Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Washington Campus USA

The Chicago School’s M.A. Counseling Psychology program is a counselor training program that equips students with essential diagnostic, therapeutic and consultative skills in preparation to work with a variety of clinical populations ranging from children to the elderly with a variety of emotional, intellectual, and psychological conditions and problems.

Graduates of this master’s program will be trained to work in a variety of clinical settings, and with multiple populations. The program adopts the practitioner-scholar model predicated on the belief that a competent mental health practitioner must have both a broad knowledge of the scientific and theoretical principles in the clinical practice of counseling psychology and the ability to apply that knowledge to specific clinical situations. The program also incorporates the 8 content areas outlined by the National Board of Certified Counselors to prepare students seeking professional counselor licensure and desiring to begin professional practice at the master’s level.

The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program focuses on a strength-based approach to counseling in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including children and adolescents, adults, and families, and couples. Surrounded by much of the nation’s historical and cultural riches, students will have the opportunity to benefit from a location essential to much of the United States’ political, governmental, and multi-national affairs. The Washington, D.C. campus reflects The Chicago School’s commitment to diversity in our effort to expand mental health services to multicultural and underserved communities.

Students enrolled in the M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program will enjoy a transformative educational experience with the flexibility of a program that can be integrated with other commitments. Advising is individual and each student is assigned a faculty member with whom to work with during the program.

Guided by well-known practitioner faculty leaders, students enrolled in the M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program will experience in-depth training in various counseling areas, including, but not limited to:

• Counselor identity
• Ethical and professional issues
• Diversity and multiculturalism
• Diagnosis, assessment, and treatment planning
• Methods of research and program evaluation
• Advocacy and social justice

Graduates of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program have an in-depth understanding of a wide range of mental health issues that will be seen as a strong asset in a variety of professional arenas, such as:

• Mental health counseling in public and private community agencies
• Nonprofit settings
• Private practice
• Education
• Government
• Integrative healthcare

The M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program prepares students for a rewarding career in the growing field of Applied Behavior Analysis by incorporating the content areas and practicum requirements for eligibility to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®). Specifically, this program can help those currently working as behavior technicians or associate-level behavior analysts to take the next step in their careers by preparing them for BCBA® certification.

Graduates may serve many different populations, including children, adults, and seniors. Specific individuals with whom graduates will work may have no diagnoses (e.g., school children in a general education classes or teachers seeking to be more effective) or may have diagnoses such as autism, developmental disabilities, or mental illness. Additionally, graduates will be prepared to work in a variety of professional settings, including:

• Organizations
• Residential centers
• Schools
• Community-based settings

The Chicago School’s Master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis in Washington D.C. provides students with a solid foundation in the principles of behavior analysis, equipping them with the skills to bring about socially significant behavioral changes through data-based program development. Students will be challenged to become leaders in the field of applied behavior analysis through the use of research-based teaching and innovative technology.

Guided by practitioner faculty, students gain experience and exposure in a wide variety of ABA applications and specialties, including:

• Early intervention techniques
• Problem behavior
• Verbal behavior