Maryland offers a wide variety of counseling programs for students interested in entering the profession. With universities located in urban areas like Baltimore and suburban communities near Washington, D.C., as well as institutions across the state, students have access to diverse training opportunities. Whether your goal is to work in schools, community agencies, healthcare, or private practice, Maryland counseling programs provide the preparation needed to build a rewarding career.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Maryland
Undergraduate counseling-related programs in Maryland provide students with a solid academic foundation in psychology, human development, and the social sciences. While a bachelor’s degree alone does not qualify graduates for licensure, it is an essential step toward advanced study in counseling.
Students can choose from a range of programs offered by both public universities and private colleges throughout the state. Coursework often includes counseling theories, lifespan development, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Graduates may pursue entry-level positions in human services, case management, or youth support before advancing to a master’s degree in counseling.
For added flexibility, many students consider an online counseling bachelor’s degree, which allows them to prepare for graduate study while balancing work and other responsibilities.
Here are a few schools in Maryland with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Bowie State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- Coppin State University: M.Ed. in Rehabilitation Counseling
- Hood College: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- Johns Hopkins University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
- Loyola University in Maryland - Columbia: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Loyola University Maryland: M.A./M.Ed. in School Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of Maryland 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 |
✔ 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 Maryland
Graduate-level training is required for those pursuing counseling licensure in Maryland. The state is home to several universities offering master’s and doctoral counseling programs, including CACREP-accredited online counseling programs that meet national standards for professional preparation. These programs prepare students for careers in school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and related areas.
In addition to local programs, many students explore online counseling master’s degree options, which provide flexibility for working professionals. For those who prefer not to submit standardized test scores, there are also online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement. Students interested in research, leadership, or advanced clinical practice may also consider online counseling doctorate programs.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| Bowie State University | Bowie | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Bowie State University | Bowie | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Hood College | Frederick | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Hood College | Frederick | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Johns Hopkins University | Baltimore | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Loyola University Maryland | Timonium | School Counseling | M.A./M.Ed. |
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | Princess Anne | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
Top Maryland Schools with Counseling Programs
When choosing a counseling program, it’s important to remember that the “best” school is the one that aligns with your goals, interests, and career path. The following institutions represent some of the respected options in Maryland and can serve as a starting point in your search.
Johns Hopkins University
Featured Program: M.S. in Counseling
Johns Hopkins University’s Master of Science in Counseling prepares students to become ethical, culturally responsive, and effective professionals in school and clinical mental health settings. The CACREP-accredited program offers two concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling, each leading to distinct state licensure pathways. Coursework covers professional ethics, diversity, human development, career counseling, group work, assessment, and research, while hands-on experience is gained through supervised practicum and internships in approved clinical or school settings. Students may pursue the degree full-time or part-time, completing the 60-credit program in three to five years.
About Johns Hopkins University
Founded in 1876 as America’s first research university, Johns Hopkins is located in Baltimore, Maryland, with campuses and research centers worldwide. The School of Education is recognized for advancing innovation in education and counseling, supported by faculty with extensive experience in research and practice.
Loyola University Maryland
Featured Program: M.A./M.Ed. in School Counseling
Loyola University Maryland offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling, both designed to prepare culturally responsive counselors who advocate for students’ academic, social-emotional, and career development. The CACREP-accredited program requires 60 credit hours, including practicum and internship experiences in K–12 settings. Graduates are eligible for certification as school counselors in Maryland and may also pursue licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with additional coursework and training.
The M.A. program emphasizes research and includes a thesis requirement, while the M.Ed. program offers electives to expand professional competencies. Loyola also provides advanced options such as the Master’s Plus in School Counseling, the Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS), and Continuing Education opportunities for licensed professionals seeking to deepen their skills.
About Loyola University Maryland
Founded in 1852 in Baltimore, Maryland, Loyola is a Jesuit institution known for integrating academic excellence with a strong commitment to social justice and community service. The School of Education emphasizes ethical practice, leadership, and advocacy in preparing professionals to address the needs of diverse student populations.
Hood College
Featured Program: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Hood College offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for licensure as Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPC) in Maryland and many neighboring states. This 60-credit program emphasizes both rigorous academic preparation and extensive hands-on experience, with more than 700 hours of clinical fieldwork. Students gain real-world training through the on-campus NeighborHood Counseling Training Center and a variety of approved external placements.
About Hood College
Founded in 1893 in Frederick, Maryland, Hood College is a liberal arts institution known for blending professional preparation with a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences. The Graduate School emphasizes flexible, student-centered programs that prepare learners for leadership roles across professions, with a commitment to ethics, diversity, and community engagement.
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)
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)
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Maryland
Counselors in Maryland are regulated by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. The state offers two main counseling credentials: the Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) and the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). The general steps for earning these credentials is described below. (Please note that additional licensure titles mentioned in the next section have unique coursework, practicum, and exam requirements.)
Here are the general steps:
- Earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling
- The program must include required coursework and supervised practicum/internship experience. CACREP-accredited programs are highly recommended.
- The program must include required coursework and supervised practicum/internship experience. CACREP-accredited programs are highly recommended.
- Apply for the LGPC License
- This is Maryland’s provisional license, allowing graduates to begin practicing under supervision while completing post-master’s clinical hours.
- This is Maryland’s provisional license, allowing graduates to begin practicing under supervision while completing post-master’s clinical hours.
- Complete Supervised Clinical Experience
- Maryland requires 3,000 hours of supervised experience, including direct client contact, to qualify for full licensure.
- Maryland requires 3,000 hours of supervised experience, including direct client contact, to qualify for full licensure.
- Pass the Required Examination
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and/or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Candidates must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and/or National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).
- Apply for LCPC Licensure
- Once supervision and exam requirements are met, counselors may apply for independent practice as an LCPC.
- Once supervision and exam requirements are met, counselors may apply for independent practice as an LCPC.
- Maintain Licensure
- Continuing education is required for license renewal, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
- Continuing education is required for license renewal, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
Helpful resources to explore:
- Learn more about the licensed professional counselor (LPC) equivalent 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 Maryland
The Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists regulates several different licensure titles, each representing distinct levels of training and professional scope.
- Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC)
- A provisional license for graduates of qualifying master’s programs. LGPCs may practice under supervision while completing required clinical hours for full licensure.
- A provisional license for graduates of qualifying master’s programs. LGPCs may practice under supervision while completing required clinical hours for full licensure.
- Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
- The primary independent counseling license in Maryland. LCPCs may assess, diagnose, and provide therapy without supervision.
- The primary independent counseling license in Maryland. LCPCs may assess, diagnose, and provide therapy without supervision.
- Licensed Graduate Marriage & Family Therapist (LGMFT)
- A provisional license for those specializing in marriage and family therapy. Holders practice under supervision until they meet full licensure requirements.
- A provisional license for those specializing in marriage and family therapy. Holders practice under supervision until they meet full licensure requirements.
- Licensed Clinical Marriage & Family Therapist (LCMFT)
- Independent license for marriage and family therapists who have completed supervision and passed required exams.
- Independent license for marriage and family therapists who have completed supervision and passed required exams.
- Licensed Graduate Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LGADC)
- A graduate-level license that allows supervised practice in alcohol and drug counseling.
- A graduate-level license that allows supervised practice in alcohol and drug counseling.
- Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC)
- Independent credential permitting the full scope of substance use disorder treatment.
- Independent credential permitting the full scope of substance use disorder treatment.
- Licensed Graduate Professional Art Therapist (LGPAT)
- A provisional license for graduates trained in art therapy, allowing supervised practice.
- A provisional license for graduates trained in art therapy, allowing supervised practice.
- Licensed Clinical Professional Art Therapist (LCPAT)
- Independent license for art therapists, enabling them to practice without supervision.
- Independent license for art therapists, enabling them to practice without supervision.
- School Counselor Certification
- Managed separately by the Maryland State Department of Education, this credential is required for those working in K–12 schools.
- Managed separately by the Maryland State Department of Education, this credential is required for those working in K–12 schools.
These titles provide multiple professional pathways for counselors in Maryland, reflecting the state’s recognition of diverse counseling specialties.
Transferring a Counseling License to Maryland
Counselors licensed in another state may be eligible to practice in Maryland through licensure by endorsement, managed by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists.
Applicants must:
- Hold an active license in good standing from another state
- Provide official verification of current licensure
- Submit transcripts from a qualifying master’s or doctoral counseling program
- Document supervised clinical experience equivalent to Maryland’s 3,000-hour requirement
- Provide proof of passing a national counseling exam (NCE or NCMHCE)
Maryland does not have blanket reciprocity agreements, so each application is reviewed individually to confirm equivalency with state requirements.
For the most up-to-date details, visit the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Maryland
Students in Maryland have access to a range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to help support their counseling education. These resources come from state programs, universities, and professional organizations.
Some opportunities include:
- Howard P. Rawlings Educational Assistance Grant
- A need-based grant for Maryland residents attending eligible in-state institutions.
- A need-based grant for Maryland residents attending eligible in-state institutions.
- Delegate and Senatorial Scholarships
- Awarded by members of the Maryland General Assembly to students residing in their legislative districts.
- Awarded by members of the Maryland General Assembly to students residing in their legislative districts.
- University-Based Scholarships and Assistantships
- Schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Loyola University Maryland, and Hood College offer scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships for counseling students.
- Schools such as Johns Hopkins University, Loyola University Maryland, and Hood College offer scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships for counseling students.
- Professional Organization Awards
- The Maryland Counseling Association (MCA) and national groups like the American Counseling Association (ACA) may offer scholarships, awards, or research grants.
- The Maryland Counseling Association (MCA) and national groups like the American Counseling Association (ACA) may offer scholarships, awards, or research grants.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Counselors working in underserved areas or public service may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
- Counselors working in underserved areas or public service may qualify for federal programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
Students should also explore their university’s financial aid office for additional opportunities and deadlines.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Maryland
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 Maryland.
| Median Annual Wage in Maryland (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in Maryland (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $57,820 | $59,190 | 22.1% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $42,680 | $46,110 | 7.3% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $74,970 | $65,140 | 15.5% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $65,300 | $63,780 | 16.1% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $61,140 | $49,830 | 21.5% | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a counselor in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland requires at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field to qualify for licensure.
What is the difference between an LGPC and an LCPC in Maryland?
An LGPC (Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor) is a provisional license that allows graduates to practice under supervision. An LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) is the full independent license that permits assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
Are online counseling degrees accepted in Maryland?
Yes. Online counseling degrees are accepted if they are properly accredited and meet Maryland’s coursework and practicum requirements for licensure.
How long does it take to become licensed in Maryland?
Most students spend 6–7 years from starting a bachelor’s degree to achieving LCPC licensure, including graduate study and 3,000 supervised experience hours.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state to Maryland?
Yes. Maryland offers licensure by endorsement if your education, exam results, and supervised hours meet state standards.
What are the continuing education requirements for counselors in Maryland?
Both LGPCs and LCPCs must complete continuing education for renewal, including coursework in ethics and professional practice.
Making a Counseling Career in Maryland
Maryland offers a strong professional landscape for those pursuing counseling careers. With urban hubs like Baltimore and proximity to Washington, D.C., as well as rural and coastal communities across the state, counselors can find opportunities in schools, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, and private practice.
Some highlights of pursuing a counseling career in Maryland include:
- Strong demand for mental health professionals — particularly in underserved and rural communities.
- Diverse practice settings — from school counseling and clinical mental health to substance abuse treatment and family services.
- Active professional community — the Maryland Counseling Association (MCA) and other organizations provide networking, advocacy, and continuing education.
For students and professionals passionate about helping others, Maryland provides both the educational pathways and career opportunities to build a rewarding counseling career.
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
The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters
Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Maryland 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 Maryland. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Bowie State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 3/31/2026
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/5/2015 to 3/31/2026
Coppin State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2021
Hood College
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2018 to 10/31/2021
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/13/2018 to 10/31/2021
Johns Hopkins University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/9/2015 to 10/31/2019
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/12/2012 to 10/31/2020
Loyola University in Maryland - Columbia
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/11/2014 to 10/31/2020
Loyola University Maryland
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year (Re-Accreditation In-Process)
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 10/1/1995 to 10/31/2020
Loyola University Maryland-Columbia
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/11/2012 to 10/31/2020
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/18/2006 to 7/1/2021
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2024
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Maryland
View all programs in Maryland below, or jump to all Maryland CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Anne Arundel Community College Arnold
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Baltimore City Community College Baltimore
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Bowie State University Bowie
- M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
Coppin State University Baltimore
- M.Ed. in Rehabilitation Counseling
Hood College Frederick
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
Johns Hopkins University Baltimore
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- M.S. in School Counseling
Loyola University in Maryland - Columbia Columbia
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Loyola University Maryland Timonium
- M.A./M.Ed. in School Counseling
Loyola University Maryland-Columbia Columbia
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision
Sojourner-Douglass College Baltimore
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
The Community College of Baltimore County Baltimore
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
University of Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne
- M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
University of Maryland-Baltimore County Baltimore
- Doctorate - Clinical Counseling
University of Maryland-College Park College Park
- Doctorate - School Counseling
Washington Adventist University Takoma Park
- Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Wor-Wic Community College Salisbury
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
