Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program / Student Outcomes
Objectives of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Program
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Outcomes
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program outcomes are to prepare Counselors who:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the history of clinical mental health counseling and the identity, roles, settings and functions of clinical mental health counselors today;
- Identify and apply key traditional and contemporary theories and models and techniques common to the practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Psychotherapy;
- Incorporate their understanding of the medical, psychosocial, and neurobiological aspects impacting clients into case conceptualization and treatment planning;
- Conduct an intake interview, assess mental status, biopsychosocial and mental health history factors, and conduct psychological assessment for treatment planning and caseload management functions;
- Advocate for clients' well-being through networks of service professionals and through the use of effective techniques and interventions developed for the treatment of a broad range of clinical mental health needs;
- Demonstrate competencies in assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and an understanding of the classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medications;
- Develop skills and understanding of the neurological impact of substance use, trauma and crisis on mental health;
- Gain skills in record keeping, third party reimbursement, and other relevant means of documentation in the clinical mental health counseling field;
- Differentiate relevant legal and ethical considerations and legislation and government policies that affect treatment and outcomes of mental health clients;
Completion of the program results in eligibility for licensure as a mental health counselor (LMHC) after passing the MA state licensure exam. Eligibility for licensure is also possible for other states with appropriate course requirement considerations.
Face-to-Face Pathway, Springfield Main Campus, Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program
The face-to-face pathway main campus master's degree program in Springfield, MA has a goal of admitting 18-20 students each year. Currently, students can be full- or part-time and apply for admission in the fall semester. Student outcomes are measured each year and the assessment is part of the overall program evaluation.
The graduate program has a total of 64 students currently enrolled (55 full-time and nine part-time). The program has eight full-time and three part-time adjunct faculty members who teach the CACREP accredited curriculum.
During the 2022-2023 academic year:
- 20 students graduated from the program.
- The average program completion was (90%) two years and (100%) within three years.
- The pass rate for the state licensure counselor exam is 91% (based on student self-report).
- The job placement rate for our graduates is 100%.
Each year, eight graduate fellowships are offered within the Counseling Department. Outside the department, there are several other fellowships in the College for which graduate students can apply.
Hybrid Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program
The virtual pathway master's degree program has a goal of admitting 10 - 15 students each year. Currently, students can be full- or part-time and apply for admission in the fall semester. Student outcomes are measured each year and the assessment is part of the overall program evaluation.
The virtual pathway program has a total of 30 students currently enrolled (24 full-time and six part-time).
During the 2022-2023 academic year:
- 6 students graduated from the program.
- The average program completion was (95%) two years
- The pass rate for the state licensure counselor exam is 85% (based on student self-report).
- The job placement rate for our graduates is 100%.
