Mental Health Counseling - M.S.

The Mental Health Counseling program at Manhattan University satisfies New York State education requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor.

Why Choose a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling?

A Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) is trained to treat mental health, human relationship, education, and career concerns within ethical, developmental, preventive, and treatment contexts. As demand grows for compassionate, disciplined professionals to help treat these issues, career outlook is excellent.

Program Details

• Faculty in this program are either licensed psychologists or mental health counselors and bring real-world knowledge and experience to their teaching.
• Graduates of this program have built careers as mental health counselors, social service counselors, rehabilitation counselors, social and community service managers, and have landed director positions as well.
• The program allows students to learn from active professionals in the field, find challenging internship experiences, meet and grow alongside an eager cohort, prepare and understand each step toward licensing, and gain an invaluable base of connections.

Learning From Experts Who Care

Professors in this program will challenge assumptions and support professional development. Students will also join a student cohort made up of a diverse cultural mix, many drawn from the New York City area, enriching education for all students.

Discover Professional Opportunities

Manhattan University's location in New York City gives students access to professional opportunities at some of the nation's top mental health hospitals, clinics, and agencies. As a graduate student, you will gain 700 hours of supervised, on-site counseling experience in ethnically and economically diverse areas. Note that in addition to program coursework, students are required to complete 3,000 clock hours of supervised post-graduation experience in a mental health counseling licensed organization or private practice to meet New York State licensure requirements.

Find Learning That Matches Your Lifestyle

The program includes summer coursework, helping students finish their degree faster. For added flexibility, many courses are also offered online. Students typically complete this program between 2.5 and three years.

Join an Enthusiastic Community

Imagine sitting in a small class of students with richly varied backgrounds, encouraged by faculty and each other to engage in lively discussions, establishing personal and professional connections that last a lifetime.

Build Valuable Skills

Acquire necessary practical skills, including:

• Using assessment instruments
• Counseling and psychotherapy
• Clinical assessment and evaluation
• Treatment planning and case management
• Prevention, discharge, and aftercare services

Admission Requirements

Applicants for master's programs must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or institution. Normally, an undergraduate GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale is required, although other factors may be considered. Ideally, applicants should have suitable preparation in the behavioral sciences. Consideration will be given for teaching experience and other applicable experience. Required documents include the application form, transcripts, statement of interest, resume, and two letters of reference.

Program Requirements

The Master of Science in mental health counseling requires 60 credit hours of coursework.

Meet the Faculty

Professors have years of knowledge acquired as mental health counselors, school counselors, and psychologists, enhancing the classroom experience and accelerating learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What kinds of settings do graduates get positions in after graduation?
  • Graduates work at mental health agencies, hospital settings, private practice, and nonprofit organizations.
• Are there evening and weekend classes?
  • Classes meet Mondays through Thursdays, with sections in the late afternoon and evening. Summer classes meet twice a week for seven weeks.
• How long does it take to complete the degree?
  • The degree can be completed between two years (including two summers) and five years, with most students finishing in 2.5 to 3 years.

Key Statistics

• Minimum Credit Hours: 60
• Program Format: Online Blended (in-person and online coursework)
• Employment Rate Upon Graduation: 90%
• Industry Job Growth by 2031: 22%

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Program:

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Degree Overview:

• Overview: The program prepares students to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) in New York State.
• Objectives: Train students to treat mental health, relationship, educational, and career concerns within ethical, developmental, preventive, and treatment contexts.
• Description: The program offers a blend of online and in-person coursework, allowing students to complete the degree in 2.5 to 3 years.
Graduates have found careers as mental health counselors, social service counselors, rehabilitation counselors, social and community service managers, and directors.

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Outline:

• Content: The program covers a range of topics, including assessment instruments, counseling and psychotherapy, clinical assessment and evaluation, treatment planning and case management, prevention, discharge, and aftercare services.
Students also develop a research-based study plan focused on a chosen population.
• Structure: The program requires 60 credit hours of coursework, including 700 hours of supervised, on-site counseling experience.
Students also complete 3,000 clock hours of supervised post-graduation experience to meet licensure requirements.
• Course Schedule: Classes are offered in the evenings and weekends during the fall and spring semesters, and twice a week during the summer.
• Module 4: Treatment Planning and Case Management: This module covers the development of treatment plans, case management, and crisis intervention.
• Module 5: Research and Evaluation: This module covers research methods and program evaluation.
• Module 6: Capstone Project: This module requires students to complete a research project or capstone project related to their chosen area of interest.

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Assessment:

• Methods: The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including exams, papers, presentations, and clinical supervision.
• Criteria: Students are assessed on their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of mental health counseling.

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Teaching:

• Methods: The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, case studies, role-playing, and simulations.
• Faculty: The faculty are licensed psychologists and mental health counselors with extensive experience in the field.
• Unique Approaches: The program offers a student-centered approach that emphasizes active learning and collaboration.

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Careers:

• Potential paths: Graduates can work in a variety of settings, including mental health agencies, hospitals, private practices, and non-profit organizations.
• Opportunities: The program prepares students for licensure as an LMHC in New York State, which opens up a wide range of career opportunities.
• Outcomes: 90% of graduates are employed upon graduation, and the industry is expected to grow by 22% by 2031.

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Other:

• The program is located in New York City, close to Westchester County and Long Island, providing students with access to numerous internship and job opportunities.
• The program is diverse, with students coming from a variety of backgrounds.
• The program is flexible, with evening and weekend classes and online options available.

Manhattan University

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Overview:

Manhattan University is a Lasallian Catholic institution located in Riverdale, New York, just 10 miles from Midtown Manhattan. It is dedicated to providing a career-ready higher education across multiple disciplines. The university emphasizes a sense of community and inclusivity, fostering a welcoming environment for all students.

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Services Offered:

Admissions:

Offers undergraduate, graduate, adult and continuing studies, English language programs, and Air Force ROTC programs.

Academics:

Provides a wide range of majors and minors, 5-year programs, graduate programs, and pathways from associate to bachelor degrees.

Academic Success Services:

Offers academic support, library resources, centers and institutes, global engagement opportunities, internships and career services, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.

Student Life:

Includes social action and service programs, campus ministry, events, clubs and organizations, housing, residence communities, dining, campus safety, inclusive community initiatives, and health and wellness services.

Giving:

Provides various ways to support the university through donations, planned giving, corporate and foundation partnerships, and fundraising events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Students at Manhattan University can expect a vibrant and supportive campus community. They can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, engage in social action and service initiatives, and enjoy a range of events and activities. The university offers various housing options and dining services, ensuring a comfortable and convenient living experience.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated in New York City, offering access to diverse cultural experiences and career opportunities.

Lasallian Catholic Heritage:

Emphasizes a commitment to social justice, service, and ethical leadership.

Career-Ready Education:

Provides practical skills and experiences to prepare students for successful careers.

Strong Academic Programs:

Offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, including business, engineering, and the liberal arts.

Supportive Community:

Fosters a sense of belonging and provides ample opportunities for student engagement and growth.

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Academic Programs:

Manhattan University offers over 100 majors and programs across various schools and departments. Some of the key academic strengths include:

The O'Malley School of Business:

Known for its strong business programs, including accounting, finance, marketing, and management.

The School of Engineering:

Offers programs in chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

The School of Liberal Arts:

Provides a broad range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

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Other:

• The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating an equitable and welcoming environment for all students.
• Manhattan University has a strong alumni network, providing valuable connections and career support.
• The university offers a variety of resources and services to support student success, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.