Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling

The Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Iowa is a comprehensive graduate degree designed to prepare students for impactful careers in helping individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, and other barriers to personal and professional development. This program integrates theoretic knowledge with practical application, equipping students with the skills necessary to serve diverse populations across a variety of settings, including clinical, community, and institutional environments. Emphasizing a person-centered approach, the curriculum covers core areas such as counseling techniques, mental health assessment, rehabilitation strategies, ethical and legal considerations, and cultural competency. Students are trained to develop individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans that promote independence, improve quality of life, and foster community integration.

The program is delivered through a combination of rigorous coursework, supervised clinical practicum, and fieldwork experiences that ensure students gain real-world exposure and competency in various counseling practices. Faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers in the field of rehabilitation and mental health counseling, providing mentorship and expertise to support student success. The curriculum aligns with current standards set by professional organizations such as the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring graduates meet industry requirements for licensure and certification.

Graduates of the Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program are equipped to work in a wide range of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, community mental health agencies, schools, and private practice. The program also prepares students for advanced roles in research, policy development, and program administration, contributing to the advancement of mental health and rehabilitation services. Upon completing the program, students will possess the competencies required for licensure as Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) and Rehabilitation Counselors, enabling them to pursue impactful careers dedicated to enhancing lives and fostering well-being in their communities.

Department Requirements

• RCE:4162 Introduction to Couple & Family Therapy -3 s.h.
• RCE:5202 Introduction to Group Counseling -3 s.h.
• RCE:5221 Theories of Counseling and Human Development Across the Life Span -3 s.h.
• RCE:5250 Multiculturalism in Helping Professions (or equivalent) -3 s.h.
• RCE:5270 Issues and Ethics in Counseling -3 s.h.
• RCE:6500 Research Methods in Counseling -3 s.h.

Clinical practice (see "Clinical Practice," below)   16 s.h.

Program Requirements

• RCE:5210 Rehabilitation Client Assessment -3 s.h.
• RCE:5241 Introduction to Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling and Case Management -3 s.h.
• RCE:5247 Medical Aspects of Disability -3 s.h.
• RCE:5248 Diagnosis and Treatment Planning for Rehabilitation -3 s.h.
• RCE:5249 Psychiatric Disorders and Interventions -3 s.h.
• RCE:6341 Job Development, Placement, and Follow-Up -3 s.h.
• RCE:6342 Psychosocial and Developmental Aspects -3 s.h.

Required Clinical Work

All of these:

• RCE:6348 Prepracticum in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling and Case Management -3 s.h.
• RCE:6349 Practicum in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling and Case Management -3 s.h.
• RCE:6350 Internship in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling I -3 s.h.
• RCE:6352 Internship in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling II -9-12 s.h.

Comprehensive Examination

In addition to the three-hour departmental comprehensive examination, another three-hour written examination on the process and practice of rehabilitation and mental health counseling is required. Exams are offered only during fall and spring semesters.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from a Regionally Accredited American College or University, or an equivalent degree from another country as determined by the Office of Admissions
• Undergraduate grade-point average (GPA) of 3.00 or better on a four-point scale
• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General test – verbal and quantitative
• A personal interview (in person or by telephone) with the faculty
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Official GRE scores from Educational Testing Service (the University’s institutional code is 6681)
• Official TOEFL scores may be required for some non-native speakers of English. A score of 550 or higher on the paper-based (PBT) version of the test, or a score of 81 or higher on the Internet-based version of the test (iBT).
• A statement of purpose, including a statement of your personal career objectives.
• Three letters of recommendation*

The Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Iowa offers a range of financial aid options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding sources to help manage the costs associated with graduate education. The university provides federal financial aid programs, including federal student loans such as Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad Plus Loans, which are available to qualified students. To apply for federal aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year, using the university’s Title IV school code. Additionally, the university offers institutional scholarships and assistantship opportunities specifically for graduate students enrolled in health-related programs. These may include research or teaching assistantships that provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for research or teaching duties. The program also encourages students to seek external funding sources, such as professional organization scholarships and grants related to rehabilitation and mental health counseling fields.

The University of Iowa’s Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships provides comprehensive guidance to help students navigate available options. Students are advised to start planning early to meet application deadlines and to ensure they maximize their financial resources. In some cases, students may be eligible for state-based grants or funding through specific departmental fellowships. Moreover, the university recommends exploring part-time employment opportunities on campus to supplement financial aid, which can also provide practical experience aligned with students’ career goals. The program’s tuition fees are competitive relative to similar programs nationwide, and the university offers detailed fee information through its official website. The financial aid process involves detailed documentation and adherence to application procedures, and prospective students are encouraged to consult with university financial aid advisors for personalized guidance.

Overall, the Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Iowa strives to make graduate education accessible by providing a variety of financial support options, including federal and institutional aid, scholarships, assistantships, external funding sources, and work opportunities. These resources are designed to reduce financial barriers and promote diversity and inclusion within the field. Students are advised to remain proactive in seeking financial assistance and to utilize the university’s resources fully to support their academic and professional development within the field of rehabilitation and mental health counseling.

The Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Iowa is designed to prepare students for careers as professional counselors specializing in rehabilitation and mental health services. The program emphasizes a comprehensive approach that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills necessary for effective counseling across diverse populations. Students engaging in this program gain expertise in counseling theories, assessment methods, and intervention strategies tailored to individuals with disabilities, mental health conditions, and those facing various life challenges.

The curriculum includes coursework in human development, counseling techniques, ethical and legal issues in counseling, group dynamics, and specialized training in mental health and rehabilitation services. Additionally, students participate in supervised practicum and internship experiences to develop real-world skills and build professional competencies. The program also emphasizes cultural competence, emphasizing understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds of clients, which prepares graduates to serve in multicultural settings.

Graduates of the Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program are equipped to work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, hospitals, and community agencies. They can obtain certification as licensed mental health counselors or rehabilitation counselors, depending on state regulations. The program’s faculty comprises experts in mental health, rehabilitation counseling, and related fields, ensuring students receive comprehensive mentorship and instruction from experienced professionals.

The University of Iowa’s program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring it meets rigorous standards for counselor education. Graduates are prepared to advocate for individuals with disabilities and mental health issues and to promote wellness and recovery. The program also encourages research and continuous professional development, fostering graduates who can contribute to advancements in the counseling field.

Overall, the Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Iowa offers a robust educational experience that combines academic coursework, practical training, and professional development opportunities, making it a leading choice for students aspiring to careers in mental health and rehabilitation counseling.