Mental Health Counseling

The Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Yeshiva University is a comprehensive graduate program designed to prepare students for successful careers as professional mental health counselors. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical practice to equip graduates with the tools necessary to support individuals facing a wide range of psychological and emotional challenges.

Students will explore core areas such as human development, counseling techniques, psychopathology, and diagnostic assessment. The program emphasizes multicultural competence, ethical practice, and evidence-based interventions, ensuring graduates are prepared to serve diverse populations in various settings including outpatient clinics, hospitals, community agencies, schools, and private practice. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with supervised clinical practicum and internship experiences, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Yeshiva University’s program is accredited by relevant accrediting bodies and adheres to the standards established by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The faculty comprises seasoned practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a supportive learning environment. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue licensure as professional counselors and to continue their education through doctoral studies in psychology or related fields.

In addition to professional preparation, the program emphasizes the development of strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and ethical integrity, which are essential qualities in effective mental health counselors. The program can be completed within two years of full-time study, offering flexibility for working professionals. Upon graduation, students will be qualified to contribute meaningfully to improving mental health outcomes and promote resilience and well-being within the communities they serve.

Required Core Courses: 39 credits

• PSM 6515 Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan
• PSA 6405 Social Psychology
• PSM 6120 Basic Principles of Counseling
• PSM 6815 Psychopathology: Child, Adolescent & Adult
• PSM 6461 Principles in Group Therapy
• PSM 6503  Lifestyle and Career Development
• PSM 6225 Appraisal of Individuals, Couples, Families & Groups
• PSM 6400 Statistics, Research and Program Evaluation
• PSM 6371 Ethics & Issues in Professional Practice (includes New York State required Syllabus on Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment)
• PSM 6181 Multicultural and Diversity Issues
• PSM 6500 Advanced Issues in Mental Health Counseling
• PSM 6191 Concepts and Techniques in Mental Health Counseling (Clinical Instruction)
• PSM 6943 Supervised Field Placement I - Proseminar 1.5 credit (includes group supervision requirement)
• PSM 6944 Supervised Field Placement II -Proseminar 1.5 credits (includes group supervision requirement)
• PSM 6945 Supervised Field Placement III - Proseminar 1.5 credit (includes group supervision requirement and Proseminar on Professional Identity Development; Comprehensive Exam-Part I—Demonstrate competency—Audiotape presentation)
• PSM 6946 Supervised Field Placement IV -Proseminar 1.5 credits (total supervised hours must meet minimum of 600 hours; Comprehensive Exam- Part II—Demonstrate competency—Videotape presentation)

Other Required Courses: 12 credits

• PSM 6193 Counseling Skills Development
• PSM 6816 Advanced Issues in Psychopathology and Diagnosis
• PSM 6945 Counseling Practicum
• PSM 6483 Substance Abuse and Treatment (graduates qualify for 5-credit CAC certification)

Elective and Specialized Courses: 9 credits

Choose a minimum of three from the following additional coursework acceptable upon approval of the program director.

• PSM 6012 Neuropsyhology Basic Principles
• PSM 6622 Counseling in Public Settings
• PSM 6485 Crisis Counseling
• PSM 6170 Sexuality and Gender Counseling
• PSM 6510 Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy Principles for Counseling
• PSM 6194 Principles of Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Counseling 
• PSM 6440 Couples and Family Counseling
• PSM 6450 Counseling with Children and Adolescents
• PSM 6484 Grief, Loss and Bereavement Counseling
• PSM 6182 Attachment Across the Lifespan
• PSM 6183 The Resilient Counselor
• PSA 6601 History and Systems of Psychology
• PSH 6930 Physiological Psychology
• PSA 6071 Psychopharmacology

1. Ferkauf accepts applications from students of various academic backgrounds; however, undergraduate (bachelor's) degrees must reflect a balanced curriculum including liberal arts and science components.
2. All applicants are required to take the General Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Please visit the Electronic Testing Services (ETS) Web site for testing locations and dates in your area, www.ets.org. The Institution Code for the General and Subject GREs is 2995.
3. The GRE Psychology Subject Test is a recommendation for applicants (especially those who are applying to the Combined School Clinical Child Psychology, PsyD Program) who will be earning or have earned a bachelor's and/or master's degree in psychology but is not a requirement. Applicants will not be penalized if they choose not to take this exam.
4. If you are an international student and English is not your primary language, we recommend that you take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The Institution Code for the TOEFL is 2883. Please send two copies of your TOEFL score record.

The Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling at Yeshiva University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Prospective students can explore federal and state financial aid programs, including Federal Pell Grants and loan options, which are available to eligible applicants. Yeshiva University also participates in the Federal Direct Loan Program, providing undergraduate and graduate students with access to student loans that can help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Additionally, students are encouraged to apply for institutional scholarships and grants, which are awarded based on merit and need. The university's financial aid office offers personalized assistance in navigating the application process for various funding sources, ensuring students understand their options and requirements.

Yeshiva University provides comprehensive guidance on financial planning, including budgeting advice and information about payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the semester or year. The university also offers work-study programs, enabling students to work part-time on campus in positions related to their field of study, which can help offset the cost of their education.

Moreover, many students pursue external scholarships from private foundations, community organizations, and professional associations in the mental health field. The university's career services office provides resources and counseling to help students identify and apply for these external funding sources. International students and those requiring additional support are advised to contact the financial aid office directly to learn about specialized options or payment plans tailored to their circumstances.

Overall, Yeshiva University is committed to making graduate education in Mental Health Counseling accessible and affordable through a combination of federal aid, institutional support, external scholarships, and flexible payment options. Students are encouraged to apply early and consult with financial aid advisors to maximize their financial aid packages and successfully fund their studies.

The Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling at Yeshiva University is designed to prepare students for professional practice in mental health settings. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories, assessment techniques, and therapeutic interventions tailored to diverse populations. Students gain practical skills through hands-on training, including internships and supervised clinical experiences, enabling them to effectively address mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. The curriculum integrates coursework in human development, multicultural competence, ethical and legal issues, and research methods, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and competent counselors. Yeshiva University’s program also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and ethical practice, reflecting its commitment to serving a diverse community. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue licensure as mental health counselors and work in various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, community agencies, schools, and private practice. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to advancing mental health practices and the well-being of their clients. The program benefits from small class sizes and personalized mentorship, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Overall, the Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Yeshiva University aligns with national standards and prepares students to meet the growing need for qualified mental health professionals in today’s society.