M.Ed. In Montessori Education
The M.Ed. in Montessori Education at Xavier University offers both on-campus and online...
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health
Cincinnati, Ohio
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Xavier University is designed to meet the academic requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Ohio and many other states. It provides students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders. The program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competence, and the ability to provide individualized care. Students gain hands-on experience through supervised practicum and internship placements, preparing them for immediate entry into the mental health field.
Curriculum: The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling curriculum is comprehensive, typically requiring 60 credit hours. Core coursework covers a broad range of essential counseling areas, including: "Research Methodology & Program Evaluation," "Foundations & Ethics of the Counseling Profession," "Counseling Theories," "Counseling Techniques," "Lifestyle and Career Development," "Human Growth and Development," "Assessment in Counseling," "Personality and Abnormal Behavior," "Diagnosis of Psychopathology," "Counseling and Psychotherapy," and "Crisis Intervention." A critical component of the program is the extensive supervised clinical experience, which includes a practicum and two internship placements (totaling 600 hours of internship) in various mental health settings, providing invaluable practical training. The program culminates in a comprehensive examination.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Xavier University integrates a strong applied research focus, preparing graduates to be evidence-based practitioners. The curriculum includes dedicated coursework in "Research Methodology & Program Evaluation," which equips students with the skills to critically evaluate existing research, conduct their own studies, and use data to inform their clinical practice and program development. This focus ensures that counselors can assess the effectiveness of their interventions, understand best practices, and contribute to the scientific foundation of the counseling profession. Faculty members actively engage in research on topics such as supervision, ethics, consultation, and specific mental health issues, providing a rich learning environment for students.
Industry Engagement: Xavier University's M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program benefits from robust industry engagement, primarily through its extensive clinical training requirements. Students complete significant supervised practicum and internship hours in diverse mental health agencies, clinics, and other community settings, providing direct exposure to real-world clinical practice. Xavier has established partnerships with numerous local and regional mental health providers, facilitating these crucial placements and offering students invaluable networking opportunities. The program's faculty often have extensive experience in the field, bringing practical insights and connections to the classroom. This hands-on experience ensures graduates are well-prepared for the demands of professional practice and ready to contribute effectively upon entering the workforce.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Xavier University fosters a global perspective by emphasizing multicultural competence and social justice as core tenets of professional counseling. The curriculum addresses the impact of diverse cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and spiritual backgrounds on mental health and the counseling process. Students are trained to provide culturally responsive and ethically sound services to clients from various backgrounds, recognizing the influence of societal and systemic factors on well-being. This approach prepares graduates to effectively serve an increasingly diverse client base in a globally interconnected world, advocating for mental health equity and understanding the unique challenges faced by different communities.
Location
Cincinnati, Ohio
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 12672
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
Xavier University in the United States offers a variety of scholarships designed to support and encourage international students in their academic pursuits. Understanding the financial challenges that come with studying abroad, Xavier is making education accessible by providing merit-based and need-based scholarship opportunities specifically tailored to international applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Xavier University awards merit scholarships to international students based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and extracurricular achievements. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are typically renewable for multiple years, provided students maintain the required academic standards. Examples include the International Achievement Scholarship and various departmental awards.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While federal financial aid is generally not available to international students, Xavier offers institutional need-based aid to those who demonstrate financial need. Applicants must provide documentation of their financial situation as part of the scholarship application process. This aid helps bridge the gap for students requiring additional assistance beyond merit scholarships.
Specialized Scholarships: Some scholarships at Xavier target students pursuing specific fields of study, such as business, health sciences, or education. These scholarships recognize academic promise and career potential in key disciplines. Additionally, Xavier occasionally offers scholarships connected to cultural or community engagement, aligning with its Jesuit values.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Xavier University provides graduates with a comprehensive and highly recognized credential for impactful careers in the mental health field. The program, which is fully CACREP-accredited, focuses on developing ethical, compassionate, and skilled professional counselors who can address a wide range of mental and emotional disorders. Graduates are prepared to provide evidence-based interventions and work in diverse clinical settings.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC/LPC): This is the primary and most direct career path. Graduates work as individual, group, or family therapists in various settings, diagnosing and treating mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. They often work in private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, or specialized clinics.
Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselor: Specializing in addiction, graduates provide counseling and support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders, gambling addiction, or other behavioral addictions. They may work in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, or private practice.
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT, often with specific MFT license): While some programs are solely MFT, an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health can provide a strong foundation for those interested in working with couples and families, addressing relationship dynamics, communication issues, and family system challenges. Additional coursework or supervision might be needed for specific MFT licensure.
Crisis Counselor: Graduates work in crisis intervention centers, hotlines, or emergency services, providing immediate support and de-escalation for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises, trauma, or suicidal ideation.
Grief and Bereavement Counselor: Specializing in loss, these counselors help individuals and families cope with grief, loss, and trauma associated with death, significant life changes, or other forms of bereavement. They may work in hospices, community centers, or private practice.
Rehabilitation Counselor: These professionals assist individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities to overcome challenges and achieve greater independence. They may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or non-profit organizations.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: Working within corporate or organizational settings, EAP counselors provide confidential counseling and referral services to employees dealing with work-related stress, personal issues, substance abuse, or mental health concerns.
Trauma-Informed Therapist: Graduates can specialize in providing therapy to individuals who have experienced trauma, utilizing specific therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, CBT for trauma, or narrative therapy, often working in specialized clinics or private practice.
Clinical Supervisor/Director (with experience): After gaining significant clinical experience and obtaining full licensure, graduates can advance to leadership roles within mental health agencies, overseeing other counselors, managing programs, and ensuring quality clinical care.
Behavioral Health Specialist in Integrated Healthcare: With the growing trend of integrating mental health into primary care, graduates can work as part of a healthcare team in hospitals or clinics, providing brief interventions, referrals, and support for patients with co-occurring physical and mental health issues.
