Clinical Mental Health Concentration

Discover more about the clinical mental health concentration, including licensure, and where and who you'll serve.

Clinical mental health counseling at CMU

Studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Central Michigan University provides a strong foundation for a fulfilling career by emphasizing practical, active learning and fostering the development of competent, socially conscious, and reflective counselors. This concentration equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in diverse settings, including community-based social service agencies, public and private schools, institutions of higher education, and private practice after graduation.

Focus on rural and marginalized communities

Curriculum is focused on multicultural and rural communities, ethical practices and cultivating a strong counselor identity. 

Professional development

Students have access to workshops, conferences, and seminars that keep them updated on the latest trends and innovations in the field of clinical mental health counseling.

Internship

600-hour internship in various settings, including social services agencies, hospice, out-patient clinics, hospitals, private practice, and community health agencies.  At CMU, we provide personalized support to help students secure and gain approval for their practicum and internship sites.

Licensure and credential

State of Michigan

Once you complete the 60-credit M.A. Counseling program, you are eligible for licensure as a Limited Licensed Counselor (LLC).  You can apply for your Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license in Michigan after 3,000 hours of post-degree counseling experience and 100 hours of clinical supervision provided by a qualified supervisor.

Out of state

Eligible for licensure as an entry-level counselor in most U.S. states and territories. Please see our state licensure list located on our resource page. 

Where and who you'll serve

Clinical Mental Health counselors work in a variety of settings, including private practice, community mental health clinics, agencies/organizations, corporate environments, contracted in the K-12 setting, jails, and hospitals. 

Clinical Mental Health counselors work with individuals, families, couples and groups; helping clients through a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, stress, relationship difficulties, suicidal/homicidal ideations, and low self-esteem, among others.