Meet the Rising Demand: MSU Launches Innovative Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Starting next year, Michigan State University will launch a new master’s program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC). This program is unique at MSU and aims to fill the increasing demand for mental health professionals.

The CMHC program will offer an accredited degree, enabling graduates to obtain licensure for counseling. Students will also gain valuable hands-on experience through clinical hours during their studies. This combination of coursework and practical training prepares them to enter the workforce ready to help those in need.

Recent trends show a rising need for mental health support, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 59.3 million adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2022. Responding to this pressing issue, MSU faculty recognized the need for a dedicated CMHC track alongside the existing rehabilitation counseling program. Professor Gloria Lee, the CMHC Director, expressed the importance of listening to student and community needs in shaping this new program.

Professor Trisha Easley, who will coordinate the CMHC program, emphasized the importance of training professionals who can provide high-quality mental health care. The 60-credit program is designed to be completed in three years and adheres to standards set by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring that students can apply for licensure upon graduation.

Students will explore various areas of mental health counseling, including addiction, trauma, and crisis counseling. What sets this program apart is its collaboration with MSU’s rehabilitation counseling program. This connection allows students to share many courses and gain insights into working with individuals with disabilities, a demographic that is relevant to many counseling scenarios.

Assistant Professor Hung Jen Kuo adds another layer of innovation by focusing on how technology can enhance mental health counseling. He has noted that the rehabilitation program often attracts older students, while the CMHC program tends to draw younger applicants. This diversity in age allows for a richer learning environment, supporting the understanding of mental health together with disability awareness.

Students will also have the chance to participate in hands-on clinical experiences. During the program, they will complete a practicum and an internship, working alongside experienced supervisors. Easley notes that practical experience is crucial for developing skills and confidence in real-world situations.

Students can complete their clinical hours through MSU Counseling and Psychiatric Services or with local organizations. They are being groomed for various roles in schools, community agencies, and even correctional facilities. Lee anticipates that graduates will be well-equipped to address the evolving mental health needs in their communities.

With a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of counseling, the CMHC program at MSU seeks to produce competent professionals ready to make a difference. The launch of this program is an exciting step toward enhancing mental health services and addressing the public’s growing needs.

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