Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSE)
Gain the Knowledge and Skills to Become a Successful Counselor
As a UD Clinical Mental Health Counseling student, you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a successful counselor in community-based and private counseling sessions. We embrace a holistic approach to working with individuals, families and communities, and you will learn to use leading methodologies to practice effectively in any environment.
The flexibility of the program structure allows you to choose from two tracks — 2.5 years or 3.5 years.
To receive your Professional Counseling License (PC), you are required to pass a test from the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT). After completing two additional years of supervised experience and passing a second test (PCLE), you will be licensed as a Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC).
program Accreditation
The UD Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and is approved by the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT) to provide training toward Professional Counselor (PC) and Professional Clinical Counselor (PCC) licenses. Program coursework also meets requirements for licensure in most states outside of Ohio.
A High-Quality Education
Ecotherapy Certificate
Clinical Mental Health Counseling students who are interested in the healing power of nature can earn a certificate in Ecotherapy with just a few requirements beyond their regular coursework. This certificate is perfect for people who want to incorporate nature and sustainability into their counseling practice.
Learn MoreFrom professional seminars to internships and study abroad opportunities, Clinical Mental Health Counseling students can explore their interests while honing the skills needed for a successful career.
Take Courses in Dayton or the Columbus Metro Area
UD Clinical Mental Health Counseling students have the flexibility of attending classes UD's main campus in Dayton, Ohio, or at a satellite campus in the Columbus metropolitan area.
Explore the Columbus Campus
Graduates work in a variety of settings, including community agencies, hospitals and clinics, as well as in private practices, providing counseling and psychotherapy for clients who are struggling with mental and emotional disorders, substance abuse, family and relationship difficulties, and career development needs.
Student Research
Students work alongside faculty to conduct and publish research in respected journals. Students also participate in UD's annual Stander Symposium, a campus-wide event that allows students from all disciplines to showcase their intellectual accomplishments.
Certificate Option
Students who have completed UD's School Counseling program and are interested in pursuing a dual license with clinical counseling are eligible to enroll in the CMHC certificate program. This six-semester certificate builds upon your knowledge as a licensed school counselor to round out your knowledge for clinical counseling.
Graduate Assistantships
Clinical Mental Health Counseling students must be accepted into the program, and must be enrolled full time at UD's main campus in Dayton upon accepting an assistantship. GAs are typically employed for 20 hours per week on a 9-month contract, and they receive partial tuition remission and a monthly stipend.
Chi Sigma Iota
Clinical Mental Health Counseling students are invited to join Chi Sigma Iota, the international honor society for students, professional counselors and counselor educators. Its mission is to promote scholarship, research, professionalism, leadership and excellence in counseling, and to recognize high attainment in the pursuit of academic and clinical excellence in the profession of counseling.
Experiential Learning
Real-World Experience
Practicum experiences offer students the opportunity to hone the skills needed for professional practice. Students also participate in an internship where they can diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders. All practicum and internship experiences are completed in a clinical mental health agency setting, with supervision by a professional clinical counselor and a UD faculty supervisor.
