Study Counseling Psychology in Texas
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering counseling psychology graduate programs in Texas:
- Angelo State University
- Lamar University
- Texas A&M University Central Texas
- Grand Canyon University
- University of Texas at San Antonio
- Capella University
- Texas Tech University
Angelo State University
A public educational institution in San Angelo, Texas, Angelo State University (ASU) was established in 1928, originally known as San Angelo College. In 1967, it transitioned to a university, conferring its inaugural bachelor’s degrees, followed by master’s degrees in 1969 when it adopted its present designation.
The university offers a diverse range of programs across the sciences, humanities, and vocational fields, primarily serving students from Texas and providing considerable financial support.
With 50 undergraduate and 31 graduate programs, ASU is the second-biggest campus within the Texas Tech University System.
Fulfilling its purpose as a residential campus, over 100 student-led groups significantly contribute to the vibrant social atmosphere at Angelo State.
Accommodations for more than 2,500 students are available on campus, where over a quarter of the entire student population resides. Each housing unit is equipped with individual air-conditioning controls, telephone and cable TV services, data ports, and connectivity to the university’s wireless internet network.
Master of Science in Counseling Psychology
The M.S in Counseling Psychology at ASU is a 60 credit hours program. It can be pursued on campus or through a combination of on-campus and online formats. Both thesis and non-thesis options are available, and the flexible program enables students to accommodate classes according to their schedules.
During each extended semester, students may enroll in up to 12 credit hours, and up to six credit hours per summer session.
Information on elective courses:
- For the thesis option, students must complete three credit hours of electives approved by the program director.
- For the non-thesis option, students must complete nine credit hours of electives, with six credit hours in psychology, approved by the program director.
A maximum of nine credit hours of supervised practical experience in psychological assessment and counseling techniques is mandatory for students. Each set of three credit hours necessitates 150 clock hours in a supervised practicum environment. Before enrolling in the practicum, students must have completed 24 credit hours of graduate-level psychology courses.
Fulfilling the degree requirements meets the academic criteria for the Texas State Board of Examiners of Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists for Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA). However, those pursuing the LPA should complete nine credit hours of practicum instead of the required six credit hours.
Applicants with any undergraduate major are eligible to apply for admission. Those with fewer than 18 credit hours of undergraduate psychology must complete a graduate leveling course covering the fundamental aspects of psychology.
Prospective students must possess a cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher to be considered for the program. Additional requirements include an essay and three letters of recommendation.
The review process for applications to the counseling psychology program commences on March 15 for fall admissions and October 15 for spring admissions.
Lamar University
Lamar University (LU), a public institution located in Beaumont, Texas, has been part of the Texas State University System since 1995. Previously, it served as the flagship university of the Lamar University System.
With a diverse student body exceeding 17,000, LU holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The university’s namesake is Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas.
Situated in an urban environment, LU’s central campus spans over 300 acres. The university is structured into five undergraduate colleges, one graduate college, and a distinguished honors college.
Offering a wide range of academic opportunities, LU provides 96 undergraduate programs, 50 master’s programs, and eight doctoral programs across its seven academic colleges.
The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education recognizes LU as a Doctoral Research University, an esteemed classification shared by only one other institution within the Texas State University System. The university’s commitment to research and academic excellence is evident through its extensive program offerings and distinguished reputation
Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master of Education degree, focusing on clinical mental health counseling, is a comprehensive 60-hour program that prepares students to deliver clinical counseling services in various professional environments, such as clinics, hospitals, school-based mental health programs, and private practices.
This program is tailored for individuals holding a bachelor’s degree and seeking to become clinical mental health counselors. It necessitates the completion of 60 hours of coursework explicitly related to mental health counseling.
Field experience courses offer invaluable opportunities for students to integrate and apply their knowledge and skills in settings relevant to their chosen field. These courses are taken alongside field experiences, where students follow the professional organizations’ ethical codes while practicing under the guidance of a university faculty member and a qualified site supervisor.
From the early stages of the program, students are encouraged to identify a field site in their region that aligns with their professional aspirations.
Field experience courses span 15 weeks during the Fall or Spring semesters and 10 weeks during the Summer semester. The degree program mandates the completion of one practicum and two internship courses.
Practicum requirements entail:
- Completing 40 hours of direct service and 60 indirect hours, contributing to the enhancement of counseling skills
- Successfully undergoing one formal observation supervised by a university field supervisor as part of practicum requirements
- Engaging in weekly individual site supervision throughout the field experience, averaging one hour per week
- Participating in weekly university group supervision for a minimum of one hour
Internship requirements involve:
- Fulfilling 120 hours of direct service and 180 indirect hours, emphasizing high-quality counseling interactions
- Successfully completing two formal observations supervised by a university field supervisor and passing the pre-test as part of internship requirements
- Engaging in weekly individual supervision throughout the field experience, averaging one hour per week
- Participating in weekly university group supervision for a minimum of one hour
Texas A&M University Central Texas
Texas A&M University – Central Texas (A&M- Central Texas), situated in Killeen, Texas, is among the newest members of The Texas A&M University System. In 1999, it was founded as a branch of Tarleton State University, later becoming an independent member of the Texas A&M University System in September 2009.
As an upper-division college, A&M-Central Texas requires its students to complete freshman and sophomore-level coursework at a community college or another higher learning institution before enrollment. The Warriors is the nickname for the university’s students, and their school colors are navy blue, maroon, and silver.
With a total undergraduate enrollment of over 56,000, the university’s urban campus spans 5,200 acres and follows a semester-based academic calendar.
As a research-focused university, A&M-Central Texas offers distinct academic opportunities, such as the exclusive veterinary medicine school in the state. This blend of quality academic offerings and research capabilities makes A&M-Central Texas an appealing option for students pursuing a comprehensive higher education experience.
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) aims to train professional counselors for roles in community agencies, educational institutions, and private practices. Students in this program acquire a strong foundation in theory-based counseling knowledge and skills while fostering their ability to offer counseling and mental health services to people from various backgrounds.
This program caters to students seeking licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in Texas. With a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, graduates can explore diverse employment opportunities, assisting individuals, families, and groups in achieving mental health, wellness, education, and career aspirations.
Additionally, the program offers a specialized track for those aiming for certification as a Texas school counselor.
Candidates for the School Counselor Preparation Program must fulfill the admission requirements for the MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and submit supplementary materials.
Upon completing the CMHC program, graduates will:
- Formulate solid professional identities as counselors
- Forge supportive connections with clients from diverse backgrounds
- Implement theories and models to inform their professional practice
- Comply with pertinent ethics, laws, and professional practice standards
- Incorporate leadership principles in their professional practice
- Champion clients and their profession
To gain admission to the M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Obtain admission to the graduate school
- Fill out the Counseling and Psychology Department application
- Possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Provide GRE test scores (exempt for those with a graduate degree from a regionally accredited institution)
- While not mandatory, relevant work experience might enhance an applicant’s prospects
University of Texas at San Antonio
Located in San Antonio, Texas, the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) is a prestigious public research institution. Boasting an enrollment of over 34,000 students and encompassing four campuses that cover 758 acres, UTSA stands as the most prominent university in San Antonio and holds the title of the eighth-largest in Texas.
UTSA is classified as an “R1: Doctoral University – Very High Research Activity” institution and provides a selection of 159 degree programs through its nine academic colleges. Both faculty and students at UTSA engage in cutting-edge research spanning numerous interdisciplinary fields.
Founded in 1969, UTSA has grown to become the third-largest university within the University of Texas System in terms of enrollment. It contributes significantly to the local economy with a $1.2 billion impact, while its Institute for Economic Development generates a nationwide direct economic effect amounting to $3 billion.
Nine distinct colleges make up the University of Texas at San Antonio, together offering an extensive array of 66 bachelor’s, 68 master’s, and 25 doctoral degree programs.
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) aims to prepare students aspiring to become mental health counselors, fulfilling the curriculum requirements for obtaining a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license in Texas.
This clinical program highlights innovation, diversity, developmental and relational aspects, ethical considerations, and the professional identity associated with Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students may potentially gain credit towards a state license or certification for practicing in clinical environments.
By completing the 60-hour CMHC degree, students’ training will comply with or surpass the standards set by state and national entities. The 60-hour CMHC program equips students with a competitive advantage when seeking licensure and applying for federal employment, working with military families and veterans.
Additionally, this program holds accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
The majority of courses are available in the evenings, typically from 6 PM to 8:45 PM at the Downtown Campus, with some hybrid classes also offered.
Entry requirements for the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling include:
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in the United States, or proof of equivalent training at a foreign institution
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), with departments potentially considering the GPA of the last 60 semester credit hours
- Completion of 18 credit hours related to this graduate degree, with at least 12 hours at the upper-division level
- Submission of transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- A statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
Texas Tech University
Texas Tech University (TTU), a public research institution located in Lubbock, Texas, was founded on February 10, 1923. Initially known as Texas Technological College until 1969, it serves as the primary establishment within the Texas Tech University System, which encompasses five institutions.
Over 40,000 students are currently enrolled at TTU, and with over a quarter of its undergraduate students identifying as Hispanic, it has been recognized as a Hispanic-serving institution (HSI).
TTU provides more than 150 academic programs through its 13 colleges, as well as hosting 60 research centers and institutes. Since 1927, Texas Tech University has conferred over 200,000 degrees, comprising over 40,000 graduate and professional qualifications. The university is classified as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” institution.
While the majority of TTU’s students hail from the southwestern United States, the university has catered to students from all 50 states and over 100 countries.
Notable alumni and former students of Texas Tech have pursued successful careers in various fields such as government, business, science, medicine, education, sports, and entertainment.
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The M.S in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSMH) program at TTU stands out as one of the pioneering counselor education initiatives in the United States, equipping practitioners with clinical counseling expertise and proficiency in telehealth methodologies.
Telehealth, a remote healthcare delivery model, is a crucial aspect of TTU’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. This innovative approach is gaining traction and recognition across the country.
Leveraging state-of-the-art online educational tools, the MSMH program extends its reach to students across Texas, the United States, and internationally. This online mental health counseling program caters specifically to those who are working full time or unable to engage in graduate studies in a conventional, in-person environment.
Upon completing the MSMH program, graduates can pursue counseling licenses and certifications. They may be eligible for the Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) certification and apply for the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) license in numerous states.
The online MSMH degree comprises a 60 credit-hour curriculum, which blends core and specialty courses with 12 credit-hours of practicum and internship experiences. The coursework encompasses subjects such as:
- Developmental Psychology and Human Growth
- Treatment Strategy and Case Coordination
- Counseling Foundations and Ethical Evolution
- Emergency Counseling
- Psychopharmacology in Mental Health