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Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

If you’re passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges, the MS in clinical mental health counseling specialization from Capella University can help you develop clinical expertise to become a practicing counseling professional. This CACREP-accredited program covers the theories and practical skills you need to assess and diagnose mental health disorders, provide evidence-based interventions, and empower people to live happier and healthier lives. You’ll emerge with the training and confidence to pursue state licensure and positively impact the mental, behavioral, and emotional health of your clients.

Blended, flexible learning

Develop expertise in clinical mental health counseling with a dynamic curriculum that combines online and in-person learning experiences.

Professional alignment

Our curriculum is designed to incorporate the values, principles, and ethical standards of national, regional, and state professional counseling associations and honor societies.

Combined theory and practice

Apply and enhance your skills and knowledge through residency, practicum, and internship requirements.

Classes start June 5

Use the code SPRING to waive the $50 application fee.

At a glance

  • GuidedPath
  • Online & in-person
  • 10 Core courses
  • 7 Specialization courses
  • 2 Residencies
  • Practicum
  • 2 Internships
  • CACREP accredited

Reduce your tuition by $2,500

Enroll in a qualified program and apply for a $2.5K Capella Progress Reward, a scholarship to help fund your master’s degree. Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

What can you do with an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree?

Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. While Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific career outcome, such as a job title, promotion, or salary increase, we encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here are some ideas and examples for a graduate with an MS in clinical mental health counseling specialization.

Job titles to explore

  • Counselor/therapist
  • Behavioral health counselor/therapist
  • Professional counselor
  • Mental health counselor
  • Professional clinical counselor
  • Substance abuse/addiction counselor
  • Adjunct or part-time counseling faculty
  • Full-time counseling faculty

Employment settings to explore

  • Community mental health center
  • Family/social service agency
  • Psychiatric hospital
  • Residential treatment center
  • Mental health agency
  • Employee assistance program
  • Land-based or online college or university
  • Community college
  • College counseling center
  • Family service agency
  • Private/group practice
  • Federal, state and local governments

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.