M.A. in Secondary Education
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Secondary Education at Roosevelt University is an intensiv...
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Chicago, Illinois
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a rigorous, 61-credit-hour program. It is primarily a full-time, three-year program consisting of in-person classes on the Chicago campus, though part-time options may also be available. Admissions are generally open for fall start dates only. A significant strength of this program is its direct alignment with the academic requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and eventually a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the State of Illinois. It also prepares graduates for national certifications such as the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC) and the National Counselor Certification (NCC). The program boasts high job placement rates and licensure/certification exam pass rates, often exceeding 90%.
CACREP Accredited: Yes, Roosevelt University's M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation is a crucial hallmark of quality in counselor education, signifying that the program meets rigorous national standards for curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student outcomes. CACREP accreditation is often a prerequisite for state licensure in many parts of the U.S. and for national certifications, providing graduates with greater portability of their credentials and enhanced professional credibility.
Curriculum: The curriculum is robust and designed to provide a deep understanding of counseling theories, techniques, and ethical practices. Core courses often include "Professional Orientation and Ethical Practice in Counseling," "Theories & Dynamics of Group Counseling," "Career & Lifestyle Development," "Psychopathology: Diagnosis & Treatment Planning," "Social & Cultural Foundations," "Human Appraisal (Assessment)," and "Pre-Practicum II: Advanced Counseling Skills and Techniques." A significant component of the program is intensive supervised clinical experience, including a "Counseling Practicum" and a substantial "Internship: Clinical Mental Health" (typically 6 credit hours completed across Fall and Spring semesters in the final year). This ensures students gain real-world application of their knowledge and skills.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Roosevelt University integrates a practical research focus. While the primary aim is to train practitioners, students are required to take "Statistics & Research Methods in Counseling." This course covers research methods, statistical analysis, needs assessment, and program evaluation, equipping students to understand and apply research findings in their clinical practice. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, enabling future counselors to critically evaluate intervention effectiveness, utilize data to inform their work, and contribute to the ongoing development of the counseling profession. This focus ensures graduates are not only skilled clinicians but also informed consumers of research.
Industry Engagement: Roosevelt University demonstrates strong industry engagement for its M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, particularly through its extensive network of clinical placement sites in the Chicago metropolitan area. The university partners with over 200 local counseling and community agencies, hospitals, private practices, and school-based mental health programs for practicum and internship placements. This provides students with invaluable firsthand exposure to diverse client populations and various mental health settings. Alumni have gone on to become leaders at prominent clinical mental health agencies such as Alexian Brothers Center for Mental Health, Live Oak Chicago, Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare, and Thresholds, showcasing the program's strong ties to the professional community and successful career outcomes.
Global Perspective: Roosevelt University fosters a global perspective within its M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program by emphasizing social justice, cultural competence, and serving diverse populations. Courses like "Social & Cultural Foundations" specifically address the cultural context of relationships, diverse identities (e.g., ethnicity, nationality, age, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status), and their impact on mental health. The program's mission to educate "socially-conscious, culturally-competent, professional counselors" reflects a commitment to preparing graduates to work effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, including those with international experiences or from different cultural contexts, thereby enhancing their ability to serve a globally interconnected and diverse society.
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 22992
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $42
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 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Roosevelt University in the United States offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students to support their academic journey and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to campus diversity.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to Roosevelt University are eligible for merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall potential. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are automatically considered during the admissions process.
International Student Scholarship Program: Roosevelt University provides special scholarships targeted at international students, aiming to encourage a diverse and global student body. These awards vary in amount and criteria but typically recognize outstanding academic performance and community involvement.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain colleges and departments within Roosevelt University, such as the Chicago College of Performing Arts and the Walter E. Heller College of Business, offer additional scholarships for international students enrolled in specific programs. These awards may be based on talent, portfolio, or academic excellence in the field of study.
An M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University provides a comprehensive, CACREP-accredited education, preparing graduates for licensure and impactful careers as professional counselors. The program's strong emphasis on clinical practice, ethical considerations, and cultural competence equips individuals to address a wide range of mental health needs for diverse populations.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) / Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC): This is the most direct path. Graduates work in various settings such as private practice, community mental health centers, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, providing individual, group, and family counseling for diverse mental health concerns (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, etc.).
Substance Abuse and Addiction Counselor: Specializing in addiction, these counselors work with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, developing treatment plans, providing therapy, and offering support in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private settings.
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT): While often a distinct master's degree, a CMHC background can provide a strong foundation for working with couples and families on communication issues, relationship conflicts, and family dynamics, often leading to specialized certifications or additional training.
Crisis Counselor/Intervention Specialist: These professionals work in emergency settings, crisis hotlines, or community outreach programs, providing immediate support and de-escalation for individuals experiencing acute psychological distress or trauma.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor: EAP counselors work within organizations to provide confidential counseling and referral services to employees dealing with personal or work-related issues that might impact their well-being and productivity.
Rehabilitation Counselor: These counselors assist individuals with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities to achieve personal, social, and vocational goals, often working in hospitals, non-profit organizations, or private practices.
Community Mental Health Worker/Educator: While not a direct counseling role, graduates can work in public health or non-profit organizations to promote mental wellness, connect individuals with resources, assess community needs, and advocate for mental health services.
Grief Counselor: Specializing in bereavement, these counselors provide support to individuals or families coping with loss, helping them navigate the emotional complexities of grief and find healthy coping mechanisms.
Counseling Administrator/Supervisor: With experience, graduates can move into leadership roles in clinics, agencies, or non-profit organizations, overseeing counseling programs, managing staff, and ensuring the delivery of quality mental health services.
Geriatric Counselor: Focused on the unique mental health needs of older adults, these counselors work in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hospitals, or community senior centers, addressing issues related to aging, loss, and cognitive changes.
