Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Master’s Degree Program

Take the first step to becoming a licensed professional counselor. This hands-on master’s program offers unique opportunities to apply your learning in the field, as part of a rigorous curriculum grounded in current research, program evaluation and continuous improvement. Our graduates are uniquely prepared to serve the diverse communities of Alaska and are employed by agencies throughout the state.

With digitally delivered web-based synchronous class meetings and/or asynchronous online learning modules, the master's in clinical mental health counseling offers options to fit your life. Our faculty have extensive practitioner experience, and, along with your advisors, are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll enjoy the same hands-on training experiences, collaborative learning atmosphere and personal attention.

The Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP).

What Is Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

Clinical mental health counseling combines psychotherapy with practical problem solving to help people who are struggling with emotional or behavioral issues. Clinical mental health counselors work with individuals, couples, families and children in a variety of mental health and community agencies. Some specialize in specific treatment areas, such as addiction, grief and trauma. Typical job duties of clinical mental health counselors include assessment and diagnosis, providing coping skills and strategies and referring other health professionals as appropriate.

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Quick Facts

Degree type:

  • Master of Education (M.Ed.)

Availability:

  • All courses are digitally delivered through web-based synchronous class meetings and/or asynchronous online learning modules.

Accredited by:

 

Why Study Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UAF?

We offer the only clinical mental health counseling program of its kind in Alaska. Our counseling students enjoy access to the resources of a large university, combined with the personal attention of a small college. Our graduates are sought by employers across the state for their unique knowledge and training. Here are some of the highlights of earning your master’s in clinical mental health counseling at UAF.

Engage in diverse field-based learning and research opportunities

Our clinical mental health counseling program includes a field practicum and internship at a field site working under the supervision of a licensed counselor. Many of our students publish research work with faculty and present at professional conferences.

Complete your master’s degree on a flexible schedule

Our program is entirely digitally delivered, which means our courses are offered online, either synchronously or asynchronously. Most of our classes are offered in the early evening but we are beginning to offer some classes in the afternoon to help meet student needs. In our program, you will enjoy hands-on training experiences, a collaborative learning atmosphere, and personal attention.

Earn your master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from a CACREP accredited program

Earning your degree in a program accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) may increase your employment opportunities after graduation and helps with licensure.

Gain specialized training for clinical mental health counseling careers in Alaska

We are dedicated to preparing culturally attuned counselors who can effectively serve diverse populations across Alaska. Special emphasis is placed on preparing counselors to work effectively with rural clients.

 

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

This program provides the educational foundation you’ll need to become a licensed professional counselor, as well as preparing you for other counseling careers. It’s a field that is in high demand. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is projected to grow 23% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Each state has its own unique requirements for authorization. If you are planning to seek a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings website.

Clinical mental health counseling jobs

Our graduates provide individual, couples and family counseling services, working in diverse mental health care settings across Alaska such as:

  • Community health centers
  • State and local government
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Child and family service agencies
  • Hospitals and trauma centers
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Private practice

Clinical mental health counseling salary

Based on recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is $44,630.

 

What Classes Are Required for the Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

Coursework for the master’s in clinical mental health counseling explores topics such as human development, counseling techniques, assessment and multicultural issues. All clinical mental health counseling students must also engage in practicum and internship experiences under the supervision of a licensed counselor.

Programs Related to Clinical Mental Health Counseling

 

Get Started on Your Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Take the next step toward earning your degree in clinical mental health counseling at the ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø. We have the resources to help you get started.

Talk to an Advisor

Have questions? We have one of the best advising teams of any graduate school for clinical mental health counseling in the country. Let us know how we can help.

Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? Contact us to walk through the process and make sure you maximize the credits you’ve already earned.

Apply Now and Request More Information

The master's in clinical mental health counseling program admits students one time per year. Apply by February 10th for admission to the following fall semester. Contact the UAF Counseling department for more information uaf-soe-graduate@alaska.edu.