M.Ed. in Administration and Supervision
Marymount University, located in Arlington, Virginia, offers a Master of Education (M.E...
M.A. in Counseling
Virginia
INTAKE: Jan, May & Aug
Program Overview
Marymount's M.A. in Counseling program offers several specializations, primarily focusing on Clinical Mental Health Counseling (available in-person and online) and a Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration. While the School Counseling specialization has paused new applications, the core programs are designed to equip students with competencies and skills for working with individuals experiencing developmental, situational, and existential mental health issues. The program emphasizes a blend of traditional psychotherapy with practical, evidence-based approaches to facilitate positive change, addressing areas as diverse as social justice and behavioral wellness. The standard program for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) typically involves 60 credit hours, and students become eligible to sit for the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) examination near the end of their studies.
CACREP Accredited: A significant highlight of Marymount University's M.A. in Counseling program is its CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) accreditation. This accreditation is a highly regarded mark of quality within the counseling profession, ensuring that the program's curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student support services meet rigorous national standards. CACREP accreditation is often a prerequisite for licensure as a professional counselor in many states and is widely recognized by employers and professional organizations, providing graduates with a strong advantage in their careers. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counseling specializations are both CACREP accredited.
Curriculum: The curriculum is robust, covering essential core areas mandated by CACREP, alongside specialized coursework. Core courses include: "Research and Evaluation," "Bases of Psychopathology," "Foundations, Ethics, and Professional Issues in Clinical Mental Health Counseling," "Advanced Human Growth and Development," "Crisis Assessment/Intervention," "Substance Abuse Counseling," "Survey of Testing and Assessment," "Theories of Counseling," "Counseling for Individuals," "Group Counseling Techniques," "Theories and Techniques of Family Counseling," and "Multicultural Counseling." Students also complete substantial supervised clinical experience through a practicum and internship, gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings. The Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration adds specialized courses in religion and spirituality.
Research Focus: Marymount University's School of Counseling maintains a strong and active research focus, with faculty engaged in various pertinent areas. Key research areas include: Crisis and Trauma Clinical Interventions, Professional Issues in Professional Counseling, Global and Interdisciplinary Approaches to Counseling, Culture and Ethics in Counseling, and Clinical Specialties and Approaches in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Faculty members contribute to the field through publications, presentations, and grant-funded projects, often exploring topics like the effects of sexual assault, empathy and social justice in counselor preparation, ethical and legal issues in counseling, mental health in military and first responders, and health disparities in diverse communities. Students are encouraged to participate in research, with a minimum number of research assistance hours often required, fostering a strong foundation in evidence-based practice.
Industry Engagement: Marymount University's location in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area provides abundant opportunities for industry engagement within the counseling program. Faculty members often have extensive clinical experience and maintain active practices, bringing real-world insights and connections into the classroom. The program facilitates practicum and internship placements in diverse mental health settings, including private practices, clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and substance abuse centers, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Marymount's strong alumni network and career services further support graduates in connecting with professional opportunities and navigating the licensure process in Virginia and beyond.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Counseling program at Marymount University incorporates a global perspective by emphasizing multicultural counseling and exploring global and interdisciplinary approaches to mental health. The curriculum includes "Multicultural Counseling" as a core course, recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive practice in an increasingly diverse world. Faculty research interests also extend to international counseling and global mental health approaches. This focus prepares graduates to understand and address mental health needs across various cultural contexts, fostering a broader appreciation for the complexities of human experience and the universal principles of effective counseling.
Location
Virginia
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 32130
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 96 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Marymount University in the United States is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. These scholarships help make a high-quality education more affordable and accessible for students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Marymount offers several merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These awards are typically based on academic performance, standardized test scores, and leadership potential. Some scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process, while others require a separate application.
Global Scholarship: One of the key awards available to international students is the Global Scholarship, which provides significant tuition reduction for high-achieving students. This scholarship rewards students who demonstrate outstanding academic credentials and a global engagement.
Distinguished International Student Award: Marymount also offers the Distinguished International Student Award for exceptional students who contribute to campus diversity and show strong leadership qualities. This award helps to encourage a vibrant, multicultural student community.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate students may have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition remission and stipends in exchange for research or teaching support. These opportunities not only ease financial burdens but also enrich academic and professional development.
Marymount University's M.A. in Counseling program, with its CACREP accreditation and strong emphasis on clinical practice, prepares graduates for a wide array of impactful careers in mental health. The program's commitment to ethical, evidence-based practice and its location in the D.C. metropolitan area with abundant internship opportunities ensure that graduates are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for qualified counselors.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) / Clinical Mental Health Counselor: This is the most common and direct path, involving providing individual, group, and family counseling services in private practices, community mental health centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. LPCs address a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems.
Substance Abuse Counselor / Addiction Counselor: Specializes in helping individuals overcome addictions to drugs and alcohol. These counselors work in inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, rehabilitation facilities, correctional facilities, and private practice, providing therapy, support, and relapse prevention strategies.
Crisis Intervention Specialist: Responds to individuals experiencing acute psychological distress or trauma. This role often involves providing immediate support, de-escalation techniques, and connecting individuals with ongoing mental health resources in emergency settings, crisis hotlines, or community outreach programs.
Family and Marriage Therapist: Focuses on the dynamics within families and couples, helping them improve communication, resolve conflicts, and address relational issues. This role often involves working with multiple family members in therapy sessions to foster healthier interactions.
Rehabilitation Counselor: Assists individuals with disabilities (physical, mental, developmental) to achieve personal, social, and vocational independence. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, non-profit organizations, and private practices, helping clients navigate challenges and access resources.
Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counselor: (For those specializing in Pastoral Clinical Mental Health Counseling) Integrates spiritual and religious dimensions with clinical counseling to provide holistic mental health care. They work in faith-based organizations, hospitals, hospices, and private practice, addressing both psychological and spiritual needs.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: Provides counseling and support services to employees facing personal or work-related challenges that may impact their well-being and job performance. EAP counselors often work directly for companies or through EAP provider organizations.
College Counselor: Works within university or college settings to support students' academic, personal, and social development. This can include individual counseling, group therapy, crisis intervention, and workshops on topics like stress management, academic success, and career exploration.
Grief and Bereavement Counselor: Specializes in helping individuals cope with loss and grief. They work in hospices, hospitals, private practices, and community organizations, providing support to individuals and families experiencing bereavement.
Victim Advocate / Trauma Counselor: Provides support and counseling to individuals who have experienced trauma, abuse, or violence. They often work in shelters, advocacy centers, and specialized therapy clinics, helping survivors heal and regain a sense of safety and empowerment.
