Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Master’s Degree Program

Take the first step to becoming a licensed professional counselor. This hands-on master’s program offers unique opportunities to apply your learning in the field, as part of a rigorous curriculum grounded in current research, program evaluation and continuous improvement. Our graduates are uniquely prepared to serve the diverse communities of Alaska and are employed by agencies throughout the state.

With digitally delivered web-based synchronous class meetings and/or asynchronous online learning modules, the master's in clinical mental health counseling offers options to fit your life. Our faculty have extensive practitioner experience, and, along with your advisors, are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll enjoy the same hands-on training experiences, collaborative learning atmosphere and personal attention.

The Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP).

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Why Study Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UAF?

We offer the only clinical mental health counseling program of its kind in Alaska. Our counseling students enjoy access to the resources of a large university, combined with the personal attention of a small college. Our graduates are sought by employers across the state for their unique knowledge and training. Here are some of the highlights of earning your master’s in clinical mental health counseling at UAF.

Engage in diverse field-based learning and research opportunities

Our clinical mental health counseling program includes a field practicum and internship at a field site working under the supervision of a licensed counselor. Many of our students publish research work with faculty and present at professional conferences.

Complete your master’s degree on a flexible schedule

Our program is entirely digitally delivered, which means our courses are offered online, either synchronously or asynchronously. Most of our classes are offered in the early evening but we are beginning to offer some classes in the afternoon to help meet student needs. In our program, you will enjoy hands-on training experiences, a collaborative learning atmosphere, and personal attention.

Earn your master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from a CACREP accredited program

Earning your degree in a program accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) may increase your employment opportunities after graduation and helps with licensure.

Gain specialized training for clinical mental health counseling careers in Alaska

We are dedicated to preparing culturally attuned counselors who can effectively serve diverse populations across Alaska. Special emphasis is placed on preparing counselors to work effectively with rural clients.

 

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

This program provides the educational foundation you’ll need to become a licensed professional counselor, as well as preparing you for other counseling careers. It’s a field that is in high demand. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is projected to grow 23% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Each state has its own unique requirements for authorization. If you are planning to seek a professional license or certificate in a state other than Alaska, please see the state listings website.

Clinical mental health counseling jobs

Our graduates provide individual, couples and family counseling services, working in diverse mental health care settings across Alaska such as:

  • Community health centers
  • State and local government
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Child and family service agencies
  • Hospitals and trauma centers
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Private practice

Clinical mental health counseling salary

Based on recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is $44,630.

 

 

Get Started on Your Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Take the next step toward earning your degree in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. We have the resources to help you get started.