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.
2026 Discover Top-Rated Counseling Psychology Programs Near Knoxville, Tennessee
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 pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. This CACREP-accredited 60-credit program delivers over 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, strategically preparing students for professional counselor licensure in Tennessee. The curriculum blends rigorous academic coursework with extensive practical training, emphasizing personal growth, diversity, and therapeutic relationship development. Graduates emerge equipped with advanced clinical skills, ready to address complex mental health needs. While no specific concentration is highlighted, the program ensures holistic professional preparation with a notable admission policy that does not require GRE scores, focusing instead on a holistic evaluation of candidate potential.
- 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 two specialized concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Designed as a comprehensive two-year program with flexible part-time options, this CACREP-accredited curriculum prepares counselor-advocate-scholars for diverse professional environments. Students benefit from 100-hour practicum and 600-hour internship experiences, ensuring robust practical training. The program uniquely distinguishes itself by not requiring GRE scores, instead implementing a holistic admissions process. With a strong focus on professional identity development and licensure preparation, graduates are well-positioned for successful careers in counseling, meeting educational requirements for Tennessee and most state licensure pathways.
- 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 Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology stands out as an innovative program emphasizing a scientist-practitioner-advocate training model. With an exclusive annual admission of approximately 5 students, the program ensures highly personalized education and comprehensive skill development. Students engage in cutting-edge research, culturally sensitive clinical practice, and systemic interventions targeting social inequities. The program welcomes diverse student backgrounds and provides full funding, positioning graduates as ethical researchers and social justice advocates. GRE requirements are standard for admission, with a strong emphasis on preparing professionals who can effectively address complex mental health challenges and promote community empowerment.
- 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 Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program stands out with its comprehensive 63-credit curriculum designed for professional licensure preparation. Students engage in a uniquely Christian educational environment that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and extensive practical training. The program's hallmark is its substantial 1000 clinical hours, allowing students to develop robust counseling skills through practicum and internship experiences at the University Counseling Center and community settings. CACREP-accredited and offering flexible completion timelines between 2.5-5 years, this program integrates in-class discussions, experiential learning, and online modules to cultivate well-rounded mental health professionals.
- 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 School Counseling Master's concentration provides a specialized pathway to becoming a Licensed Professional School Counselor in Tennessee. Spanning 60 credit hours, the program distinguishes itself through a holistic Christian educational approach that balances theoretical knowledge with practical school-based experiences. Students complete over 600 practicum and internship hours in primary and secondary educational settings, ensuring comprehensive preparation for professional practice. The curriculum offers remarkable flexibility, accommodating various student schedules with completion options ranging from 2.5 to 5 years. Diverse instructional methods and a commitment to professional development make this program an excellent choice for aspiring school counselors.
- 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.
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 dynamic hybrid learning experience that comprehensively prepares students for professional counseling careers. Requiring 60 credit hours and CACREP accreditation, the program uniquely supports students through a 100% post-graduation placement rate. Graduates are positioned to obtain LPC and LMFT licensure in Tennessee, with a strong emphasis on ethical practice and serving diverse populations. The admission process demands a competitive 3.0 GPA, comprehensive resume, purposeful statement, and personal interview. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, supportive faculty mentorship, and flexible financial aid options including federal loans and payment plans.
- 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 aspiring pre-K through 12th-grade counselors. Spanning 60 credit hours with CACREP accreditation, the program delivers exceptional professional preparation through personalized faculty advising and immersive learning experiences. Graduates enjoy a remarkable 100% placement rate, with comprehensive training tailored for educational counseling settings. Admission requirements include a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, compelling statement of purpose, and personal interview. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience, professional development, and creating supportive learning environments, positioning students for successful careers in school counseling.
- 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
Maryville College's Psychology-Counseling program delivers a comprehensive educational pathway designed to cultivate advanced understanding of human behavioral dynamics. Students receive intensive training in neuroscience, counseling techniques, and abnormal psychology, preparing them for impactful careers in mental health and social services. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical knowledge with practical experiences, enabling graduates to seamlessly transition into graduate studies or professional roles. With a supportive faculty network and emphasis on hands-on learning, the program equips students with critical analytical skills and compassionate intervention strategies. Military-friendly and rooted in Presbyterian Church (USA) values, Maryville College provides a holistic educational environment that nurtures professional growth and personal development in psychological sciences.
- 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.
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)
