Clinical Mental Health Counseling Concentration

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration of the Master of Science in Psychology offers students the knowledge and skills to deal with human needs and suffering in counseling and psychotherapy. The program, which meets the requirements for recognition from the Hellenic Association of Counsellors, seamlessly combines course work and a research-based thesis project with 700 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice, enabling students to develop a comprehensive set of assessment, research and counseling skills.

The practicum is an excellent opportunity for students to apply theoretical knowledge gained in courses such as Developmental Psychology and Psychopathology and be trained in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills under the supervision of a faculty member and an on-site supervisor. Trainees also receive one-on-one support from their faculty mentor throughout their studies.

Strengths of the CMHC program

• The program meets the requirements for recognition from the Hellenic Association of Counseling. Trainees receive accreditation as Mental Health Counselors upon completion of the program requirements.
• The 700 hours of supervised counseling and clinical practice offer the trainee the necessary practicum experience on counseling practice, use of skills, ethical boundaries and other essential components of a high-professional-standards mental health counselor. The trainee may choose to fulfil their internship requirements at the University Counseling Center or other clinical and counseling mental health settings.
• The instructors and supervisors in the program are doctoral-level scholars and practitioners of various disciplines with extensive experience in counseling and psychotherapy.
• In adherence to the scholar-practitioner model, each trainee is expected to incorporate research into practice by being informed on current developments as well as apply clinical quantitative and qualitative research for their thesis.
• The program schedule offers online courses in addition to regular courses.

Students must complete a total of 22 courses (66 Credits) including a practicum, thesis research project and internship in order to earn the Master of Science in Psychology degree, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration. The academic year consists of two semesters each one15 weeks in length, with classes for each course meeting once a week for 3 hours each. Courses are offered in the evenings.

The CMHC program is a three-year program if students follow the plan of study as outlined in the curriculum (see University Catalog ).

Comprehensive Examination

Upon successfully completing the first year of the MSPsy – CMHC Program (approximately 10 courses), students are required to pass a comprehensive examination, which provides evidence of skills acquired and competence in the field. Additional details regarding the structure and the date and time of the exam will be provided by the Program Director. Students passing the examination earn the Certificate in Psychology.

Students are required to complete 60 sessions of individual, couples, family and/or group therapy while completing their Master of Science in Psychology degree, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration. This invaluable learning experience helps trainees engage in a therapeutic process, deal with personal matters and thus, as evidence shows, become robust therapists capable of forming effective therapeutic relationships.

It is highly recommended that MSPsy - CMHC candidates begin sessions within their first semester of the program, although some flexibility regarding the timing of therapy is allowed, since the Department recognizes that each trainee may be ready for therapy at a different time.

The Master of Science in Psychology degree, Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration program offers knowledge and skills for the trainees to meet the needs of a global, multicultural and pluralist society. Trainees engage in the profession of the mental health counselor through research activities and conferences, seminars, masterclasses, workshops and other activities.

The thesis project, faculty research projects and the research activities of the Counseling Center offer opportunities for trainees to collect and analyze data and publish their research findings. Trainees are encouraged to develop their skills in quantitative and qualitative research and present their work in peer-reviewed conferences and journals. Moreover, they receive training in testing and assessment, including cognitive, achievement, personality, and career testing. Lastly, research reading, and supervision groups are offered monthly as part of the program’s extra-curricular activities.

During their studies, trainees have various opportunities to participate in certificate-based professional training workshops through a series of masterclasses on topics such as Trauma and Crisis Management, Sexual Deviations in Human Sexuality, and Adolescent Mental Health. Trainees are also encouraged to attend off-campus events which enhance their professional as well as personal development. In particular, students are expected to attend at least two events and reflect on their learnings.

Graduates of the program are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue a successful career in a broad range of settings such as clinics, mental health counseling centers, hospitals, community service centers for individuals with physical and mental disabilities, elderly homes and career counseling centers. Graduates are also well-prepared for studies at the doctoral level.