New Hampshire may be a small state, but it offers big opportunities for students interested in counseling. With a mix of public universities, private colleges, and access to online degree options, aspiring counselors can find programs that fit their goals. Whether you want to work in schools, mental health centers, or private practice, New Hampshire provides pathways to begin or advance your counseling career.
Undergraduate Counseling Programs in New Hampshire
Students who want to explore the counseling field early can find undergraduate programs in psychology, human services, and related areas across New Hampshire. While most counseling licensure requires a graduate degree, a bachelor’s program is an excellent foundation for building communication skills, understanding human behavior, and preparing for advanced study. For those who need flexibility, pursuing an online counseling bachelor’s degree is also a strong option.
Here are a few schools in New Hampshire with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:
- Plymouth State University: M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Click to jump to the full list of New Hampshire 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
Graduate Counseling Programs in New Hampshire
Graduate study is the essential step toward becoming a licensed counselor, and New Hampshire offers strong options for students at the master’s and doctoral level. Many programs in the state are accredited by CACREP, ensuring that they meet high professional and educational standards.
Students may also want to consider flexible learning paths such as CACREP-accredited online counseling programs, an online master’s counseling degree, or even an online master’s in counseling with no GRE requirement. For those interested in advanced research or academic careers online counseling doctorate programs are also available.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree | Online Options? |
| Antioch University New England | Keene | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. | Y |
| Plymouth State University | Plymouth | School Counseling | M.S.C. | |
| Plymouth State University | Plymouth | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. | |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester | Clinical Mental Health Counseling* | M.A. | Y |
*This program was noted as being in teach-out as of 2025 and not accepting new students.
Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs
For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs
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)
Top New Hampshire Schools with Counseling Programs
The list below represents some of the best schools with counseling programs in New Hampshire. “Best” is subjective—the right choice depends on your goals, learning style, budget, and preferred setting—so use this as a starting point for deeper research.
Antioch University–New England
Featured Program: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (Online)
Antioch University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that prepares students from diverse academic backgrounds to become professional counselors. The program emphasizes social justice, multicultural competence, and ethical practice, training graduates to promote wellness and support individuals across diverse communities. Coursework is delivered primarily online, supplemented by intensive clinical learning through residencies (virtual or in-person) and field placements in students’ local areas. Students complete 60 credits, including 42 credits of core courses, 9 credits of electives, and 9 credits of supervised practicum and internship (minimum 700 hours of clinical experience). The program typically takes 3–3.5 years full-time or 4–5 years part-time.
About Antioch University New England
Located in Keene, New Hampshire, Antioch University New England is part of Antioch University’s network of campuses committed to progressive education and community engagement. AUNE is particularly known for its counseling, psychology, and environmental studies programs, and it emphasizes experiential learning, cultural responsiveness, and training professionals to serve diverse and underserved populations.
Plymouth State University
Featured Program: M.S. in Counseling
Plymouth State University offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling with three pathways: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and a Combined option for dual licensure. Depending on their concentration, students complete 60–76 credits and gain extensive field experience, including a 100-hour practicum and a 600-hour internship (or 1,400 hours for the Combined track). The program meets New Hampshire licensure standards, emphasizes ethical and culturally responsive practice, and prepares graduates to serve in schools, clinics, hospitals, and community agencies. Most students finish in just over three years, with both full- and part-time options available.
About Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University, part of the University System of New Hampshire, is a regional public institution located in Plymouth, NH. With its emphasis on engaged learning, affordability, and professional preparation, PSU provides future counselors with both the academic knowledge and supervised experience necessary to meet the growing mental health needs of New Hampshire and beyond.
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 New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Plymouth State University
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/10/2005 to 3/31/2023
- CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
- CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/10/2005 to 3/31/2023
All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in New Hampshire
View all programs in New Hampshire below, or jump to all New Hampshire CACREP accredited counseling programs.
Keene State College Keene
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
- Bachelors - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
NHTI-Concords Community College Concord
- Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Plymouth State University Plymouth
- M.Ed. in School Counseling
- M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
How to Become a Licensed Counselor in New Hampshire
To become a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in New Hampshire, candidates must complete both academic and supervised practice requirements set by the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice. The general process includes:
- Earn a qualifying graduate degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Complete supervised clinical experience during your degree program (practicum/internship).
- Pass the required licensing exam. New Hampshire requires applicants to pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) to qualify for licensure.
- Fulfill post-graduate clinical hours. Candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over a minimum of two years, including at least 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. In some cases, up to 1,500 hours from a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (MLADC) credential may be substituted.
- Submit an application to the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice, along with fees and required documentation.
- Maintain your license by meeting continuing education requirements.
For more details on counselor career pathways, you can explore resources on how to become a counselor, the licensed professional counselor role, and step-by-step guidance on how to become a counselor.
Counseling Licensure Titles in New Hampshire
Counseling professionals in New Hampshire may pursue different licensure pathways depending on their area of practice and level of training. The main counseling license in the state is:
- Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC): This is the primary license for professional counselors who provide mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
Other related credentials available in New Hampshire include:
- Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (MLADC): For those specializing in substance use counseling at an advanced clinical level.
- Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC): For professionals working with clients experiencing alcohol or drug-related challenges, typically requiring less education than the MLADC.
- School Counselor Certification: Issued through the New Hampshire Department of Education for those working in K–12 school settings.
These pathways allow counselors to specialize in different areas while meeting state requirements for professional practice.
Transferring a Counseling License to New Hampshire
Counselors who are already licensed in another state may be eligible to transfer their credentials to New Hampshire through a process known as licensure by endorsement. Applicants must typically provide:
- Proof of a valid counseling license in another state.
- Official transcripts showing completion of a qualifying graduate degree.
- Documentation of supervised clinical experience and exam scores.
- Verification that their out-of-state requirements are substantially equivalent to New Hampshire’s standards.
If there are differences, additional coursework, supervised hours, or exams may be required before full licensure is granted.
For complete details and application instructions, visit the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice.
Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in New Hampshire
Pursuing a counseling degree is a significant investment, but students in New Hampshire have access to financial support to help manage costs. Options may include:
- State and institutional scholarships offered through New Hampshire colleges and universities.
- Need-based financial aid such as grants, loans, and work-study opportunities through the FAFSA.
- Professional association awards, including scholarships from national and regional counseling organizations.
- Employer tuition assistance for those already working in health care, education, or social services.
Exploring these resources can make a counseling degree more affordable while reducing reliance on student loans.
Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in New Hampshire
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 New Hampshire.
| Median Annual Wage in New Hampshire (May 2024) | Median Annual Wage Nationally (May 2024) | Projected Growth in New Hampshire (2022–2032) | Projected National Growth (2022–2032) | |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $58,520 | $59,190 | 23.9% | 18.4% |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $44,830 | $46,110 | 3.8% | 1.9% |
| Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors | $68,410 | $65,140 | 7.8% | 5.4% |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $57,220 | $63,780 | 20.7% | 14.9% |
| Counselors, Other | $45,000 | $49,830 | NA | 17.3% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a master’s degree to become a licensed counselor in New Hampshire?
Yes. To qualify for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), you must hold at least a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field.
Which exam is required for counselor licensure in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires passing the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) for LCMHC licensure.
How many supervised hours are required after graduation?
You must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience over a minimum of two years, including 100 hours of direct supervision.
Can I transfer my counseling license from another state?
Yes. New Hampshire offers licensure by endorsement for counselors licensed elsewhere, though additional requirements may apply if standards differ.
Making a Counseling Career in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a supportive environment for those entering the counseling profession. With strong graduate programs, clear licensure pathways, and demand for mental health and substance use services across the state, students can feel confident about pursuing this career here.
Counselors in New Hampshire often find opportunities in schools, hospitals, private practices, and community agencies. The state’s emphasis on expanding access to behavioral health care makes this a particularly meaningful place to serve clients and communities.
For students who are passionate about helping others, New Hampshire provides both the education and career potential to build a lasting counseling career.
