Counseling continues to grow as a profession across Texas, driven by increasing demand for mental health services, school-based support, and community behavioral health resources. For prospective students, earning a master’s in counseling in Texas can be the first step toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or toward roles in school and specialized counseling settings. Because Texas has specific educational, examination, and supervised experience requirements, selecting a program that aligns clearly with state licensure standards is essential. This guide highlights established and reputable options among the best counseling master’s programs in Texas, with an emphasis on accreditation, clinical training, and licensure preparation—factors that matter more than rankings alone when making a long-term career decision.
Understanding Texas Counseling Licensure Requirements
Before enrolling in a master’s in counseling program in Texas, it is important to understand how graduate education connects directly to state licensure. In Texas, the pathway to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is regulated by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), which oversees educational standards, examinations, and supervised practice requirements. Choosing a Texas counseling master’s program that aligns with these requirements can help prevent delays in the licensure process after graduation.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Path in Texas
To qualify for LPC licensure in Texas, candidates must complete several key steps:
1. Master’s Degree Requirement
Applicants must earn a qualifying master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Programs typically include approximately 60 graduate semester credit hours, though students should verify current requirements with the BHEC.
2. Required Coursework Areas
Texas requires graduate coursework in specific content areas that reflect professional counseling competencies. These often include:
- Human growth and development
- Counseling theories
- Counseling techniques and skills
- Group counseling
- Assessment and appraisal
- Research methods
- Ethics and professional orientation
- Multicultural counseling
Programs designed to support Texas licensure typically structure their curriculum around these required domains.
3. Practicum and Internship Hours
Graduate programs must include supervised practicum and internship experiences. These clinical training components provide structured, hands-on counseling experience under approved supervision and are a required part of licensure eligibility.
4. National Examination Requirement
Texas requires candidates to pass either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), depending on current state standards and application timing.
5. Post-Graduate Supervised Experience
After completing the master’s degree, graduates must accrue supervised post-graduate counseling hours before qualifying for full LPC licensure. During this period, individuals typically hold a provisional or associate-level license while completing supervision requirements.
Because licensure rules can evolve, applicants should review current regulations directly through the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council to confirm degree, coursework, examination, and supervision standards before enrolling in a program.
Why CACREP Accreditation Matters
When evaluating Texas counseling master’s programs, accreditation is an important factor to consider—particularly accreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP establishes nationally recognized standards for counselor education, including curriculum structure, faculty qualifications, and supervised clinical training requirements.
National Standards in Counselor Education
CACREP-accredited programs are designed around defined core curricular areas and clinical training benchmarks that reflect professional counseling competencies. These standards closely align with the knowledge domains tested on national licensure examinations such as the NCE and NCMHCE.
For students comparing Texas counseling degrees, CACREP accreditation can provide added assurance that the program meets widely accepted professional preparation standards.
How CACREP Aligns With Texas Licensure Requirements
Texas does not mandate CACREP accreditation for LPC licensure. However, many Texas CACREP-accredited programs are structured to meet Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council educational requirements. Because CACREP programs must follow a standardized curriculum model, graduates may find that coursework documentation aligns more clearly with licensure application requirements.
Even so, students graduating from non-CACREP programs may still qualify for Texas licensure, provided their degree includes the required coursework areas and supervised clinical experiences specified by the state.
Is CACREP Required or Preferred in Texas?
While CACREP is not strictly required for licensure in Texas, it is often viewed favorably by employers and can simplify licensure verification in some situations. Prospective students should verify whether a program:
- Is CACREP-accredited
- Clearly outlines LPC licensure alignment in Texas
- Provides documentation support for the licensure application process
It is also important to note that some well-established universities in Texas offer counseling master’s programs that do not hold CACREP accreditation but are structured to meet Texas licensure requirements. For example, the University of Texas at Austin offers a master’s program in Counselor Education that is not CACREP-accredited but is designed to align with Texas LPC standards. As with any program, students should review curriculum details carefully and confirm current eligibility requirements with the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council.
Portability for Future Relocation
For students who may relocate outside Texas, CACREP accreditation can offer additional portability. Some states have licensure pathways that more directly recognize CACREP-accredited degrees, which can reduce administrative hurdles when applying for licensure elsewhere.
Ultimately, when selecting among the best counseling master’s programs in Texas, students should prioritize clear alignment with Texas licensure standards first, while considering CACREP accreditation as a factor that may support long-term flexibility.
2026 Selected Texas Counseling Master’s Programs
Texas is home to a wide range of master’s-level counseling programs designed to prepare graduates for licensure and professional practice across specialties such as clinical mental health counseling, marriage and family counseling, substance use counseling, and more. The programs highlighted below represent a cross section of some of the state’s standout options in 2026. While “best” can mean different things to different students, the schools included here are recognized for factors such as institutional reputation, student outcomes, and overall program quality.
This list is not exhaustive. Instead, it’s designed to showcase the diversity of counseling programs available across Texas — from large public universities to smaller private institutions, and from urban campuses to programs serving broader regional communities. One characteristic that all of the programs below share is programmatic accreditation—all were accredited by CACREP at the time of this writing.
Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX)
M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
M.S. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
M.S. in School Counseling
The Department of Counseling at SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science in Counseling designed to prepare students for professional counseling practice with children, adults, and families. The program emphasizes both foundational knowledge and applied clinical training.
Students study disciplines that underlie counseling practice, including education, psychology, human development, learning, and social change. The curriculum develops core competencies in counseling and assessment, along with an understanding of legal and clinical considerations in practice.
Key components include:
- Repeated skills practice and role-playing with feedback
- Observation of licensed counselors
- A year-long practicum and internship experience
Program graduates pursue roles in settings such as community agencies, religious institutions, hospitals, private practice, and schools. Career paths commonly include licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, school counselor, psychotherapist, case manager, healthcare practitioner, researcher, and related positions in counseling and mental health services.
About the University
Southern Methodist University is a private research university located in Dallas, Texas. Situated in a major metropolitan area, SMU provides access to professional, cultural, and community engagement opportunities throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth region.
Texas Christian University (Fort Worth, TX)
M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The Counseling Program within Texas Christian University’s College of Education offers graduate degrees designed to prepare professionals for leadership roles in counseling, program planning, and the delivery of services in schools and community settings.
The M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a 60-hour program aligned with Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) requirements. The curriculum is structured to prepare graduates for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas.
The program is grounded in a solution-focused, strength-based philosophy that emphasizes client resiliency rather than pathology. Across degree options, students are prepared to take leadership roles in counseling, including planning, directing, implementing, and evaluating counseling programs. The program’s mission is to prepare reflective, ethical, and competent counselors equipped to work in diverse professional settings.
About the University
Texas Christian University is a private university located in Fort Worth, Texas. Situated in a major metropolitan area, TCU offers a residential campus experience within the Dallas–Fort Worth region.
University of St. Thomas (Houston, TX)
M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The School of Education and Human Services at the University of St. Thomas (Houston) offers undergraduate and graduate programs across education, counseling, criminology, and human services. Faculty members are described as active practitioners who have worked in their respective fields, remain connected to school districts and professional settings, and provide individualized support such as writing job recommendations. At the graduate level, the school offers degrees including a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Across its programs, the school emphasizes social justice, ethical practice, leadership development, and service in educational and community contexts.
About the University
The University of St. Thomas is a private Catholic university located in Houston, Texas. Rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, the university offers a liberal arts–based education in an urban setting.
Texas Tech University (Lubbock, TX)
Health Sciences Center
M.S. in Addiction Counseling
M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
M.S. in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling
College of Education
M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
At Texas Tech University in Lubbock, counseling-related graduate programs are offered through two academic units: the School of Health Professions at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) and the College of Education at Texas Tech University. The School of Health Professions offers several online master’s programs focused on counseling and rehabilitation within healthcare contexts. It emphasizes preparation of healthcare professionals and offers multiple degree and certificate options across health disciplines. Programs are delivered in online formats, expanding access for students across Texas and beyond.
Within the College of Education, the Department of Educational Psychology, Leadership, and Counseling offers an M.Ed. in Counselor Education with a Concentration in Clinical Mental Health, among other options. The department is part of a broader academic unit focused on learning, motivation, development, and educational foundations. The College of Education offers numerous graduate degrees and certificates, with many programs available partially or fully online. Students enrolled solely in online courses may qualify for in-state tuition rates, including those residing outside Texas.
About the University
Texas Tech University is a public research university located in Lubbock, Texas. It is part of the Texas Tech University System, which also includes the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, offering professional and health-related education alongside the university’s comprehensive academic programs.
St. Edward’s University (Austin, TX)
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
M.A. in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
St. Edward’s School of Behavioral and Social Sciences and prepares students for professional counseling practice in Texas. It supports individuals pursuing licensure as either a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).The 60-credit-hour program typically takes two and a half to three years to complete. Students may enroll full time or part time, with most completing the degree over eight semesters, including summer terms. Courses are offered in face-to-face and blended formats, with blended courses combining in-person and online instruction. Students choose between two CACREP-accredited concentrations Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) or Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling (MCFC). Training occurs at the St. Edward’s Community Counseling Clinic and approved field sites in the Austin area. The on-campus clinic provides low-cost counseling services to the community while allowing students to receive faculty-supervised, video-monitored clinical experience.
About the University
St. Edward’s University is a private Catholic university located in Austin, Texas. The university emphasizes a liberal arts foundation and a commitment to social justice within an urban campus setting.
As you explore your options, remember that the best program for you will be the one that aligns most closely with your professional goals, licensure plans, academic interests, and personal circumstances. We encourage you to review individual program pages — both those featured here and others you may discover — to compare curriculum details, clinical requirements, and admissions criteria before making your decision.
Other CACREP-Accredited Master’s-Level Counseling Programs in Texas
In addition to the selected institutions highlighted above, there are other CACREP-accredited counseling master’s programs in Texas that meet nationally recognized standards for counselor education. Because new programs may receive accreditation and existing programs may update their status, students should verify current accreditation directly through CACREP’s official directory.
| Institution | City | Specialty | Degree |
| Dallas Baptist University | Dallas | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| East Texas A&M University (formerly TX A&M Commerce) | Commerce | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Hardin-Simmons University | Abilene | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Midwestern State University | Wichita Falls | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Nelson University (formerly Southwestern Assemblies of God University) | Waxahachie | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Sam Houston State University | Huntsville | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Seminary of the Southwest | Austin | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Southern Methodist University | Dallas | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Southern Methodist University | Dallas | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.S. |
| Southern Methodist University | Dallas | School Counseling | M.S. |
| St. Edward’s University | Austin | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| St. Edward’s University | Austin | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. |
| St. Mary’s University | San Antonio | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Stephen F. Austin State University | Nacogdoches | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Tarleton State University | Stephenville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Central Texas | Killeen | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Addiction Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi | Corpus Christi | School Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – Kingsville | Kingsville | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas A&M University – San Antonio | San Antonio | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Texas A&M University – San Antonio | San Antonio | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. |
| Texas A&M University – San Antonio | San Antonio | School Counseling | M.A. |
| Texas A&M University – Texarkana | Texarkana | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas Christian University | Fort Worth | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. |
| Texas State University | San Marcos | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock | Addiction Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center | Lubbock | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas Tech University, College of Education | Lubbock | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
| Texas Woman’s University | Denton | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| Texas Woman’s University | Denton | School Counseling | M.S. |
| The Chicago School, Dallas Campus | Richardson | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| University of Houston – Clear Lake | Houston | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Houston – Victoria | Victoria | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Houston – Victoria | Victoria | School Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| University of Mary Hardin-Baylor | Belton | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | M.A. |
| University of North Texas at Dallas | Dallas | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of North Texas at Dallas | Dallas | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| University of North Texas, College of Education | Denton | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of North Texas, College of Education | Denton | School Counseling | M.Ed./M.S. |
| University of North Texas, College of Health and Public Service | Denton | Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Saint Thomas Houston | Houston | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Texas at El Paso | El Paso | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | MRC |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.S. |
| University of Texas at San Antonio | San Antonio | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| University of Texas at Tyler | Tyler | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.A. |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, College of Education | Edinburg | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | M.Ed. |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, College of Education | Edinburg | School Counseling | M.Ed. |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, College of Health Professions | Edinburg | Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling | M.S. |
When researching additional programs, confirm:
- Current CACREP accreditation status
- Total required credit hours
- Clinical training structure
- Alignment with Texas LPC or School Counselor licensure pathways
Reviewing programs can help ensure that your chosen Texas counseling master’s program supports your long-term professional goals.
What to Look for in a Texas Master’s in Counseling Program
Choosing among Texas counseling master’s programs requires careful evaluation of accreditation, licensure alignment, clinical training structure, and format flexibility. Because graduate education directly impacts eligibility for LPC or School Counselor licensure, prospective students should look beyond general reputation and focus on practical preparation.
Accreditation
Accreditation affects both licensure and employment opportunities.
- CACREP accreditation signals that a program meets national standards in counselor education and clinical training.
- Regional institutional accreditation ensures that the university itself meets broader academic quality standards.
While Texas does not require CACREP accreditation for LPC licensure, many of the best counseling master’s programs in Texas either hold CACREP accreditation or structure their curriculum to align closely with its standards. Always confirm that the program clearly outlines how it meets Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council educational requirements.
Degree Tracks
Master’s in counseling programs in Texas typically offer specialized tracks that prepare students for different professional roles:
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Commonly aligned with LPC licensure and community mental health practice.
- School Counseling – Designed for students pursuing certification to work in K–12 school settings.
- Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling – Offered at some institutions and may align with related licensure pathways.
Students should select a track that matches their intended licensure and work setting. Switching tracks after enrollment can extend program length or require additional coursework.
Format Options
Texas counseling master’s programs may be available in:
- On-campus formats
- Hybrid models combining online coursework with in-person components
- Fully online programs serving Texas residents
Even online programs must include in-person supervised practicum and internship experiences. Students should verify whether clinical placements are arranged locally and whether geographic restrictions apply.
Clinical Placement Support
Practicum and internship experiences are central to licensure eligibility. When comparing programs, ask:
- Does the university coordinate placements with Texas agencies or school districts?
- Are there established partnerships that streamline site approval?
- What supervision standards are in place?
Programs that provide structured clinical placement support can reduce administrative burden during training.
Program Length and Credit Hours
Most LPC-aligned master’s in counseling programs in Texas require approximately 60 graduate semester credit hours. Full-time students may complete the degree in about two to three years, while part-time pathways extend the timeline.
Understanding total credit requirements and pacing options can help you determine whether a particular Texas counseling master’s program fits your professional and financial circumstances.
Tuition and Financial Considerations
The cost of earning a master’s in counseling in Texas varies based on institution type, residency status, and delivery format. Understanding tuition structure and long-term financial implications can help prospective students compare Texas counseling master’s programs more effectively.
Public vs. Private Tuition Differences in Texas
Public universities in Texas generally offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents compared to private institutions. Because many master’s in counseling programs in Texas are housed within public university systems, Texas residents may benefit from comparatively lower per-credit costs.
Private institutions may charge higher tuition but sometimes offer smaller cohort models, specialized clinical training environments, or institutional scholarships that offset costs.
When comparing programs, review:
- Per-credit tuition rates
- Mandatory university and program-specific fees
- Estimated total program cost based on required credit hours
In-State vs. Out-of-State Rates
Residency status can significantly affect tuition at public institutions. Out-of-state students may pay substantially higher rates unless the program offers tuition reciprocity or special online pricing structures.
Students considering online Texas counseling master’s programs should verify whether in-state tuition applies and whether additional distance-learning fees are assessed.
Financial Aid and Assistantships
Graduate students may be eligible for:
- Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
- Graduate PLUS Loans
- Institutional scholarships
- Graduate assistantships (teaching or research roles)
Some universities also offer departmental scholarships specifically for counseling students. Because practicum and internship placements may limit outside employment during certain semesters, financial planning is especially important.
Long-Term Return on Investment
When evaluating the cost of a master’s in counseling program in Texas, consider how licensure can affect earning potential and employment stability. Completing a program aligned with Texas LPC or School Counselor standards may improve long-term job prospects, which can influence overall return on investment.
Reviewing salary expectations, job demand, and geographic employment patterns—particularly in urban versus rural areas—can help contextualize tuition costs within broader career planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need to become an LPC in Texas?
To become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, you must earn a qualifying master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from an accredited institution. The degree must include required coursework areas and supervised practicum/internship hours that meet Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council standards. After graduation, candidates must pass the required national examination and complete post-graduate supervised experience before qualifying for full LPC licensure.
Do all Texas programs require CACREP accreditation?
No. CACREP accreditation is not required for LPC licensure in Texas. However, many Texas counseling master’s programs either hold CACREP accreditation or structure their curriculum to align closely with CACREP standards. Because CACREP programs follow nationally recognized guidelines, they may simplify documentation and support portability if you relocate to another state.
Can I complete a Texas counseling master’s program online?
Some master’s in counseling programs in Texas offer hybrid or fully online coursework. However, all LPC-aligned programs require supervised, in-person practicum and internship experiences. Students considering online Texas counseling master’s programs should confirm that clinical placements meet state licensure requirements and that the institution provides adequate placement support.
How long does it take to become a licensed counselor in Texas?
Most LPC-aligned master’s programs in Texas require approximately 60 graduate credit hours and typically take two to three years to complete, depending on full-time or part-time enrollment. After graduation, candidates must complete required post-graduate supervised experience before qualifying for full LPC licensure. As a result, the total timeline from starting graduate school to full licensure often extends beyond the degree itself.
Exploring Broader Counseling Program Options
While this guide focuses specifically on Texas counseling master’s programs aligned with state LPC requirements, some students may wish to explore broader formats or national options.
If flexibility is a primary concern, you can review online master’s in counseling programs offered nationwide. Students who prioritize national accreditation standards may also compare CACREP-accredited online counseling programs, including listings of the cheapest CACREP-accredited online counseling programs.
However, not all online or nationally accredited programs automatically meet Texas licensure requirements. Before enrolling, confirm that the curriculum, credit hours, and supervised clinical experiences align with standards established by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council.
Final Considerations
Before enrolling in a master’s in counseling program in Texas, verify that the curriculum aligns clearly with current requirements established by the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. Confirm total credit hours, required coursework areas, examination eligibility, and post-graduate supervision expectations.
You should also review how the program structures practicum and internship placements, including whether it provides coordination support with Texas agencies or school districts.
Most importantly, choose among Texas counseling master’s programs with your long-term professional goals in mind—whether that involves pursuing LPC licensure, working in school settings, or preparing for specialized counseling roles within the state.
