Prepare to facilitate growth and healing in individuals and families.
 

More than 20% of adults in the United States live with mental illness. Today, more than ever, the world needs caring, compassionate counselors to help people of all ages address grief, stress, depression, substance use, and other complex challenges. 

This program will prepare you for professional licensure and for a meaningful career in service to others at John Carroll University. Our online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling mirrors our on-campus program; you’ll take the same courses, learn from the same expert faculty, and participate in field experiences at a location convenient to you and in an accelerated timeframe. 

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Accelerated Pathway

Earn your online M.A. in Counseling in two years with an accelerated curriculum, remote learning, and localized fieldwork.

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Immersive Weekend Residencies

Attend two on-campus residences. This community-based learning experience allows you to engage with your cohort and faculty in person – and gives you a chance to grow your professional network.

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Rich Fieldwork Experiences

Gain more than 700 hours of clinical experience at partner agencies near you. Our dedicated practicum instructor and internship coordinator will help you find a meaningful experience.

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Pathway to Licensure

Our CACREP-accredited program meets the academic requirements for an initial licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor or Mental Health Counselor. An optional substance use disorder concentration can lead to an additional license.

Program Overview & Outcomes

In our CACREP-accredited master’s program, you will receive in-depth classroom and clinical training as you prepare for professional licensure. Throughout your coursework and fieldwork, you will learn to: 

  • Identify as a clinical mental health counselor who is knowledgeable about the history and development of the profession, is aware of the challenges facing the profession, and prepare to advocate for the profession
  • Assess, evaluate, and diagnose clients using assessment instruments and the DSM
  • Determine, develop, and implement appropriate treatment plans and interventions for clients

Admissions & Aid

Learn more about applying to the Online Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at John Carroll University.

To apply to the Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at JCU, you need:

  • An undergraduate degree in a recognized area from an accredited institution 
  • An undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0

The following documents are required for a complete application:
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
  • Resume/CV, which includes work and volunteer experience
  • Two letter(s) of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose - in 400-600 words, explain your career objectives and goals
  • Faculty Interview

New cohorts start each fall. Applicants are admitted on a rolling basis.

However, for best consideration, applications should be received by these dates:

  • August 1 - for a Fall semester start

Tuition & Financial Aid

JCU graduate students may be eligible for federal financial aid programs as well as JCU scholarships and graduate assistantships. Explore all options and get program tuition information at our financial aid website.

Where Our Alumni Go

Graduates of JCU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program make a difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities in Ohio and beyond. They work for counseling centers, rehabilitation facilities, hospitals and health networks, colleges and universities, and in private practice. Some continue on to Ph.D. programs and teach at the college level.

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