The Law Enforcement Co-Response Concentration in Mental Health Counseling equips students with the skills needed to collaborate effectively with law enforcement agencies in addressing community mental health, particularly for forensic populations. This comprehensive program covers essential topics such as the intersection of mental disorders and crime, relevant legal frameworks, and strategies for conducting rapid mental health and risk assessments. Students will gain practical experience in crisis intervention, and those interested in research can pursue a thesis or independent study project. Upon completion of the 60-credit curriculum, graduates will fulfill the master's-level knowledge and experience requirements necessary for licensure in mental health counseling, including hands-on practicum hours integrated into their coursework.
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Master of Arts in Counseling, Mental Health & Law Enforcement Concentration
Partnering Mental Health and Law Enforcement for Community Well-Being
Program Highlights
- Develop skills to collaborate with law enforcement on community mental health
- Master rapid assessments and crisis intervention strategies
- Pursue a thesis or research project to enhance your expertise
- Complete practicum hours and coursework for mental health counseling licensure
Empower Your Future: Transform Community Mental Health
Explore a career that makes a difference.
Transformative Training for Impactful Mental Health Collaboration
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Holistic Community Engagement
This concentration emphasizes a collaborative approach, training students to work effectively with law enforcement to address the mental health challenges faced by individuals in crisis. By understanding both psychological principles and the nuances of the criminal justice system, graduates are equipped to foster safer, healthier communities.
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Comprehensive Skill Development
Students will gain hands-on experience in crisis intervention, rapid assessment techniques, and ethical decision-making. The program focuses on equipping future mental health counselors with the tools necessary to navigate high-pressure situations and provide immediate support to individuals in need.
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Research and Professional Growth
With opportunities to engage in meaningful research or independent study projects, students can explore areas of interest that align with their career goals. This focus on scholarly inquiry not only enriches their education but also contributes valuable insights to the field of mental health counseling.
What Can You Do with the Law Enforcement Co-Response Concentration in Mental Health Counseling?
With a degree in the Law Enforcement Co-Response Concentration in Mental Health Counseling, you can become a:
- Mental Health Counselor
- Behavioral Health Specialist
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Crisis Intervention Specialist
- Law Enforcement Liaison
- Policy Analyst
- Research Associate
Ready to learn more?
Law Enforcement Co-Response Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Counseling
Designed for professionals in law enforcement and mental health, this graduate certificate equips participants with the skills to address the intersection of community mental health and the criminal justice system. As police departments increasingly partner with mental health clinicians during crisis calls, this program provides essential training in understanding mental health challenges, criminal behavior, rapid assessments, and crisis intervention. Students will also complete a hands-on capstone project, applying their learning in real-world scenarios to enhance their professional expertise.
Get big school features with small school advantages.
We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus鈥and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support.
You'll join fellow motivated graduate students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.
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February 1
Application deadline for fall admission
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On-the-job
experience through practicum
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Full-time
or part-time options
Expert faculty with diverse specialties
Your professors and counseling faculty come from a wide variety of professional backgrounds and specialties, but all share a commitment to scientific inquiry. Small class sizes mean you鈥檒l have easy access to faculty eager to help you master and expand upon your coursework as well as collaboration and networking opportunities with your fellow students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application requirements for the concentration?
Prospective students should access the graduate application online at
The following material must be received for an application to be reviewed:
- Completed graduate application and $50 application fee. In your application, please indicate your concentration preference: Law Enforcement Co-Response. Additionally, please specify if you will be attending full-time or part-time.
- Official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
- A 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA.
- Applicants must submit three letters of reference, including at least one academic reference.
- Applicants must submit a personal statement that describes (1) reason for interest in the field, (2) assessment of personal strengths and limitations, and (3) goals of graduate study.
- Applicants must submit a professional vitae or resume, including information on prior and/or current volunteer and/or employment positions.
Applicants with a firm foundation in psychology, education, or related field are highly preferred. [Note - applicants with degrees in unrelated fields may enhance their application through the successful completion of undergraduate courses in Statistics, Child or Adolescent Development, Personality, Abnormal Psychology, Counseling, and/or Behavior Modification, as appropriate to the targeted degree program.]
Applicants selected for interviews must attend a formal interview with members of the graduate admissions committee.
Applicants may transfer in up to 6 graduate credits toward their degree program, assessed following successful matriculation. In extraordinary circumstances, one or more of the above requirements may be waived by the graduate admissions committee. The closing date for receipt of all admissions materials is February 1st.
How long will it take me to complete the master鈥檚 degree?
Full-time students typically complete the program in three years, while part-time students take about four years, offering flexibility to accommodate diverse schedules.
How are courses offered?
Most courses are offered in-person during the evening on campus with the some online or remote synchronous courses offered, providing a convenient schedule for our students. It's essential to note that an exception to this is the flexibility required to complete practicum hours during the daytime.
Do I have to submit GRE/MAT or MTEL scores when I apply?
No, we do not require a GRE or MAT for this concentration.
Is graduate housing available?
Discover graduate living at 鈥 your gateway to a vibrant community and tailored amenities. Choose from four-person apartments featuring single and premium single rooms, all inclusive of utilities and internet. Make connections by signing up as a group or embark on an individual adventure with like-minded roommates. Revel in the comfort of fully furnished apartments, boasting a well-equipped kitchen with a breakfast bar, cozy bathrooms, and inviting shared living spaces.
Your convenience is our priority 鈥 enjoy free laundry facilities on campus and parking at an affordable rate. Immerse yourself in academic pursuits with easy access to the campus library or prioritize your well-being at our fitness centers.
Whether you prefer cooking with your roommates or opting for a meal plan, relish access to an array of campus dining options, including late-night and takeaway choices. Elevate your graduate experience with Welch Hall Apartments 鈥 where living meets exceptional comfort and convenience.
For more information contact housing@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-5402.
How much does 蓝莓视频 cost?
蓝莓视频 offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost鈥攚ith many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more.
Do you offer graduate assistantships?
Yes, a limited number of graduate assistantships are available each year for graduate students. These opportunities are competitive and are awarded to students with excellent academic records who are enrolled in a graduate degree program.
This valuable opportunity can enhance your academic journey and provide valuable experience. Don't miss out on the chance to be part of this enriching program!
Will I receive academic support?
Yes, students have a dedicated advisor 鈥 your compass through class choices and beyond. Beyond academics, your advisor becomes a mentor, guiding you on further education and career paths. We're not just about classes; we connect you to resources like the Banacos Center and the Reading & Writing Center. At every step, we're here to ensure your success is our priority.
How does the Dispositional Assessment for the Master of Arts in Counseling program work?
Candidates will be subject to an ongoing dispositional assessment coordinated by the faculty advisor in collaboration with cooperating course instructors, faculty supervisors, and site supervisors. In order for a candidate to advance academically from semester to semester, advance to a Field Placement or graduate with an M.A. Counseling degree, they must hold no unresolved 鈥0鈥 or 鈥-1鈥 scores in their dispositional record.
Any candidate who fails to achieve and maintain a satisfactory level on the Dispositional Assessment will be subject to review by the Graduate Committee in Counseling, who may determine that the candidate can proceed without intervention or may work with the candidate (or provide a designated faculty member to work with the candidate) on a remedial plan. The Graduate Committee in Counseling may also decide the candidate is not eligible to proceed academically or proceed to Field Placement. If a candidate's assessment displays 鈥0鈥 or 鈥-1鈥 scores, the Graduate Committee in Counseling may remove them from a Field Placement.
Are there any other policies for this program that I should know about?
The M.A. program must be completed within seven years of the first course counted toward the degree. Since courses are offered in a sequence rather than each semester, planning with advisors is imperative. Upon acceptance into the program, the student is assigned an advisor who will assist in planning a program to fit individual needs. There will be continual evaluation during the course of study with students apprised of their progress. A favorable evaluation is necessary for continuation in the program. The granting of the degree is based on professional competence, completion of the program of study, and satisfactory performance in a comprehensive exam or professional portfolio.
To accommodate students who work and/or have other substantial demands placed upon their time, courses are offered during the evenings and/or late afternoon. Important exceptions to this schedule are the Pre-practicum, Practicum, and Internship experiences. While some placements permit flexible scheduling, many place restrictions on scheduling. Since these experiences are an essential component of counselor training, students must plan for the flexibility that will allow them to complete these requirements.
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