Kentucky presents exciting opportunities for students ready to embark on a rewarding counseling career. Whether you’re exploring programs at major universities in vibrant cities like Lexington and Louisville or discovering hidden gems at regional institutions throughout the Bluegrass State, you’ll find comprehensive programs designed to prepare you for meaningful roles in clinical practice, school counseling, and community-based services. With mental health awareness on the rise and a growing demand for skilled professionals, Kentucky offers a welcoming and supportive environment where future counselors can build fulfilling careers while making a genuine difference in their communities.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Kentucky
Undergraduate programs in Kentucky provide students with the academic foundation needed for graduate-level study in counseling. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify someone for licensure, it introduces key areas such as psychology, human development, and counseling theories, and prepares students for entry-level roles in human services.
Students can pursue these programs at public universities, private colleges, and online institutions. Common coursework includes abnormal psychology, family systems, multicultural counseling, and research methods. Graduates often continue on to a master’s program to meet the requirements for counseling licensure.For students who need more flexibility, an online counseling bachelor’s degree can be an excellent option to begin their studies while preparing for advanced training.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Kentucky
Graduate education is essential for students pursuing counseling licensure in Kentucky. The state is home to multiple universities offering master’s and doctoral programs, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs that prepare students for professional practice in school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, and other specializations.
Students who want more flexibility may also consider online counseling master’s degree programs. Some institutions offer online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement, making the admissions process more accessible. For those seeking advanced expertise, teaching opportunities, or leadership roles, online counseling doctorate programs can provide valuable preparation.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options Available? |
| Asbury Theological Seminary | Wilmore | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Asbury Theological Seminary | Wilmore | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond | School Counseling | M.A.Ed. | |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ed.D. | |
| Lindsey Wilson University | Columbia | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. | Y |
| Lindsey Wilson University | Columbia | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| Murray State University | Murray | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Ed.S. | |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights | School Counseling | M.A. | |
| Spalding University | Louisville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ph.D. | |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| University of Louisville | Louisville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| University of Louisville | Louisville | School Counseling | M.Ed. | |
| University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg | Counselor Education and Supervision | Ed.D./Ph.D. | Y |
| University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A.E. | Y |
| Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A.E. | Y |
Here are a few schools in Kentucky with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Asbury Seminary: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Asbury Theological Seminary: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Eastern Kentucky University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A.Ed. in School Counseling
- Lindsey Wilson College: M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
- Murray State University: Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
- Northern Kentucky University: M.A. in School Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Kentucky 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
CACREP 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 |
✔ 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
CACREP Accredited |
✔ 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
Top Kentucky Schools with Counseling Programs
When choosing a counseling program, it’s important to keep in mind that the “best” school depends on your career goals, learning style, and personal preferences. The following institutions are among the respected options in Kentucky and can serve as a strong starting point in your search.
University of Kentucky
Featured Program: M.A.C. in Counselor Education
The University of Kentucky offers a fully online Master of Arts in Counselor Education (M.A.C.), accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Students may pursue a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling or Rehabilitation Counseling, both of which prepare graduates for licensure in their respective fields. The 60-credit program is designed for working professionals and includes a 200-hour practicum and 600-hour internship, which can be completed at approved sites in students’ local communities. The curriculum emphasizes counseling theory and practice, assessment and diagnosis, multicultural competence, and evidence-based approaches to serving diverse populations.
About the University of Kentucky
Founded in 1865, the University of Kentucky is a public land-grant research university located in Lexington. It is the state’s flagship institution, offering more than 200 academic programs. UK is recognized for its commitment to research, outreach, and professional training, and its online programs extend access to graduate education for students nationwide.
University of Louisville
Featured Program: M.Ed. in Counseling and Personnel Services
The University of Louisville offers a fully online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling and Personnel Services with a concentration in School Counseling. The 36-credit program is designed to prepare students to address the academic, social-emotional, and career development needs of K–12 learners. Coursework emphasizes culturally responsive practices, leadership, and the skills needed to support students in diverse school environments. Graduates are eligible for school counseling licensure in Kentucky and may also qualify for Rank 1 certification within the state.
About the University of Louisville
Founded in 1798, the University of Louisville is a public research university located in Louisville, Kentucky. As a member of the state university system, it offers more than 200 degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Murray State University
Featured Program: Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Murray State University offers a Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a CACREP-accredited 60-credit program that prepares graduates to work in agencies, private practice, and other mental health settings. Students receive advanced training in supervision, diagnosis and treatment planning, addictions, multicultural counseling, and research. The program fulfills requirements set by the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors for the Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) credential. With post-graduate supervised hours, graduates can pursue full licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Kentucky.
About Murray State University
Founded in 1922, Murray State is a public university in Murray, Kentucky, serving more than 9,000 students. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Kentucky
Counselors in Kentucky are regulated by the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. The state offers a two-step licensure process, beginning with the Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) and advancing to the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
Here are the general steps:
- Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
- The degree must come from a counseling or closely related program, ideally CACREP-accredited, and include required coursework and practicum hours.
- The degree must come from a counseling or closely related program, ideally CACREP-accredited, and include required coursework and practicum hours.
- Apply for the LPCA License
- This provisional license allows graduates to begin practicing under supervision while working toward full licensure.
- This provisional license allows graduates to begin practicing under supervision while working toward full licensure.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Kentucky requires 4,000 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience, including direct client contact.
- Kentucky requires 4,000 hours of supervised post-master’s counseling experience, including direct client contact.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Apply for the LPCC License
- Once supervised hours and exams are complete, counselors may advance to LPCC status, which allows for independent practice.
- Once supervised hours and exams are complete, counselors may advance to LPCC status, which allows for independent practice.
- Maintain Licensure
- Continuing education is required for license renewal, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
- Continuing education is required for license renewal, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
Helpful resources to explore:
- Learn more about the licensed professional counselor (LPC) equivalent role
- Step-by-step guidance on how to become a licensed professional counselor
- An overview of how to become a counselor
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 (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
Counseling Licensure Titles in Kentucky
Kentucky offers several licensure titles for counselors, each representing a different stage of professional development:
- Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA)
- A provisional license for graduates who have completed a qualifying master’s program. The LPCA allows individuals to begin practicing under supervision while completing the required clinical experience hours.
- A provisional license for graduates who have completed a qualifying master’s program. The LPCA allows individuals to begin practicing under supervision while completing the required clinical experience hours.
- Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
- The full independent counseling license in Kentucky. LPCCs may provide mental health services, diagnose and treat clients, and supervise other counselors.
- The full independent counseling license in Kentucky. LPCCs may provide mental health services, diagnose and treat clients, and supervise other counselors.
- School Counselor Certification
- Issued through the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board, this credential is required for those working in K–12 school settings. It requires a graduate degree in school counseling and appropriate supervised fieldwork.
- Issued through the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board, this credential is required for those working in K–12 school settings. It requires a graduate degree in school counseling and appropriate supervised fieldwork.
These titles provide clear pathways for Kentucky counseling professionals to build their careers in clinical, community, or educational settings.
Transferring a Counseling License to Kentucky
Counselors licensed in another state may be eligible to practice in Kentucky through licensure by endorsement, overseen by the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors.
Applicants must:
- Hold an active counseling license in good standing from another state
- Provide verification of current licensure, including details of supervision and examinations
- Submit official transcripts from a qualifying graduate counseling program
- Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Kentucky’s requirements (4,000 hours post-master’s)
- Provide proof of passing a national exam such as the NCE or NCMHCE
Kentucky does not offer blanket reciprocity with all states. Instead, each application is evaluated individually to ensure equivalency with Kentucky’s education, experience, and examination standards.
For the most current information and application materials, visit the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Kentucky
Students in Kentucky can access a range of financial aid opportunities to make counseling degrees more affordable. Options are available through state programs, universities, and professional associations.
Here are a few to explore:
- Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship (KEES)
- Awarded to Kentucky high school graduates based on academic achievement, and can be used toward tuition at in-state colleges and universities.
- Awarded to Kentucky high school graduates based on academic achievement, and can be used toward tuition at in-state colleges and universities.
- College Access Program (CAP) Grant
- Provides need-based grants to Kentucky residents attending eligible public and private institutions.
- Provides need-based grants to Kentucky residents attending eligible public and private institutions.
- University Scholarships and Assistantships
- Schools such as the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, and Murray State University offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Schools such as the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, and Murray State University offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships for counseling students.
- Professional Association Awards
- The Kentucky Counseling Association (KCA) and national organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) sometimes provide scholarships or research grants for graduate students.
- The Kentucky Counseling Association (KCA) and national organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA) sometimes provide scholarships or research grants for graduate students.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Counselors who work in underserved areas or school settings may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
- Counselors who work in underserved areas or school settings may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
Students should also contact their university’s financial aid office for the latest funding opportunities and deadlines.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Kentucky
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 Kentucky.
| Median Annual Wage in Kentucky (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Kentucky (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $51,790 | $59,190 | 21.4% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $56,150 | $46,110 | 8.8% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $64,390 | $65,140 | 6.0% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $60,190 | $63,780 | 18.0% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $40,000 | $49,830 | 19.2% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure.
What is the difference between an LPCA and an LPCC in Kentucky?
An LPCA (Licensed Professional Counselor Associate) is a provisional license that allows graduates to practice under supervision while completing experience requirements. An LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor) is the full, independent license for counselors who have completed supervised hours and passed the required exam.
Are online counseling degrees accepted in Kentucky?
Yes. Online counseling degrees are accepted if the program is properly accredited and meets Kentucky’s coursework and practicum requirements for licensure.
How long does it take to become licensed in Kentucky?
Most students can expect the process to take 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s degree to full LPCC licensure, including graduate school and 4,000 supervised experience hours.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky allows licensure by endorsement if your education, supervised hours, and exam results are substantially equivalent to state standards.
What are the continuing education requirements for counselors in Kentucky?
Licensed counselors must complete continuing education each renewal cycle, including training in ethics and professional practice.
Making a Counseling Career in Kentucky
Kentucky offers a strong professional environment for students and licensed counselors alike. With opportunities in urban areas such as Louisville and Lexington as well as rural regions across the state, counselors are needed in schools, healthcare systems, nonprofit organizations, and private practice.
Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Kentucky include:
- High demand for mental health services — particularly in underserved rural communities.
- Variety of career options — from school counseling and clinical mental health to substance abuse treatment and family services.
- Supportive professional community — the Kentucky Counseling Association (KCA) and related organizations provide networking, continuing education, and advocacy.
For those passionate about helping others, Kentucky provides both the educational pathways and the career opportunities needed to make a meaningful impact as a counselor.
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
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Kentucky 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 Kentucky. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Asbury Seminary
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/7/2016 to 3/31/2033
Asbury Theological Seminary
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/7/2015 to 3/31/2033
Eastern Kentucky University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/2001 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 9/1/2001 to 10/31/2020
Lindsey Wilson College
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1994 to 8/20/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/12/2016 to 8/20/2020
Murray State 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
Northern Kentucky University
- 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
University of Kentucky
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2016 to 10/31/2021
University of Louisville
- 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
University of the Cumberlands
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2014 to 3/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/31/2014 to 3/31/2024
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/14/2014 to 3/31/2024
Western Kentucky University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2003 to 3/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2003 to 3/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 3/31/2021
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Kentucky
View all programs in Kentucky below, or jump to all Kentucky CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Asbury Seminary Wilmore
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Asbury Theological Seminary Wilmore
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Brescia University Owensboro
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Eastern Kentucky University Richmond
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A.Ed. in School Counseling
Kentucky Christian University Grayson
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Lindsey Wilson College Columbia
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Murray State University Murray
- Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A. in School Counseling
Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights
- M.A. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Kentucky Lexington
- Doctorate - Counseling Psychology
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
University of Louisville Louisville
- Doctorate - School Counseling
- M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg
- Ed.D./Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
- M.A. in Addiction Counseling
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Western Kentucky University Bowling Green
- M.A.E. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.A.E. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
- M.A.E. in School Counseling
