Masters of Public Administration
Gannon University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, offers a Master of Publi...
M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Erie, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Gannon University is a rigorous program that provides a blend of counselor training experiences essential for becoming a professional counselor. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue National Counselor Certification (NCC) and licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania and other states. A key highlight of Gannon's program is its CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) accreditation. This accreditation is vital as it signifies that the program meets nationally recognized standards of excellence in counselor education, which is often a prerequisite for licensure and certification in many states across the U.S.
Curriculum: The program typically requires 60 semester hours of coursework and is structured to be completed over approximately 2 years and 9 months, offering both in-person evening classes and online options for flexibility. The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in key areas of counseling. Core topics include human development across the lifespan, social and cultural diversity, ethical and legal considerations in counseling, professional identity, theories and models of counseling, group dynamics, assessment and diagnosis of mental and emotional disorders, counseling strategies and techniques, research methods, and career development. The program emphasizes the client-counselor relationship and integrates evidence-based practices throughout the coursework. Practical experiences, including supervised practicum and internship, are integral components, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical settings.
Research Focus: Gannon's M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program incorporates a strong research focus, preparing students to be informed and evidence-based practitioners. The curriculum includes dedicated courses in research methodology and appraisal in counseling, which equip students with the skills to understand, evaluate, and apply empirical research to their counseling practice. Students learn to conduct needs assessments and program evaluations, essential skills for contributing to the efficacy and improvement of mental health services. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, sometimes focusing on counseling outcomes, ethical considerations, and the development of counselor identity, providing opportunities for students to learn from and potentially contribute to ongoing scholarly work.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Gannon University demonstrates robust industry engagement. A significant aspect of the program is its extensive clinical placement options, with strong ties to over 25 sites in the Erie area, including behavioral and mental health agencies, hospitals, clinics, college counseling centers, and residential treatment facilities. This ensures students gain diverse and valuable supervised clinical experience. The program boasts a high job placement rate (often reported as 98-100% in recent years), indicating its strong alignment with workforce needs and successful preparation of graduates for the professional counseling field. The curriculum is designed to meet the demands of professional counseling settings, and credentialed faculty with professional counseling experience further bridge the gap between academia and practice.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Gannon University inherently fosters a global perspective by emphasizing cultural diversity and the complexities of social and cultural contexts in human relationships and their implications for counseling. The curriculum aims to prepare counselors to work effectively with diverse populations, understanding how cultural backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and individual experiences impact mental well-being and the counseling process. While specific international study opportunities within the counseling program may not be highlighted, Gannon University's broader commitment to preparing "global citizens" and its diverse international student body contribute to an environment where students gain a broader understanding of human experience and the universal aspects of mental health challenges, preparing them for an interconnected world.
Location
Erie, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19605
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% 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.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Gannon University offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing their studies in the United States. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the campus community, making education more accessible and affordable for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students at Gannon University are eligible for competitive merit-based scholarships that reward strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable based on maintaining academic standards.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While limited, some need-based financial assistance may be available to international students demonstrating financial need. Applicants are encouraged to communicate their situation during the admission process for consideration.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gannon University is a highly sought-after degree that prepares graduates for a fulfilling and impactful career in the rapidly growing field of mental healthcare. The program's CACREP accreditation ensures a high standard of education, preparing students for National Counselor Certification (NCC) and state licensure (LPC), which are crucial for professional practice. With a strong emphasis on ethical practice, cultural competency, and evidence-based interventions, Gannon's graduates are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of individuals, couples, families, and groups in various clinical settings. The career outlook for mental health counselors in the U.S. is robust, with significant projected growth.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Private Practice: Many graduates choose to open their own private practice after obtaining licensure and supervised experience. This offers autonomy and the ability to specialize in specific areas like anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues.
Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Community Agencies: This is a common career path, working in public or private mental health agencies. Counselors provide individual, group, and family therapy, conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and connect clients with community resources, serving diverse populations.
Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselor: Specializing in helping individuals struggling with addiction to alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other behavioral disorders. These counselors work in rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, or private practice, often facilitating group therapy and relapse prevention.
Counselor in Hospitals and Clinics: Graduates can work in various hospital departments (e.g., psychiatric units, emergency rooms, outpatient clinics) or medical clinics, providing mental health assessments, crisis intervention, brief therapy, and connecting patients with ongoing care.
College and University Counselor: These professionals provide counseling services to students on college campuses, addressing academic stress, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and other mental health concerns common in young adulthood. They often lead workshops on well-being and stress management.
Rehabilitation Counselor: Focused on helping individuals with physical, mental, emotional, or developmental disabilities to achieve personal, social, and vocational independence. They may work in rehabilitation centers, senior citizen centers, or youth organizations, assisting clients with adapting to their disabilities and pursuing employment.
Residential Counselor: Working in residential treatment facilities, group homes, or shelters, these counselors provide support and therapy to individuals residing in these settings. They often oversee daily activities, facilitate group sessions, and provide one-on-one counseling.
Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): While often requiring additional specialized licensure, many Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs provide a foundation for those interested in working with couples and families. These therapists focus on relationship dynamics and systemic issues affecting families.
Crisis Counselor: These highly specialized counselors work with individuals experiencing acute emotional distress, trauma, or emergency situations. They may work in crisis hotlines, emergency services, or in response to community disasters, providing immediate support and stabilization.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: EAP counselors work within organizations to provide confidential counseling services to employees facing personal or work-related challenges. They help employees manage stress, mental health issues, family problems, and other concerns that might impact their job performance.
