Introduction to the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration of the Master of Science in Psychology is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer efficient counseling and psychotherapy services. This program meets the requirements for recognition from the Hellenic Association of Counseling, combining coursework and a research-based thesis project with 700 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice.

Program Overview

• The program is suitable for candidates who wish to pursue a professional career in the fields of mental health and counseling services.
• It seamlessly combines course work and a research-based thesis project with 700 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice.
• The program enables students to develop a comprehensive set of assessment, research, and counseling skills.

Strengths of the CMHC Program

• The program meets the requirements for recognition from the Hellenic Association of Counseling, allowing students to gain accreditation as Mental Health Counselors upon completion of the program requirements.
• The 700 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice offer students the necessary practicum experience in counseling practice, use of skills, ethical boundaries, and other essential components of a high-professional-standards mental health counselor.
• Instructors and supervisors in the program are doctoral-level scholars and practitioners with extensive experience in counseling and psychotherapy.
• The program adheres to the scholar-practitioner model, training students to incorporate research into practice and apply clinical quantitative and qualitative research for their thesis.
• The program schedule offers online courses in addition to regular courses.

Program Requirements

• Students are required to complete a total of 22 courses (66 Credits), including a practicum, thesis research project, and internship, to earn the Master of Science in Psychology degree, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration.
• The academic year consists of two semesters, each 15 weeks in length, with classes for each course meeting once a week for 3 hours.
• Courses are offered in the evenings.
• The CMHC program is a three-year program if students follow the program of study as outlined in the curriculum.

Comprehensive Examination

• Upon successfully completing the first year of the MSPsy – CMHC Program (approximately 10 courses), students are required to pass a comprehensive examination, providing evidence of skills acquired and competence in the field.
• Additional details regarding the structure and date and time of the exam will be provided by the Program Director.
• Upon passing the examination, students earn the Certificate in Psychology.

Personal Therapy

• Students are required to fulfill 60 sessions of individual, couples, family, and/or group therapy while completing their Master of Science in Psychology, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration academic and practicum requirements.
• This invaluable learning experience helps students engage in a therapeutic process, deal with personal matters, and become robust counselors capable of forming effective therapeutic relationships.
• It is highly recommended that students begin sessions within their first semester of the program, although some flexibility regarding the timing of therapy is allowed.

Research and Professional Development

• The thesis project, faculty research projects, and the research activities of the Counseling Center offer opportunities for students to collect and analyze data and publish their research findings.
• Students are encouraged to develop their skills in quantitative and qualitative research and present their work in peer-reviewed conferences and journals.
• Moreover, students will receive training in testing and assessment, including cognitive, achievement, personality, and career testing.
• Research studying and supervision groups are offered monthly as part of the program’s extra-curricular activities.

Career Opportunities

• As graduates of the program, students are equipped with knowledge and skills to pursue a successful career in a broad range of settings, such as clinics, mental health counseling centers, hospitals, community service centers for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, elderly homes, and career counseling centers.
• Students will also be well-prepared for studies at the doctoral level.

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Clinical Mental Health Counseling Concentration at Hellenic American College

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Degree Overview:

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The Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program at Hellenic American College

equips students with the knowledge and skills to offer efficient counseling and psychotherapy services. The program is accredited by the European Association of Counseling and the Hellenic Association of Counseling. It seamlessly combines coursework and a research-based thesis project with 600 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice.

• Offers 600 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice, providing valuable experience in counseling practice, skills use, ethical boundaries, and other essential components of high-professional-standards mental health counseling.
• Led by doctoral-level scholars and practitioners of various disciplines with extensive experience in counseling and psychotherapy.
• Adheres to the scholar-practitioner model, training students to incorporate research into practice by staying informed on current developments and applying clinical quantitative and qualitative research for their thesis.
• Offers online courses in addition to regular courses, providing flexibility for students.

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Outline:

The academic year consists of two semesters, each 15 weeks long, with classes for each course meeting once a week for 3 hours each.

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The program curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the field of mental health counseling, including:

• Developmental Psychology
• Psychopathology
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Individual, Couples, Family, and Group Therapy
• Ethical and Legal Issues in Counseling
• Assessment and Testing
• Research Methods
• Thesis Project
• Supervised Counseling and Clinical Practice

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The program also offers students the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, such as:

• Research projects
• Conferences and seminars
• Masterclasses and workshops
• Professional development training
• Research study and supervision groups

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Assessment:

• Examinations: Midterm and final exams are used to assess students' knowledge and understanding of course material.
• Assignments: Essays, research papers, presentations, and case studies are used to assess students' critical thinking, writing, and research skills.
• Clinical Practice: Students are assessed on their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations in their supervised counseling and clinical practice.
• Thesis Project: Students are assessed on their ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and write a scholarly thesis.

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Teaching:

• Lectures: Faculty members present information on key topics and concepts in mental health counseling.
• Discussion: Students participate in active discussions about course material and real-world issues related to mental health.
• Case Studies: Students analyze and discuss real-world case studies to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
• Role-Playing: Students participate in role-playing exercises to practice counseling skills and techniques.
• Simulated Clients: Students work with simulated clients to gain experience in conducting therapy sessions.
• Supervised Counseling and Clinical Practice: Students receive individual and group supervision from experienced mental health professionals.

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Careers:

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Graduates of the CMHC program are prepared for a variety of careers in mental health counseling, including:

• Mental Health Counselor
• Therapist
• Family Therapist
• School Counselor
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Career Counselor
• Private Practice Owner

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Other:

• The CMHC program is offered in English.

• The program is open to students with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field.

• The program is competitive, and admission is based on a review of the applicant's academic record, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and interview.

• The program offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships and loans.

Hellenic American College

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Overview:

Hellenic American College is an institution offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs of Hellenic American University (HAU) at its facilities in Athens, Greece. It provides a student-centered learning environment with small class sizes, diverse student body, and an internationally trained faculty.

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Services Offered:

• Academic Services:

  • Library with extensive collections and resources, interlibrary loan services, and information literacy programs.
  • Academic Center for the Enrichment of Students (ACES) offering academic support, career development, counseling, mentoring, and writing center services.
  • Online learning opportunities.

• Student Life:

  • Student Success programs focusing on academic and career development.
  • Office of Student Affairs organizing student council, activities, teams, and clubs.
  • Civic Engagement opportunities.
  • Events and a blog for student engagement.

• Admissions:

  • Undergraduate and graduate admissions processes.
  • Transfer and international applicant support.
  • Financial assistance programs.
  • Opportunities to visit the college.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at Hellenic American College can expect a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student body and a strong sense of community. The college offers a variety of co-curricular activities, clubs, and events to foster student engagement and personal development. The college also provides extensive support services to help students succeed academically and professionally.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Guaranteed Aid for Students with Need:

The majority of students receive scholarships and financial aid.

One-on-one Academic and Career Support:

Students benefit from faculty mentoring, writing tutors, career counseling, and dedicated teachers.

Student-Centered Learning:

Small class sizes, diverse student body, and an emphasis on hands-on learning create an engaging and challenging environment.

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Academic Programs:

• Undergraduate Programs:

  • Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Informatics
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
  • Bachelor of Music

• Graduate Programs:

  • Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics-TESOL
  • Master of Arts in Conference Interpreting
  • Master of Arts in Translation
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Master of Science in Sales Management
  • Master of Science in Informatics
  • Master of Science in Psychology
  • Master of Science in Stress & Health Management
  • Ph.D. in Language and Communication

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Other:

• Hellenic American University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
• The college offers a variety of study abroad programs.
• The college has a strong focus on research and teaching.
• The college offers lifelong learning programs in translation and interpretation, teacher education, and technology training.
• The college has a strong alumni network.
• The college is located in Athens, Greece, offering students the opportunity to experience a vibrant and historic city.