College of Education
The M.S. in Mental Health Counseling degree prepares students to become licensed professional counselors (LPC) who can provide mental health services at an agency or in a community or private practice setting. In recent years, there has been a shortage of certified mental health professionals, so graduates are in high demand and are competitive in part due to the program's CACREP accreditation.
Accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs, which meets Texas LPC licensure mandates
Courses include play therapy, addictions counseling, couples counseling and neuroscience in counseling
Program draws a wide-range of students of different ages, backgrounds and professional experiences
Ashley Diaz grew up wanting to help others. She chose this program because of its experienced research faculty and multiple partnerships with mental health agencies. The El Paso native praised the hands-on counseling training she received in multiple settings. Ashley is pursuing her Ph.D. in counselor education at Penn State University. She plans to return to her hometown as a counselor/educator.
All graduates meet the requirements to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, and they will find jobs with hospitals, nonprofit agencies, private practices and outpatient mental health clinics. Graduates often find jobs at their internship site.