APA Accredited Counseling Psychology PhD Programs

Choosing to pursue a PhD in counseling psychology is a significant commitment that opens doors to advanced clinical, academic, and research-focused careers. Counseling psychology PhD programs provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to work in diverse settings such as mental health clinics, universities, research institutions, and private practice. Through rigorous training, these programs prepare graduates to address a wide range of mental health issues, provide therapy, and contribute to the field through research.

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Purpose of Counseling Psychology PhD Programs

A PhD in counseling psychology equips students with advanced skills for clinical practice, research, and education within the field of psychology. This degree is ideal for individuals passionate about mental health and committed to making a difference through evidence-based practice and research. Students gain comprehensive training in mental health assessment, intervention techniques, and therapeutic strategies aimed at helping clients navigate challenges like trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.

PhD vs. PsyD in Counseling Psychology

While a PhD in counseling psychology emphasizes both research and clinical skills, the PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) focuses more exclusively on clinical practice and application. The PhD path is often preferred by those interested in balancing practice with research, teaching, or leadership roles within academia or clinical settings. Conversely, a PsyD may be ideal for those focused primarily on direct client interaction without the added emphasis on research.

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The Path to a Counseling Psychology PhD

For those aiming to become a counseling psychologist, the journey involves several stages of academic and professional training. Pursuing a PhD in counseling psychology requires a structured educational path, often beginning with a bachelor’s degree in counseling or psychology. This foundational degree provides students with essential knowledge in psychology, human behavior, and foundational counseling techniques, preparing them for advanced studies.

Master’s and Doctoral Studies

After completing a bachelor's degree, students typically progress to a master’s program, which can be essential for gaining the clinical skills and theoretical understanding needed in counseling psychology. While many programs are campus-based, an online master’s in counseling psychology offers a flexible alternative, allowing students to balance studies with work or family commitments. Master’s coursework generally covers subjects such as advanced psychology, mental health counseling, and research methodologies

Once the master’s degree is obtained, the next step is enrolling in a doctorate in counseling psychology. During the PhD program, students delve deeply into specialized areas, gaining expertise through intensive research, clinical training, and field placements. This doctorate path prepares them for licensure, academic roles, and clinical practice, combining theoretical studies with practical application.

Alternative Paths to Counseling Psychology

While the traditional path to a PhD involves sequential degrees, some institutions offer direct-entry programs that allow students to transition from a bachelor’s to a PhD, skipping the standalone master’s degree. However, direct-entry programs are relatively rare, and many students benefit from the deeper understanding provided by first pursuing a master's degree.

Throughout these stages, counseling psychology students engage in comprehensive education, equipping them for impactful roles in mental health, academia, or clinical settings.

APA Accredited Counseling Psychology PhD Programs

Accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) is a key factor for students choosing a counseling psychology PhD program. APA accreditation indicates that a program meets rigorous standards for education and training, helping students qualify for licensure and increasing their competitiveness in the job market.

The following list includes APA-accredited counseling psychology PhD programs by state. Tuition rates were sourced from the IPEDS database and represent the most recent data as of 2024. Please note that these figures are intended to provide a comparative starting point, and prospective students should consult each school’s website for the most up-to-date information.

 

ALABAMA

Auburn University
Location: Auburn, AL

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,692
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $32,076

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

ARKANSAS

University of Central Arkansas
Location: Conway, AR

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $5,281
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,562

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

ARIZONA

Arizona State University
Location: Tempe, AZ

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,376
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,722

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

COLORADO

Colorado State University
Location: Fort Collins, CO

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,159
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,361

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Denver
Location: Denver, CO

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $58,032
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $58,032

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Northern Colorado
Location: Greeley, CO

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,204
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $22,842

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Howard University
Location: Washington, DC

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $37,334
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $37,334

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

FLORIDA

University of Florida
Location: Gainesville, FL

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,770
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,335

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Miami
Location: Coral Gables, FL

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $43,578
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $43,578

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

GEORGIA

Georgia State University
Location: Atlanta, GA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $7,164
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $22,662

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Georgia
Location: Athens, GA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $8,878
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,186

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

IOWA

Iowa State University
Location: Ames, IA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,996
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,848

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Iowa
Location: Iowa City, IA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,256
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $32,927

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

ILLINOIS

Loyola University Chicago
Location: Chicago, IL

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $21,375
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $21,375

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Location: Champaign, IL

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $15,545
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $30,348

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

INDIANA

Ball State University
Location: Muncie, IN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $9,922
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,126

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Indiana University
Location: Bloomington, IN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,133
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $31,932

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Purdue University-Main Campus
Location: West Lafayette, IN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $9,718
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $28,520

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

KANSAS

University of Kansas
Location: Lawrence, KS

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,488
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,150

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

KENTUCKY

University of Kentucky
Location: Lexington, KY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,967
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $34,096

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Louisville
Location: Louisville, KY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $14,222
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $28,906

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

LOUISIANA

Louisiana Tech University
Location: Ruston, LA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $5,416
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,147

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

MASSACHUSETTS

Boston College
Location: Chestnut Hill, MA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $35,784
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $35,784

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Boston University
Location: Boston, MA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $63,798
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $63,798

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Northeastern University
Location: Boston, MA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,728
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,728

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Massachusetts
Location: Boston, MA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $19,366
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $37,800

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

MARYLAND

University of Maryland
Location: College Park, MD

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $16,560
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $36,100

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

MICHIGAN

Andrews University
Location: Berrien Springs, MI

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,380
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,380

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Western Michigan University
Location: Kalamazoo, MI

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $18,354
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,531

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

MINNESOTA

University of Minnesota
Location: Minneapolis, MN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $19,116
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $29,580

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

MISSOURI

University of Missouri
Location: Columbia, MO

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,000
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $30,000

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

MISSISSIPPI

University of Southern Mississippi
Location: Hattiesburg, MS

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $9,508
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,508

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

NORTH DAKOTA

University of North Dakota
Location: Grand Forks, ND

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,963
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $17,944

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

NEBRASKA

University of Nebraska
Location: Lincoln, NE

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $6,318
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $18,468

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

NEW JERSEY

Seton Hall University
Location: South Orange, NJ

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $35,160
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $35,160

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

NEW MEXICO

New Mexico State University
Location: Las Cruces, NM

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $5,181
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $18,023

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

NEW YORK

Fordham University
Location: New York, NY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,080
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,080

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

New York University
Location: New York, NY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $38,826
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $38,826

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Teachers College at Columbia University
Location: New York, NY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $34,971
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $34,971

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University at Albany
Location: Albany, NY

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,310
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $23,560

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

OHIO

Cleveland State University
Location: Cleveland, OH

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,840
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $18,543

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Akron
Location: Akron, OH

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $8,325
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $14,085

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma State University
Location: Stillwater, OK

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $5,611
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $21,114

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

OREGON

University of Oregon
Location: Eugene, OR

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $16,659
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $30,132

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

PENNSYLVANIA

Lehigh University
Location: Bethlehem, PA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,810
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,810

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

TENNESSEE

Tennessee State University
Location: Nashville, TN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $9,844
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $22,268

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

The University of Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, TN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $11,468
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $29,656

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Memphis
Location: Memphis, TN

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $9,576
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $13,590

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

TEXAS

Texas A&M University
Location: College Station, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $6,885
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $19,882

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Texas Tech University
Location: Lubbock, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $6,956
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $15,356

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

Texas Woman’s University
Location: Denton, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $5,184
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,744

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

The University of Texas
Location: Austin, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $12,012
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $22,954

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Houston
Location: Houston, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $8,723
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $18,083

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of North Texas
Location: Denton, TX

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $7,160
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $14,720

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

UTAH

Brigham Young University
Location: Provo, UT

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $8,096
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $8,096

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Utah
Location: Salt Lake City, UT

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $7,353
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $25,961

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

VIRGINIA

Virginia Commonwealth University
Location: Richmond, VA

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $13,404
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $27,550

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

WISCONSIN

Marquette University
Location: Milwaukee, WI

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $23,845
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $23,845

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Wisconsin-Madison
Location: Madison, WI

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,728
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $24,054

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

 

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Location: Milwaukee, WI

  • In-state average tuition full-time graduates: $10,701
  • Out-of-state average tuition full-time graduates: $24,132

Counseling Psychology PhD Program

Each of these programs has unique strengths, and prospective students may wish to explore these differences further to determine which program best aligns with their career goals and personal circumstances.

 

How to Choose the Right Counseling Psychology PhD Program for You

Choosing the best counseling psychology PhD program involves evaluating a range of factors to ensure the program aligns with your career goals, academic needs, and personal circumstances. Here are some key considerations:

Accreditation and Why It Matters

Accreditation, particularly by the APA, is crucial for counseling psychology PhD programs. APA accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of academic and clinical training, which can be essential for licensure in many states. When exploring programs, look for APA-accredited options to ensure eligibility for licensing exams and to bolster employment prospects post-graduation.

Program Format and Learning Environment

Counseling psychology PhD programs offer various formats, including full-time, part-time, and hybrid (online and in-person) options. Consider whether the program structure suits your learning preferences and lifestyle, especially if you plan to balance work, family, or other commitments alongside your studies.

Curriculum and Specialization Options

The curriculum can vary significantly from one program to another. Some programs emphasize research, preparing graduates for academic or research-focused roles, while others focus on clinical practice. Evaluate whether the program’s curriculum and any available specializations align with your career goals, whether that’s clinical work, academia, or another area.

Licensing and Geographic Considerations

Licensing requirements for psychologists vary by state, so it’s essential to ensure that the program prepares you to meet the requirements where you intend to practice. Some states may have unique requirements for supervised hours or coursework, so understanding these in advance can help streamline your path to licensure after graduation.

Costs and Financial Aid

Program costs, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, should be a primary consideration. Compare these costs across programs, but remember that financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and assistantships, may offset some expenses. Reach out to each program’s financial aid office for information on funding opportunities specific to PhD students in counseling psychology.

FAQ

What Is the Difference Between a PhD in Counseling Psychology and a PsyD?

A PhD in counseling psychology typically focuses more on research and academia, preparing graduates for roles in teaching, research, and clinical practice. A PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, places greater emphasis on clinical work, making it ideal for those primarily interested in direct patient care rather than research. While both degrees can lead to licensure, the choice often depends on whether a student’s career goal leans toward research and teaching or clinical practice.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a PhD in Counseling Psychology?

Completing a PhD in counseling psychology generally takes between five and seven years. This timeline includes coursework, supervised clinical experience, and the completion of a dissertation. The exact duration may vary depending on program requirements, full- or part-time enrollment, and how quickly students complete their dissertation research.

Why Is APA Accreditation Important for Counseling Psychology Programs?

APA accreditation is a quality marker that ensures the program meets rigorous standards in psychology education and clinical training. APA-accredited programs are often required for state licensure, and many employers prefer or require degrees from APA-accredited institutions. Pursuing a program with this accreditation can improve a student’s professional credibility and open more employment opportunities.

What Career Paths Are Available With a PhD in Counseling Psychology?

Graduates with a PhD in counseling psychology can pursue a variety of career paths, including roles in clinical practice, academic teaching and research, counseling in educational or corporate settings, and supervisory or administrative positions. Career choices may depend on additional training or certifications in specialized areas of psychology.

Can I Pursue a Counseling Psychology PhD Program Part-Time?

Yes, many institutions offer part-time enrollment options, which can be beneficial for students balancing work, family, or other commitments. However, a part-time schedule may extend the program’s length, so it’s essential to consult the specific program to understand its part-time completion timeline.

Final Thoughts

Earning a PhD in counseling psychology can open doors to a rewarding career in mental health, education, and research, offering graduates the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. This journey requires careful planning, especially when choosing an APA-accredited program that aligns with your personal and professional goals. By considering factors like program costs, curriculum, location, and long-term career aspirations, prospective students can make informed choices that support their path to becoming a skilled counseling psychologist.

 

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