A career in mental health counseling is both rewarding and in-demand, offering the chance to make a lasting impact on people’s lives. If you’re considering this path but need the flexibility to study on your schedule, an online Master’s in Mental Health Counseling may be the perfect solution.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about earning your degree online—from accreditation and coursework to licensure requirements and career outcomes.
What Is a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling?
A Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling is a graduate-level degree that prepares students to become licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs), or clinical mental health counselors, depending on state regulations.
These programs are designed to equip students with the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat emotional, behavioral, and mental disorders in individuals, couples, and groups.
Benefits of Studying Online
- Flexibility: Learn on your schedule while working or managing other responsibilities
- Accessibility: Attend top programs without relocating
- Technology Integration: Use interactive platforms, video conferencing, and virtual simulations
- Internship Support: Most schools help arrange practicum and internship sites near you
What You’ll Learn in an Online Mental Health Counseling Master’s Program
Typical courses include:
- Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Human Growth and Development
- Multicultural Counseling
- Group Counseling
- Crisis and Trauma Counseling
- Psychopathology and Diagnosis (DSM-5)
- Addiction Counseling
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Counseling
- Internship and Practicum Experience
Most programs require 60 credit hours and 600–1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, which are completed in person in your local area.
Key Features to Look For
- CACREP Accreditation
Programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) meet national standards and simplify licensure.
- Licensure Pathway
Ensure the program meets your state’s licensure requirements (LPC, LMHC, LPCC, etc.).
- Clinical Placement Support
Look for programs that assist with arranging internships near your home.
- Live vs. Asynchronous Classes
Some programs offer real-time sessions (synchronous), while others are self-paced (asynchronous).
Top Online Master’s in Mental Health Counseling Programs
1. Northwestern University – MA in Counseling
- CACREP-accredited
- Offers live online classes
- Focus on psychodynamic and integrative models
- Clinical placement assistance
- counseling.northwestern.edu
2. Wake Forest University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Known for strong faculty support
- CACREP-accredited
- 60 credit hours, 800 clinical hours
- onlinecounseling.wfu.edu
3. University of the Cumber lands – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Affordable tuition
- Fully online coursework with in-person practicum
- CACREP-accredited
- ucumberlands.edu
4. Capella University – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Flexible, self-paced and guided formats
- CACREP-accredited
- Licensure support and virtual simulations
- capella.edu
5. Walden University – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- CACREP-accredited
- Focus on multicultural and social justice perspectives
- Offers virtual counseling lab
- waldenu.edu
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably in psychology, education, or a related field)
- Minimum GPA (usually 2.5–3.0)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Interview (some programs)
- Background check (for practicum placement)
Career Outcomes
Graduates are eligible to become licensed counselors and work in a variety of settings:
- Community mental health centers
- Private practice
- Schools and colleges
- Substance abuse treatment facilities
- Hospitals and integrated care settings
- Correctional facilities
- Employee assistance programs (EAPs)
Median Salary: $49,710 to $65,000+ per year depending on region and specialization
Growth Outlook: Projected job growth of 18% through 2032 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
An online Master’s in Mental Health Counseling offers a flexible, respected, and practical route into one of the fastest-growing fields in healthcare. With the right accredited program, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and supervised experience required to begin a meaningful career helping others find hope, healing, and direction.