M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Embark on a transformative journey with our Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to equip you with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical foundation needed to thrive as a licensed professional counselor. With specialized tracks in mental health counseling, school counseling, and more, you can tailor your education to your passion. Our commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and cultural competence will empower you to connect with and support individuals from all walks of life. Upon completing this program, you will have satisfied the coursework requirements for licensure in New Jersey as a professional counselor (LPC). In addition, the program fulfills CACREP standards for clinical mental health counselors. Join a vibrant community of learners, benefit from mentorship opportunities, and gain access to networking events that will shape your future in counseling.
Admissions Requirements
Note: The application deadlines for the M.A. in Counseling with Mental Health Counseling Specialization are:
April 1 – Summer; June 1 – Fall; December 1 – Spring Semesters
Applications received after the posted deadline will be considered, however, depending on available class space, acceptance may be deferred.
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.2
- Bachelor’s-level coursework in psychology, sociology, or a closely related field and successful completion of a statistics course is recommended
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
- Writing sample: Submission of a research-based paper of 5-10 pages that was previously submitted in an undergraduate or graduate counseling or psychology course. APA style preferred.
- Two letters of recommendation for graduate study, preferably from former professors or current employer
- Personal interview with the program coordinator and/or participation in a group interview.
The M.A. in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization is a rigorous 60-credit degree program which prepares students to effectively function as clinical mental health counselors in a variety of human service settings. Graduates of this program will hold a master’s degree that satisfies fully the coursework requirements for licensure in New Jersey as a Professional Counselor. In addition, the program fulfills CACREP Standards for Clinical Mental Health Counselors. This program requires that students complete prescribed coursework, practicum and internship experiences, and must pass a written and oral comprehensive examination. The program particularly emphasizes a cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientation, and the coursework accentuates this approach. While other theoretical perspectives are studied as well, students in this program gain a strong conceptual and practical cognitive-behavioral understanding.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Note – The application deadlines for the M.A. in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization are:
April 1 – Summer; June 1 – Fall; December 1 – Spring Semesters
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.2
- Bachelor’s-level coursework in psychology, sociology, or a closely related field and successful completion of a statistics course is recommended
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts (if applicable)
- Writing sample: Submission of a research-based paper of 5-10 pages that was previously submitted in an undergraduate or graduate counseling or psychology course. APA style preferred
- Two letters of recommendation for graduate study, preferably from former professors or current employer
- Personal interview with the program coordinator and/or participation in a group interview
Successful candidates for the M.A. in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization must demonstrate a professional manner and aptitude and a demonstrated ability to integrate theory and practice in their coursework, including the successful completion of a three-credit supervised counseling practicum experience, followed by six-credits of internships.
The Academic Capstone of the program is a two-part comprehensive examination in the form of a case study supported by peer-reviewed research. In general, students should be able to demonstrate the following in the comprehensive exam:
- An understanding of the fundamental principles of mental health counseling, including diagnosis and evidence-based treatment methodologies, individual and group process, human development, psychopathology, the role of culture, gender, spirituality, and the biopsychosocial bases of behavior, etc.
- An understanding of counseling research, including experimental, quasiexperimental, and non-experimental designs, particularly as they pertain to treatment of mental/emotional disorders.
- The ability to read, evaluate and utilize reports of psychological and counseling research.
- An ability to write clearly about counseling concerns and treatment and to communicate effectively
M.A. IN COUNSELING WITH MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING SPECIALIZATION – CACREP-ACCREDITED
The M.A. in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization is a rigorous 60-credit degree program which prepares students to effectively function as clinical mental health counselors in a variety of human service settings. Graduates of this program will hold a master’s degree that satisfies fully the coursework requirements for licensure in New Jersey as a Professional Counselor. In addition, the program fulfills CACREP Standards for Clinical Mental Health Counselors. This program requires that students complete prescribed coursework, practicum and internship experiences, and must pass a written and oral comprehensive examination. The program particularly emphasizes a cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientation, and the coursework accentuates this approach. While other theoretical perspectives are studied as well, students in this program gain a strong conceptual and practical cognitive-behavioral understanding.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Note – The application deadlines for the M.A. in Counseling with Clinical (ADD) Mental Health Counseling Specialization are:
April 1 – Summer; June 1 – Fall; December 1 – Spring Semesters
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.2
- Bachelor’s-level coursework in psychology, accruing at least 15 credits, including Psychological Statistics, Experimental Psychology, and Psychopathology, and two from among the following: General Psychology, Personality Theory, Human Development (Child, Adolescent, or Adult Development) with an earned grade of at least a B in each
- Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts
- Writing sample: Submission of a research-based paper of 5-10 pages that was previously submitted in an undergraduate or graduate counseling or psychology course. APA style preferred.
- Two letters of recommendation for graduate study, preferably from former professors or current employer
- Personal interview with the program coordinator and/or participation in a group interview
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization (60 credits)
In order for students to initiate and continue their studies effectively and to satisfy all prerequisites, they should consult the Student Course Planning Guide within the Graduate Counseling Student Handbook. In addition, Program Coordinators can provide guidance and will establish advisement days each semester prior to registration.
Required Courses (24 credits)
Course Code : CPS 510
Course Description :
Focuses on the application of a systematic and empirical approach to the study of counseling Topics will include: scientific method, pseudoscience, types of experimental research, variable definition, validity threats, control strategies, experimental design, ethical issues, how to present research, statistical application, and additional material. Students engage in discussion, conduct relevant empirical research, and write research reports in the American Psychological Association format (APA).
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 545
Course Description :
Examines the various legal constraints and ethical principles related to the roles, responsibilities and credentialing of counselors in private practice, agencies, schools, etc. In addition to emphasis on the ACA Code of Ethics, students learn to use the codes of ethics of their program specializations (AMHCA, ASCA, AATA) in order to become competent ethical decision-makers.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 557
Course Description :
Examines theoretical and practice dimensions of major therapeutic approaches. The course explores the early history of counseling and psychotherapy, its foundations and impact on current practice. Building upon the early traditions and models, content will concentrate on the more modern person-centered, reality therapy, cognitive and behavioral approaches to counseling. Use of research, application to cases and role-playing will illustrate the approaches under consideration.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 613
Course Description :
An examination of and practice in the process and techniques of individual counseling with adolescents and adults. Students learn and exercise a variety of intervention strategies, tailored to the counselor's role in particular settings as well as clients developmental level and needs. The full range of treatment from Intake to Termination provides the basis for learning about counseling at every stage.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS520, CPS500, CPS545, CPS557
Course Code : CPS 633
Course Description :
Undertakes the study of career development theories, career decision-making, career assessment, and occupational and labor market information, as well as basic strategies and instruments utilized by counselors in assisting individuals toward making appropriate career choices. Activities designed to assist clients at all developmental levels and in various settings provide students with practice in helping others in their career development and choices.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 653
Course Description :
Explores the theories and competence necessary for counseling with diverse individuals and groups, including the influences of history, culture, gender, sexual identity, religion, socioeconomic status and race. Students will examine their own culture, assumptions about human behavior, biases, and personal experience and learn strategies for developing appropriate and sensitive interventions with culturally diverse clients. Students will conduct an in-depth study of a culture different from their own.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 663
Course Description :
Examines various theories of small-group dynamics and membership, and the various roles counselors play in diverse group models, according to the makeup of the group, it's setting, and its goals/purposes. Topics include group structure, development of norms, conflict resolution, roles, therapeutic factors and dimensions of group leadership. A significant aspect of this course is found in students ongoing participation in a group experience. Additional experiential exercises in which students learn group leadership skills are conducted throughout the course.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS613, CPS557
Course Code : CPS 667
Course Description :
Using theory and research regarding human development from infancy through old age, the course examines the impact of life events, developmental factors, and abilities, and their implications for individuals, families, and for counselors and art therapists. While this broader scope provides the context for the course as a whole, a selective focus on childhood and adolescence is emphasized for students preparing to be school counselors. Research projects reflect and enhance students’ chosen emphases and professional goals.
Credit : 3
MH Specialization Requirements (18 credits)
Course Code : CPS 520
Course Description :
An in-depth introduction to the history, roles, functions, and relationships of mental health counselors. Course content is set in the context of the ACA and AMHCA Codes of Ethics and counselors’ work is understood as well in the unique needs associated with culture, spirituality, gender, and other defining client characteristics. Emphasis is likewise given to the importance of counselor self-care. The course introduces the requirements of CACREP Core Standards and the Program Standards for Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 535
Course Description :
An advanced overview of the physiological processes relating to human behavior. Topics include the central nervous system, neurotransmitter and neurohormonal functioning, the biological bases for emotions, perception, motivation and brain disorders.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 562
Course Description :
This course, designed for Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy students features an overview of individual and group approaches to formal and informal modes of assessment employed by professional counselors. Course participants will evaluate instruments, practice interpreting results, and demonstrate knowledge of psychometric properties.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS545, CPS520, CPS557
Course Code : CPS 577
Course Description :
This course is a study of abnormal psychological processes across the lifespan including behavior, etiology, symptomology, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment planning. Students are prepared to use the DSM-5 and other appraisal measures and tools for understanding client needs in varying settings.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS557, CPS613, CPS667, CAT501, CPS667
Course Code : CPS 647
Course Description :
Explores the role and impact of values, spirituality and religious beliefs in counseling. The relevance and power of client beliefs as they may relate to presenting concerns and the possible role of utilizing the client's spirituality in the counseling process are explored. Counselor values and spiritual development are examined and recognized as a factor in counselor effectiveness.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS557
Course Code : CPS 673
Course Description :
This course provides an overview of brief counseling modalities and explores a variety of brief counseling techniques and interventions. The primary focus is on how to effectively use a brief model to help clients find solutions and discover their goals and strengths. Application to case conceptualization and creating a treatment plan within a brief model are explored and practiced.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS557, CPS520, CPS500
Required Practicum/Internship Experiences (9 credits)
Course Code : CPS 590
Course Description :
Requires a minimum of 100 hours to be spent in an advanced level of supervised practical counseling experience in a professional setting. Students will gain knowledge and practice in the performance of the work of counselors, providing direct service in agencies, hospitals, or schools. Success in the Practicum is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide input and group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Prior to initiating this course, students will be informed of practicum policies and will indicate their agreement to uphold practicum standards. A Manual for the Practicum Experience is available online and every student should download that document. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the college. Students are responsible to comply with site requirements for health screening or background checks. Advisor approval is required. Prerequisites: Indicated on Practicum Application.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CAT504, CAT501, CPS545, CAT507, CAT505, CAT515, CPS577, CPS520, CPS500, CPS557, CPS613, CAT514,
AND
Course Code : CPS 688A
Course Description :
Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across two semesters, each three-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required. surances, for example, fingerprinting, health screen, or background checks. Advisor approval required.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS663, CPS590
Course Code : CPS 688B
Course Description :
Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across two semesters, each three credit course requires 300 hours of field work. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required..
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS688A
OR
Course Code : CPS 690A
Course Description :
Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across three semesters, each two-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required.
Credit : 2
Prerequisites :
CPS590, CPS663
Course Code : CPS 690B
Course Description :
Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across three semesters, each two-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required.
Credit : 2
Prerequisites :
CPS690A
Course Code : CPS 690C
Course Description :
Once the three-credit practicum experience has been completed, students will pursue a six-credit internship including six hundred clock hours in one or more supervised settings that reflect their professional goals (mental health or school setting). When split across three semesters, each two-credit course requires 300 hours of fieldwork. The setting shall provide an advanced level of supervised counseling experience. Students will gain practice in performing the work of counselors, providing direct service. The internship courses presume increased responsibility and ongoing practical experience in the counseling profession in agencies, hospitals, or schools and success in the internship is a requirement for graduation. Weekly class meetings provide group supervision by faculty and a shared learning process. Each student obtains professional liability insurance from the university and secures an additional policy usually through their professional associations (ACA, ASCA, AATA). Students are responsible for complying with site requirements for health screenings and/or background checks. Advisor approval required.
Credit : 2
Prerequisites :
CPS690B
Electives (9 credits) with advisement
Course Code : CPS 525
Course Description :
Focuses on an in-depth study of the historical development of personality theories, including psychodynamic, phenomenological and cognitive perspectives. Students will examine primary works and other relevant literature which contributes to an understanding of various perspectives on personality development.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 619
Course Description :
An intensive course designed to develop significant skill in the use of Cognitive and Behavior theories in counseling. Students will develop a repertoire of competencies for using these theoretical orientations in their work with clients in schools, agencies, and private practice. The use of cases, role-playing, and other strategies will facilitate the employment of the strategies remanating from these counseling orientations.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS557, CPS613
Course Code : CPS 621
Course Description :
An examination of and practice in counseling roles, responsibilities, and responses to crisis, behavioral emergencies, disaster, or other trauma-causing events. The course reviews current theories and knowledge with regard to suicide, violence, disasters, substance use, legal and ethical issues of crisis counseling, and other current crisis counseling topics. Application of theory and knowledge to the practice of crisis intervention, psychological first aid, and suicide prevention and management are explored and practiced.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 623
Course Description :
Examines theoretical models and current best practice in marriage and family counseling Students are introduced to the specific techniques and skills associated with major approaches, including cognitive behavioral, systems theory, and solution-focused interventions. Observation of expert therapists and in-class practice facilitate understanding of these modalities.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 627
Course Description :
Provides an overview of psychopharmacological interventions, including discussions of drug action and interaction, tolerance, side effects, dependency and withdrawal. Emphasis is placed upon medications commonly prescribed for the treatment of various forms of mental illness. The course will also include an examination of the counselor’s role in educating clients about pharmacological issues
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 637
Course Description :
Studies the phenomenon of addiction (including its psychology, biology, pharmacology) and the treatment of substance abuse. Students will become familiar with a variety of substances of abuse and their effect on the lives of users as well as the impact on others. Currently accepted interventions are studied and practiced.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 643
Course Description :
Studies the particular assessment and therapeutic skills used when working with children and youth in response to a variety of presenting concerns. Among the topics addressed will be the importance of building rapport and the use of play therapy, art and projective techniques specifically designed for children and teens. Consideration of the role of family is an integral part of learning to work with young people.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 657
Course Description :
Reviews major theoretical perspectives on death and dying at various life stages and levels of understanding. The course provides an introduction to the research literature on the bereavement process and on resilience. Students will examine as well the impact of various experiences of loss on the individual and their effect on other persons significant to them. Student research, case studies and in-class practice will facilitate skill development.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 670
Course Description :
This course will address Counseling Services Supervisors many roles, carried out in an age of accountability. In addition to the traditional responsibilities of administration, education, and expressive supportive functions, students will explore multiple elements integral to a supervisor's job functions, including the identification of service needs, advocacy, the importance of building and maintaining various professional relationships, as well as the ethical, legal, and political dimensions. Critical to success as a supervisor is a commitment to self-management.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CAT604, CPS688B
Course Code : CPS 677
Course Description :
An overview of the range of human sexual behavior, with emphasis upon issues of sexuality as they arise in the context of counseling. Students will explore their own comfort level regarding sexual matters and recognize the importance of developing attitudes and skills that will facilitate their work with individuals and couples in the counseling relationship.
Credit : 3
Course Code : CPS 689
Course Description :
Provides students with an in-depth understanding of the theory and applied techniques of REBT. Topics include basic principles of REBT, assessment and diagnosis, rational-emotive in-session therapeutic strategies, use of homework assignments, socialization of the client to the REBT model, and counseling issues such as transference, countertransference, and termination. Students gain practice in developing skill in utilizing the REBT model.
Credit : 3
Prerequisites :
CPS557, CAT505, CPS613, CPS557, CPS613
Course Code : CPS 699
Course Description :
Addresses current theoretical and practical issues in counseling which cannot be addressed in depth by other courses. The course provides an opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of particular counseling concerns (e.g., eating disorders, sexual assault, suicide, crisis management, etc.) and for consideration of the research associated with these topics, as well as preferred interventions. The focus of course may in part be determined by current counseling practices, faculty interest and choice and/or student requests.
Credit : 3
Practicum Screening Requirements
The practicum and internships are the culminating experience in counseling education, preparing students to apply classroom learning to real world concerns. Success in these courses is a requirement for graduation. The Program Coordinator or Clinical Coordinator can assist in identifying practicum/internship sites. Some placement sites require health or drug screenings and/or criminal background checks. All screenings are the student's responsibility.
Annual Disposition Assessment
Faculty observe students’ behavioral performance beyond GPA (knowledge and skills) to assess professional dispositions. Important components of professional dispositions include cultural competency, self awareness, interpersonal skills, professional boundaries, emotional stability, adaptability and flexibility, openness to feedback, self-awareness and commitment to self-growth. In addition to performance on assignments, faculty members will annually review each student in light of professional dispositions based on performance in class, practicum and internship evaluations and consultation with site supervisors for practicum and internship. Following this annual review, the student receives a score of: Meets Expectations (M), Emerging/needs feedback (E) or Unsatisfactory/needs intervention (U) on the Professional Disposition Assessment Rubric (PDAR is available upon request from the academic advisor). If the student receives a score of emerging competency, the student will be contacted by their advisor regarding feedback. If the student receives a score of unsatisfactory, the student will meet with the advisor to initiate a professional dispositions performance improvement plan (PDPIP). Additionally, feedback and PDPIPs related to professional dispositions may be introduced beyond the annual review at any time during the academic year. If there is no improvement the semester following the initiating PDPIP, the student is placed on a departmental probation with advisement support. If the student continues to score in the unsatisfactory range on the PDAR after the second semester that follows the initiation of the PDPIP, the student is referred to a Graduate Academic Foundations Committee (GAFC) subcommittee for review and possible further intervention or recommendations. Refer to the Graduate Catalog for additional probation and dismissal policies governing all graduate programs.
Transfer of Graduate Credit
Caldwell University may accept the transfer of up to six credits of graduate work in counseling, or a closely related field, provided the credits were completed within five years of the student’s graduate registration at Caldwell University. Official transcripts of previous graduate work as well as the catalog description of each course must be submitted for review at the time of application. Each request for transfer credit will be reviewed by the Program Coordinator. Approval of transfer credit is based on course content and the grade earned in the course, which should be a B or better.
