CACREP-Accredited Online Counseling Programs Overview
Our team of educational experts has thoroughly reviewed CACREP counseling accreditation compared to other accreditation agencies to provide you with detailed information you can use to determine whether you’re choosing the right program.
Here’s an overview of CACREP accredited counseling programs:
- 900+ total CACREP-accredited counseling programs
- 800+ CACREP-accredited master's degrees
- 80+ CACREP-accredited doctorate counseling programs
- 100+ Online CACREP-accredited counseling programs
- Program faculty and staff evaluation
- Core curriculum review
- Clinical practice requirements - including internship, practicum, and supervisors
- Student and program assessment
- Specialty areas
- Understanding of the ACA Code of Ethics and its application.
- Roles and settings of clinical mental health counselors.
- Legal issues, including confidentiality, professional liability, and duty to warn.
- Multicultural counseling theories and techniques.
- Awareness of one's own cultural values and biases.
- Advocacy and social justice models in counseling.
- Life-span development and transitions.
- Theories of personality and human development.
- Effects of crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events.
- Career counseling theories and decision-making models.
- Assessments for planning and career development.
- Career program development, resources, and technology.
- Major counseling theories and their application in various settings.
- Counselor characteristics and behaviors that influence helping processes.
- Essential interviewing, assessment, and case conceptualization skills.
- Theoretical foundations of group counseling and group work.
- Dynamics associated with group process and development.
- Techniques for group facilitation and conflict resolution.
- Principles of testing and measurement in counseling.
- Ethical and culturally relevant strategies for interpreting assessment results.
- Techniques for selecting, administering, and interpreting assessment and evaluation instruments.
- Research methods, statistical analysis, and needs assessment.
- Program evaluation for evidence-based practice.
- Ethical and culturally relevant strategies for interpreting and conducting research.
- Principles of wellness, resiliency, and prevention.
- Strategies for designing and implementing wellness and prevention interventions.
- Assessment of life satisfaction and wellness levels.
- Theories and models of trauma and crisis intervention.
- Techniques for immediate and long-term responses to crisis.
- Understanding the impact of trauma on individuals across the lifespan.
- Clinical Mental Health Counselors: They provide a wide range of services including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. They work in diverse settings like mental health centers, private practice, and hospitals.
- School Counselors: These counselors work within educational settings to provide academic, career, college access, and personal and social competencies to K-12 students through individual and group counseling.
- Marriage and Family Therapists: Specializing in family and relationship issues, they assess and treat mental and emotional disorders within the context of marriage, couples, and family systems.
- Addiction Counselors: They focus on the prevention and treatment of substance abuse and addiction. This includes counseling individuals and groups to overcome dependencies and recover from addiction.
- Rehabilitation Counselors: These professionals help people with emotional, mental, developmental, or physical disabilities to live independently. They might work in various settings, including rehabilitation centers and government agencies.
- Career Counselors: They assist people with career development, job search strategies, workplace issues, and work-life balance. They often work in schools, colleges, and career centers.
- Gerontological Counselors: They specialize in working with older adults, addressing the mental health, social, and emotional needs specific to this population.
- Military Counselors: They provide counseling services to military personnel and their families, dealing with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the unique stresses of military life.
- Crisis Counselors: These counselors provide immediate and direct services to individuals who have experienced trauma or a life-stressor. They work in various settings, including crisis intervention centers, hotlines, and disaster sites.
- Child and Adolescent Counselors: Specialized in the developmental, emotional, and behavioral aspects of children and adolescents, these counselors work in schools, pediatric hospitals, and child welfare agencies.
- Bellevue University: Online Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Bradley University: Online Masters in School Counseling
- The College of William and Mary: Online Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Messiah College: Online Masters in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
- North Carolina Central University: Online Masters in Career Counseling
- North Carolina State University: Online Masters in Student Affairs and College Counseling
- Thomas University: Online Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
- Online Counseling Degrees
- Online Masters in Counseling
- Bachelors in Counseling
- Masters in Counseling
- Counseling Schools by State
- Counseling Career Guide
- Highest Paid Counseling Jobs
Before taking a deep dive into some of the popular CACREP accredited counseling programs, take time to consider what you’re looking for in a degree program. Some students may choose to pursue their degree through traditional, campus-based programs, others may prefer counseling programs that they can complete entirely online—and some may want a hybrid of the two.
Luckily, there are options. There are traditional, online and hybrid programs that have received CACREP accreditation, making this decision easier for aspiring professionals who wish to become licensed counselors in the future.
To make your search for the perfect degree program a bit easier, Counseling Degrees Online team of educational experts has reviewed the list of CACREP-accredited degree programs for each U.S. state on our website and provided a list of entirely online CACREP-accredited counseling programs on this page. Likewise, on each state’s page, you’ll find online counseling programs in that state that are accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online CACREP Accredited Counseling ProgramClick the university name for information on admissions, courses, status of accreditation, and more
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School and Program Information
Online Program?
Entry Requirements
Course Information
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
Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available 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
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required.
This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses.Learn More
Colorado Christian University
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum
CACREP Accredited
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree
Optional program emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Substance Use Disorders. Learn More
Walsh University
Online Master's in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited, HLC Accredited
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required
Whether you’re a teacher wanting to expand into counseling to further support your students, or a professional wanting a fulfilling career helping young people thrive academically, emotionally, and mentally, Walsh University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development–School Counseling degree can give you the skills and knowledge you need to make a positive impact. Become a licensed school counselor to make a difference in the lives of children, adolescents, and teens.Learn More
Walsh University
Online Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited, HLC Accredited
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required
Walsh University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development–Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree can give you the skills and knowledge you need to be the change you want to see in the world. Become a licensed clinical mental health counselor prepared to address psychological challenges among diverse populations and communities. Gain clinical mental health theory, process, and treatment knowledge to be successful in the field.Learn More
School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements |
Course Information |
---|---|---|
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 |
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 |
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required. |
This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More |
Colorado Christian University
Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree |
Optional program emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Substance Use Disorders. Learn More |
Walsh University
Online Master's in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited, HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required |
Whether you’re a teacher wanting to expand into counseling to further support your students, or a professional wanting a fulfilling career helping young people thrive academically, emotionally, and mentally, Walsh University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development–School Counseling degree can give you the skills and knowledge you need to make a positive impact. Become a licensed school counselor to make a difference in the lives of children, adolescents, and teens. Learn More |
Walsh University
Online Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
CACREP Accredited, HLC Accredited |
✔ Online
Bachelor's Degree Required |
Walsh University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development–Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree can give you the skills and knowledge you need to be the change you want to see in the world. Become a licensed clinical mental health counselor prepared to address psychological challenges among diverse populations and communities. Gain clinical mental health theory, process, and treatment knowledge to be successful in the field. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
What Is CACREP?
According to the website for the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), this organization “promotes the professional competence of counseling and related practitioners through development of preparation standards, encouraging excellence in program development, and accreditation of professional preparation programs.”
CACREP is the leading accreditation organization for educational programs in counseling, so it should be a familiar agency for you if you plan to pursue a counseling degree. Any campus-based or online counseling programs that CACREP has accredited should display the CACREP logo on their program page, and should be listed on CACREP’s approved provider list. Accreditation agencies such as CACREP aim to provide consistent reviews of educational programs all over the country. There may be certain qualifications for upcoming programs seeking accreditation, some of which can likely be easily achieved through the creation of a thorough curriculum, hiring qualified instructors, and making sure they are up-to-date with the ethical and legal recommendations for new counseling professionals.
What are the CACREP Accreditation Standards?
Here are some of the standards that are reviewed during the CACREP accreditation process:
CACREP Curriculum and Coursework
CACREP-accredited counseling programs are distinguished by their rigorous curriculum and comprehensive coursework designed to ensure that students receive a standardized education in counseling that meets the highest professional standards. Below are common topics covered, including detailed descriptions and their relevance to the counseling profession:
Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
This foundational course introduces students to the counseling profession's history, philosophy, and values. It instills an understanding of professional roles, ethical standards, and legal considerations.
Social and Cultural Diversity
Courses in this area explore issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in counseling. They address strategies for serving diverse populations effectively and ethically.
Human Growth and Development
These courses examine the nature and needs of individuals at all developmental levels. They focus on theories of individual and family development, human behavior, and learning.
Career Development
Career counseling courses cover theories and practices related to career development, as well as strategies for designing and implementing career counseling programs.
Counseling and Helping Relationships
This topic encompasses theories and models of counseling, consultation, and client and counselor characteristics that influence the counseling process.
Group Counseling and Group Work
These courses focus on group dynamics, counseling theories, group counseling methods, and group work approaches, including clear communication and facilitation skills.
Assessment and Testing
Courses in assessment provide an understanding of individual and group approaches to assessment and evaluation.
Research and Program Evaluation
This area covers the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession, including how to critically evaluate research and use findings in practice.
Counseling for Wellness and Prevention
Wellness and prevention courses emphasize a holistic approach to mental health, promoting well-being rather than merely addressing pathology.
Crisis and Trauma Counseling
Focusing on counseling strategies for clients who have experienced trauma or crisis, these courses cover the impact of trauma and the process of recovery.
Each of these courses plays a vital role in preparing students to be effective and ethical counselors. They provide the knowledge and skills required to meet clients' diverse needs and contribute to the betterment of individuals and communities through professional counseling.
The online Master of Arts in Counseling Program at The Family Institute at Northwestern University allows students to earn their degree in as little as 18 months. Preparing the next generation of clinical mental health counselors, this CACREP-accredited program offers a comprehensive curriculum combined with extensive hands-on training. No GRE Required.
Click for more admissions info.
All CACREP Accredited Online Counseling Programs
CACREP Accredited Online Mental Health Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | University of Alaska Fairbanks | Fairbanks | AK | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/12/2016 | 3/31/2020 |
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Concordia University Irvine | Irvine | CA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/13/2018 | 10/31/2021 |
Palo Alto University | Palo Alto | CA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/5/2015 | 3/31/2025 |
Saybrook University | Pasadena | CA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/14/2017 | 10/31/2026 |
Adams State University | Alamosa | CO | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/15/2009 | 3/31/2021 |
Colorado Christian University | Lakewood | CO | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/14/2010 | 10/31/2027 |
Adler University | Chicago | IL | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/7/2015 | 10/31/2022 |
Bradley University | Peoria | IL | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/9/2014 | 10/31/2022 |
Concordia University Chicago | River Forest | IL | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/15/2012 | 3/31/2022 |
Northwestern University | Evanston | IL | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/9/2013 | 3/31/2023 |
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Online | Chicago | IL | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/12/2016 | 3/31/2026 |
Grace College | Winona Lake | IN | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/1/2003 | 10/31/2020 |
Indiana Wesleyan University | Marion | IN | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/15/2012 | 10/31/2021 |
Asbury Theological Seminary | Wilmore | KY | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/7/2015 | 10/31/2024 |
Lindsey Wilson College | Columbia | KY | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 10/1/1994 | 8/20/2020 |
University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg | KY | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe | LA | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/11/2012 | 2/28/2021 |
Capella University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 3/1/2002 | 8/31/2020 |
Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/5/2015 | 3/31/2025 |
North Carolina Central University | Durham | NC | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2012 | 3/31/2022 |
North Carolina State University | Raleigh | NC | M.Ed./M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/12/2011 | 10/31/2020 |
University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke | NC | M.A.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2011 | 3/31/2021 |
Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem | NC | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/15/2009 | 10/31/2026 |
Bellevue University | Bellevue | NE | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/13/2016 | 10/31/2021 |
Wayne State College | Wayne | NE | M.S.E. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
Antioch University New England | Keene | NH | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/13/2018 | 10/31/2021 |
Union Institute and University | Cincinnati | OH | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/12/2016 | 3/31/2020 |
Oregon State University | Corvallis | OR | M. Coun. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
Lock Haven University | Lock Haven | PA | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/7/2015 | 10/31/2024 |
Messiah University (previously Messiah College) | Mechanicsburg | PA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/12/2011 | 10/31/2020 |
Freed-Hardeman University | Henderson | TN | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/18/2018 | 3/31/2022 |
Lamar University | Beaumont | TX | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/7/2015 | 10/31/2020 |
University of Houston Victoria | Victoria | TX | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/7/2015 | 10/31/2025 |
College of William and Mary | Williamsburg | VA | M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/9/2014 | 10/31/2022 |
Liberty University | Lynchburg | VA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/19/2017 | 3/31/2023 |
Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 7/14/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
Marshall University | South Charleston | WV | M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 1/13/2016 | 10/31/2021 |
CACREP Accredited Online School Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | University of Alaska Fairbanks | Fairbanks | AK | M.Ed. in School Counseling | 7/12/2016 | 3/31/2020 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bradley University | Peoria | IL | M.A. in School Counseling | 9/1/1990 | 10/31/2022 |
Adams State University | Alamosa | CO | M.A. in School Counseling | 4/1/1994 | 3/31/2021 |
Central Connecticut State University | New Britain | CT | M.S. in School Counseling | 7/8/2008 | 3/31/2021 |
Gallaudet University | Washington | DC | M.A. in School Counseling | 9/1/1991 | 3/31/2024 |
Indiana Wesleyan University | Marion | IN | M.A. in School Counseling | 7/10/2005 | 10/31/2021 |
North Carolina Central University | Durham | NC | M.A. in School Counseling | 7/7/2004 | 3/31/2022 |
North Carolina State University | Raleigh | NC | M.Ed./M.S. in School Counseling | 10/1/1996 | 10/31/2020 |
University of North Carolina at Pembroke | Pembroke | NC | M.A.Ed. in School Counseling | 7/14/2011 | 3/31/2021 |
Wake Forest University | Winston-Salem | NC | M.A. in School Counseling | 10/1/1993 | 10/31/2026 |
University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe | LA | M.Ed. in School Counseling | 9/1/1987 | 2/28/2021 |
Capella University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in School Counseling | 1/16/2008 | 8/31/2020 |
Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in School Counseling | 7/5/2015 | 3/31/2025 |
St. Bonaventure University | St. Bonaventure | NY | M.S.Ed. in School Counseling | 1/16/2007 | 3/31/2021 |
University of Houston Victoria | Victoria | TX | M.Ed. in School Counseling | 1/17/2009 | 10/31/2025 |
College of William and Mary | Williamsburg | VA | M.Ed. in School Counseling | 4/1/1998 | 10/31/2022 |
Liberty University - School of Behavioral Sciences | Lynchburg | VA | M.Ed. in School Counseling | 1/9/2014 | 10/31/2023 |
Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | M.A. in School Counseling | 4/1/1999 | 3/31/2024 |
Marshall University | South Charleston | WV | M.A. in School Counseling | 1/13/2016 | 10/31/2021 |
CACREP Accredited Online Marriage and Family Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | Palo Alto University | Palo Alto | CA | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | 7/5/2015 | 3/31/2025 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capella University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | 1/1/2004 | 3/31/2020 |
Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | 7/11/2012 | 3/31/2025 |
Messiah University (previously Messiah College) | Mechanicsburg | PA | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | 1/12/2011 | 10/31/2020 |
Regent University | Virginia Beach | VA | M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | 7/14/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
CACREP Accredited Online Career Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | North Carolina Central University | Durham | NC | M.A. in Career Counseling | 7/7/2004 | 3/31/2022 |
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CACREP Accredited Online Rehabilitation Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | Auburn University | Auburn | AL | M.Ed. in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | 7/19/2017 | 10/31/2026 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
University of Kentucky | Lexington | KY | M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling | 7/1/2017 | 10/31/2021 |
University of Hawai'i Manoa | Honolulu | HI | M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling | 7/1/2017 | 10/31/2020 |
Wright State University | Dayton | OH | MRC in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | 1/14/2016 | 10/31/2020 |
Thomas University | Thomasville | GA | M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | 1/13/2016 | 10/31/2023 |
CACREP Accredited Online Addiction Counseling Programs
University | City | State | Online Counseling Program | CACREP Start | CACREP Expires | Walden University | Minneapolis | MN | M.S. in Addiction Counseling | 7/5/2015 | 3/31/2025 |
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University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg | KY | M.A. in Addiction Counseling | 7/31/2014 | 3/31/2024 |
What to Do After Earning a CACREP Accredited Master’s Degree
Earning a CACREP accredited master’s degree is a significant step in a counseling professional’s career. It’s an assurance of a quality education that meets rigorous standards. However, it is just one part of the journey towards becoming a licensed counselor and entering practice. Here are the subsequent steps graduates typically take:
Licensure Examination
Most states require passing a licensure examination, such as the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). Graduates should register for and prepare for the examination that aligns with their state’s licensure requirements.
Supervised Clinical Experience
Post-degree, it’s required to complete a certain number of supervised clinical hours. The exact number can vary by state but typically involves two years or 3,000 hours of postgraduate supervised experience. It’s essential to work with a licensed professional who meets the state board’s qualifications to supervise.
State Licensure Application
After meeting the educational and supervised experience requirements, candidates can apply for licensure with their state’s counseling board. This process includes submitting proof of education, supervised hours, examination results, and often a background check.
Continuing Education
Once licensed, counselors must engage in continuing education to maintain their licensure. Requirements vary by state but generally include a set number of hours every renewal period. Continuing education ensures that counselors stay current with best practices and emerging research.
Professional Liability Insurance
Before starting to practice, it’s prudent to obtain professional liability insurance to protect against potential legal claims. This insurance is often a requirement for working in various institutions and private practice.
Joining Professional Associations
Many counselors choose to join professional associations such as the American Counseling Association (ACA). These organizations offer networking opportunities, resources, and continuing education.
Entering the Workforce
With licensure secured, counselors can explore job opportunities in settings such as schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practice. Networking, attending job fairs, and using online job search platforms can aid in finding suitable positions.
Starting Private Practice
For those interested in private practice, additional steps include finding a suitable location, obtaining necessary business licenses, setting up billing systems, and establishing a referral network.
By following these steps after earning a CACREP accredited master’s degree, graduates are well-prepared to embark on a professional counseling career with the credentials and experience necessary to make a positive impact in their clients’ lives.
Types of Counselors
After completing a CACREP-accredited master’s degree, graduates can specialize in various counseling fields. Here are some of the common types of counselors and a brief description of each:
Each specialization requires a deep understanding of the population served and often necessitates additional certification or training.
How Do You Find CACREP Accredited Counseling Programs?
Finding a degree program with the right type of accreditation doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Prospective students seeking reliable degree programs can use different methods for finding the right program that meets their needs. If you already have a particular university in mind for your program, you can review the degree program’s page on your school’s website. Most degree programs that attain accreditation list this information on the main page or through a section pertaining to specific program accreditation. A quicker alternative for finding accredited programs in your area may be through CACREP’s search tool on the agency’s website.
Visiting CACREP’s website is a good starting point for finding information about the full process of accreditation, resources for aspiring professionals in the field, and lists of accredited institutions that may be offering online degree programs. Counseling Degrees Online has also created state pages that include every CACREP-accredited counseling program as of spring of 2023.
Online CACREP Accredited Counseling Programs
For students who prefer the convenience and flexibility of online learning, here’s a list of some of the most popular CACREP-accredited online programs.
The Importance of CACREP-Accredited Mental Health Counseling Programs
In most states, earning a master’s in counseling is the first step toward becoming a licensed counselor. Accreditation comes into play at this first stage of your journey. Students seeking counseling graduate programs to enroll in should determine whether the program has received CACREP accreditation and will prepare them to be eligible for licensure after graduation.
Many States Require CACREP Accredited Degrees
Most states require that students obtain master’s-level degrees that are accredited by CACREP. When you graduate from a counseling program and have completed your supervised work experience requirement, you are responsible for filing your application for counseling licensure. While filing for application, most states will require you to prove you’ve graduated from a CACREP-accredited program.
If you want to ensure that your program can help you at this step, you should review your counseling program’s website or contact your university’s enrollment specialist for more information.
What About State Counseling Licensure?
One of the biggest concerns for counseling students is whether their program meets the minimum standards of their state licensure agency. This is a valid concern for new master’s-level students, since there are numerous for-profit educational programs that promote counseling programs that haven’t attained the right type of accreditation to support licensure. View state-by-state counseling licensure requirements to make sure the program you’re looking at fits the requirements needed to obtain state counseling licensure.
CACREP FAQ
What Is CACREP Accreditation?
CACREP, the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, is an independent accrediting agency recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. CACREP accreditation signifies that a counseling program has met rigorous professional standards for a graduate education in counseling. Programs that achieve CACREP accreditation have undergone a thorough review process and are found to provide the knowledge and skills required for the preparation of professional counselors.
Is CACREP Accreditation Required to Become a Counselor?
CACREP accreditation is not universally required to become a counselor. However, some states have made it a requirement for licensure. In states where it’s not mandated, graduating from a CACREP accredited program can simplify the licensure process and enhance employment opportunities, as it assures employers that graduates have met predetermined standards.
Do CACREP Accredited Graduate Programs Cost More?
The cost of CACREP accredited graduate programs varies widely and does not necessarily depend on accreditation status. Tuition fees are influenced by factors such as the institution’s public or private status, location, and available funding. Students may find both CACREP accredited and non-accredited programs with similar tuition rates.
Does CACREP Only Accredit Counseling Programs?
CACREP accredits a variety of programs specifically related to the field of counseling. This includes programs in areas such as clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, marriage, couple and family counseling, and addiction counseling, among others. CACREP does not accredit programs outside the scope of counseling.
Do States Require CACREP Accreditation?
Some states have requirements that align closely with CACREP standards for licensure of professional counselors, and a few may explicitly require graduation from a CACREP accredited program. However, this varies by state, and it’s important for students to check the specific licensure requirements in the state where they intend to practice.
Additional Questions
How Long Does CACREP Accreditation Last?
CACREP accreditation is typically granted for an eight-year period. Programs must undergo a re-accreditation process to maintain their status, ensuring that they continue to meet the standards set by CACREP.
What Happens If My Program Loses Its CACREP Accreditation?
If a program loses its CACREP accreditation, current students and recent graduates may still be considered graduates of a CACREP accredited program for a certain period. It’s vital to check with the program and the state licensing board for specific details.
Can I Be Licensed If I Graduate from a Non-CACREP Accredited Program?
Yes, it is possible to be licensed with a degree from a non-CACREP accredited program. You will need to ensure that the program meets the state licensing board’s educational requirements where you seek licensure.
Are Online Counseling Programs CACREP Accredited?
Yes, CACREP accredits online counseling programs that meet the same standards as on-campus programs. Prospective students should verify a program’s accreditation status regardless of delivery format.
Considering Accredited Master’s in Counseling Programs
Master’s degrees in counseling may be some of the most sought-after programs for college students interested in providing a much-needed service to their community.
A master’s in counseling can provide students with advanced knowledge and understanding of the human mind, emotions, and behaviors.
To provide support to people with emotional or behavioral issues, students should aim to pursue an accredited degree program, gain two to three years of supervised experience, and pass a national licensing exam in counseling in order to become licensed.
One of the most common concerns a prospective counselor might have is whether the program they are pursuing is accredited. Below, we’ve listed several pages where you can read more about the leading accredited universities and programs in the U.S. that can assist you in getting the job you’ve always dreamed of.
Top Accredited Master’s in Counseling Programs
Online Master of Arts in Counseling
Schools with an Online Master of Counseling
Dual Master in Counseling Degrees
By Online Counseling Program Specialization:
Online Master of Behavior Analysis
Online Master in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology
Online Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling
Online Master’s in School Counseling
By Accreditation:
Online CACREP Accredited Master’s Programs
Online MPCAC Accredited Programs
Still Looking for CACREP Accredited Online Counseling Programs?
Below is a list of some of the most popular online counseling program types. On each page, you’ll find a detailed write-up of each program type, specific courses in each program, and schools that offer that program type.