Arizona offers a growing range of opportunities for students interested in pursuing counseling careers. With its diverse communities, strong university system, and demand for qualified professionals, the state provides multiple pathways for future counselors to begin or advance their education.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Arizona
Students interested in starting their counseling journey in Arizona will find a number of undergraduate programs designed to build a strong foundation in psychology, human services, and counseling principles. These bachelor’s degrees prepare graduates for entry-level roles in related fields or for continuing on to graduate study, which is typically required for licensure as a professional counselor.
For students looking for flexible options, many schools across the country also offer an online bachelor’s degree in counseling.
Here are a few schools in Arizona with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Northern Arizona University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- University of Arizona: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- University of Phoenix - Arizona: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Arizona 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Walden University
MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
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Learn how to support the well-being of your students as they cope with complex personal and family challenges. Explore human sexual development as well as the relationships and family dynamics impacting young people’s lives today. Build the cross-cultural competencies and skills required to understand family structures, life-cycle dynamics, intergenerational influences, and healthy family functioning. The optional accelerated track is designed for students who are interested in taking three courses per quarter and potentially finishing their program in a shorter time frame. The accelerated track has the same curriculum, residencies, and field experience requirements as the general track, but requires a strong time commitment and is best suited for students who can dedicate themselves full time to their studies.
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Learn More |
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Walden University
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
HLC Accredited
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✔ Online
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In the PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, you’ll look at human sexuality and empirically supported treatments and techniques for promoting the well-being of couples. Build competencies for working effectively with children and adolescents. You’ll also learn how to assess procedures for evaluating research in this area—and how to apply these findings to your practice.
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Learn More |
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Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited
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✔ Online
GRE Not Required
Bachelor's Required |
Complete your COAMFTE-accredited MFT online program in as few as 21 months. No GRE required.
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Learn More |
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Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
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CACREP-accredited MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Emphases: Marriage & Family Therapy, Christian Counseling, Childhood & Adolescence Disorders, & Trauma.
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Learn More |
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Grand Canyon University
Master of Education in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
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At GCU, school-counselors-in-training candidates develop into more than school counselors, they grow into compassionate, servant leaders with strong ethics and morals to positively make a greater difference in communities and the lives of children.
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Grand Canyon University
Degrees in Social Work
Bachelors and Masters
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✔ Online
No GRE Required
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Created by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, this social work degree program prepares students to assist in improving the well-being of individuals, families, and communities while working with diverse groups of people in a variety of settings. Choose GCU's MSW Advanced Standing program if you have already completed a CSWE-accredited bachelor’s degree in social work. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Financial aid may be available if you qualify!
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Liberty University
MA: Marriage and Family Therapy
SACSCOC
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✔ Online
Online with required intensives
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A Liberty University marriage and family therapy master’s program online can prepare you to help individuals, couples, and families find healing through counseling. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971.
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National University
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited
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✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required
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Earn your masters in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited.
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Learn More |
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National University
Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited
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✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required
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Earn your Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy at National University. COAMFTE and IACSTE accredited.
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Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in Arizona
Graduate-level study is essential for those pursuing licensure as a professional counselor. Arizona is home to several universities offering high-quality programs, including CACREP-accredited online counseling degree programs. These programs prepare students for advanced practice, research, and leadership roles in the counseling field.
Students exploring graduate study may also want to consider flexible online options, such as an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling without a GRE, or even online counseling PhD programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options Available? |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix | School Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
| Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| Northern Arizona University | Flagstaff | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| Prescott College | Prescott | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | Y |
| University of Arizona | Tucson | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Arizona | Tucson | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of Arizona | Tucson | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Arizona | Tucson | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Phoenix – Arizona | Tempe | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| University of Phoenix – Online | Phoenix | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S.C. | Y |
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top Arizona Schools with Counseling Programs
Arizona is home to several universities that stand out for their counseling programs. While the idea of the “best” school is subjective, and the right choice ultimately depends on an individual’s personal needs, interests, and career goals, the following list represents some of the strongest options in the state. Prospective students can use these schools as a starting point in their search for the program that fits them best.
University of Arizona
Featured Program: Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Specialization
The University of Arizona offers a CACREP-accredited Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling specialization within its Master of Arts in Counseling program. This track prepares students to pursue licensure as a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona and many other states, as well as national certification as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). The program emphasizes integrative care and training in the intersections of physical and mental health, trauma, and social determinants of well-being. Graduates are equipped to provide psychotherapy, vocational counseling, and forensic assessment while supporting individuals with emotional, developmental, and cognitive disabilities in achieving personal, career, and independent living goals.
About the University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is a public research university located in Tucson and a member of the Association of American Universities. As the state’s land-grant institution, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is known for its strong research activity, commitment to serving diverse communities, and partnerships with Indigenous nations across Arizona.
Northern Arizona University
Featured Program: Master of Education in Counseling – School Counseling
Northern Arizona University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Education in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling. This 60-credit program prepares students to support the academic, social, and emotional development of diverse student populations. Coursework covers human growth and development, cultural foundations, career development, and professional orientation, while practical training includes required fieldwork and an internship. Graduates are eligible to apply for Arizona state board endorsement and may also pursue state licensure in counseling. The program is delivered in person at NAU’s Flagstaff campus and its North Valley location in Phoenix.
About Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University is a public research university based in Flagstaff, Arizona, with additional campuses and online offerings that extend its reach across the state. Known for its student-focused approach and commitment to serving diverse communities, NAU offers a broad range of academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university combines research opportunities with personalized instruction and plays a key role in preparing professionals to serve Arizona and beyond.
Prescott College
Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling
Prescott College offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling delivered primarily online through a limited-residency model. Students complete most coursework remotely but attend a three-day, on-campus colloquium during their first year. The 60-credit program integrates social and environmental justice into the curriculum and offers concentrations in Human Sexuality Counseling, Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, and Somatic Counseling. Students may also enhance their studies with post-graduate certificates in areas such as Expressive Arts Therapy, Adventure-Based Counseling, and Nature-Based Counseling. A required practicum and internship provide hands-on training, preparing graduates to pursue licensure and professional counseling roles.
About Prescott College
Prescott College is a private institution located in Prescott, Arizona, with additional centers in Tucson, Mexico, and Kenya. Known for its commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and experiential learning, the college emphasizes interdisciplinary, student-centered education. With a strong focus on applied practice and global awareness, Prescott College offers a distinctive learning environment that combines academic study with hands-on experiences.
Walden University - MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master of Education in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Degrees in Social Work (CSWE Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Marriage and Family Therapy (SACSCOC Accredited)
National University - Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
National University - Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Arizona
Becoming a licensed counselor in Arizona involves completing a structured process overseen by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Below are the main steps:
- Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- The program should be accredited (CACREP-accredited programs are strongly recommended).
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- Complete Required Coursework
- Arizona requires coursework in areas such as human development, counseling theory, ethics, multicultural counseling, and research methods.
- Programs must also include supervised practicum and internship experiences.
- Arizona requires coursework in areas such as human development, counseling theory, ethics, multicultural counseling, and research methods.
- Gain Supervised Clinical Experience
- After graduation, candidates must complete supervised post-master’s clinical hours.
- Arizona typically requires 3,200 hours, including at least 1,600 hours of direct client contact, under the supervision of a licensed professional counselor.
- After graduation, candidates must complete supervised post-master’s clinical hours.
- Apply to the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners
- Submit your application, academic transcripts, and verification of supervised hours.
- Applications also require fingerprinting and a background check.
- Submit your application, academic transcripts, and verification of supervised hours.
- Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
- These exams, administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), are required to demonstrate competency.
- These exams, administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), are required to demonstrate competency.
- Receive Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Once all requirements are met, the Board will grant LPC status, allowing independent counseling practice.
- Once all requirements are met, the Board will grant LPC status, allowing independent counseling practice.
For additional guidance, students may find it useful to explore what it means to be an LPC, review the steps on how to become an LPC, and learn more about how to become a counselor.
Counseling Licensure Titles in Arizona
Arizona offers several licensure pathways for counseling professionals, depending on their education and level of supervised experience. These titles reflect the scope of practice and independence a counselor may have within the state.
Common counseling licensure titles in Arizona include:
- Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) – A provisional license for graduates who are completing their required supervised clinical hours. LACs must work under the supervision of a licensed professional.
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The full, independent counseling license in Arizona. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services without supervision.
- Licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (LAMFT) – For individuals working toward independent licensure in marriage and family therapy under supervision.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – Allows independent practice with a focus on relational, family, and couples counseling.
- Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) – Entry-level license for those specializing in substance abuse counseling, working under supervision.
- Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) – Independent license for those providing counseling services related to alcohol and drug abuse.
These different titles give students flexibility to specialize in areas of interest while working toward independent practice.
Transferring a Counseling License to Arizona
Counselors who are already licensed in another state and wish to practice in Arizona must apply for licensure through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. While Arizona does not currently offer full reciprocity, the Board does allow applicants to demonstrate that their existing education, supervised experience, and exams meet Arizona’s standards.
Key points for transferring a license:
- Application Review – Out-of-state applicants must submit transcripts, verification of supervised clinical hours, and proof of passing a qualifying national exam (NCE or NCMHCE).
- Gaps in Requirements – If Arizona’s requirements are not fully met, the Board may require additional coursework, supervised hours, or documentation before granting licensure.
- Licensure by Credential – Counselors with substantial experience and equivalent credentials may be eligible for licensure by credential, pending Board approval.
- Board Guidance – Each case is reviewed individually, so it is important to work directly with the Arizona Board to ensure compliance.
For the most accurate and up-to-date details, applicants should visit the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Arizona
Pursuing a counseling degree can be a significant financial investment, but students in Arizona have access to a variety of scholarships, grants, and aid opportunities to help offset costs. Financial assistance may be available through universities, state programs, and professional counseling organizations.
Some options to explore include:
- University-Based Scholarships – Many Arizona institutions, such as the University of Arizona, Northern Arizona University, and Prescott College, offer scholarships specifically for graduate students in counseling or related fields.
- State and Federal Aid – Arizona students can apply for federal aid by completing the FAFSA, as well as state-level grants and loan repayment programs designed for mental health professionals.
- Professional Associations – Organizations like the Arizona Counseling Association and the American Counseling Association often provide scholarships, research grants, or awards for students pursuing counseling degrees.
- Loan Repayment Programs – Licensed counselors who work in underserved or rural areas of Arizona may qualify for federal or state loan forgiveness programs, such as the National Health Service Corps (NHSC).
Exploring these resources early can help students reduce the financial burden of earning their counseling degree.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Arizona
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 Arizona.
| Counseling Role | Median Annual Wage in Arizona (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Arizona (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $63,830 | $59,190 | 39.2% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $45,970 | $46,110 | 17.9% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $57,940 | $65,140 | 8.8% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $52,420 | $63,780 | 29.5% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $51,780 | $49,830 | 29.0% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Arizona?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona.
What is the difference between an LAC and an LPC in Arizona?
An LAC (Licensed Associate Counselor) is a provisional license for those who have finished their graduate degree but are still completing supervised hours. An LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) is a full, independent license that allows counselors to practice without supervision.
Are counseling programs in Arizona available online?
Some Arizona universities may offer hybrid or online components, though many CACREP-accredited programs require in-person training. Students can also consider online programs offered by out-of-state schools.
How long does it take to become an LPC in Arizona?
Most students take about 6–8 years, including time to complete a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and the required supervised clinical experience.
Does Arizona accept counseling license transfers from other states?
Arizona does not have automatic reciprocity, but out-of-state counselors can apply to the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners to determine if their credentials meet state requirements.
Making a Counseling Career in Arizona
Arizona offers a dynamic environment for counseling professionals, with opportunities to serve in both urban centers and rural communities. The state’s growing demand for mental health services, combined with its diverse population, creates a strong need for qualified counselors in schools, healthcare facilities, community agencies, and private practice.
Graduates entering the field can shape their careers around personal interests and community needs—whether that means supporting students, providing substance abuse recovery services, or working in integrated healthcare teams. With licensure, many also establish independent practices, broadening access to care across the state.
For those drawn to meaningful work in mental health, Arizona provides both variety and opportunity. From Phoenix and Tucson to smaller communities, counselors can find rewarding roles that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Popular Online Counseling Programs
Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Walden University 🗹 Online 🗗 Doctorate
Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online
Liberty University 🗹 Online
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Arizona 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 Arizona. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Arizona
View all programs in Arizona below, or jump to all Arizona CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Arizona Christian University Phoenix
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Arizona State University-Tempe Tempe
- Doctorate - Marriage and Family Therapy
- Doctorate - School Counseling
Mohave Community College Kingman
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Northern Arizona University Flagstaff
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
Prescott College Prescott
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Rio Salado College Tempe
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
University of Arizona Tucson
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
University of Phoenix - Arizona Tempe
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
