As demand for mental health professionals continues to grow, more students are choosing to pursue a mental health counseling degree online. An Online Mental Health Counseling Program offers a flexible, accredited pathway to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) — without sacrificing quality or accreditation.
This guide covers everything you need to know about online counseling programs, including core curriculum, admissions, licensing requirements, and career outcomes.
What Is an Online Mental Health Counseling Program?
An online mental health counseling program is a graduate-level (master’s) degree designed to prepare students for clinical licensure. It provides the same academic rigor and supervised training as in-person programs but allows coursework to be completed remotely via digital platforms.
Students engage in:
- Virtual lectures
- Online discussion boards
- Live video seminars
- Clinical simulations
- Local in-person internships or practicums (required for licensure)
The program typically takes 2 to 3 years to complete.
Key Features of Online Counseling Programs
1. Accredited Curriculum
Look for programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) — a key indicator of educational quality and licensure eligibility.
2. Clinical Practicum and Internship
Most states require:
- 100-hour practicum
- 600-hour internship
Although coursework is online, clinical experience is completed in your local area under supervision.
3. Licensing Preparation
Online programs prepare students to take exams such as:
- National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
Typical Courses in an Online Mental Health Counseling Program
Core topics often include:
- Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
- Psychopathology and Diagnosis (DSM-5)
- Counseling Techniques and Practicum
- Group Counseling
- Human Growth and Development
- Crisis and Trauma Counseling
- Multicultural Counseling
- Legal and Ethical Issues in Mental Health
- Research Methods and Program Evaluation
Many programs also offer electives in areas such as:
- Addiction Counseling
- Marriage and Family Therapy
- Child and Adolescent Counseling
- Career Counseling
Admissions Requirements
Requirements vary slightly by institution but typically include:
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably in psychology or a related field)
- Minimum GPA (usually 2.75–3.0)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Resume or CV
- Interview (some programs require this)
GRE scores are not always required, especially for online formats.
Top Universities Offering Online Mental Health Counseling Programs
Several reputable institutions offer CACREP-accredited online programs:
- Northwestern University – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Wake Forest University – MA in Counseling (Online)
- New York University (NYU Steinhardt) – Online Counseling for Mental Health & Wellness
- Walden University – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Capella University – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- University of the Cumberlands – Affordable, flexible online program
Benefits of Online Mental Health Counseling Programs
- Flexibility: Study on your schedule, ideal for working adults or parents
- Location Independence: Attend a top-tier university without relocating
- Accredited Training: Many programs are CACREP-accredited, meeting licensure standards
- Career-Focused: Prepares students for real-world clinical work and licensure exams
- Accessible Support: Most programs offer virtual office hours, online libraries, and mentoring
Career Paths After Graduation
Graduates of online mental health counseling programs are eligible to become:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
- Behavioral Health Therapist
- Crisis Intervention Counselor
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- School Counselor (with specialization)
- Private Practice Therapist (post-licensure)
Most positions are found in:
- Community clinics
- Hospitals and mental health centers
- Non-profits and government agencies
- Telehealth and online therapy platforms
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Median annual salary: $53,710 (with potential for $70K+ in private practice)
- Projected job growth: 18% from 2022–2032 — much faster than the national average
Is an Online Mental Health Counseling Program Right for You?
This program is ideal for:
- Working professionals seeking a career change
- Recent graduates in psychology or social work
- Military spouses or remote learners
- Parents or caregivers needing flexible education
Online programs offer the same licensing pathways and professional opportunities as traditional on-campus degrees.
An Online Mental Health Counseling Program is a flexible, reputable, and increasingly popular path to becoming a licensed counselor. With the same accreditation and clinical training as in-person programs, it equips students to make a real difference in the lives of others while maintaining work-life balance.
If you’re ready to start a fulfilling career in mental health—without giving up your current responsibilities—this path could be your best next step.