The Clinical Mental Health specialization is fully accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs through October 31, 2032. This accredited specialization prepares graduates to meet State of Arizona the educational requirements for Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Upon graduation, students will possess all of the skills required to assist individuals with behavioral, emotional, mental, physical, developmental, cognitive, and emotional disabilities to achieve their personal, career, and independent living goals in the most integrated setting possible.
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) specialization prepares graduates to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). This credential qualifies them to support individuals across the lifespan who are experiencing a range of emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. Rooted in a strengths-based and wellness-oriented model, graduates are equipped to provide care in both public (e.g., governmental, state) and private behavioral health settings.
As clinical mental health practitioners, LPCs collaborate with clients to help them navigate life’s difficulties and reach their personal, professional, and career goals. They also work closely with other healthcare and social service providers to ensure coordinated, client-centered care in the most integrated and supportive environments possible.
- SERP 565 Intro to R & Mental Health Counseling
- SERP 525 Counseling Theory
- SERP 546 Counseling Skills & Techniques
- SERP 588 Ethical, Legal & Prof. Issues
- SERP 510 Counseling over the Lifespan
- SERP 545 Psychosocial, Cultural Diversity
- SERP 547 Group Counseling
- SERP 584 Problems with Drug Abuse
- SERP 594 Practicum
- SERP 576: Trauma, Grief, and Loss
- SERP 597C Couples & Family Counseling
- SERP 585 Career and Voc Planning
- SERP 563 Assessment in Counseling
- SERP 579B Diagnosis & Treatment
- SERP 556 Research and Program Eval
- SERP 593 Internship
Graduates are eligible for the LAC and then the LPC licenses in Arizona and other states when they pass the National Counselor Exam (NCE) - the license is used by mental health counselors to provide psychotherapy and mental health counseling.
Graduates qualify for advanced training in areas such as motivational interviewing and trauma-informed care as well as doctoral degrees such as the Counselor Education and Supervision (CES) doctorate at The University of Arizona.
Clinical practice for LPCs typically involves working one-on-one or in group settings with clients to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health and emotional concerns. LPCs use evidence-based counseling approaches to help clients manage issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, and life transitions. They create individualized treatment plans, provide ongoing support through talk therapy, and may also teach coping skills, emotional regulation, and stress management techniques. Clinical work often takes place in outpatient clinics, private practices, schools, hospitals, or community mental health centers. LPCs may also coordinate care with other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to client well-being.
Clinical Mental Health Counselor utilizes interviewing, assessment, diagnosis, counseling theory with multicultural competence, social justice and advocacy skill to empower individuals in various settings. Clinical mental health counselors work in a variety of settings, providing services to individuals, families, and groups. Here are some common places where you can find them working:
- Private Practice: Many clinical mental health counselors operate their own private practices or work in group practices, offering therapy and counseling services to clients on an outpatient basis.
- Community Mental Health Centers: These centers provide a wide range of mental health services to the community, including individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and case management.
- Hospitals and Clinics: Counselors may work in general hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, and specialized mental health clinics, providing both inpatient and outpatient services.
- Schools and Universities: School counselors and college counselors work in educational settings, offering support to students dealing with academic, social, and emotional issues. They also help with career planning and development.
- Government Agencies: Counselors can be found in various government settings, including public health departments, correctional facilities, and military bases, providing services to specific populations such as veterans, inmates, and active-duty military personnel.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Many counselors work for nonprofit organizations that focus on specific issues such as substance abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, or youth services.
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Some counselors work within EAPs, which are employer-sponsored programs designed to help employees deal with personal problems that might affect their job performance and well-being.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Counselors in these settings work with individuals recovering from substance abuse, physical injuries, or other disabilities, helping them to regain their independence and improve their quality of life.
- Residential Treatment Facilities: These facilities provide intensive therapeutic services for individuals with severe mental health issues, addiction, or behavioral problems in a structured environment.
- Crisis Intervention Services: Some counselors specialize in crisis intervention, working in emergency services, hotlines, or crisis centers to provide immediate support to individuals in acute distress.
- Online Counseling Platforms: With the rise of telehealth, many counselors offer services through online platforms, providing therapy sessions via video conferencing, phone calls, or chat.
- Court Services: Some court systems have specialized programs, such as drug courts or mental health courts, family court services where counselors play a key role in providing treatment and support to participants as part of an alternative sentencing program. Courts may mandate counseling for individuals involved in legal proceedings, such as domestic violence cases, child custody disputes, or substance abuse issues. Counselors provide the required therapeutic interventions and report progress to the court. Some counselors with additional training may serve as an expert witness.
- Probation and Parole Services: Counselors may work with probation and parole officers to provide support and therapy to individuals transitioning from incarceration to community living. This can include addressing substance abuse, anger management, and reintegration challenges.
- Juvenile Justice Services: Counselors work with juveniles in the court system to provide assessments, therapy, and support services aimed at rehabilitation and preventing recidivism. This includes working in juvenile detention centers and community programs.
A Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) degree may be right for you if you're passionate about helping others navigate emotional, psychological, and life challenges. It’s a good fit for those who are empathetic, strong communicators, and interested in fostering personal growth and resilience in diverse populations. If you're drawn to meaningful, one-on-one connections and want a career with purpose and impact, CMHC could be a fulfilling path.