Mental Health Counseling Concentration, M.A.

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Transform Lives: Become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor

The Mental Health Counseling program is designed to provide the necessary training and experience to pursue licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts. The 60-credit curriculum includes 36 credits of required core courses, 12 credits of elective courses in specialized areas of counseling, and 12 credits of internship, amounting to 600 hours of practical, hands-on experience. Core courses cover essential topics such as counseling theories, psychopathology, psychological testing, group dynamics, developmental psychology, and evidence-based therapies, with integrated practicum components to ensure students gain real-world experience. The program also includes elective options that allow students to focus on areas such as substance abuse, family counseling, and crisis intervention. This structured approach equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of mental health counseling.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses- 60 credits
  • 600-hour internship for real-world experience
  • Gain practical skills through supervised counseling courses
  • Focus your studies on areas like addiction, crisis intervention, and family counseling

Ready to Launch Your Career as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor?

Gain the skills, experience, and expertise to make a lasting impact.

Transformative Learning for Future Mental Health Counselors

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    Thorough Foundation in Counseling Principles

    Our 60-credit program provides an in-depth exploration of key mental health counseling concepts, with 36 credits dedicated to core courses. Students will gain expertise in counseling theories, mental health diagnostics, psychological testing, group dynamics, and ethical practice. Courses like Counseling Basics with Supervision and Advanced Counseling with Supervision offer both theoretical learning and hands-on experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for professional practice.

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    Extensive Practical Training through Internships

    With a strong emphasis on real-world experience, the program requires 12 credits of internship, equating to 600 hours of clinical practice. Students engage in mental health counseling settings, working closely with clients under professional supervision. This immersive experience equips students with the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in diverse counseling roles upon graduation.

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    Flexible Elective Options for Specialized Focus

    The program offers 12 credits of elective courses, allowing students to specialize in areas that align with their career aspirations. Whether focusing on Crisis Intervention, Family Counseling, or Addiction Treatment, these electives provide the opportunity to deepen expertise and broaden skill sets in key areas of mental health counseling, preparing graduates for a wide range of professional environments.

What Can You Do with a Mental Health Counseling Concentration?

A graduate-level concentration in Mental Health Counseling opens up a wide range of career opportunities and professional paths in the mental health field. Here are some of the key roles and areas where you can apply your expertise:

  • Crisis Intervention Specialist
  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
  • Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
  • Mental Health Educator or Advocate
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Program Director/Manager in Mental Health Services
  • Psychiatric Rehabilitation Specialist
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Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

Completion of the mental health counseling track is the first step toward fulfillment of a Massachusetts mental health counselor license (LMHC). The program of study for mental health counselors consists of thirty-six (36) credits of required core courses, twelve (12) credits of electives related to mental health counseling, and (12) credits of internship (600 hours). Practicum requirements for licensure are included in several core courses, as well as two supervision classes. To review the handbook on Mental Health Counseling refer to the link below

To learn about requirements for a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts, please see 262 CMR 2.0 at the following link:

Master of Arts in Counseling

The Department of Psychology offers a 60-credit graduate program in counseling designed to serve the student who plans to enter the applied fields of counseling after receiving the M.A. The program offers four specialized tracks: school counseling, school adjustment counseling , forensic mental health counseling and mental health counseling.

Program Policies

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.

Dispositional Assessment

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 "0" or "-1" 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 "0" or "-1" scores, the Graduate Committee in Counseling may remove them from a Field Placement.

Admission Requirements

Admissions requirements for MA programs, including Mental Health Counseling, Forensic Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and School Adjustment Counseling  are:

  • Official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  • 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.
  • A 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA.
  • Applicants must submit the Graduate Admissions application specifying either Mental Health Counseling, Forensic Mental Health Counseling, School Adjustment Counseling, OR School Counseling AND whether they would like to attend full-time or part-time.
  • 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 selected for interviews must attend a formal interview with members of the graduate admissions committee.
  • Applicants applying to the School Counseling program or School Adjustment Counseling must submit passing scores in Communication and Literacy Skills portions of the Massachusetts Educators Certification Tests (MTEL).
  • 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.

Notice of acceptance will occur on or about April 15th for study beginning the following September.

Due to the competitive natures of these programs, we require a nonrefundable program deposit of $150.00 within 10 days of acceptance. This deposit is used to ensure your space in the program. The deposit is applied to your first registration as a matriculated student in the Fall semester immediately following your acceptance. If we do not hear from you within 10 days, we will assume you have selected an alternative direction, and we will close your matriculation.

Mental Health Counseling - 60 credits

Required Courses - 36 Credits

 

Electives- 12 credits

  • Or elective credits arranged through advisement

Internship Requirements - 12 credits-600 hours

 

Note:

*Practicum Hours counted toward LMHC licensure are included in the following courses:

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages.

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—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.

  • February 1

    Application deadline for fall admission

  • Full-time

    or part-time options

  • Comprehensive training

    for diverse careers

Expert Faculty with Diverse Specialties

Faculty bring diverse professional backgrounds and specialties, united by a commitment to scientific inquiry and student success. Small class sizes provide direct access to personalized guidance, while a close-knit environment fosters collaboration and networking, enriching your academic and professional growth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the application requirements for the Master of Arts in Counseling program?

Prospective students should access the graduate application online at 

The following material must be received for an application to be reviewed:

  1. Completed graduate application and $50 application fee. In your application, please indicate your concentration preference: Mental Health Counseling, Forensic Mental Health Counseling, Law Enforcement Co-Response Concentration in Mental Health Counseling, School Adjustment Counseling, or School Counseling. Additionally, please specify if you will be attending full-time or part-time.
  2. Official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
  3. Applicants must submit three letters of reference, including at least one academic reference.
  4. 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.
  5. Applicants must submit a professional vitae or resume, including information on prior and/or current volunteer and/or employment positions.

The closing date for receipt of all admissions materials is February 1st for fall admission.

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. 

Notice of acceptance will occur on or about April 15th for study beginning the following September. 

Due to the competitive nature of these programs, we require a nonrefundable program deposit of $150.00 within 10 days of acceptance. This deposit is used to ensure your space in the program. The deposit is applied to your first registration as a matriculated student in the fall semester immediately following your acceptance. If we do not hear from you within 10 days, we will assume you have selected an alternative direction, and we will close your matriculation.

How long will it take me to complete the master’s 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.  

Is graduate housing available?

Discover graduate living at  â€“ 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 – 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 – where living meets exceptional comfort and convenience.

For more information contact housing@westfield.ma.edu or 413-572-5402.

How much does À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ cost?

À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with 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!

Learn more about graduate assistantships.

Will I receive academic support?

Yes, students have a dedicated advisor – 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.

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Mental Health Counseling Concentration, M.A.