Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC)

Provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in your communities with the 100% online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) degree program at National University. NU’s comprehensive program will prepare you to work with clients and groups from diverse backgrounds and assist with their mental health needs.

NU’s MSCMHC curriculum gives you an in-depth exploration of counseling theories, ethical and legal standards, and evidence-based approaches, diagnosis, and treatments. You’ll gain the theoretical and practical knowledge you need to work in a variety of professional counseling settings.

Make an Impact in Mental Health Counseling

Throughout NU’S MSCMHC program, you’ll study topics related to social justice, advocacy, and the equity of treatment. You’ll also discover the different ways you can advance your counseling profession.

National University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is currently working to be in compliance with 2024 CACREP standards, in order to pursue accreditation.

For information on faculty within the JFK School of Psychology and Social Sciences, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Meet-our-Faculty_JFKSOPSS.pdf
For admission criteria into the MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/admissions/
For information on degree requirements or transfer credits, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/admissions/undergraduate/transfer-information/
For commonly asked questions, please visit: https://www.nu.edu/faq/
For information on NU’s accreditation: https://www.nu.edu/our-university/accreditation/
For information on program costs, tuition, and financial aid, please visit:
https://www.nu.edu/admissions/financial-aid-and-scholarships/
https://www.nu.edu/admissions/tuition-2/

Degree Requirements

Credit Hours: 60
Courses: 20

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) degree program can be completed in 60 credits. Each course runs 8 weeks, except for the Practicum and Internships courses, which run 12 weeks. You’ll receive 3 semester credits per course.

PRogram Requirements

9 Courses

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will be introduced to professional, clinical mental health counseling with respect to the multiple roles and functions counselors serve in their respective communities, specialty areas, and the multidisciplinary health care system. You will be provided with introductory knowledge about the counseling profession including credentialing, professional organizations, standards, and accreditation. In this course you will also be provided with an orientation to the University and to the essential skills needed to pursue a Master of Science degree in clinical mental health counseling. Graduate-level skills, such as goal building, time management, academic integrity, effective use of the University Library, the use of APA form and style in professional communication, and critical thinking skills will be introduced.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will focus on ethical and legal issues as they relate to practice of clinical mental health counseling. You will be introduced to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association and learn to apply the Code of Ethics in various counseling situations with diverse populations. In this course you will also explore the importance of counseling supervision and maintaining professional dispositions. Emphasis will be placed on the evolving role of counselors in relation to scope and practice and the increase of technology in the profession.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will study the theories of individuals across the lifespan. Specifically, the students will learn of the myriad of factors that affect human development, including: biological, neurological, and physiological factors. Focus will also be placed on the systemic and environmental factors that affect human development. Emphasis will be placed on ethically and culturally sensitive approaches to enhance wellness and resilience. The unique impact of crisis and trauma on human development will be investigated.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will be introduced to the multicultural counseling competencies. You will also learn about the models and theories foundational to multicultural counseling. Specific multicultural populations will be explored with attention focused on multicultural evidenced based treatments. You will be challenged to confront personal biases and obstacles to multicultural orientation.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will learn about the foundational theories and models of counseling and psychotherapy. You will also learn about the importance of the person of the counselor and multicultural competence. Additionally, you will learn how to apply these foundational theories to different cases through your reading and study. You will be introduced to conceptualizing clients from a systems perspective. Finally, you will also begin developing an integrative personal model of counseling.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will develop basic counseling skills essential to creating a therapeutic working alliance with clients. Evidenced-based counseling strategies for prevention and intervention will be introduced. Initial skill development for clinical interviews and case conceptualization will be explored. Additionally, you will understand the core characteristics of an effective counselor. In this course you will also explore the impact of technology on counseling techniques.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will be introduced to a foundational aspect of professional counseling: career counseling. You will explore the theories and models of career development. You will develop an understanding of the interconnectedness of work, mental health, and other life roles. This course will also provide you with the opportunity to recognize areas of advocacy with diverse clients in career and educational development. Developing strategies to address career needs in an ethically and culturally relevant manner will also be an area of focus.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will focus on the importance of research in the counseling profession. You will also understand how to critique counseling literature to help inform practice. Additionally, you will explore the use of ethically and culturally relevant strategies for conducting research and program evaluation. You will be able to understand the qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods used in research and program evaluation. The focus will also be on identifying evidence-based counseling practices and conducting needs assessments.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will focus on understanding the theoretical foundations of group counseling and group work. You will explore the dynamics of group process, including the stages of group development. You will continue to develop the personal and professional characteristics of a counselor, particularly those essential to the group leader. This course will introduce you to the components of groups in various setting and explore ethically and culturally relevant strategies for designing and facilitating groups.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will focus on the historical perspective of assessment and testing in counseling. You will learn basic concepts of testing for both group and individuals. You will also learn to apply statistical principles in the selection of testing and assessments. In this course you will also explore the importance of using ethically and culturally relevant strategies for administering and interpreting assessments and tests. Emphasis will be placed on the use of assessments and tests in various domains.

3 Credit Hours

This course will introduce you to the classifications of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classifications of Diseases. You will learn the process of diagnosing, the structure of the DSM, and concepts related to differential diagnoses. You will also learn about the scope and practice of counselors in the diagnostic process.

3 Credit Hours

This course will challenge you to synthesize the concepts of clinical assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. You will learn how these concepts work together to inform evidence-based treatment. You will utilize case conceptualization models to develop treatment plans. You will also explore various forms of documentation for clinical mental health counseling.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will learn strategies for crisis intervention and trauma-informed care. You will also explore psychological first aid and community-based strategies for crisis and trauma counseling. This course will discuss abuse, crisis, disasters, and trauma and their effect on diverse populations. This course will also focus on the impact of abuse, crisis, and trauma on individuals with mental health diagnoses.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will be required to complete supervised counseling practicum experiences for a minimum of 100 clock hours in your community. You will complete at least 40 clock hours of direct service with actual clients that contributes to the development of counseling skills. You will have weekly synchronous supervision with a counseling faculty member for two hours a week for 12 weeks. You will have opportunities to use theory and counseling skills in a community setting while working with diverse clients and to practice interviews and documentation in clinical practice.

Elective Course 1

3 Credit Hours

After successful completion of a clinical mental health practicum, you will continue your supervised counseling experience. In this course you will earn at least 300 clock hours of supervised counseling internship with clients in a clinical mental health setting. You will complete at least 120 clock hours of direct service with actual clients. You will have weekly synchronous supervision with a counseling faculty member for two hours a week for 12 weeks. You will have opportunities to use biopsychosocial history and assessments as you manage a caseload. You will practice advocacy and interface with the legal system on behalf of clients.

3 Credit Hours

In this course you will explore the history and development of addictions counseling. You will also learn about the theories and models of addictions counseling. Neurobiological and medical foundation in relation to the ethology of addictions will be explored. You will also be introduced to motivational interviewing as a foundational treatment for addictions counseling. This course will help you to develop a foundational knowledge about process and behavioral addictions and understand common co-occurring disorders.

Elective Course 2

3 Credit Hours

After successful completion of the first internship experience, you will continue your supervised counseling experience. In this course you will earn at least 300 clock hours of supervised counseling internship with clients in a clinical mental health setting. You will complete at least 120 clock hours of direct service with actual clients. You will have weekly synchronous supervision with a counseling faculty member for two hours a week for 12 weeks. You will have opportunities to use biopsychosocial history and assessment as you conceptualize cases and implement evidence-based techniques. You will practice termination skills when closing cases.

Elective Course 3

Career Outlook

Data Source: The career outcomes data presented is sourced from Lightcast, which provides insights based on real-time job postings, public datasets, and analytics. Lightcast derives its data from sources such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), and the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES). While accurate and reliable, this data reflects general labor market trends and may not represent individual outcomes or specific local conditions. For more details on Lightcast’s methodology, visit their Data Overview.

Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:

Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.

Median Salary:

$57,239 annual +19% above US average

Job Openings:

13,292 past year

Salary Range:

Low
$36,589
Medium
$57,239
High
$104,991

Most desired skills

Mental Health
Social Work
Behavioral Health
Psychology
Treatment Planning
Crisis Intervention
Case Management

Top companies hiring for this role

Elevance Health
Telecare
Center For Social Dynamics
Kaiser Permanente
Wellpath
United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Centene

Assist other social and human service providers in providing client services in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation, or social work, including support for families. May assist clients in identifying and obtaining available benefits and social and community services. May assist social workers with developing, organizing, and conducting programs to prevent and resolve problems relevant to substance abuse, human relationships, rehabilitation, or dependent care.

Median Salary:

$41,467 annual -13% below US average

Job Openings:

56,581 past year

Salary Range:

Low
$30,528
Medium
$41,467
High
$62,676

Most desired skills

Social Work
Case Management
Human Services
Mental Health
Crisis Intervention
Life Skills Development
Psychology

Top companies hiring for this role

State of Nebraska
The Salvation Army
YMCA
World YWCA
Aramark
Asset Living
Catholic Charities USA

Program Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of National University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) degree program, you’ll be able to:

Interpret ethical and legal standards within professional counselors’ roles and functions
Examine advocacy and social justice theories of social, cultural diversity in counseling
Apply models of human growth and development in the practice of counseling
Apply theories and models of career development
Demonstrate essential foundational counseling skills
Employ group work principles in practice of group counseling
Select appropriate assessment and testing rolls for use in counseling practice
Implement program evaluation and evidence-based practice using relevant scholarly work and research methods
Demonstrate the practice dimensions of clinical mental health counseling

Admissions

Next start date: Every Monday

Year-round enrollment

Transfer Students Welcome

More about transferring to NU.

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To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.

Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.

To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.

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Scholarships and Financial Aid

National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.

Helping You Save Money

1:1 assistance for navigating the financial aid process, generous transfer credit policy, needs-based tuition reduction grant, and $77+ million in scholarships.

National University Key Grant

Do you qualify for a needs-based scholarship? Learn more about the NU Key Grant Scholarship and other scholarship opportunities to unlock the door to your dreams!

Accreditations

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.

Why Choose Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) at National University

We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.

Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.

“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”

Francisco R.,

Class of 2016

Accelerate Your Career With NU

At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.

Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.

man and woman in graduation cap and gown smiling among other graduating students

FAQs

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSCMHC) degree requires a minimum of 60 credits hours at the graduate level beyond the bachelor’s degree.

The MSCMHC program has the following graduation requirements:

A minimum of 60 credit hours of graduate instructions must be completed through NU.
Successful completion of all required degree program courses with a Grade Point Average of 3.0 (letter grade of B) or higher.
Official documents on file for basis of admission: a conferred bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution.
Official transcripts on file for all transfer credit hours accepted by the University.
All financial obligations must be met before the student will be issued their complimentary diploma and/or degree posted transcript.

Beyond these standard graduation requirements, the MSCMHC has the following degree requirements:

Online Video Conferencing – In order to complete some of the course requirements and to participate in the online supervision process that is used during the practicum course and the internship courses, students are required to participate in several online video conferencing meetings throughout their time in the program. To participate in these video conference sessions, students are required to own or otherwise have access to a computer, a web cam, a headset, a video recording device, and a high-speed internet connection.
Client Contact

Practicum – MSCMHC students will be required to complete 40 hours of direct client contact. Please read the practicum course description or the Clinical Training Handbook.
Internship – MSCMHC students will be required to complete 240 hours of direct client contact. Please read the internship course description or the Clinical Training Handbook.

Supervision – In conjunction with client contact, practicum and internship students have weekly interaction with supervisors that averages one hour per week of individual and/or triadic supervision throughout the internship.
Liability Insurance – Prior to beginning any clinical experience, students are required to submit proof of professional liability insurance.
Clinical Hours Tracking – The MSCMHC program uses a web-based system to document completion of clinical hours. Students, local approved clinical supervisor and NU faculty supervisors all have access to the system to support the successful completion of the clinical training requirements for the program. Students will be provided with an authorization code.

Career Potential*

The National University Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree can position you to fill key roles that include*:

Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental health counselors, clinicians, therapists, professionals
Behavioral health counselor, therapist, advocate
Counselors, therapists
Substance abuse counselors
Family counselors
Licensed mental health practitioner

Qualified graduates may also have the opportunity to progress to supervisory positions that oversee other counselors, or earn director titles. Patient or client advocacy is also an important part of a counselor’s role within integrated care settings. In addition, multilingual skills may be needed by employers to serve diverse cultural audiences.

*SOURCE: Emsi Labor Analyst- Report. Emsi research company homepage at https://www.economicmodeling.com/company/ (Report viewed: 7/06/2022). DISCLAIMER: The data provided is for Informational purposes only. Emsi data and analysis utilizes government sources to provide insights on industries, demographics, employers, in-demand skills, and more to align academic programs with labor market opportunities. Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Current and prospective students should use this data with other available economic data to inform their educational decisions.

Program Disclosure

Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.

Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.

NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.

All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.

National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.