New Jersey’s diverse communities and strong educational institutions make it an excellent place to pursue a counseling career. Students here can choose from public universities, private colleges, and flexible online programs that prepare them for work in schools, hospitals, community mental health centers, or private practice. With the state’s ongoing efforts to expand access to behavioral health care, New Jersey offers meaningful opportunities for those entering the counseling profession.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in New Jersey
Students in New Jersey who are considering a counseling career often begin their journey with undergraduate studies in psychology, human services, or related areas. While licensure requires graduate-level education, a bachelor’s program provides the foundation in behavioral science, communication, and research needed for advanced study.
For added flexibility, students may also consider pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, which can help them prepare for graduate training and eventual licensure.
Here are a few schools in New Jersey with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Caldwell University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- College of New Jersey: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Fairleigh Dickinson University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Georgian Court University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Kean University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of New Jersey counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements | Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
HLC and NASAC Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
WSCUC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More |
| University of Denver
Master of Arts in School Counseling
Designed to adhere to CACREP standards |
✔ Online
No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required |
Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in New Jersey
Graduate study is the essential step toward becoming a licensed counselor, and New Jersey offers a variety of programs at the master’s and doctoral levels. Many of these are CACREP-accredited, ensuring they meet the highest professional training standards.
Students may also want to explore flexible options such as CACREP-accredited online counseling programs, an online master’s degree in counseling, or even an online master’s in counseling without a GRE. For those pursuing advanced research or teaching roles, online counseling PhD programs are also available.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| Caldwell University | Caldwell | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Caldwell University | Caldwell | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Caldwell University | Caldwell | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Fairleigh Dickinson University | Madison | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Georgian Court University | Lakewood | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Kean University | Union | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Kean University | Union | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Kean University | Union | College Counseling and Student Affairs | M.A. |
| Kean University | Union | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. |
| Monmouth University | West Long Branch | School Counseling | M.S.Ed. |
| Monmouth University | West Long Branch | Student Affairs and College Counseling | M.S.Ed. |
| Monmouth University | West Long Branch | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Montclair State University | Montclair | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Montclair State University | Montclair | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. |
| Montclair State University | Montclair | Addiction Counseling | M.A. |
| Montclair State University | Montclair | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| New Jersey City University | Jersey City | School Counseling | M.A. |
| New Jersey City University | Jersey City | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Rider University | Lawrenceville | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Rider University | Lawrenceville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Rowan University | Glassboro | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Rutgers University | New Brunswick | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Rutgers University | Piscataway | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Stockton University | Galloway Township | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| The College of New Jersey | Ewing | School Counseling | M.A. |
| The College of New Jersey | Ewing | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| William Paterson University | Wayne | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
| William Paterson University | Wayne | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top New Jersey Schools with Counseling Programs
The following institutions represent some of the best options in New Jersey for students interested in counseling. Of course, “best” is subjective — the right program depends on your career goals, budget, and preferred learning format. Use this list as a starting point for your research.
The College of New Jersey
Featured Program: M.A. in School Counseling
The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in School Counseling that prepares students to support diverse preK–12 populations and qualify for state certification as school counselors. This 60-credit program can be completed full time in 2–2.5 years or part time in 3–4 years. Coursework emphasizes student growth, systemic change, and cultural responsiveness, with graduates also eligible to pursue LAC/LPC licensure to expand their career opportunities. Faculty are nationally recognized and directly engaged with students, ensuring a high-quality, personalized learning experience. With strong alumni employment outcomes and opportunities like the International School Counseling Program in Portugal, TCNJ’s program blends rigorous training with global perspective.
About The College of New Jersey
Founded in 1855, The College of New Jersey is a highly ranked public institution located in Ewing, New Jersey. Known for its strong liberal arts foundation and professional programs, TCNJ emphasizes faculty-student engagement, small class sizes, and high-impact learning experiences. The university is nationally recognized for its value and commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful careers and leadership roles.
Rutgers University
Featured Program: M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling Track
Rutgers University’s School of Health Professions offers a CACREP-accredited M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling track, designed to prepare students for licensure as professional counselors. This 60-credit program can be completed in two or three years, full- or part-time, with courses available on the Piscataway campus, Camden campus, or online. Students gain expertise in cognitive behavioral counseling approaches, evidence-based practices, and the rehabilitation counseling perspective, with a focus on supporting individuals with serious mental health conditions and disabilities. The curriculum integrates counseling theory, ethical practice, multicultural competence, and supervised practicum and internship experiences, totaling 700+ hours of clinical training. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in community agencies, healthcare systems, addiction treatment centers, rehabilitation programs, and government agencies such as the VA.
About Rutgers University
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading public research institution and a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). With campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden, Rutgers is recognized nationally and globally for its academic excellence, research innovation, and commitment to public service. The School of Health Professions, part of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, is a leader in training healthcare professionals across diverse fields, emphasizing clinical expertise, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community impact.
Stockton University
Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling
Stockton University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Counseling that prepares students for licensure and professional practice in diverse mental health and human service settings. The 60-credit program trains students in the eight CACREP core areas, including counseling theory, ethics, multicultural competence, career development, and group counseling, while also providing extensive practicum and internship opportunities. Graduates are eligible to take the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and pursue New Jersey licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) after completing supervised post-degree experience. Stockton’s program emphasizes advocacy, leadership, cultural sensitivity, and ethical practice, equipping graduates to work in hospitals, schools, residential treatment centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
About Stockton University
Located in Galloway, New Jersey, Stockton University is a public institution within the New Jersey state system known for academic excellence, research, and civic engagement. Stockton offers more than 160 undergraduate and graduate programs across its main campus and additional instructional sites in Atlantic City, Hammonton, Manahawkin, and Woodbine. With a strong focus on student-centered learning and community partnerships, Stockton prepares graduates to thrive as professionals and leaders in their fields.
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in New Jersey
Counseling in New Jersey is regulated by the Professional Counselor Examiners Committee under the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners. To practice independently, counselors must become licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Steps to Licensure
- Earn a graduate degree. Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field. Programs must include at least 60 semester hours with coursework in areas such as counseling theory, human development, psychopathology, assessment, group work, ethics, and research, plus supervised practicum/internship.
- Apply for Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) status. This allows graduates to begin practicing under supervision while accruing experience toward LPC licensure.
- Complete supervised experience. Accumulate 4,500 hours of supervised counseling practice that meets New Jersey’s supervision standards.
- Pass the required exam. Candidates must pass the NCE or another board-approved examination; some applicants may also need the NCMHCE.
- Apply for LPC licensure. Submit your application once education, supervision, and exam requirements are met to practice independently in New Jersey.
For broader context about the profession, explore how to become a counselor, learn about the LPC credential, and see step-by-step guidance on how to become an LPC. For New Jersey’s latest forms and rules, visit the New Jersey Professional Counselor Examiners Committee.
Counseling Licensure Titles in New Jersey
New Jersey regulates counseling through the Professional Counselor Examiners Committee, which oversees several related credentials. The primary counseling licenses include:
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): The full counseling license, permitting independent practice in mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC): A provisional license that allows graduates to practice under supervision while completing the experience required for LPC licensure.
Other credentials connected to counseling in New Jersey include:
- Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS): For professionals who meet qualifications to provide clinical supervision to counselors and trainees.
- Alcohol and Drug Counselor Credentials: Overseen by a separate division, the state offers licensure and certification for professionals specializing in substance use treatment, including Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).
- School Counselor Certification: Administered by the New Jersey Department of Education, this credential applies to counselors working in K–12 schools and is distinct from LPC or LAC licensure.
These titles give professionals in New Jersey multiple pathways to practice, depending on their education, supervised experience, and intended career setting.
Transferring a Counseling License to New Jersey
Counselors who hold an active license in another state may be eligible for New Jersey licensure through licensure by endorsement. The Professional Counselor Examiners Committee evaluates applications to determine whether the out-of-state requirements are substantially equivalent to New Jersey’s standards.
Applicants typically must submit:
- Verification of a current, unrestricted counseling license from another jurisdiction
- Official transcripts showing completion of a qualifying graduate program
- Documentation of supervised counseling experience
- Proof of passing a national counseling examination accepted by New Jersey
- A completed application and required fees
If an applicant’s prior education or experience does not align with New Jersey’s requirements, additional coursework, supervised practice, or examination may be required before licensure is granted.
For the most current details, visit the New Jersey Professional Counselor Examiners Committee.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in New Jersey
Students pursuing counseling degrees in New Jersey can take advantage of several state-funded programs and institutional opportunities to help manage the cost of education.
- Tuition Aid Grant (TAG): A need-based grant for New Jersey residents enrolled full-time at approved colleges and universities, covering a portion of undergraduate tuition.
- Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG): Provides tuition and fee coverage for eligible students attending New Jersey community colleges.
- Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF): Offers financial assistance and support services such as tutoring and counseling for economically and educationally disadvantaged students at participating institutions.
- NJ STARS: A scholarship program for students graduating in the top 15% of their high school class, offering free tuition at New Jersey community colleges.
By combining these statewide programs with university-based scholarships, counseling students in New Jersey can significantly reduce the financial burden of their degree.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in New Jersey
Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in New Jersey.
| Median Annual Wage in New Jersey (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in New Jersey (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $64,710 | $59,190 | 18.5% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $48,190 | $46,110 | 3.2% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $77,940 | $65,140 | 6.7% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $89,030 | $63,780 | 2.6% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $76,240 | $49,830 | 19.7% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
What are the main counseling licenses in New Jersey?
The two primary licenses are the Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), which allows graduates to practice under supervision, and the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), which authorizes independent practice.
How many supervised hours are required for LPC licensure?
New Jersey requires 4,500 hours of supervised counseling experience, completed after earning a graduate degree.
Which exam is required for counselor licensure in New Jersey?
Applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or another examination approved by the state. Some applicants may also be required to pass the NCMHCE.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state?
Yes. New Jersey offers licensure by endorsement for qualified counselors with substantially equivalent credentials and professional experience.
Making a Counseling Career in New Jersey
New Jersey offers strong opportunities for aspiring counselors, with a clear licensure pathway and steady demand for professionals across schools, hospitals, community agencies, and private practices. The state’s investment in mental health and addiction services also expands opportunities for counselors to serve diverse populations.
With its mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, New Jersey provides many options for where and how counselors can practice. For those committed to supporting individuals, families, and communities, New Jersey is a rewarding place to build a counseling career.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited New Jersey Counseling Degrees
CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs.
Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in New Jersey. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Caldwell University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2010 to 10/31/2029
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2010 to 10/31/2029
College of New Jersey
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/15/2013 to 3/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/15/2013 to 3/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/1991 to 3/31/2021
Fairleigh Dickinson University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year (Interim Report Required)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/14/2010 to 3/31/2022
Georgian Court University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 10/31/2021
Kean University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/12/2011 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/1/2003 to 10/31/2020
Monmouth University - CMHC Program
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/10/2007 to 3/31/2025
Monmouth University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/10/2013 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/10/2007 to 3/31/2025
Montclair State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/10/2007 to 3/31/2025
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2014 to 3/31/2025
New Jersey City University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/10/2013 to 10/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/10/2013 to 10/31/2022
Rider University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/10/2013 to 10/31/2022
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1997 to 10/31/2022
Rowan University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year (Interim Report Required)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/14/2010 to 3/31/2022
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/8/2008 to 3/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2008 to 3/31/2025
The College of New Jersey
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1989 to 10/31/2021
William Paterson University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2009 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 4/1/2001 to 10/31/2020
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in New Jersey
View all programs in New Jersey below, or jump to all New Jersey CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Caldwell University Caldwell
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Camden County College Blackwood
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
College of New Jersey Ewing Township
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Fairleigh Dickinson University Madison
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Georgian Court University Lakewood
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Kean University Union
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Monmouth University - CMHC Program West Long Branch
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Monmouth University West Long Branch
- M.Ed. in Student Affairs and College Counseling
- M.S.Ed. in School Counseling
Montclair State University Montclair
- M.A. in Addiction Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
New Jersey City University Jersey City
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Rider University Lawrenceville
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Rowan University Glassboro
- M.A. in School Counseling
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey New Brunswick
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Seton Hall University South Orange
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
- Doctorate - Marriage and Family Therapy
The College of New Jersey Ewing
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
William Paterson University Wayne
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
