Explore Premier Counseling Psychology Programs Near Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, California renowned for its entertainment industry and diverse communities faces a growing gap in access to mental health services. California is projected to be short 5,000 mental health practitioners by 2026, driving an urgent need for expanded training pipelines, according to the Los Angeles Times. Meanwhile, more than one-third of the state’s population lives in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area, with large swaths of Los Angeles County designated as underserved, according to KFF. For students and professionals drawn to counseling psychology, Los Angeles offers top-tier Online Counseling Psychology Programs with many with online or hybrid options that combine academic rigor with extensive practicum partnerships at clinics, schools, and community agencies.
From master's degrees emphasizing multicultural counseling to doctoral tracks preparing you for licensure and independent practice, premier programs in the LA area adhere to American Psychological Association (APA) and California Board of Psychology standards. Whether you aim to work in private practice, schools, or community mental health centers, Los Angeles provides affordable and flexible pathways. Read on to explore program levels, admissions requirements, career outcomes, and financing strategies before viewing our curated list of premier counseling psychology programs near Los Angeles.
2025 Premier Counseling Psychology Programs Near Los Angeles, California
Looking for the best counseling psychology programs near Los Angeles, California in 2025? You're in the right place. At counselingpsychology.org, we've carefully ranked the top programs to help you find the perfect fit for your education and career goals. Our list highlights schools that stand out for their quality, faculty, and student support. Whether you're starting your journey or advancing your career, these programs offer the tools and knowledge you need. We believe in making your search easier by providing clear, reliable information. Want to know how we picked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for all the details.
Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, CA - Private 4-year - cui.edu
Doctorate - Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University-Irvine's Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision is tailored for licensed mental health professionals aiming to elevate their careers into academia, research, and leadership within the counseling psychology field. This online program, requiring two in-person residencies, is designed to be completed in 3-4 years, offering a blend of flexibility and intensive study. At $795 per unit, the curriculum spans 60 units, including 700 fieldwork hours, and is accredited by WSCUC. It stands out for its research-focused approach and integration of Christian thought leadership, preparing graduates to contribute significantly to the counseling profession without the need for an entrance exam.
- Online + 2 In-Person Residencies
- $795 Cost Per Unit
- 3-4 Year Accelerated Program
- WSCUC Accredited
- 700 Total Fieldwork Hours
- 60 Total Units Required
- License Professionals Only
- 2 Face-to-Face Residencies
- Christian Thought Leadership
- Research-Focused Curriculum
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Concentration: Preparation for Advanced Study in Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Massachusetts Global presents an online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Preparation for Advanced Study in Counseling, tailored for students targeting counseling careers. This program uniquely integrates psychological theories with real-world applications, setting a solid groundwork for future graduate studies in counseling. It delves into essential areas such as counseling fundamentals, the intricacies of family dynamics, the spectrum of community mental health, and the challenges associated with aging. Designed for flexibility, the program emphasizes achieving a 'C' or better in coursework, while cultivating essential skills like critical analysis, cultural sensitivity, and proficient scientific writing, all without the need for entrance exams like the ACT or SAT.
- Online program format.
- Focus on counseling preparation.
- Covers family dynamics.
- Includes community mental health.
- Addresses aging issues.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
- Requires 'C' or better.
- Builds critical thinking skills.
- Enhances cultural understanding.
- Develops scientific writing.
Why Pursue Counseling Psychology in Los Angeles?
Before exploring the options, consider why Los Angeles stands out as a destination for counseling psychology education. The region's multicultural population provides a living laboratory for exploring multicultural and social-justice perspectives in therapy. Major employers, from LAUSD to Cedars-Sinai, seek graduates trained in culturally responsive assessment and intervention. Premier programs here often partner with:
- Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health for community-based practicum.
- University-affiliated clinics offering sliding-scale services to underserved groups.
- School districts provide psychological services to diverse youth populations.
These partnerships ensure that even highly competitive, cost-effective programs deliver real-world training aligned with licensure requirements necessary for Counseling Schools in California
Program Levels & Curriculum Highlights
Counseling psychology training typically comes in three tiers: master's, specialist, and doctoral. Each level builds on core counseling theories, ethics, and research methods, with specialized electives and practicum hours.
Master's in Counseling Psychology
A Master's in Counseling Psychology (48–60 credits) balances theory and practice:
Programs cover foundational courses in:
- Human development and lifespan psychology
- Counseling theories (e.g., CBT, person-centered, family systems)
- Research design and statistics
- Ethics and legal issues in California practice
Students complete over 700 supervised practicum hours in settings such as community clinics and college counseling centers. Evening and weekend formats make it possible to work part-time. For detailed degree options, our Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Guide does a great job at outlining these details.
Master's in Mental Health Counseling
A Master's in Mental Health Counseling (60 credits) focuses on clinical assessment and treatment skills specific to mental health disorders:
Programs typically include:
- Psychopathology and diagnosis (DSM-5)
- Advanced counseling techniques for trauma, grief, and substance use
- Group counseling methods
- Supervised internships (1,000+ hours) in community mental health or private agencies
These degrees meet California LPCC licensure requirements.
Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT)
An MFT Program in California (60 credits) trains you for systemic therapy with families and couples:
Curriculum highlights:
- Family systems theory and interventions
- Child and adolescent therapy techniques
- Cultural and diversity considerations in family therapy
- 1,750 hours of combined coursework and clinical experience
Specialist & Doctoral Degrees
For advanced practice, Counseling Psychology PhD/PsyD or specialist EdS tracks (90+ credits) emphasize research, supervision, and leadership:
- EdS Programs provide focused training and an internship year, reducing time to licensure.
- Doctoral Programs involve dissertation research, teaching practicums, and 1,500+ supervised clinical hours.
Graduates pursue roles as supervisors, university faculty, or clinical directors.
Admission Requirements
Application criteria vary, but most premier counseling psychology programs require:
Before applying, gather:
| Requirement | Typical Expectation |
| Bachelor's Degree | Psychology, education, or a related field |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2–3 academic or professional references |
| Statement of Purpose | Articulating counseling philosophy and goals |
| Resume/CV | Highlighting relevant clinical/volunteer work |
| Transcripts | Officials from all post-secondary institutions |
Some programs also require the GRE or an admissions interview. Always verify program-specific requirements on the school’s website.
Career Paths & Specializations
Graduates of LA counseling psychology programs can work in:
- Private Practice: Providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
- Public Schools: Serving as school counselors or psychologists within LAUSD.
- Community Agencies: Leading mental health initiatives for underserved populations.
- Healthcare Settings: Integrating counseling services into hospitals and clinics.
- Higher Education: Offering student counseling services at universities like UCLA and USC.
Graduates of Los Angeles counseling psychology programs find roles across diverse settings—from private practice and community mental health centers to university counseling services and hospital outpatient clinics—helping individuals, couples, families, and specialized populations. Those particularly interested in school-based work can step into positions as school counselors or psychologists within LAUSD, collaborating on IEP teams, delivering social-emotional learning curricula, and supporting students through crisis intervention; for a deeper dive into these roles and their licensure pathways, explore School Psychologist Careers.
Practicum & Fieldwork Opportunities
Hands-on training is essential. Premier LA programs partner with:
- University counseling centers (e.g., UCLA Counseling & Psychological Services)
- Community mental health clinics offering pro bono services
- School districts for school-based internship placements
- Hospital outpatient programs for specialty populations (e.g., trauma, LGBTQ+ youth)
These supervised practicum experiences satisfy state licensure requirements and build professional networks.
Salary Expectations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles counselors earn competitive salaries reflecting urban demand:
| Role | Entry-Level | Median | Experienced |
| Licensed Professional Counselor (LPCC) | $50,000 | $65,000 | $85,000 |
| Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) | $55,000 | $70,000 | $90,000 |
| School Counselor | $45,000 | $60,000 | $75,000 |
Salaries vary by setting, credentials, and years of experience.
Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Strategies
Premier programs offer funding to reduce tuition costs:
- University scholarships and fellowships (e.g., CSU Chancellor's Doctoral Incentive)
- Teaching and research assistantships with stipends and tuition remission
- California state grants, such as Cal Grant and Chafee Grant
- Employer tuition reimbursement from school districts and health centers
Early application to funding sources can cover 50–100% of tuition expenses.
Balancing Flexibility, Quality & Cost
When selecting a program, weigh:
- Accreditation & Licensure Alignment: Ensure APA accreditation or CA Board approval.
- Program Format: Online, hybrid, or on-campus, based on your schedule.
- Practicum Support: Level of assistance in arranging field placements.
- Program Length & Cost: Compare total credits and per-unit rates.
- Local Partnerships: Strong ties to LA agencies enhance job placement.
How to Get Started
Kick off your application process:
- Research programs that match your career goals and budget.
- Attend virtual info sessions to ask questions about the curriculum and support.
- Gather application materials early to meet fall and winter deadlines.
- Explore funding opportunities through your financial aid office.
- Connect with alumni via LinkedIn or your school’s network to learn about their experiences.
Take the Next Step
Los Angeles offers some of the nation's most dynamic, culturally responsive, and premier counseling psychology programs. With flexible formats, robust practicum partnerships, and comprehensive support, you can launch a fulfilling career serving diverse populations across schools, clinics, and private practice.
Begin your journey today—Los Angeles communities are waiting for your expertise.
Sources
- L.A. County tries to hire mental health workers, fast Los Angeles Times
- Mental Health Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) KFF
- Ending the Shortage of Licensed Therapists in California California Health Care Foundation
- Counseling Schools in California
