MSE

Mental Health Counseling

Earn an Online Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling

USW’s graduate program in Mental Health Counseling prepares candidates to become counselors as defined by the American Counseling Association’s (ACA, 2014a) definition of professional counseling as “…a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families, and groups to accomplish mental health, wellness, education, and career goals.”  Candidates are prepared (ACA, 2014a) to “facilitate client growth and development in ways that foster the interest and welfare of clients and promote formation of healthy relationships.”  Coursework will include learning, growth and development, career development/life planning, group work, the helping relationship with children, adults and families, assessment, psychopathology, professional orientation and ethics, theoretical foundations, and research.

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A Comprehensive Graduate Degree in Mental Health Counseling

  • Work with individual faculty who are not only counselor educators but also experienced mental health clinicians
  • Choose from a selection of electives including but not limited to Play Therapy, Introduction to Christian Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Human Sexuality, Addictions Counseling, Crisis and Trauma Intervention, and Psychopharmacology
  • Complete hours for Practicum and Internships in professional settings observing and working with licensed counselors and supervisors
  • USW’s program meets most state educational requirements for professional counselor licensing

What Makes University of the Southwest Better than the Rest?

  • Flexibility - Earn your degree fully online, on-site on our New Mexico campus, or a combination of both. Create a custom schedule to have classes during your free time
  • Quality - Combine a liberal arts education along with a solid background in educational counseling
  • Accreditation & Faculty - University of the Southwest is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Our faculty will do everything possible to ensure that you will succeed