Major Requirements

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for employment in a variety of human service settings, including:

• Community Mental Health Agencies
• Schools
• Colleges/Universities
• Hospitals
• Government Agencies
• Domestic Violence and other Social Service Organizations

Students develop skills in clinical mental health counseling, multicultural/social justice counseling, career counseling, substance abuse services, empowerment approaches for urban youth, and crisis counseling. Students who graduate from this program meet all educational requirements for the New York State license in clinical mental health counseling (LMHC). After completion of the program, students may apply for a limited permit to practice mental health counseling, while accumulating the required post degree hours to sit for the licensure exam. Students also meet the educational requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor in most other states.

The Department of Counseling and Human Services has been a pioneer in training highly skilled practitioners and leaders in a wide range of counseling settings. Syracuse’s programs are nationally accredited and can lead to national certification or state certification in school counseling or licensure as a clinical mental health counselor.

Programs include extensive fieldwork opportunities in which students gain hands-on experience working with students and clients in a wide range of counseling and educational settings. Students work closely with their advisor, and the fieldwork coordinator to identify settings that meet their individual interests and career goals. The faculty is nationally recognized for their leadership in the profession and all classes are taught by skilled experts and experienced clinicians.

The faculty is deeply committed to the growth and development of their students; faculty work closely with both our master’s and doctoral students. Students are trained in the most current information in counseling and provided the opportunity to develop their skills and succeed in their chosen area of specialization. The department’s goal is to prepare national leaders in counseling. It seeks to develop a diverse group of professionals who will excel in knowledge, skills, commitment, and service in a wide range of educational and community settings.