This program prepares students to practice as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in diverse contexts. As part of the overall CACREP accredited counseling program, Clinical Mental Health Counseling students are exposed to a wide variety of theories and skills, research and assessment techniques, professional identity and ethical concerns, as well as the importance of advocacy and multicultural-social justice principles for working with clients. Our students can expect to be challenged, supported, and encouraged to excel throughout their learning experience toward earning their master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and begin their residency towards the LPC.
Program Highlights
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Opportunities for study abroad in Italy and Ireland to count for select classes
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Chance to take the National Counselor Exam before you graduate
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Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP)
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Elect to take courses as a full-time or part-time student
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Courses are offered in the late-afternoons and evenings to accommodate students with multiple responsibilities
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.
Mental Health Counselors
Counsel with emphasis on prevention. Work with individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. May help individuals deal with issues associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; and aging.
Marriage and Family Therapists
Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems. Apply psychotherapeutic and family systems theories and techniques in the delivery of services to individuals, couples, and families for the purpose of treating such diagnosed nervous and mental disorders.
Alumni Careers
Requirements
Applicants may hold a bachelor’s degree in any field and must submit the following:
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Online application at the Office of Graduate Admissions website
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Current resume
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Essay
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Official Transcripts
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Two Letters of Recommendation
Featured Courses
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Assistantships
Counseling master’s degree students are sometimes awarded assistantships in various ODU offices including Academic Skills, Financial Aid, Office of Intercultural Relations, Resident Life, Student Activities, Student Development, Student Health Services, Student Life, and Vice President of Student Services. Students interesting in obtaining an assistantship should apply directly to offices on campus that have assistantships.