What is Counseling Psychology and What Does a Counseling Psychologist Do?
Counseling psychology provides clients of all ages with psychotherapy that helps them alleviate stress, improve their well-being, resolve crises and function in a more healthful manner.
Counseling psychology is similar to clinical psychology, the difference being that clinical psychology normally only treats patients with psychological problems serious enough to require institutional care, while counseling psychology normally treats clients who aren’t institutionalized.
Counseling psychologists specialize in treating clients with mental or emotional issues related to their daily life, such as adjusting to changes in marital status, career or family life. There doesn’t have to be “something wrong with” a person who seeks out a counseling psychologist.
Counseling psychologists are trained in treating serious conditions, so they at times take on patients with serious disorders, though they’re more apt to refer them to a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist. Counseling psychologists aren’t usually allowed to prescribe or administer pharmaceutical, leaving that job to psychiatrists. Some of the most common issues that counselors address include:
- Physical disabilities
- Stress management
- Family problems
- Issues from childhood
- Substance abuse
- Adjustments to a new social situation
- Personality dysfunction
- Work issues
- Depression an danger management
- Rehabilitation from injury
- Eating disorders
Counseling psychologists are normally trained in dozens of therapeutic techniques, such as:
- Psychotherapy
- Behavioral interventions
- Systemic counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Mild anxiety disorders
- Trauma management
- Organizational consulting
- Family counseling
- Group therapy
Counselors are trained to handle a wide variety of problems, but some counselors specialize in dealing with a certain type of issue (like substance abuse or marital problems), while others specialize in treating a certain age group (like adolescents).
Some counselors lean toward a certain philosophical approach to psychotherapy, such as behavioral, cognitive, analytical (Jungian), psychoanalytical (Freudian), humanistic (Maslow) or Adlerian.
What is a Counseling Psychology Degree?
Candidates need to start their post-secondary education by getting a four-year bachelor’s degree, preferably a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in clinical psychology. A bachelor’s degree is enough to get some counseling jobs as a social worker, but not to get licensed as a counseling psychologist.
The aim of undergraduate programs in clinical psychology is to provide general courses in general and clinical psychology to provide students with a well-rounded foundation. Here are some recommended undergraduate subjects for students to consider:
- Abnormal psychology
- Experimental psychology
- Social psychology
- Developmental psychology
- Health psychology
- Forensic psychology
- Cognition and learning
- Behavioral analysis
- Human psychophysiology
- Child psychopathology
Undergraduate students who plan to start a private practice should consider taking a business class.
Graduate coursework includes core classes in psychology and specialized courses in counseling, human lifespan development, vocational psychology, psychological assessment, statistics, consultation, supervision and psychopathology.
Counselors can work in social work with a two-year master’s degree, but in many cases only under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
Becoming a licensed counseling psychologist requires getting a doctorate degree in psychology, preferably a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree in counseling psychology. A doctor’s degree requires an addition two years after getting a master’s degree, plus at least a year of internship, where they train under a licensed psychologist.
Best Counseling Psychology Master’s Programs
Framingham State University
Framingham State University is in Framingham, Massachusetts. It is a public institution that offers a four-year education in campus and online formats. The university holds accreditation from the New England Commission on Higher Education. The institution has an acceptance rate of 79%. A total of 4,876 students are enrolled. Its retention rate is 69%.
The university offers a Master of Arts with a concentration in Counseling Psychology-Licensure. This program requires 60 credits for graduation. The cost for each course is $1,390. The program includes basic study in counseling methods, modern psychological theories, and research. As part of the final program requirement, students must set up an internship at a site approved by the department or at an affiliated location. After completing the degree, graduates may qualify to become licensed mental health counselors.
To gain admission, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. They must also have a 2.8 overall GPA, a 3.0 GPA in undergraduate psychology coursework, and GRE or GMAT scores. The test score requirement is waived for applicants who have a 3.0 overall GPA.
Framingham State University reports 100% online enrollment. The average graduate tuition for in-state students is $1,680. The average graduate tuition for out-of-state students is $7,050.
Bowie State University
Bowie State University is located in Bowie, Maryland. It is a public four-year institution with a campus-based learning format. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The school has an acceptance rate of 81%. A total of 6,250 students are enrolled. Its retention rate is 77%. The university also reports 99% online enrollment.
The university offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. This program requires 48 credits for completion. The average cost per credit is $448 for in-state students and $730 for out-of-state students. The program includes 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours. Students study psychological theories, advanced human growth and development, drug and alcohol counseling, and family counseling.
For admission, applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field with a 2.75 GPA. Students who did not major in psychology must complete 12 undergraduate credits in social sciences. Applicants must also provide three letters of recommendation and a letter of interest or a personal statement.
The average graduate tuition is $7,614 for in-state students and $12,762 for out-of-state students.
California State University-Bakersfield
California State University-Bakersfield is in Bakersfield, California. It is a public four-year institution that offers study options on campus and online. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission. The school has an acceptance rate of 78%. A total of 11,745 students are enrolled. The retention rate is 83%. The university also reports 100% online enrollment.
The university offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. This program requires 60 credits for graduation. It meets California’s educational requirements for licensed marriage and family therapists and licensed professional clinical counselors. The curriculum gives attention to counseling theories, strong treatment methods, and cultural diversity.
For admission, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. They must also present a 3.2 GPA in the last 60 hours of study. Before starting the program, accepted students must complete six undergraduate psychology courses. These courses include abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, and introductory statistics.
The average cost for in-state students ranges from $4,164-$7,176 per year. For out-of-state students, the university adds $264 per quarter or $396 per semester. The average graduate tuition is $7,176 for in-state students and $16,680 for out-of-state students.
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, California. It is a private four-year institution that offers learning on campus and online. The university is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission. The school has an acceptance rate of 51%. A total of 8,616 students are enrolled. The retention rate is 93%. The university reports 3% online enrollment.
Santa Clara University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology. Students can complete this program in three years. The degree requires 90 credits for graduation. The cost per unit is $701. This program prepares graduates for licensure as marriage and family therapists or licensed professional clinical counselors.
The program includes five emphasis areas. These focus on child and adolescent mental health, correction psychology, health psychology, and Latino counseling.
For admission, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit a statement of purpose, a current resume, and three letters of recommendation.
The average graduate tuition is $23,507 for in-state students and $23,507 for out-of-state students.
University of Kansas
The University of Kansas is in Lawrence, Kansas. It is a public four-year institution that provides study options on campus and online. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It has an acceptance rate of 91%. A total of 26,744 students attend the university. Its retention rate is 86%. The school also reports 90% online enrollment.
The university offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling. This degree requires 60 credits for graduation. The average cost per credit is $416 for in-state students and $998 for out-of-state students. The curriculum covers assessment, career development, counseling theory, group counseling, professional issues, and a practicum. To complete the program, students must finish a research project, thesis, or comprehensive exam.
For admission, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or a graduate degree with a 3.5 GPA. They must also submit transcripts, a letter of intent, a resume, and three letters of recommendation.
The average graduate tuition is $9,989 for in-state students and $23,951 for out-of-state students.
University of New Haven
The University of New Haven is located in West Haven, Connecticut. It is a private four-year institution that offers learning on campus and online. The university has an acceptance rate of 60%. A total of 9,229 students are enrolled. Its retention rate is 77%. The school reports 54% online enrollment. The average graduate tuition is $18,990 for in-state students and $18,990 for out-of-state students.
A key reason this university stands out is its preparation for careers in criminal justice. Students who want to work in this area may find strong value in the forensic mental health concentration offered within the online master’s in clinical mental health counseling.
The forensic mental health concentration requires 12 credits. It includes four courses: forensic psychology, forensic assessment, forensic treatment models, and mental health law. This area of study prepares students for counseling roles that focus on the mental health needs of incarcerated people and victims.
Students complete the other 48 credits through core classes and elective courses. These studies help students build ethical judgment, counseling methods, practical skills, and multicultural awareness. Every student must complete a 100-hour counseling practicum and a 600-hour internship.
The program also includes several added strengths. It is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP). All students may use the university’s career development center. An internship coordinator also helps students plan their fieldwork.
Students should also review a few important points before applying. This program has the highest per-credit cost on this list at $1,136 per credit. It also requires two on-campus residencies. In addition, the program takes three years of full-time study.
LaGrange College
LaGrange College is located in Lagrange, Georgia. It is a private institution that offers a two-year academic setting with campus and online study options. The college is accredited. It has an acceptance rate of 58%. A total of 671 students are enrolled. The retention rate is 60%. The school reports 25% online enrollment. The average graduate tuition is $21,699 for in-state students and $21,699 for out-of-state students.
One reason LaGrange College stands out is its focus on open discussion and community service. One goal of the online master’s in clinical mental health counseling is to prepare professionals who take part in advocacy and social justice. During the program, students are encouraged to join community service projects. They also have the choice to talk about social justice topics with classmates in a virtual forum called Courageous Conversations.
This program requires 60 credits. It also gives strong attention to professional growth through 700 hours of practical experience, joint projects with faculty, and chances to present at conferences. LaGrange College also reports strong graduate results, including a 100% pass rate on the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination since 2022.
The program includes other important strengths. It is accredited by CACREP. A clinical coordinator helps students with practicum and internship placement support. The school also does not charge an application fee.
There are also several points students should consider. The estimated total program cost is $45,362, which is about $756 per credit. The program requires both synchronous and asynchronous course parts. It also has a full-time length of two years.
Northeastern University
Northeastern University is located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is a private four-year institution that offers campus and online study options. The university is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education. The school has an acceptance rate of 20%. A total of 22,905 students are enrolled. Its retention rate is 97%. The university reports 48% online enrollment.
The university offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Students may enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. The program requires 60-63 credits for graduation. The average cost per credit is $1,752. The curriculum prepares students to become licensed mental health counselors. It also offers opportunities to focus on child and adolescent counseling, early intervention, or research in counseling psychology. Advisors help students find field placements at local health facilities and agencies.
For admission, applicants must have an undergraduate degree in psychology or a related field. They must also have a 3.0 GPA and submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement.
The average graduate tuition is $25,264 for in-state students and $25,264 for out-of-state students.
Angelo State University
Angelo State University is located in San Angelo, Texas. It is a public four-year institution that offers study on campus and online. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The school has an acceptance rate of 78%. A total of 10,775 students are enrolled. Its retention rate is 71%. The university reports 55% online enrollment.
The university offers a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. This program requires 60 credits for graduation. It helps prepare graduates for careers as licensed professional counselors or licensed psychological associates.
Students may choose between a thesis track and a non-thesis track. Both options include supervised practicums and required courses in cognitive behavioral therapy, marriage and family psychotherapy, and multicultural counseling and psychology.
For admission, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA. Students with lower GPAs may still receive admission through a GPA/GRE-based formula.
The average cost for two semesters is $7,246 for in-state students and $14,808 for out-of-state students. The average graduate tuition is $4,119 for in-state students and $11,481 for out-of-state students.
What is the Difference Between a Master’s in Counseling and a Master’s in Counseling Psychology?
A master’s in counseling program is designed to help students build counseling skills. In this program, you receive practical clinical training that supports licensure.
A master’s in counseling psychology gives attention to psychological theory and research. This degree brings together clinical practice and psychological science.
Both degrees can prepare you for work in mental health professions.
Is a Master’s in Counseling Psychology Degree Worth It?
A master’s in counseling psychology degree offers many benefits that may make it a strong choice if you want a career in counseling.
After you complete your master’s in counseling psychology program, you may apply for licensure. This can help you qualify for roles such as licensed professional counselor and mental health counselor. You may work in mental health clinics, hospitals, and schools, or you may open your own private practice.
This degree also gives you a strong base for doctoral study if you decide to continue your education and earn a terminal degree.
There are also some challenges to consider. You may need to meet detailed licensure requirements. In addition, a master’s degree requires a major investment of time and money. Many students also take on student loans, which they must repay after graduation.
How to Apply to a Counseling Psychology Master’s Program?
#After you reduce your list of the best counseling master’s programs, the next stage is to start the application process. Each program has its own admission standards, required materials, and due dates. If you plan to apply to more than one program, it is helpful to make a tracking document so you can make sure every requirement is finished on time.
Step 1: Review Requirements
Admission standards are not the same at every program, so your first task is to check whether you meet them. In many cases, you will need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least a 3.0 GPA. Some programs also suggest or require earlier coursework in psychology or related subjects. You may also need to take the GRE, although many counseling master’s programs no longer ask for standardized test scores.
Step 2: Prepare Application Materials
You should begin getting your application materials ready well before the deadline. Most programs ask for a resume or CV. This document should show any experience that connects to the field, including internship work or volunteer service. In most cases, you will also need a statement of purpose that explains how you are prepared for graduate study and what your career goals are with a master’s in mental health counseling.
Step 3: Request Recommendation Letters
Counseling master’s programs often ask for one to three recommendation letters from professors, supervisors, or mentors. When selecting your references, think about the people who can best describe your academic strengths, work habits, and counseling ability. You should give your letter writers at least three weeks’ notice and provide them with copies of your statement of purpose.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Before sending your application, review all of your materials one final time and make sure everything is ready before the deadline. It is also wise to ask a friend or colleague to read your materials and share feedback. Your letter writers can also be helpful in making sure your application stands out.
What are the Career Opportunities for Counseling Psychologists?
Counseling psychologists can work in any city, for a wide variety of employers, including governmental agencies, hospitals, mental health institutions, law enforcement agencies, universities, corporations and the military.
Most counseling psychologists eventually start their own private practice or form a partnership with other psychologists or other types of health care professionals. Some end up teaching at a university.
Related: What Can You Do With a Counseling Psychology Degree?
What is the Average Salary for Counseling Psychologists?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics website the estimated median annual wage for counseling psychologists is $95,830.
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