name: Master’s in Mental Health Counseling

The University of Florida’s mental health counseling master’s program excels with its detailed clinical training approach. Students get quality counseling education through extensive fieldwork at a cost that beats many similar programs nationwide.

Program Overview

The University of Florida combines a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Mental Health Counseling. This comprehensive 72-credit program takes about 2.5 years. Students take roughly 12 credits each semester. New groups start every Fall with classes limited to 15 students. This small size creates a close-knit learning environment that improves your educational journey.

Key Features of University of Florida

The program helps students become skilled at counseling in various areas. Students learn specialized techniques in crisis intervention, substance use treatment, personal trauma healing, and community-focused counseling. The curriculum includes 15 credits of fieldwork—making up more than one-fifth of what you need to graduate.

Students practice at the UF Couple and Family Clinic under faculty and advanced student supervision. This hands-on experience prepares them to tackle real-life challenges after graduation.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The program now focuses on preparing graduates for counseling licensure in Florida and clinical membership in the Academy of Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselors, though it was CACREP-accredited before. Students learn professional skills to diagnose, treat, refer, and prevent mental and emotional disorders.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Graduate students in 2025-26 will pay:

• In-state students: $12,740 per year for tuition and fees
• Out-of-state students: $30,134 per year for tuition and fees

The UF College of Education gives out over 150 scholarships each year through EduGator Central, usually in Fall semester. Current and future students can apply for these opportunities.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. college or university (or equivalent)
• At least 3.0 GPA in your last 60 undergraduate credits
• Good grades in any previous graduate work

GRE scores are no longer required, making it easier for many to apply. The Fall 2026 deadline has passed, but you can apply for Fall 2027 until November 1, 2026.

University of Florida Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lower tuition than similar programs
• Detailed 72-credit curriculum with substantial fieldwork
• Choose full-time or part-time study
• Free clinical services at the UF Couple and Family Clinic

Cons:

• Fixed group schedule limits flexibility
• Year-round intensive schedule affects work-life balance
• Program focuses on Florida license requirements
• Limited spots make admission competitive

3. Johns Hopkins University

Program name: Master of Science Degree in Counseling

Johns Hopkins University’s mental health counseling master’s programs emphasize evidence-based practices and social justice principles in its CACREP-accredited curriculum. This prestigious program prepares graduates to make an immediate effect in various counseling settings.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Counseling at Johns Hopkins offers two distinct concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Students can complete either full-time or part-time study options that require 60 graduate credits. The program follows a nationally recognized curriculum that meets national and state standards. Students learn to support their respective fields. Graduation requires passing the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE).

Key Features of Johns Hopkins University

The program stands out through its steadfast dedication to developing counselors who apply theoretical, empirical, and practical frameworks. These frameworks help client growth in a global society. The curriculum highlights:

• Social justice principles, advocacy, and multiculturalism
• Development of evidence-based, culturally responsive counseling approaches
• Integration of innovative research with excellent didactic instruction

Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates have achieved a 100% licensure examination pass rate. The program maintains an 89% completion rate.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits the Master of Science in Counseling program with both concentrations. This accreditation will give students a program that meets rigorous standards for counselor preparation. Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduates meet academic requirements to begin the licensure process in Maryland and many other states.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Johns Hopkins University’s tuition costs remain competitive despite the institution’s prestige. Select students receive merit-based scholarships upon admission. The university also provides grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required. Candidates must submit:

• Online application form with USD 80 fee
• Resume/CV
• Two recommendation letters
• Official transcripts
• Essay addressing personal and professional experiences

Selected candidates must attend a half-day interview.

Johns Hopkins University Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Prestigious institution with strong reputation
• CACREP accreditation ensuring quality standards
• 100% licensure examination pass rate
• Flexible full-time or part-time options

Cons:

• Higher tuition costs compared to public institutions
• Competitive admission process
• Limited admission cycles
• Intensive curriculum requirements

4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Program name: Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign combines psychological science with cultural diversity training in its mental health counseling master’s program. Students can prepare themselves for immediate practice or doctoral studies.

Program Overview

UIUC’s Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling is a two-year, 61-credit hour program that students complete in person. The first year includes a 100-hour practicum (about 7 hours weekly), followed by a 600-hour internship (roughly 18 hours weekly) in the second year. Students learn core psychological concepts alongside specialized clinical training to become professional counselors right after graduation.

Key Features of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The program excels in psychology training and cultural diversity practice throughout life stages. Students choose one of these three specialization areas for their practicum:

• Mental Health Counseling
• Career Counseling
• Counseling and Developmental Sciences

Each specialization helps students develop expertise in their chosen field. The curriculum blends applied theory with preparation for licensure or doctoral studies after graduation.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

UIUC’s Counseling Psychology Program has managed to keep its American Psychological Association accreditation since 1985. The program also holds accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Students who complete either mental health counseling or career counseling tracks can qualify for Illinois Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure.

Tuition and Financial Aid

In-state students pay approximately $14,474 per year. Out-of-state and international students pay more at $31,266 annually. The program runs independently with few financial aid options. Master’s students cannot access the assistantships typically given to doctoral students, though they might find other campus jobs (limited to 9 hours weekly).

Admission Requirements

You’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Resume/CV
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Rich applied psychological theory
• Three specialization choices
• APA accreditation since 1985
• Graduates can pursue Illinois LPC licensure

Cons:

• No paid assistantships for MS students
• Most tuition waivers don’t apply
• Competitive admission process
• Self-funded program with limited financial support

5. CUNY Baruch College

Program name: Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling

CUNY Baruch College stands out as the most affordable institution nationwide for a master’s degree in mental health counseling, according to University Headquarters.

Program Overview

Baruch’s Weissman School of Arts and Sciences offers a detailed 60-credit Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling through a cohort model. Students progress together through a lock-step sequence with similar coursework. The program equips graduates to work as professional practitioners in clinics, hospitals, counseling centers, outreach programs, and private practice. Students become generalists in mental health counseling while specializing in health counseling.

Key Features of CUNY Baruch College

The program combines academic coursework with supervised clinical internship training. The core team brings real-world expertise as active clinicians and researchers who work in clinical settings, medical centers, hospitals, agencies, and private practice. Their teaching philosophy emphasizes steadfast dedication to learning and professional growth. Students learn through class discussions, role-playing, small group work, and case study analysis.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

Baruch College has managed to keep its accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) since 1968. The New York State Education Department has approved the Mental Health Counseling program, which meets all state requirements. Graduates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised post-degree experience before taking the New York State licensure exam.

Tuition and Financial Aid

New York State residents pay $5,545 per semester (full-time) or $470 per credit (part-time). Out-of-state and international students pay $855 per credit. The program costs $24,898.40 for in-state students and approximately $54,018.40 for out-of-state students. The program received $195,000 in state funding to expand paid internships and increase scholarships for underrepresented and multilingual students.

Admission Requirements

Fall applications must reach admissions by December 1. Students need prerequisite courses in Abnormal Psychology, Statistics, Research Methods, and two Psychology electives. A personal statement, three recommendation letters, and transcripts complete the application process.

CUNY Baruch College Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Most affordable mental health counseling master’s program nationwide
• Faculty brings extensive clinical and research experience
• Lock-step cohort model promotes community
• New state funding for internships and scholarships

Cons:

• Full-time enrollment only limits flexibility for working professionals
• Lock-step sequence restricts course selection
• Competitive admission requires specific psychology prerequisites
• Licensure needs 3,000 supervised hours after graduation

6. Boston College

Program name: Master’s in Mental Health Counseling

Boston College blends cultural humility and social justice principles in its mental health counseling program. Students can pursue licensed practice through clinical training and specialized concentrations.

Program Overview

Boston College’s Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling comes with two tracks: a 60-credit licensure track and a 48-credit non-licensure track. The 60-credit program meets Massachusetts educational requirements for Mental Health Counselor licensure. The 48-credit option prepares students who want to pursue advanced studies in psychology or counseling-related fields. Students gain ground experience through integrated internship programs at partner organizations throughout Boston.

Key Features of Boston College

The program shows strong outcomes with a 92% on-time graduation rate, 80% retention rate, and 54% alumni licensure or credentialing rate. Students can choose from these concentrations after enrollment:

• Child & Family Mental Health and Wellness
• Positive Youth Development
• Trauma Stress Studies & Intervention Responses

Students start with foundation courses in their first year. The second year involves practicum and internship experiences ranging from 720-900 hours. This detailed training creates paths for roles like mental health counselor, behavioral health specialist, and emergency services clinician.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) accredits the program. Graduates need 3,360 hours of supervised experience before they can apply for Massachusetts LMHC licensure.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Each credit costs $1,834. The Lynch School distributes more than $10.8 million in financial aid yearly. Over 70% of master’s students receive funding through scholarships or assistantships.

Admission Requirements

Students should complete foundational psychology courses, including Abnormal Psychology. The program looks at how well applicants match with program values. About 800 students apply yearly for 90 available positions.

Boston College Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Multiple concentration options for specialization
• Strong on-time graduation and retention rates
• Social justice focus embedded throughout curriculum

Cons:

• Comprehensive exam required for graduation
• Higher cost compared to public institutions
• Fall-only program starts

7. University of Miami

Program name: M.S.Ed. in Mental Health Counseling

University of Miami’s mental health counseling master’s program emphasizes cultural responsiveness. Students learn research-informed, ethical practices that help them work with clients from all backgrounds.

Program Overview

The Mental Health Counseling program at University of Miami requires 60 credit hours that align with Florida’s academic requirements for registered intern status. The curriculum has 13 core courses (39 credits), 15 credits of practicum, and two electives (6 credits). Students complete the program in two years full-time (12 credits per semester plus summers) or three years part-time (6 credits per semester plus summers). Regular classes run from 5-7:40pm, which works well for working professionals.

Key Features of University of Miami

The program teaches graduates to meet mental health needs in a variety of communities. Students become proficient in DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, cultural humility, and evidence-based treatment implementation. The curriculum requires 700 practicum hours, with 280 hours of direct clinical service. Students need a Time-to-Track subscription to document their clinical hours and must secure professional liability insurance before starting practicum.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) has accredited the program through December 2032. The program satisfies Florida’s licensure requirements. Students complete 1,000 total clinical practicum and internship hours by graduation. Graduates work under supervision for about one year as LMC associates before getting their independent practice license.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Graduate tuition costs approximately $63,456 per year for 2025-2026. Students can access several financial aid options through the Financial Aid Office, including student loans, tuition discounts, program scholarships, and assistantships.

Admission Requirements

A minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA is required. Applicants must submit official transcripts, three recommendation letters, a personal statement, resume/CV, and complete an admissions interview. TOEFL or IELTS scores are required for international applicants.

University of Miami Pros and Cons

Pros:

• MPCAC accreditation guarantees quality standards
• Clear path to Florida licensure
• Evening classes work well for working students
• A chance to pursue doctoral programs after graduation

Cons:

• Higher tuition than public institutions
• Focus mainly on Florida licensure requirements
• Practicum requirements need flexible scheduling
• Few guaranteed assistantships for financial support

8. Fairfield University

Program name: MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Fairfield University stands out among clinical mental health counseling master’s programs with its state-of-the-art training facilities and exceptional graduate outcomes.

Program Overview

Students complete the 60-credit Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in 2.5-3 years. The curriculum provides detailed knowledge through courses in counseling theories, fundamental skills, group counseling, and ethical codes. Students who already hold relevant master’s degrees can pursue a Sixth-Year Certificate option.

Key Features of Fairfield University

The program maintains a 100% employment rate at 1-year follow-up. Students learn at the Counselor Education Lab and Training Center, which features observation rooms with two-way mirrors and iPad technology for faculty monitoring. The university’s graduates consistently achieve above-average scores on the National Counselor Examination.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

Fairfield earned its distinction as Connecticut’s first CACREP-accredited counseling program in 1986, with accreditation now extending through March 2026. The program’s curriculum meets all requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) status in Connecticut.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Each credit hour costs $940, with total expenses reaching approximately $22,560 over 30 months. A one-time technology fee of $225 applies to all students.

Admission Requirements

The program requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.67 GPA. Candidates must submit personal statements, resumes, and two recommendation letters.

Fairfield University Pros and Cons

Pros:

• State-of-the-art training facility
• Perfect employment placement record
• Long-standing CACREP accreditation

Cons:

• Connecticut-focused licensure preparation
• Limited financial aid options
• Six-year completion requirement

9. George Washington University

Program name: Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

George Washington University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is 39 years old. It combines challenging academic work with hands-on clinical experiences. The program stands as one of the country’s trailblazing mental health counseling master’s programs.

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Education and Human Development in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program requires 60 credits. Students learn to work in various professional settings like social services agencies, employment centers, substance abuse programs, and private practice. Summer term accepts full-time students while Fall term welcomes both part-time and full-time enrollments. Students experience a mix of classroom learning, lab practice, and field training that leads to complete clinical experience.

Key Features of George Washington University

The program balances counseling research and practice effectively. Students get real-world experience at the university’s Community Counseling Services Center. This fully equipped training facility lets them provide counseling services under supervision. The coursework focuses on working with diverse groups and helps students develop strategies that promote social, emotional, psychological, and physical health of individuals, families, communities, and organizations.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The program has managed to keep its Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation since 1984, now extended through 2030. This credential helps graduates pursue National Certified Counselor (NCC) certification and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) status. The program boasts a 100% pass rate on the National Counselor Examination.

Tuition and Financial Aid

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program costs about $2,000 per credit hour. The total program expense reaches around $120,000. Merit-based scholarships are available to qualified admitted students.

Admission Requirements

Students need a bachelor’s degree, resume, official transcripts, a 500-750 word statement of purpose, and two recommendation letters. While preferred, the GRE remains optional. An interview gives admissions staff a full picture of each candidate.

George Washington University Pros and Cons

Pros:

• 39-year CACREP accreditation history
• 95% of graduates find jobs within six months
• Rich clinical training opportunities

Cons:

• High tuition costs
• Tough admission process
• Demanding curriculum requirements

10. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Program name: Master of Professional Studies in Integrated Behavioral Health

The University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Master of Professional Studies in Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) takes a unique approach. Their program addresses mental health and substance use disorders together.

Program Overview

Students need 60 credits to complete the IBH program, which prepares counselors to treat clients with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring disorders. The degree allows up to five years for completion, though most students finish in three years with full-time study. The program comes in both online and hybrid formats to fit different student schedules.

Key Features of University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Students learn both theoretical foundations and hands-on clinical skills in integrative treatment. The program requires 880 hours of supervised internship at approved agencies. Students become skilled at counseling theories through case-based learning within a client-centered framework.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The program meets educational requirements for three Minnesota licenses:

• Minnesota Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (MNLADC)
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
• Minnesota Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

Tuition and Financial Aid

Full-time resident students pay $10,640 per semester for 6-14 credits, while non-residents pay $16,776. The National Health Service Corps helps graduates with loan repayment if they work in approved substance use disorder sites.

Admission Requirements

A bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA minimum is required. Students don’t need to take the GRE. International students must have status that allows part-time study and work.

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Pros and Cons

Pros: Complete curriculum for dual disorders; multiple paths to licensure; flexible study options. Cons: Minnesota licensure is the main focus; heavy internship requirements; few financial aid choices.

11. Northwestern University

Program name: MA in Counseling

Northwestern University provides a CACREP-accredited online Master of Arts in Counseling program. This program caters to aspiring mental health professionals who need flexibility without compromising academic standards.

Program Overview

The counseling program at Northwestern guides students toward Licensed Professional Counselor eligibility in Illinois. Students can choose from multiple completion pathways: accelerated (six quarters), traditional (nine quarters), or part-time (twelve quarters). The Bridge to Counseling Program helps students with limited clinical background by providing introductory coursework before they begin the standard curriculum.

Key Features of Northwestern University

Students learn theoretical knowledge while developing practical skills. The program has core coursework in human sexuality and psychopharmacology, and students can specialize in child or adolescent counseling. Northwestern’s faculty members help students secure clinical placements that provide hands-on experience.

Accreditation and Licensure Path

The program maintains Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accreditation. Graduates qualify for the Illinois Licensed Professional Counselor credential. Additional post-license requirements are needed to practice independently as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition rates depend on credit load. Qualified applicants can access limited scholarships and partner organization benefits.

Admission Requirements

The program accepts U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a bachelor’s degree. Applicants must submit recommendation letters, transcripts, resume, personal statement, and complete a $50 background check.

Northwestern University Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Flexible online format with multiple pacing options
• CACREP accreditation ensuring quality standards
• Specialization opportunities in child/adolescent counseling

Cons:

• Limited to domestic students
• Required in-person immersions in Illinois
• State-specific licensure focus

Get Started Today

Your professional future hinges on picking the right mental health counseling master’s program. This guide shows some amazing programs with stellar track records. Fairfield University boasts 100% employment rates, while Johns Hopkins and George Washington University students pass their licensure exams without fail. These numbers show how valuable quality clinical mental health counseling education can be.

The best programs share some key features. Most need about 60 credit hours of coursework plus extensive hands-on practice to prepare you for licensure. They also put cultural competence and social justice at the heart of their teaching. These elements help you work effectively with diverse communities.

Money matters vary quite a bit. CUNY schools offer great value at $24,898 for New York residents, while private schools like George Washington University cost around $120,000. You’ll need to balance these costs against what each program offers.

The program’s credentials matter too. Schools like Johns Hopkins, George Washington University, and University of Florida have CACREP accreditation. This helps with getting licensed in multiple states. Regional accreditation works well if you plan to practice in specific states.

Your life situation should guide your choice. Working? University of Miami’s evening classes or University of Minnesota-Twin Cities’ flexible format might work better for you. If you want full immersion, CUNY Lehman College’s cohort-based program could be perfect.

Whatever program you pick, each one leads you toward licensed practice in this rewarding field. Mental health counseling keeps growing, and these programs have a great track record of preparing job-ready graduates. It takes time, effort, and money, but the chance to change lives through therapy makes it worth thinking about.