Compare online master’s in mental health counseling programs

What is mental health counseling?

A degree in mental health counseling develops compassionate practitioners focused on helping individuals, couples, families, and groups navigate and manage their emotional, psychological, and interpersonal challenges. Counselors work to make a difference in the lives of clients in their own communities. 

Using various therapeutic approaches and techniques, mental health counselors work with clients from a variety of backgrounds, including those affected by addiction, relationship issues, or behavioral issues in children or adolescents. They do not prescribe medications or offer legal advice, but instead use evidence-based theories to guide clients toward making healthy decisions.

Admission requirements for an online MA in mental health counseling

Admission requirements for an online master’s degree in mental health counseling will vary by institution and program, but most accredited programs will typically require you to have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Additional requirements could include the following items: 

• Completed online application

• Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions or programs

• Letters of recommendation

• Statement of purpose

• Supplemental essay on a specific topic

• Application fee

• Test scores

In many programs, it may be possible to gain acceptance into a master’s degree in a mental health counseling program without submitting a GRE score. The best way to learn about the specific requirements of a program is to request information from the university or visit their admissions page to learn more. 

How to apply

The search for an accredited online master of arts in counseling can feel overwhelming, but not when you can explore programs from renowned colleges and universities and search by specific criteria. 

Once you find a program that fits your needs, the next step is to apply. Begin by filling out the program’s online application and gathering any necessary documentation or information. It is important to note that most programs recommend applying as early as possible to ensure all required materials are received on time and to qualify for any applicable scholarships or fee waivers. 

Master’s degree in mental health counseling curriculum

In many cases, your courses will be taught by the same experienced faculty who teach in the university’s on-campus program. You no longer need to sacrifice quality for convenience — today’s students can learn mental health counseling via a personalized, rigorous curriculum to help future practitioners learn counseling skills. 

Your MA in mental health counseling curriculum will vary depending on the program you choose. You also will complete a practicum and an internship for in-person clinical experiences. In most cases, learners can complete these experiences at approved sites in their own communities. 

Within the online curriculum, you will cover topics like: 

• Therapeutic theories and techniques

• Ethics and professional standards

• Assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders

• Group counseling dynamics

• Family counseling

• Crisis intervention and trauma counseling

Careers in mental health counseling

Careers in the mental health counseling field can be customized to your interests through various specializations in certain programs. Generally, graduates of an online MA in mental health counseling program can work as substance abuse counselors, behavioral disorder counselors, or mental health counselors in clinical settings.^{Footnote 1}

Master’s degree in mental health counseling salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for mental health counselors was $49,710 in May 2022. The highest 10% earned more than $82,710.^{Footnote 2} However, your specific salary will be determined by factors such as experience, location, and whether you go into private or public practice.

Mental health counselor job outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mental health counselor field is projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. In addition, an average of 42,000 job openings are projected each year during that time frame.^{Footnote 3} The master’s in mental health counseling online places you on the pathway toward many of these job openings.