Online Counseling Degrees in Texas

Texas is one of the largest and fastest-growing states in the U.S., with a strong demand for professional counselors across its diverse communities. From undergraduate programs that introduce students to psychology and human development to graduate degrees that prepare students for licensure, Texas offers a wide range of opportunities for those pursuing counseling careers. Whether studying at major public universities, private institutions, or through flexible online programs, students in Texas can find pathways into school counseling, clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, and addiction services.

Undergraduate Counseling Programs in Texas

Many students in Texas begin their path to a counseling career with undergraduate studies in psychology, human services, or related majors. These programs provide the foundational knowledge of human development, counseling theory, and research methods that prepare students for graduate-level work. Many also include internship or practicum opportunities that help students gain early experience in the field.For students who prefer added flexibility, an online bachelor’s degree in counseling can be a convenient way to build the academic background required for graduate training and eventual licensure.

Graduate Counseling Programs in Texas

Graduate counseling programs in Texas provide the advanced coursework and clinical training needed for professional licensure. At the master’s and doctoral level, students can specialize in areas such as clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, marriage and family therapy, and rehabilitation counseling.

Many Texas universities offer programs that align with national standards, including CACREP-accredited counseling programs. Students may also explore flexible options such as an online master’s degree in counseling, an online master’s in counseling with no GRE, or online counseling PhD programs.

Top Texas Schools with Counseling Programs

The “best” counseling program depends on your career goals, interests, and preferred learning environment. The following universities represent some of Texas’s leading options for counseling education. Use this list as a starting point in your research:

Texas Christian University

Featured Program: M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Texas Christian University’s College of Education offers a CACREP-accredited M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. The program is grounded in a solution-focused, strengths-based philosophy that emphasizes resiliency and time-limited counseling. Students benefit from close collaboration with faculty and peers, gaining practical skills in assessment, planning, and intervention for diverse populations. Graduates are prepared for licensure and for leadership roles in community agencies, clinics, and related settings. Coursework integrates practicum and internship experiences, with faculty support continuing beyond graduation through a strong professional network.

About Texas Christian University
Texas Christian University (TCU), located in Fort Worth, Texas, is a private university recognized for its emphasis on student-centered education, research, and professional training. TCU’s College of Education is committed to preparing leaders in education and counseling who engage communities with evidence-based and relational approaches to practice.

Southern Methodist University

Featured Program: Master of Science in Counseling
Southern Methodist University’s CACREP-accredited M.S. in Counseling program equips students with the knowledge and skills to serve individuals, families, and communities across diverse settings. The curriculum integrates foundational coursework in psychology, human development, and education with applied training through practicum and internship experiences. Students practice counseling skills through role-playing, observation, and supervised client work. Graduates are academically prepared for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC), Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT), or School Counselors, with an elective option for Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) certification in Texas.

About Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private research university in Dallas, Texas, known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus community. The university combines rigorous professional education with opportunities for research, leadership, and service. Situated in a major metropolitan hub, SMU provides students with access to numerous professional, cultural, and career opportunities.

University of Saint Thomas Houston

Featured Program: M.Ed. in School Counselor Education
The University of St. Thomas in Houston offers a Master of Education in School Counselor Education designed for experienced teachers seeking to become licensed professional school counselors. This 48-credit program meets Texas Education Agency requirements and integrates coursework in counseling theory, multicultural populations, career development, and family counseling, along with research, practicum, and role-playing experiences. The curriculum emphasizes ethical and legal issues as well as the impact of privilege, oppression, and diversity in school counseling.

About the University of St. Thomas
The University of St. Thomas is a private Catholic university located in Houston, Texas. Known for its liberal arts foundation and emphasis on ethical leadership, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its urban location provides students with access to Houston’s educational, cultural, and professional opportunities.

Here are a few schools in Texas with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:

Click to jump to the full list of Texas 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
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
Grand Canyon University Master of Education in School Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online	At GCU, school-counselors-in-training candidates develop into more than school counselors, they grow into compassionate, servant leaders with strong ethics and morals to positively make a greater difference in communities and the lives of children. 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
The Chicago School M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Bachelor's Degree Required.	This online CMHC program prepares students for a career offering mental health services in a variety of settings; helping diverse clients through issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, and suicidal impulses. Learn More
Colorado Christian University Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Bachelor's Degree	Optional program emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy and Substance Use Disorders. Learn More
University of West Alabama Online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling CACREP Accredited	✔ Online Personalized education	The University of West Alabama's Online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is an online graduate counseling program in a flexible online environment. Learn More

*Sponsored Counseling Programs

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

How to Become a Licensed Counselor in Texas

Counseling licensure in Texas is regulated by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, which operates under the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). The primary credential is the Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

LPC Pathway — Texas Requirements

• Earn the qualifying graduate degree.
  Applicants must hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution. The program must include at least 60 graduate semester hours covering required areas such as counseling theories, human development, assessment, group counseling, ethics, and research.
  
• Complete practicum and internship.
  Graduate training must include a supervised practicum and internship experience totaling at least 300 clock hours, with a minimum of 100 hours of direct client contact.
  
• Apply as an LPC Associate.
  After graduation, candidates apply for licensure as an LPC Associate in order to begin their supervised post-degree experience. Associates must practice under a supervision agreement with a Board-approved LPC Supervisor.
  
• Accrue supervised post-degree experience.
  LPC Associates must complete 3,000 clock hours of supervised experience in counseling over a period of 18 to 48 months. This includes at least 1,500 hours of direct client contact.
  
• Pass the required examinations.
  Applicants must pass:
  
  • The National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), administered by NBCC.
    
  • The Texas Jurisprudence Exam, which covers state counseling laws and rules.
    
• Apply for full LPC licensure.
  Once education, exams, and supervised experience are complete, candidates may apply for full LPC status. Licensed counselors in Texas must also complete 24 hours of continuing education every two years, including ethics, to renew their license.
  

For additional resources, see:

• What an LPC is and does
  
• Steps on how to become an LPC
  
• Broader pathways to become a counselor

Counseling Licensure Titles in Texas

Texas recognizes several counseling-related credentials, each regulated by different state boards depending on the area of practice. The major titles include:

Clinical Counseling (regulated by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, under BHEC)

• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): The primary license for independent practice in counseling.
  
• LPC Associate: A pre-licensure status that allows graduates to complete supervised experience under a Board-approved supervisor.
  

Marriage and Family Therapy (regulated by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, under BHEC)

• Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): For professionals specializing in family systems and couple therapy.
  
• LMFT Associate: A pre-licensure credential for graduates completing supervised practice requirements.
  

School Counseling (regulated by the Texas Education Agency – TEA)

• School Counselor Certificate: Required for those working in PK–12 public schools. This credential is issued by TEA and requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field, plus teaching experience.
  

Substance Use Disorder Counseling (regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission – HHSC)

• Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC): The primary credential for substance use disorder treatment providers in Texas.
  
• Other HHSC Credentials: HHSC also recognizes certifications for peer recovery specialists and prevention specialists.

Transferring a Counseling License to Texas

Counselors licensed in another state may be able to transfer their credentials to Texas, but the process depends on the type of license and the governing body.

• Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs): Out-of-state counselors can apply for licensure by endorsement through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, under the Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). Applicants must demonstrate that their education, supervised experience, and exam results are substantially equivalent to Texas’s requirements. If gaps exist, the Board may require additional coursework or supervised practice.
  
• Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs): LMFTs licensed in other states can apply for licensure by endorsement through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists. Substantial equivalency of education and experience is required.
  
• School Counselors: Out-of-state school counselors must apply through the Texas Education Agency (TEA). TEA reviews transcripts, prior certification, and teaching experience to determine eligibility for a Texas School Counselor Certificate.
  
• Substance Use Disorder Counselors: Counselors licensed in another state as addiction professionals must apply through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) for recognition as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). Reciprocity is not automatic and depends on alignment of the existing credential with Texas requirements.
  

For the most current guidance, applicants should consult the appropriate agency:

• Texas BHEC – LPC Board: Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council
  
• Texas TEA: Texas Education Agency
  
• Texas HHSC – Substance Use Licensing: Health and Human Services Commission
  
• Texas BHEC – MFT Board:  Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists

Counseling Scholarships and Financial Aid in Texas

Students in Texas pursuing counseling degrees can access a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make their education more affordable. Funding comes from state programs, universities, and professional organizations.

Some common options include:

• State-based financial aid: Texas offers programs such as the TEXAS Grant and the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant, which provide tuition support for eligible in-state students.
  
• University scholarships: Many Texas universities, including public and private institutions, offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for counseling, psychology, and education students. Graduate students may also qualify for assistantships that provide tuition support and stipends.
  
• Professional associations: The Texas Counseling Association and national groups like the American Counseling Association (ACA) provide information, scholarships, research awards, and student fellowships.
  
• Federal financial aid: Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
  

Prospective counselors are encouraged to work closely with their university’s financial aid office and check professional association websites regularly for up-to-date opportunities.

Counseling Job Outlook and Salary in Texas

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 Texas.

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)

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

Grand Canyon University - Master of Education in School Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

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

The Chicago School - M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Colorado Christian University - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, M.A. - Online Curriculum (CACREP Accredited)

University of West Alabama - Online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP Accredited)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a CACREP-accredited degree to become licensed in Texas?
No. CACREP accreditation is not required, but your graduate program must include at least 60 semester hours and cover required coursework areas. Choosing a CACREP-accredited program can make the licensure process smoother and may help with portability to other states.

How long does it take to become an LPC in Texas?
The process usually takes 7–9 years: about four years for a bachelor’s degree, two to three years for a master’s program, and between 18 and 48 months to complete the required 3,000 supervised hours as an LPC Associate.

What exams are required for LPC licensure in Texas?
Applicants must pass the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), as well as the Texas Jurisprudence Exam.

Can I transfer my counseling license to Texas?
Yes. Texas allows licensure by endorsement if your education, exams, and supervised experience are substantially equivalent to Texas standards. Additional coursework or supervised hours may be required if differences are found.

Who regulates school counselors in Texas?
School counseling credentials are managed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), not the LPC licensing board.

Making a Counseling Career in Texas

Texas offers abundant opportunities for those pursuing counseling careers, with strong demand in both urban centers and rural communities. Licensed counselors work in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, private practices, community mental health agencies, and addiction treatment facilities.

The state’s growing population and emphasis on expanding access to mental health services make Texas an encouraging place to build a career. By completing the required education, supervised training, and licensure steps, you can become part of a network of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families.

Whether you plan to specialize in school counseling, clinical mental health, marriage and family therapy, or substance use treatment, Texas provides pathways to establish a rewarding and impactful counseling career.

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

Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online

Master's Degree in Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Grand Canyon University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Education in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Liberty University 🗹 Online

MA: Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

The Chicago School 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Colorado Christian University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

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

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

University of West Alabama 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Online MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

Learn More

Lamar University 🗹 Online 🗗 Masters

Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

SACSCOC Accredited

Learn More

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

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Texas

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