Hawaii offers unique opportunities for students interested in counseling, combining high-quality education with a cultural focus on community, wellness, and diverse perspectives. With its island communities and multicultural environment, the state provides an enriching backdrop for counseling studies. Whether you plan to work in schools, healthcare, or private practice, counseling programs in Hawaii can prepare you to support individuals and families across the islands.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Hawaii
Undergraduate counseling-related programs in Hawaii give students a strong foundation in psychology, human development, and social sciences. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify graduates for counseling licensure, it is an important first step toward graduate study and entry-level work in human services.
Students can pursue counseling-focused degrees through Hawaii’s universities and colleges, often in majors such as psychology, human services, or family studies. Coursework typically includes counseling basics, multicultural awareness, and research methods.
For added flexibility, many students consider online bachelor’s degree in counseling programs, which allow them to begin their studies while remaining in their home communities.
Here are a few schools in Hawaii with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
Click to jump to the full list of Hawaii counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.
Consider a Featured Online Counseling Program
| School and Program Information | Online Program? Entry Requirements | Course Information |
|---|---|---|
| Walden University
MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
 CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
Mental health counselors play a valuable role in helping people cope with life’s challenges. Walden’s online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program can help you become the competent, compassionate counselor you know you can be. Learn More |
| Walden University
MS in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE scores not required |
School counselors help students overcome obstacles and shape successful futures. Walden’s online MS in School Counseling program will give you a solid foundation in school counseling theories, approaches, and best practices while enabling you to gain hands-on experience. Learn More |
| Northwestern University
Online MA in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
Prepare to pursue licensure in as few as 18 months Learn MoreFull-time, part-time, and accelerated track options available |
| Northwestern University
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
COAMFTE Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Not Required Bachelor's Required |
The COAMFTE-accredited MFT@Northwestern is offered by The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Full-time students can complete the program in as few as 21 months. No GRE is required, but applicants must hold an undergraduate degree. Full and part-time tracks available. Learn More |
| Grand Canyon University
Master's Degree in Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
|
Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's degree emphases include: Childhood and Adolescence Disorders, Christian Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Trauma. Designed to meet the academic requirements of the National Board for Certified Counselors for the National Certified Counselor credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential and the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. As a private university, GCU has the same in-state and out-of-state tuition. Learn More |
| Liberty University
MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
Online with required intensives |
Our CACREP-accredited master’s in counseling degree online can help you become an ethical, well-trained mental health counselor with the knowledge, values, and skills you need to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. Online and on campus. Training Champions for Christ since 1971. Learn More |
| National University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
WSCUC Accredited |
✔ Online
GRE Scores Not Required |
The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is focused on training highly skilled counselors to provide impactful and culturally sensitive mental health services in their communities. Learn More |
| University of Denver
Master of Arts in School Counseling
CACREP Accredited |
✔ Online
No GRE Required; Minimum GPA 2.5 Required |
Earn a Master’s degree in School Counseling online from the University of Denver. Learn from doctoral-level faculty in live classes and gain experience through mock counseling and in-field training. No GRE required. Complete in as few as 24 months. Learn More |
| Mid-America Christian University (MACU)
Master of Science (MS) in Counseling
Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
✔ Online
100% Online |
Expand your impact with an online counseling degree rooted in faith-based practice. Mid-America Christian University offers the largest Master of Science (MS) in Counseling program in Oklahoma, with emphasis areas in addiction and substance abuse, applied behavioral science, clinical mental health counseling, and marriage and family therapy. Explore the online MS in Counseling at MACU. Learn More |
*Sponsored Counseling Programs
Graduate Counseling Programs in Hawaii
For students preparing to become licensed counselors in Hawaii, graduate-level training is essential. The state does not currently have any active CACREP-accredited counseling programs, either on campus or online. Instead, people typically pursue licensure through programs accredited by other recognized bodies or reputable local offerings. CACREP accreditation is not mandatory in Hawaii.
Beyond in-state options, students might also explore CACREP-accredited online master’s degree in counseling programs offered by other universities—these may meet Hawaii’s licensure requirements if they fulfill the state’s educational standards, but it’s always important to confirm with Hawaii’s licensing board before choosing a program.
Some schools even offer online master’s in counseling with no GRE, making the application process more accessible. For those pursuing advanced research or leadership roles, online counseling doctorate programs can provide additional opportunities.
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top Hawaii Schools with Counseling Programs
Hawaii has a limited number of graduate-level counseling programs compared to other states, with most opportunities concentrated in the University of Hawaii system. Students who wish to remain in-state may find the following option particularly noteworthy.
Walden University - MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Walden University - MS in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Online MA in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Northwestern University - Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy (COAMFTE Accredited)
Grand Canyon University - Master's Degree in Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Liberty University - MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited) (CACREP Accredited)
National University - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (WSCUC Accredited)
University of Denver - Master of Arts in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)
Mid-America Christian University (MACU) - Master of Science (MS) in Counseling (Higher Learning Commission (HLC) Accredited)
University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
Featured Program: M.Ed. in School Counseling
The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa offers a three-year, 48-credit Master of Education in School Counseling delivered in a hybrid format with evening synchronous online classes and two in-person, full-day campus sessions each year. The program emphasizes holistic support of students’ academic, career, and social-emotional development and includes supervised practicum and internship placements at Hawai‘i school sites. The curriculum follows the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and meets Hawai‘i state licensure requirements for school counselors. Students progress as a part-time cohort (typically two courses per term, including summers).
About the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is a public research university in Honolulu and the flagship campus of the University of Hawai‘i System. Known for serving the Pacific and Asia-Pacific regions, UHM emphasizes diversity, community engagement, and programs that address the needs of Hawai‘i’s schools and communities.
University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
Featured Program: M.A. in Counseling Psychology
The University of Hawai‘i at Hilo offers a 60-credit Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) through 2029, the program emphasizes multicultural, student-centered training grounded in a scientist-practitioner model. Students can pursue optional concentrations in Certified Substance Abuse Counseling or Research, preparing them for specialized practice or doctoral study. Coursework is delivered primarily via synchronous distance education, with at least four required visits to the Hilo campus, and students must reside in Hawai‘i during the program. The curriculum meets Hawai‘i’s educational requirements for licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Graduates find employment in community mental health clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, private practice, hospitals, and other counseling settings.
About the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo
The University of Hawai‘i at Hilo is a regional public university and part of the University of Hawai‘i System. Located on the Big Island, UH Hilo is known for serving diverse and multicultural populations, with strong ties to the local community and Native Hawaiian culture. The university emphasizes applied learning and research, preparing graduates to serve Hawai‘i and beyond through education, healthcare, and public service.
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Hawaii
To practice as a professional counselor in Hawaii, individuals must meet the educational, clinical, and examination requirements set by the state’s Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Professional and Vocational Licensing Division. The most common path is pursuing licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).
Here are the typical steps:
- Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling or a Related Field
- The program must include coursework in counseling theories, ethics, diagnosis, human development, and multicultural issues.
- The program must include coursework in counseling theories, ethics, diagnosis, human development, and multicultural issues.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Hawaii requires 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including at least 100 hours of direct supervision.
- Hawaii requires 3,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience, including at least 100 hours of direct supervision.
- Pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
- This exam is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).
- This exam is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).
- Apply for Licensure
- Submit transcripts, documentation of supervised experience, and exam results to the Hawaii DCCA.
- Submit transcripts, documentation of supervised experience, and exam results to the Hawaii DCCA.
- Maintain Licensure
- Continuing education is required for renewal, with courses in ethics and professional practice typically included.
- Continuing education is required for renewal, with courses in ethics and professional practice typically included.
Helpful resources to explore include:
- Learn more about the licensed professional counselor role
- Step-by-step guide on how to become a licensed professional counselor
- General information on how to become a counselor
Counseling Licensure Titles in Hawaii
Hawaii’s counseling profession is structured around one main license for independent practice, with a focus on ensuring counselors are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of the state’s communities.
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
- The primary counseling credential in Hawaii. LMHCs may provide mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment independently in clinical, community, and private practice settings.
- The primary counseling credential in Hawaii. LMHCs may provide mental health assessments, diagnoses, and treatment independently in clinical, community, and private practice settings.
- Pre-Licensure Candidates (Supervised Practice)
- Graduates working toward LMHC status complete supervised clinical experience hours before becoming fully licensed. This supervised stage is not an official license type but represents an important transitional period.
- Graduates working toward LMHC status complete supervised clinical experience hours before becoming fully licensed. This supervised stage is not an official license type but represents an important transitional period.
- School Counseling Certification
- For those wishing to work in K–12 schools, licensure is managed by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, which requires graduate-level training in school counseling.
- For those wishing to work in K–12 schools, licensure is managed by the Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, which requires graduate-level training in school counseling.
While Hawaii does not have as many licensure categories as some other states, the LMHC credential offers a clear and direct pathway into professional counseling practice.
Transferring a Counseling License to Hawaii
Counselors licensed in another state who wish to practice in Hawaii must apply for licensure through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Professional and Vocational Licensing Division.
Hawaii does not have full reciprocity with other states. Instead, applicants may qualify through licensure by endorsement if their education, examinations, and supervised experience are determined to be substantially equivalent to Hawaii’s LMHC requirements. Applicants should be prepared to:
- Provide official verification of their current license in another state
- Submit transcripts and documentation of completed coursework
- Show proof of supervised post-graduate clinical experience
- Provide passing exam scores (such as the NCE)
Since requirements can vary depending on the state of origin, it’s essential to confirm details directly with Hawaii’s licensing board.
For official guidance and application information, visit the Hawaii DCCA Professional and Vocational Licensing Division.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Hawaii
Earning a counseling degree is an important investment, and Hawaii students can access several financial aid opportunities to help offset tuition costs. From state programs to university-based awards, these resources can make pursuing a counseling career more affordable.
Here are a few options to explore:
- Hawai‘i Promise Scholarship
- A state-funded program that provides need-based financial assistance to qualified University of Hawaii Community College students.
- A state-funded program that provides need-based financial assistance to qualified University of Hawaii Community College students.
- University of Hawai‘i Scholarships
- The University of Hawai‘i system offers a variety of merit- and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including those pursuing counseling-related degrees.
- The University of Hawai‘i system offers a variety of merit- and need-based scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students, including those pursuing counseling-related degrees.
- Private and Professional Organization Awards
- Groups such as the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the American Counseling Association (ACA), and the Hawaii School Counselor Association may offer scholarships or small grants to support future counselors.
- Groups such as the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the American Counseling Association (ACA), and the Hawaii School Counselor Association may offer scholarships or small grants to support future counselors.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Counselors who work in high-need communities or public service settings in Hawaii may be eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or other loan repayment programs.
- Counselors who work in high-need communities or public service settings in Hawaii may be eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or other loan repayment programs.
Students should also contact the financial aid office at their chosen university to learn about campus-specific opportunities and deadlines.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Hawaii
Understanding the career landscape is an important step when considering a counseling degree. The data in the following table was gathered from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025 and provides insights into employment trends and average salaries for counseling professionals in Hawaii.
| Median Annual Wage in Hawaii (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Hawaii (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $54,390 | $59,190 | 32.8% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $46,450 | $46,110 | 8.1% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $66,720 | $65,140 | 9.1% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $135,870 | $63,780 | 19.4% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $68,250 | $49,830 | 11.2% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Hawaii?
Yes. To become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Hawaii, you must complete a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field, along with supervised clinical experience.
How long does it take to become an LMHC in Hawaii?
Most students can expect the process to take about 6–7 years, including earning a bachelor’s degree, completing a master’s program, gaining 3,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing the required exam.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Hawaii?
Possibly. Hawaii allows licensure by endorsement if your education, exam scores, and supervised hours are substantially equivalent to state requirements.
What are the continuing education requirements for LMHCs in Hawaii?
Counselors must complete continuing education hours to renew their license, including training in ethics and professional practice, as required by the Hawaii DCCA.
Making a Counseling Career in Hawaii
Pursuing a counseling career in Hawaii offers both challenges and rewards. While the state has fewer graduate programs compared to others, the multicultural context and community-focused values create a meaningful environment for practice.
Students and professionals in Hawaii benefit from:
- Strong cultural grounding — counseling approaches often integrate Native Hawaiian values, multicultural perspectives, and holistic wellness.
- Opportunities across settings — LMHCs and school counselors are needed in schools, healthcare facilities, nonprofit organizations, and community agencies throughout the islands.
- Commitment to access and equity — with many rural and underserved communities, there is a strong demand for mental health professionals dedicated to expanding services.
For those who choose to study and practice in Hawaii, a counseling career can be deeply rewarding, combining professional growth with the opportunity to serve diverse communities across the islands.
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 Hawaii 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 Hawaii. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Hawaii
View all programs in Hawaii below, or jump to all Hawaii CACREP accredited counseling programs.
University of Hawai'i Manoa Honolulu
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
