M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Harding

This 60-hour CACREP accredited Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling prepares candidates with the advanced knowledge and skills to become leaders and practitioners in the field of professional counseling/psychotherapy. Practice is given in using current counseling principles in real-world settings through practicum and internship experiences. Candidates are equipped with strategies including cognitive, affective, behavioral or systematic interventions that address wellness, personal growth, crisis and mental health, including pathology. This program will provide candidates with competencies (as defined by CACREP and ACA) designed to positively impact a variety of people across the lifespan.

This degree can lead to professional credentialing as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Mental Health Counselor and prepares for professional counseling practice in a variety of settings including, but not limited to, schools, community, mental health, private practice and ministry.

Learn more about Mental Health and Wellness

Why study clinical mental health counseling at Harding?

Accredited

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), has granted accreditation to this degree program.

Real Experience

Faculty members with Christian values provide practical tools/techniques for developing professional counseling skills. This master's degree allows you to train in a career choice that makes a difference through promoting mental and emotional well-being.

Opportunities

This program opens doors to work and serve in a wide range of settings. In addition, those completing this program have the choice to proceed further in education with an Ed.S. in counseling.

More Information

CACREP-accreditation signals that a program’s content and quality have been evaluated and meet strict, consistent standards set by the profession. Choosing a CACREP accredited program also means the curriculum contains the academic knowledge necessary for professional licensure.
CACREP-accredited programs assure students—and the public they will one day serve—that a program’s curriculum includes appropriate counseling coursework and skill development. It also ensures that the program is stable, both professionally and financially.
Benefits of graduating from a CACREP-accredited counseling program include:
• Access to more employment opportunities.
• An advantage when applying to doctoral degree programs.
• A streamlined state counseling licensing application process.
• The skills and credibility to maximize your impact on the counseling profession.
• The opportunity to sit for the National Counselor Examination exam prior to graduation.

Practical tools/techniques for developing professional counseling skills
Faculty members with real-world experiences
Up-to-date strategies and content
Training in a career that makes a difference through promoting mental and emotional well-being
Locations in Northwest Arkansas and Searcy give you options

Undergraduate students have the option to take up to 12 hours of graduate counseling credits that will count for their undergraduate minor and also give them a head start on a graduate degree.

Application Requirements

Complete the online application.
Request official transcripts* be sent directly from previous institutions to admissions@harding.edu
Request three letters of recommendation
Upload a copy of your Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) immunization record.
Upload a resume.

*Note: Harding alumni and current students do not need to request Harding transcripts as they are on file.

Additional Admission Requirements

Complete a personal interview with the Mental Health and Wellness faculty.
Limitations understanding signature.

Applications should be submitted by the following dates:

Summer term: March 30

Fall term: July 1

Spring term: November 15

Supervisors and students should contact the Mental Health and Wellness office at 501-279-4500 for a direct link to training materials, handbooks and forms. Please contact Dr. Marc Fager for if you have additional questions.

To be licensed in the state of Arkansas students must complete one credit hour of COUN 6901 Technology Assisted & Distance Counseling as an elective to fulfill licensing requirements.

What can you do with a master's in clinical mental health counseling?

K-12 settings

A Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling equips practitioners with essential skills to support K-12 students' mental health. These professionals use crisis intervention techniques, promote personal growth and enhance emotional wellness, creating a supportive environment for students.

Higher education

A Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling prepares college counselors to assist students with various developmental, academic and personal challenges. Practitioners help students navigate the complexities of college life, manage stress and develop coping strategies to ensure academic success and personal growth.

Private mental health practices

A Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling provides advanced training in psychotherapy and counseling techniques. Graduates are well-equipped to offer comprehensive mental health services to a diverse client population, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems and trauma.

Contact Information

Mental Health and Wellness

501-279-4500

mhw@harding.edu

Mailing address:

Harding University
Mental Health and Wellness
HU 12254
Searcy, AR 72149-5615

Clinical Mental Health Counseling