Program Overview

Introduction to the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Bowling Green State University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become highly qualified and ethical counselors. This program establishes high academic and professional competence standards consistent with state and national standards for clinical counseling licensure.

Program Overview

• The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
• It offers state-of-the-art training in an inclusive and diverse learning environment.
• Students develop cultural competency to serve a diverse clientele, learn to advocate for clients, and create positive change within the mental health system with a social justice focus.
• The program values inclusivity and diversity, providing an environment where students feel valued.

Flexibility and Outcomes

• Flexibility: The program can be completed full-time or part-time, with most classes held on campus in the evening, making it suitable for working professionals.
• Proven Results: The program enjoys an outstanding reputation, with students achieving a 97% pass rate on the national counseling exam and 100% employment within 180 days of graduation.
• Emphasis on Personal Growth: The program integrates in-depth self-awareness activities into each course.
• Experienced Faculty: Students learn from experienced, practitioner-focused professors with a combined 80 years of field experience.
• Open to All: Applicants from any undergraduate degree background are welcome to apply.

Curriculum and Learning Outcomes

• The master's degree program requires a diverse range of courses in clinical counseling, totaling 60 credit hours.
• Full-time Completion: Approximately 2.5 years to complete the degree.
• Part-time Completion: Approximately 4-5 years to complete the degree.
• Required Courses: Include Play Therapy, Brief Counseling, Human Sexuality in Counseling, and Special Topics in Counseling.
• Learning Outcomes: The program is designed to provide comprehensive professional preparation, including:
  • Application of counseling theories.
  • Integration of theory and practice for individual and group counseling settings.
  • Examination of practices promoting multiculturalism, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Development of a professional counselor identity with a foundation in evidenced-based practice and ethical codes.
  • Evaluation and facilitation of self-awareness and self-development through reflective professional counseling practice.

Accreditation and Professional Licensure

• Accreditation: Bowling Green State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and the clinical mental health counseling program is accredited by CACREP.
• Professional Licensure: The program is designed to meet the requirements for clinical counseling licensure, with graduates well-prepared to work in various settings, including agencies, private practices, and hospitals, and eligible for licensure across the nation.

Career Opportunities

• Demand for Clinical Mental Health Counselors: High, with employment projected to grow 18% from the current period, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• Graduate Employment: 100% of graduates are employed in the counseling field within 180 days of graduation, with the potential for their work to be reimbursed by insurance.