Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at The George Washington University is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career helping individuals, families, and communities overcome mental health challenges and achieve personal well-being. As a comprehensive and rigorous program, it combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet the diverse needs of clients in a variety of settings. The curriculum covers core areas such as counseling theories, human development, ethical and professional issues, assessment and diagnosis, and multicultural competence. Students gain hands-on experience through practicum and internship opportunities in community agencies, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world environments under expert supervision.

The program emphasizes a client-centered approach rooted in evidence-based practices, fostering the development of strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and ethical judgment. It prepares students to pursue licensure as professional counselors, including the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential, and provides a pathway for further specialization in areas such as addiction counseling, trauma, or intimate partner violence. Faculty members are distinguished experts in counseling psychology, mental health, and related fields, committed to mentoring students and supporting their academic and professional growth.

The George Washington University’s strategic location in Washington, D.C., offers students unique opportunities for engagement with federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and health institutions, enriching their educational experience and professional network. Graduates emerge from the program ready to contribute positively to individual lives and the broader community through compassionate, ethical, and effective counseling practices. Whether students aim to work in community mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, or private practice, the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program provides the foundation and specialized training needed to succeed in this vital field.

The following requirements must be fulfilled: 60 credits, including 54 credits in required courses and 6 credits in elective courses, and completion of 600 hours in internships and 100 hours in a practicum. 

• 4-Year Bachelor Degree
• Completed Online Application: With $75 non-refundable application fee.
• Current Résumé: Uploaded through the online application system. 
• Three Letters of Recommendation: From professional and/or academic references.
• Statement of Career Objective: In no more than 500 words, describe your career objectives and how the program will help you meet those objectives.
• Include a photocopy of the biographic/identification page of your passport with your application.
• Academic IELTS: an overall band score of 7.0 with no individual band score below 6.0.
• TOEFL: 600 on paper-based or 100 on Internet-based.
• PTE Academic: 68.
• Official GMAT Score or GRE Score

Scholarships

• Endowment awards
• GSEHD merit-based scholarships
• The TEACH Grant

The George Washington University offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling designed to prepare students for careers as professional mental health counselors. The program emphasizes comprehensive training in psychological assessment, therapy techniques, ethical practices, and culturally competent counseling approaches to serve diverse populations. Students gain hands-on experience through practicum and internship placements in various clinical settings, including community agencies, hospitals, and private practices, providing real-world exposure under supervision. The curriculum covers foundational topics such as human development, counseling theories, psychopathology, and intervention strategies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support clients with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. The program aligns with licensure requirements in many regions, facilitating graduates' pursuit of licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or equivalent credentials. Faculty members are experienced clinicians and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and advancing mental health research and practice. The program also offers specialized coursework in areas such as substance abuse, career counseling, and crisis intervention. Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and contribute to community mental health initiatives. The George Washington University’s location in Washington, D.C., provides unique opportunities for advocacy, policy engagement, and exposure to national mental health issues. The fieldwork component is a significant part of the program, fostering practical skills and professional development. Graduates of the program often find employment in outpatient clinics, schools, healthcare facilities, and government agencies. The university’s strong network facilitates internship placements and job opportunities post-graduation. Overall, the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at GWU aims to develop capable, compassionate, and culturally sensitive counselors committed to improving mental health outcomes and advocating for mental health awareness in diverse communities.