clinical mental health counseling

Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs prepare graduates to work with clients across a spectrum of mental and emotional disorders, as well as to promote mental health and wellness.  Clients may be seen individually, in couples, families, or  group settings. Clinical Mental Health Counselors are knowledgeable in the principles and practices of diagnosis, treatment, referral and prevention and often work in interdisciplinary teams with other health professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, social workers, MDs).  Employment opportunities may include private practice, community-based mental health centers, hospitals and other treatment centers. For more information please see CACREP website.

 

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Thank you for your interest in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. The following information will outline the procedures for applying to the program, and answer some common questions asked by applicants. In addition to this material, applicants should obtain the most recent Graduate Catalog from the graduate school office (203-392-5237), and read and comply with all applicable university application and admission information.

MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN COUNSELING - CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING TRACK

The licensure track program is designed to meet the curricular requirements for
Connecticut State Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). The program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (60 credit hours) prepares graduate students to work in a variety of community counseling agencies, college counseling centers,hospitals, and other counseling settings including private practice. Students develop skills and theoretical knowledge in practicing individual, group and career counseling with diverse populations in either public or private agencies and centers. All Clinical Mental Health Counseling students complete practicum (100 hours) and internship (600 hours) experiences. Students find practicum and internship placements in a variety of settings, including community counseling centers, child guidance centers, crisis stabilization programs, rape crisis and domestic violence programs, substance abuse programs, college counseling centers, youth services
programs and inpatient and residential treatment programs. All practicum and
internship experiences must be completed under a Licensed Professional Counselor with at least two years of experience in the counseling fi eld.

SIXTH YEAR PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA

The sixth year advanced graduate studies program provides the opportunity for counselors holding a master's degree in counseling to enhance their counseling competencies. This program can be designed to help counselors who graduated many years ago (with 36-48 credits) to pursue the State of Connecticut Licensure (LPC) requirements. At least 30 credits beyond the master's degree is required for the sixth year diploma. Please note that the Sixth Year Certification does not hold CACREP Accreditation.