Discover Top-Rated Counseling Psychology Programs Near Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for those pursuing careers in counseling psychology. With a blend of urban and Appalachian populations, the region presents complex mental health challenges that require culturally competent, community-centered professionals. According to the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, access to qualified behavioral health providers remains a priority across East Tennessee, making Knoxville a key training ground for future counselors.
Top-rated counseling psychology programs in the area equip students with the clinical skills, research literacy, and ethical foundation needed to work in private practice, schools, healthcare systems, and community mental health settings. Whether seeking licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or preparing for doctoral study, students in Knoxville benefit from a combination of academic rigor and real-world experience.
2025 Discover Top-Rated Counseling Psychology Programs Near Knoxville, Tennessee
Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, TN - Private 4-year - cn.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Carson-Newman University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program offers a comprehensive hybrid learning experience designed to transform aspiring mental health professionals. With CACREP accreditation and a remarkable 100% post-graduation placement rate, students gain critical skills through a rigorous 60-credit curriculum. The program strategically prepares graduates for LPC and LMFT licensure, emphasizing ethical practice and serving diverse populations. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA, comprehensive resume, compelling statement of purpose, and personal interview. Financial flexibility includes federal loan options and convenient payment plans, ensuring accessible advanced counseling education.
- 60 credit hours
- Hybrid online and onsite
- CACREP accredited
- 100% placement rate
- Prepares for LPC and LMFT
- 3.0 GPA required
- Resume and statement needed
- Interview required
- Financial aid available
- Payment plans offered
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Carson-Newman University's School Counseling Master's program provides an innovative hybrid pathway for educators pursuing licensure across pre-K through 12th-grade settings. This 60-credit CACREP-accredited program combines online and onsite learning, delivering comprehensive training with a 100% post-graduation placement guarantee. Students benefit from personalized faculty mentorship, hands-on practical experiences, and professional development opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes real-world counseling skills and prepares candidates for Tennessee licensure. Admission requires a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, reflective statement of purpose, and collaborative interview process, making it an ideal choice for dedicated educational counseling professionals.
- Hybrid online and onsite format.
- 60 credit hours required.
- CACREP accredited.
- 100% placement rate.
- Personal faculty advisors.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Financial aid available.
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement.
- Statement of purpose required.
- Interview part of admission.
Maryville College
Maryville, TN - Private 4-year - maryvillecollege.edu
Bachelor's - Psychology-Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
Nestled in Tennessee, Maryville College's Psychology-Counseling program offers a comprehensive pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. The curriculum strategically blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing neuroscience, abnormal psychology, and advanced counseling techniques. Students receive rigorous preparation for graduate studies and immediate social service roles, benefiting from a supportive faculty network and hands-on learning experiences. The program's holistic approach cultivates critical thinking and interpersonal skills essential for diverse mental health career trajectories. With a strong Presbyterian Church (USA) affiliation and military-friendly designation, the program provides an inclusive and supportive academic environment for students passionate about understanding human behavior and psychological well-being.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
- Solid foundation in behavior science.
- Includes neuroscience courses.
- Hands-on learning opportunities.
- Supportive faculty network.
- Ideal for mental health careers.
- Covers counseling techniques.
- Abnormal psychology included.
- Social service career ready.
- Diverse career paths available.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN - Public 4-Year - utk.edu
Master's - Counseling Major, MS
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Master of Science in Counseling represents a comprehensive professional training program designed to produce highly skilled mental health professionals. CACREP-accredited, this 60-credit, 2.5-year curriculum provides over 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, positioning graduates for successful licensure as professional counselors. The program's innovative approach emphasizes diversity, personal growth, and experiential learning, ensuring students develop robust therapeutic skills and professional competencies. Focused on preparing compassionate, culturally responsive counselors, the curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with extensive practical training, enabling students to navigate complex clinical environments and effectively support diverse client populations.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-credit hour curriculum
- 1000+ supervised clinical hours
- Prepares for LPC-MHSP licensure
- 2.5-year program length
- Focus on diversity and inclusion
- Experiential learning approach
- Personal and professional development
- Rigorous academic coursework
- Supports individual career goals
Master's - MS in Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's MS in Counseling offers specialized pathways in Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling, crafting counselor-advocate-scholars for diverse professional settings. This CACREP-accredited program eliminates GRE requirements, utilizing a holistic admissions process that values individual potential. With a comprehensive two-year full-time format and flexible part-time options, students engage in 100-hour practicums and 600-hour internships, ensuring extensive hands-on training. The curriculum strategically develops professional identity, advanced clinical skills, and licensure preparation, positioning graduates for successful careers across multiple counseling domains while maintaining a strong commitment to inclusive, effective mental health practice.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60 credit hours required.
- Face-to-face format in Knoxville.
- Full-time over two years.
- Part-time options available.
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration.
- School Counseling concentration.
- Dual option available.
- 100-hour practicum included.
- 600-hour internship required.
Doctorate - Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Program
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Program distinguishes itself through a pioneering scientist-practitioner-advocate training model. Strategically admitting only five students annually, the program provides an intensely personalized educational experience focused on cultivating ethical researchers and culturally competent clinicians. Students develop advanced skills in research methodologies, clinical intervention, and systemic social justice advocacy. With APA accreditation since 1980, the program emphasizes comprehensive training that prepares graduates to address complex mental health challenges while promoting equitable community empowerment. The curriculum integrates rigorous academic preparation with hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring students emerge as transformative professionals ready to make meaningful contributions to counseling psychology.
- APA Accredited Since 1980
- Scientist-Practitioner-Advocate Model
- 5 Students Admitted Annually
- Diverse Student Body Welcomed
- Research-Informed Clinical Practice
Johnson University
Knoxville, TN - Private 4-year - johnsonu.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's Master of Arts in Counseling with Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration offers a comprehensive 63-credit professional pathway emphasizing holistic Christian perspectives. Students engage in extensive clinical training, completing 1000 clinical hours through practicum and internship experiences at the University Counseling Center and community settings. CACREP-accredited, the program provides flexible completion options ranging from 2.5 to 5 years, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skill development. Designed to prepare graduates for professional licensure, the curriculum blends in-class discussions, experiential activities, and online learning modalities. The program's low student-faculty ratio ensures personalized instruction and comprehensive mental health counseling preparation.
- 63 credit hours.
- 1000 clinical hours.
- CACREP accredited.
- Christian atmosphere.
- Flexible completion options.
- On-campus and online learning.
- Low student-faculty ratio.
- Prepares for licensure.
- Diverse teaching modalities.
- Practicum on Tennessee campus.
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson University's Master of Arts in Counseling featuring a School Counseling concentration prepares students for Tennessee Licensed Professional School Counselor certification through a rigorous 60-credit curriculum. The program uniquely combines theoretical training with practical experience in primary and secondary educational environments. Students complete over 600 practicum and internship hours, gaining hands-on professional skills within a supportive Christian atmosphere. Offering flexible completion options between 2.5 to 5 years, the program supports diverse learning needs with multiple teaching modalities. Financial aid and scholarships are available, making this program an accessible pathway for aspiring school counseling professionals seeking comprehensive educational training.
- 60 credit hours.
- School Counseling concentration.
- Over 600 practicum hours.
- Christian holistic atmosphere.
- Flexible completion options.
- Diverse teaching modalities.
- Tennessee licensure eligible.
- Financial aid available.
- Scholarships offered.
- Admission deadlines apply.
Knoxville's Role in Counseling Psychology Workforce Development
As the third-largest city in Tennessee, Knoxville plays a vital role in addressing mental health care needs throughout the Appalachian region. The area faces challenges including opioid misuse, rural mental health disparities, and a shortage of bilingual and trauma-informed providers. Counseling psychology programs in the region have responded with specialized training tracks, including coursework in addiction counseling, multicultural competence, and crisis response.
Knoxville is also home to growing networks of mental health clinics, school-based support services, and nonprofit organizations offering practicum and internship placements. These community partnerships allow students to work with diverse populations while fulfilling clinical hour requirements for licensure.
Program Options and Career Pathways in Counseling Psychology
The field of counseling psychology is broad, and students have several educational paths depending on their goals. Knoxville-based programs may prepare students for licensure, doctoral study, or applied roles in related mental health services.
Master's Degrees in Counseling Psychology
Master's-level counseling psychology programs typically emphasize direct service delivery, human development, counseling theory, and applied research. Graduates may pursue LPC licensure in Tennessee or work in roles such as school counselor, clinical case manager, or mental health clinician. Most programs take 2–3 years to complete and include supervised clinical placements.
Doctoral-Level Training
Ph.D. and PsyD counseling psychology programs offer deeper specialization in assessment, supervision, psychological testing, and advanced research. These programs are well-suited for those interested in private practice, academic careers, or clinical leadership roles. Doctoral students typically complete internships in local hospitals, community agencies, or integrated healthcare settings.
Dual-Degree or Certificate Tracks
Some programs in the Knoxville region also offer additional credentials in substance abuse counseling, school psychology, or marriage and family therapy. These options enhance career flexibility and may be particularly valuable in rural and underserved communities.
Clinical Training and Licensure Preparation in Tennessee
A major component of counseling psychology education is supervised clinical experience. Tennessee's Board for Licensed Professional Counselors requires:
- A qualifying graduate degree (master's or doctoral)
- 1,000 hours of supervised practicum/internship during the degree
- 3,000 post-master's supervised clinical hours (for LPCs)
- A passing score on the National Counselor Examination (NCE)
In Knoxville, practicum sites may include community mental health centers, public school systems, youth services agencies, and rural outreach programs. These settings not only fulfill licensure requirements but also expose students to the real-world challenges of behavioral health delivery in the region.
Unique Strengths of Counseling Psychology Programs in Knoxville
Top-rated programs in Knoxville often stand out for their:
Regional and Cultural Relevance
Programs reflect the unique cultural and socioeconomic context of East Tennessee, preparing students to serve rural, Appalachian, and justice-involved populations with sensitivity and skill.
Community-Based Learning
Strong ties with local organizations allow students to gain direct experience with:
- School-based mental health
- Addiction recovery centers
- Veterans and military families
- Crisis stabilization units
These placements enhance job readiness and often lead to employment opportunities after graduation.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Many programs offer part-time, online, or evening coursework to accommodate working professionals. This accessibility supports broader participation in the counseling psychology workforce pipeline.
Faculty and Mentorship
Faculty in the Knoxville region often bring both academic and clinical expertise. Many are engaged in research on trauma, social justice, or rural mental health, offering mentorship that aligns with student interests and regional needs.
Knoxville Job Outlook for Counseling Psychology Graduates
Graduates from Knoxville-based programs are well-positioned for employment across a range of settings:
- Outpatient clinics and behavioral health centers
- K–12 and college counseling offices
- Nonprofit organizations and crisis hotlines
- Private practice (post-licensure)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for mental health counselors in Tennessee is approximately $50,510. However, those in supervisory, clinical director, or private practice roles may earn significantly more.
Knoxville's growing investment in mental health infrastructure, combined with high regional demand, creates a promising environment for early-career professionals.
Sample Counseling Psychology Career Outcomes in Tennessee
| Role | Average Salary (TN) | Work Setting |
| Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) | $50,510 | Community clinics, private practice |
| School Counselor | $57,140 | Public and private K–12 schools |
| Clinical Supervisor | $65,000–$75,000 | Behavioral health agencies |
Tips for Choosing a Counseling Psychology Program in Knoxville
When comparing programs, consider the following criteria:
- Accreditation: Confirm that the program is CACREP-accredited or aligned with state licensure requirements.
- Clinical Support: Look for programs with strong practicum partnerships and internship support.
- Faculty Specializations: Review faculty bios to see if their work aligns with your interests.
- Financial Considerations: Explore tuition rates, assistantships, scholarships, and part-time options.
- Graduate Outcomes: Inquire about licensure exam pass rates and job placement statistics.
These factors help ensure that your training is not only rigorous but also relevant to long-term career goals.
Supporting the Mental Health of East Tennessee Communities
Choosing a counseling program in Tennessee is not just a career move; it is a commitment to addressing mental health disparities in one of the most diverse and underserved regions in the southeastern United States. With strong program options, community-focused training, and abundant clinical opportunities, Knoxville offers a strategic and supportive environment for launching a career in counseling psychology.
Sources
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
- National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
- Tennessee Board for Licensed Professional Counselors
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Mental Health Counselors
- Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
