List of Counseling Degrees in Connecticut

Connecticut offers strong opportunities for students pursuing careers in counseling, with programs designed to prepare graduates for licensure and practice across a range of settings. From urban centers like Hartford and New Haven to smaller communities, the state’s counseling programs emphasize both clinical training and cultural competence, equipping future counselors to meet diverse mental health needs.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Connecticut

Students beginning their counseling journey in Connecticut can pursue undergraduate programs that provide a foundation in psychology, human services, and related disciplines. These programs prepare graduates for entry-level roles in social services or education, while also serving as the first step toward graduate study — which is required for professional counseling licensure.

Students seeking more flexible options may also consider an online bachelor’s degree in counseling, which can be especially helpful for balancing school with work or family responsibilities.

Graduate Counseling Programs in Connecticut

Graduate education is required for those pursuing counseling licensure in Connecticut. The state’s universities offer master’s and doctoral programs that emphasize both academic preparation and supervised clinical training. Attending a CACREP-accredited counseling program ensures that graduates meet high professional standards.

Students may also consider flexible options, including an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE, or even online counseling PhD programs.

Click to jump to the full list of Connecticut counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.

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 Full-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available Learn More
Northwestern University Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy COAMFTE Accredited	✔ Online GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required	The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More
Grand Canyon University Master's Degree in Counseling HLC and NASAC Accredited	✔ Online	Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More
Liberty University MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Online with required intensives	Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More
National University Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling WSCUC Accredited	✔ Online GRE Scores Not Required	The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More
University of Denver Master of Arts in School Counseling Designed to adhere to CACREP standards	✔ Online No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required	Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) Master of Science (MS) in Counseling Higher Learning Commission (HLC)	✔ Online 100% Online	Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

Top Connecticut Schools with Counseling Programs

Connecticut is home to several respected universities that offer counseling programs. While the “best” school will always depend on an individual’s goals and preferences, the following institutions represent strong options for students exploring counseling education in the state.

University of Connecticut

Featured Program: MA in Educational Psychology – School Counseling
The University of Connecticut offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Educational Psychology with a concentration in School Counseling. This 60-credit program prepares students for certification as school counselors in Connecticut and emphasizes serving underrepresented populations. The curriculum integrates theory, research, and the American School Counselor Association’s National Model, with full-time and part-time options available. Students complete a 100-hour practicum in an urban public school and a 700-hour internship across two semesters, gaining supervised experience in academic, social-emotional, and career counseling. Graduates are also eligible to pursue national certification through the National Board of Certified Counselors.

About the University of Connecticut
The University of Connecticut is a public land-grant research university with its main campus in Storrs and regional campuses across the state. As one of the nation’s leading public institutions, UConn offers a wide range of academic programs and is recognized for its strong commitment to research, community engagement, and diversity. The university serves as a hub for innovation and professional training in New England, preparing graduates for leadership roles in education, health, science, and public service.

Fairfield University

Featured Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Fairfield University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a 60-credit program designed to meet Connecticut’s requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) eligibility. Students gain hands-on training through the university’s Counselor Education Lab and Training Center, which features specialized classrooms, observation spaces, and practice rooms with integrated technology for skill development. The program emphasizes research, writing, and professional presentations, preparing graduates for work in mental health agencies, hospitals, college counseling centers, and private practice. Fairfield also offers a sixth-year Certificate of Advanced Study in Clinical Mental Health Counseling for those seeking additional specialization.

About Fairfield University
Fairfield University is a private Jesuit Catholic institution located in Fairfield, Connecticut. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of academic rigor, ethical reflection, and service, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across the arts, sciences, business, nursing, engineering, and education. Known for its close faculty mentorship and strong professional preparation, Fairfield combines a liberal arts foundation with experiential learning to prepare students for leadership and service in their chosen fields.

Sacred Heart University

Featured Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Sacred Heart University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through its Farrington College of Education & Human Development. This 60-credit online program, delivered in a low-residency format, includes two week-long on-campus residencies in Fairfield, Connecticut, along with asynchronous and synchronous coursework. Students gain the skills to support individuals facing issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, substance abuse, and relationship challenges, and they complete clinical placements in mental health counseling settings. Designed to align with Sacred Heart’s mission of holistic education and service, the program prepares graduates to meet the educational requirements for counseling licensure in many states.

About Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University is a private Catholic institution located in Fairfield, Connecticut. Founded in 1963, it is one of the largest Catholic universities in New England and is known for integrating liberal arts with professional education. The university emphasizes academic excellence, ethical leadership, and community service, offering programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. With its commitment to social responsibility and whole-person development, Sacred Heart prepares students to make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Connecticut

Licensure as a counselor in Connecticut requires meeting standards set by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Below are the key steps:

1. Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
   
   • Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
     
   • CACREP-accredited programs are recommended.
     
2. Apply for Associate Licensure
   
   • Graduates begin with an Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) credential, which allows them to complete supervised practice under the guidance of a licensed professional.
     
3. Accumulate Supervised Clinical Experience
   
   • Complete at least 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised experience, including a minimum of 100 hours of direct supervision.
     
   • Experience must take place over at least two years.
     
4. Pass the Required Examination
   
   • Successfully complete the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
     
5. Apply for Full Licensure
   
   • Submit proof of supervised experience, exam results, and application materials to the Department of Public Health.
     
6. Obtain Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
   
   • Once approved, counselors are granted LPC status, which allows independent counseling practice in Connecticut.
     

For more guidance, students can 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.

Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs

Walden University

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

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. Click for admissions info.

CACREP Accredited

✔ Online

Counseling Licensure Titles in Connecticut

Connecticut offers several counseling-related licensure titles that reflect different stages of professional development.

• Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) – A provisional license for graduates completing the supervised hours required for independent practice. LPCAs must work under supervision.
  
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) – The independent counseling license in Connecticut. LPCs may diagnose, treat, and provide mental health counseling without supervision.
  
• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – For professionals specializing in couples and family systems therapy.
  
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – While separate from counseling licensure, many LCSWs in Connecticut provide similar clinical mental health services.
  
• School Counselor Certification – Issued by the Connecticut State Department of Education for those pursuing counseling careers in K–12 schools.
  

These licenses provide flexibility for students to choose a career pathway that best aligns with their training and professional goals.

Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)

Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (NASAC Accredited)

Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)

National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)

University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling ( Accredited)

Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)

Transferring a Counseling License to Connecticut

Counselors who are licensed in another state and want to practice in Connecticut must apply through the Connecticut Department of Public Health. While Connecticut does not offer automatic reciprocity, it does provide a pathway for licensure by endorsement if an applicant’s credentials align with state requirements.

Key points for transferring a license include:

• Comparable Standards – Applicants must hold a graduate degree in counseling or a related field and demonstrate that their supervised experience and coursework meet Connecticut’s requirements.
  
• Examinations – Candidates must have passed a national counseling exam, specifically the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) in Connecticut.
  
• Supervised Experience – Out-of-state supervised hours may be accepted if they are substantially equivalent to Connecticut’s requirements.
  
• Case-by-Case Review – Each application is evaluated individually by the Department of Public Health.
  

For detailed instructions and application materials, visit the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Connecticut

Students in Connecticut pursuing counseling degrees have access to financial support through state programs, universities, and national organizations. These resources can help make counseling education more affordable.

National Opportunities

• NBCC Foundation Scholarships – Awards for graduate counseling students committed to serving underserved or rural populations.
  
• American Counseling Association Scholarships – National essay-based and diversity-focused awards for counseling students.
  

Connecticut-Based Opportunities

• University of Connecticut Scholarships – Offers a range of merit-based and need-based awards for undergraduate and graduate students, including those in counseling and psychology programs.
  
• Fairfield University Financial Aid – Provides scholarships, assistantships, and tuition support for counseling graduate students.
  
• Sacred Heart University Scholarships – Includes graduate student awards that may be applied toward counseling programs.
  
• Roberta Willis Scholarship Program – A Connecticut state initiative that offers need-based and merit-based scholarships for eligible residents pursuing higher education.
  
• Loan Forgiveness Programs – Licensed counselors in Connecticut who work in designated shortage areas may qualify for state or federal loan repayment programs.

Popular Online Counseling Programs

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Walden University 🗹 Online Masters

MS in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Online MA in Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Northwestern University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy

COAMFTE Accredited

Learn More

Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online

Master's Degree in Counseling

NASAC Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

National University 🗹 Online Courses Start Weekly

Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

WSCUC Accredited

Learn More

University of Denver 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Arts in School Counseling

Accredited

Learn More

Mid-America Christian University (MACU) 🗹 Online

Master of Science (MS) in Counseling

Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited

Learn More

Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Connecticut 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 Connecticut. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Connecticut

View all programs in Connecticut below, or jump to all Connecticut CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Connecticut

When exploring a counseling career in Connecticut, it’s important to consider employment trends and salary expectations. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and highlights job growth and average wages for counseling professionals in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in Connecticut?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

What is the difference between an LPCA and an LPC in Connecticut?
An Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) is a provisional license that allows graduates to complete their required supervised hours. An LPC is the independent license that permits counselors to practice without supervision.

Are counseling programs in Connecticut available online?
Some Connecticut universities offer hybrid or online coursework, but most programs require in-person clinical training. Students may also consider accredited online programs from out-of-state institutions.

How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Connecticut?
On average, the process takes 6–8 years, including a bachelor’s degree, a master’s program, supervised experience, and the licensing exam.

Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Connecticut?
Yes, but Connecticut does not grant automatic reciprocity. Applicants must demonstrate that their education, supervised hours, and exams meet state requirements. Each application is reviewed individually by the Department of Public Health.

Making a Counseling Career in Connecticut

Connecticut offers a wide range of opportunities for counseling professionals, with demand extending from its larger cities—such as Hartford, Stamford, and New Haven—to smaller towns and rural areas. Across the state, counselors play a vital role in supporting mental health and wellness in schools, healthcare facilities, community agencies, and private practice.

Career pathways include school and university counseling, hospital- and clinic-based care, community mental health services, substance abuse and recovery programs, and independent practice as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). Each setting provides counselors with the chance to meet diverse needs while advancing their own professional growth.

With its mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities, Connecticut allows counselors to tailor their careers to a variety of client populations and practice settings. For those seeking flexibility, stability, and purpose, the state provides a strong foundation to build a meaningful and impactful counseling career.