Delaware may be a small state, but it offers valuable opportunities for students interested in counseling careers. With programs that emphasize both academic preparation and supervised clinical training, Delaware equips future counselors to meet the mental health needs of its urban centers, coastal towns, and rural communities.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Delaware
Students in Delaware who are beginning their path toward a counseling career can pursue undergraduate programs in psychology, human services, or related fields. These programs provide a strong foundation in human behavior, development, and helping skills. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify students for counseling licensure, it is an essential first step toward graduate study and professional practice.Students who need flexibility may also consider an online counseling bachelor’s degree, which can be a great option for those balancing school, work, or family commitments.
Graduate Counseling Programs in Delaware
Graduate education is required for those seeking counseling licensure in Delaware. Wilmington University offers a CACREP-accredited online counseling program.
Students may also want to explore flexible online options, including an online counseling master’s degree, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement, or even online counseling doctorate programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| Wilmington University | New Castle | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
- Wilmington University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Delaware 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
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
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top Delaware Schools with Counseling Programs
While Delaware has fewer options than some larger states, it is still home to a number of strong universities, including New Castle-based Wilmington.
Wilmington University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Wilmington University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, the only program of its kind in the region with this accreditation. This 60-credit program can be completed in as little as three years and is designed to prepare students for the National Counselor Examination and eventual licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH). The curriculum combines two years of coursework with a year of clinical training, including practicum and internship experiences, ensuring students gain hands-on skills in individual, group, family, and career counseling.
The program follows a digital-hybrid format, blending asynchronous learning through Canvas, synchronous Zoom sessions, and required in-person classes at the New Castle, DE campus. With active practitioner faculty, high licensure exam pass rates, and strong job placement outcomes, graduates are well-prepared to serve diverse communities across clinical and professional settings.
About Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a private, nonprofit institution based in New Castle, Delaware, with multiple campuses and a strong commitment to accessible, career-focused education. Known for its flexible programs designed for working professionals, WilmU emphasizes practical learning, affordability, and student support. With over 200 degree and certificate programs, the university prepares students to advance in fields such as counseling, education, business, health sciences, and technology while fostering a culture of inclusivity and lifelong learning.
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
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Delaware
Licensure in Delaware is overseen by the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals. To become a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH), students must complete a series of education, training, and examination requirements.
- Earn a Graduate Degree in Counseling
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- CACREP-accredited programs are strongly recommended.
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field.
- Apply for Associate Counselor of Mental Health (ACMH) Licensure
- After graduation, apply for the ACMH license, which allows you to complete post-degree supervised clinical experience.
- After graduation, apply for the ACMH license, which allows you to complete post-degree supervised clinical experience.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Accumulate at least 3,200 hours of supervised clinical experience, including a minimum number of direct client contact hours, under Board-approved supervision.
- Accumulate at least 3,200 hours of supervised clinical experience, including a minimum number of direct client contact hours, under Board-approved supervision.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Successfully complete the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Successfully complete the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Apply for Full Licensure
- Submit documentation of supervised hours, exam results, and application materials to the Delaware Board.
- Submit documentation of supervised hours, exam results, and application materials to the Delaware Board.
- Obtain Licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH)
- Once approved, this credential allows independent counseling practice in Delaware.
- Once approved, this credential allows independent counseling practice in Delaware.
For more information, students can learn what it means to be a licensed professional counselor (LPC), review the steps on how to become a licensed professional counselor, and explore general guidance on how to become a counselor.
Counseling Licensure Titles in Delaware
Delaware recognizes several counseling-related licenses that reflect different stages of professional development. These credentials are overseen by the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals.
- Associate Counselor of Mental Health (ACMH) – A provisional license for graduates who have completed a counseling degree but are still accumulating supervised experience. ACMHs must work under supervision.
- Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH) – The full, independent counseling license in Delaware. LPCMHs may diagnose, treat, and provide counseling services without supervision.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – A license for professionals specializing in family systems and relational therapy.
- Licensed Chemical Dependency Professional (LCDP) – A credential for those specializing in substance use and addiction counseling.
- School Counselor Certification – Issued by the Delaware Department of Education for individuals working in K–12 settings.
These options allow counseling professionals in Delaware to pursue licensure pathways aligned with their education, training, and career goals.
Transferring a Counseling License to Delaware
Counselors who are licensed in another state and want to practice in Delaware must apply for licensure through the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals. Delaware does not have automatic reciprocity, but it does allow licensure by reciprocity or endorsement if the applicant’s existing credentials are substantially equivalent to the state’s requirements.
Key points for transferring a license include:
- Education – Applicants must hold a graduate degree in counseling or a related field that meets Delaware’s standards.
- Supervised Experience – Out-of-state supervised hours may be accepted if they align with Delaware’s LPCMH requirements. Documentation and verification are required.
- Examinations – Candidates must have passed the NCE or NCMHCE. If not, the exam must be completed before licensure.
- Jurisprudence Requirements – Applicants may need to demonstrate knowledge of Delaware laws and ethics related to counseling.
- Case-by-Case Review – The Board evaluates each application individually to determine eligibility.
For up-to-date details and application forms, visit the Delaware Board of Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Professionals.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Delaware
Students pursuing counseling degrees in Delaware can access financial aid opportunities through universities, state programs, and national organizations. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students in reaching their professional goals.
National Opportunities
- NBCC Foundation Scholarships – Awards for graduate counseling students committed to serving underserved or rural populations.
- American Counseling Association Scholarships – Essay-based and diversity-focused awards for counseling students nationwide.
Delaware-Based Opportunities
- Wilmington University Scholarships – Offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including those in counseling programs.
- Delaware Department of Education Scholarships – Provides scholarships and loan repayment programs for students entering fields such as education and mental health.
- Delaware Community Foundation Scholarships – Manages a number of privately funded scholarships that can be applied toward counseling-related programs.
- State Loan Forgiveness Programs – Counselors working in underserved areas or in substance abuse and behavioral health may qualify for state and federal loan repayment assistance.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Delaware
When planning a counseling career in Delaware, it’s helpful to understand 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.
| Median Annual Wage in Delaware (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Delaware (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $49,680 | $59,190 | 18.8% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $44,260 | $46,110 | 10.0% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $72,450 | $65,140 | 14.9% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $63,360 | $63,780 | 0.0% | 14.9% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Delaware?
Yes. A master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field is required to qualify for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health (LPCMH).
What is the difference between an ACMH and an LPCMH in Delaware?
An Associate Counselor of Mental Health (ACMH) is a provisional license for graduates completing supervised hours. An LPCMH is the full, independent license that allows counselors to practice without supervision.
How long does it take to become a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health in Delaware?
Most students take 6–8 years, including a bachelor’s degree, a master’s program, supervised post-master’s experience, and the licensing exam.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Delaware?
Yes, but Delaware does not offer automatic reciprocity. Out-of-state applicants must demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and exam history meet Delaware’s requirements.
Making a Counseling Career in Delaware
Delaware offers a variety of career opportunities for licensed counselors, with demand present in both its urban centers—such as Wilmington and Dover—and its smaller coastal and rural communities. The state’s efforts to expand access to mental health care create strong opportunities for professionals across many practice settings.
Counselors can pursue careers in schools and universities, hospitals and healthcare systems, community mental health centers, substance abuse programs, or private practice as Licensed Professional Counselors of Mental Health (LPCMHs). These pathways allow professionals to address pressing behavioral health needs while building fulfilling careers.
With its mix of urban, suburban, and rural regions, Delaware provides counselors with the flexibility to tailor their work to both personal interests and community needs. For those committed to making a direct impact on individuals and families, the state offers a supportive environment to build a meaningful and lasting career in counseling.
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
Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Delaware 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 Delaware. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Wilmington University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/15/2012 to 10/31/2021
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Delaware
View all programs in Delaware below, or jump to all Delaware CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Delaware Technical Community College-Stanton/Wilmington Wilmington
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Delaware Technical Community College-Terry Dover
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Wilmington University New Castle
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
