The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Master of Arts Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is based on the standards developed by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The program incorporates the eight content areas outlined by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) to prepare students seeking professional counselor licensure and desiring to begin professional practice at the master’s level. The Chicago School is known for its commitment to diversity in its student body and the communities it serves.

The online program, offered through The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, consists of 60 credit hours of course work, supervised clinical training experiences and two residencies. Students in the M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program gain experience and training in general counseling competencies including ethics, research, program evaluation, diagnosis, theories, career development, assessment, and counseling interventions.

Students receive specialized training that focuses on community, prevention, and early intervention in community settings. They also learn to promote mental wellness, prevention, and resilience in individuals and communities.

Program Information

School Name: 
 The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Program Name: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Program Length: Three Years

Enrollment Types: 
Full-time or Part-Time


Instruction Methods: Asynchronous


Social Media: Facebook and Twitter

Phone Number: (800) 721-8072

Program Requirements:

  • Required Core Courses: 51 credits
  • Electives: 9 credits
  • Total Program: 60 credits
  • Two, four-day residencies at the Chicago campus. 
  • 100 practicum hours and post-practicum internship of 600+ hours under the direction of a qualified on-site supervisor.

An advanced internship course is available to students needing a full year of field work or 900 hours of internship to complete the necessary course work for counseling licensure in certain states. 

Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • GPA of 3.0
  • A course in psychology, with a grade earned of C or better
  • A course in either statistics or research methods, with a grade earned of C or better
  • An interview with Program Director/Department Chair and/or designee
  • Application/Apply Online
  • Application Fee: $50
  • A two-page essay addressing the following: How you would contribute to the fulfillment of the program’s mission given your personal and professional characteristics and accomplishments, your academic background, and your experience, and upon successful completion of the program, how do you see yourself contributing to the profession as a clinical mental health counselor?
  • Official College/University Transcripts from all schools where degrees have been earned. The Chicago School requires that all schools be regionally accredited higher education institutions. Official transcripts may be sent directly from the institution or with your application for admission as long as they are official, sealed, and signed across the envelope flap when they arrive.
  • Three Letters of Recommendation from professors and/or supervisors from significant work or volunteer experiences, who can appraise your academic or professional performance. Letters should arrive in a sealed envelope, signed across the seal.

*CACREP Accreditation in Process