Graduate Certificates in Mental Health Counseling
Mental health counseling with advanced training prepares you to work with more types of clients. If you are interested in increasing your abilities with clients in counseling, this is a great opportunity. Learn how to work with patients in more modalities as you become better versed in mental health counseling.
Here is what you can expect to learn while in mental health counseling training, as well as how to apply to a program. Get started on the pathway to success with the right tools you need to excel in mental health counseling.
2025 Best Online Graduate Certificates in Mental Health Counseling
Looking for the best online graduate certificates in mental health counseling? At counselingpsychology.org, we've ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Online programs offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with work or family. They're perfect for those who need distance learning options. Our rankings highlight programs that stand out for quality and value. Want to know how we picked them? Check out our rankings methodology for details.
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY - Public 4-Year - buffalo.edu
Graduate Certificate - Mental Health Counseling Advanced Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University at Buffalo offers an online Mental Health Counseling Advanced Certificate, accredited by New York State, aimed at preparing students for licensure as mental health counselors within the state. This program stands out for its focus on multicultural competence, social justice, and ethical practice, providing a robust foundation for those looking to enter the counseling field. With the flexibility of full-time or part-time study options, students can tailor their learning to fit their schedules, completing the program in 1 to 2 years. The curriculum requires 15-27 credit hours, depending on prior education, and emphasizes both personal and professional growth. No entrance exam is required for this online program, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
- Online program
- 1 to 2 years duration
- 15-27 credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- New York State accredited
- Prepares for licensure
- Focuses on diversity
- Emphasizes ethical practice
- Multicultural competence
- Social justice focus
- Personal growth emphasis
- Professional development
- Flexible scheduling
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Research-supported methods
Troy University
Troy, AL - Public 4-Year - troy.edu
Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Troy University's Post-Master's Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is an online program designed for mental health professionals looking to advance their clinical skills. This program requires 15 semester hours, including internships and elective courses focused on clinical mental health counseling. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree in counseling, professional references, and an interview. It's perfect for those aiming to enhance their ability to diagnose and treat mental health disorders without pursuing another full degree. The program is military-friendly and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible for professionals seeking flexibility and specialization.
- Online program format
- 15 semester hours required
- Includes internships
- For master's degree holders
- Focuses on clinical skills
- Elective courses available
- Admission interview required
- Professional references needed
- Enhances diagnosis skills
- Improves treatment planning
Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Counseling at Troy University is a hybrid program offering specialized training in infant and early childhood mental wellness. This 15-semester hour program includes online coursework and a 400-hour internship with two intensive face-to-face days, focusing on neuroscience, assessment, and reflective supervision. Aimed at graduate-level professionals, it requires a minimum 3.0 GPA for admission. The program is aligned with Alabama guidelines and is military-friendly, providing practical skills for working with diverse families and young children. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing accessibility for professionals in counseling, psychology, and education.
- 100% Online Coursework
- 15 Semester Hours Total
- 400-Hour Internship Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Needed
- Two Face-to-Face Intensive Days
- Aligned with Alabama Guidelines
- Multiple Professional Entry Options
- Specialized Mental Health Focus
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO - Private 4-year - ccu.edu
Graduate Certificate - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Colorado Christian University offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a CACREP-accredited program tailored for those aiming to blend professional counseling skills with Christian values. This online and hybrid program requires no entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students. Spanning 60 credit hours and including 700 hours of practicum and internship, it prepares graduates for licensure exams such as the National Counselor Exam. With options to specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy or Substance Use Disorders, the program is designed for completion in approximately 30 months. Admission criteria include a bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Ideal for busy adults, this program integrates faith with counseling principles for a comprehensive educational experience.
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 total credit hours
- Online and hybrid formats
- 700 hours of practicum/internship
- Optional emphases available
- Prepares for licensure exams
- Christian faith integration
- Designed for busy adults
- 2.5 GPA admission requirement
- 30 months completion time
University of South Dakota
Vermillion, SD - Public 4-Year - usd.edu
Graduate Certificate - Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Dakota offers an online Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate tailored for professionals aiming to fulfill 60-credit hour licensure requirements in states such as South Dakota. This CACREP-approved program is entirely online, focusing on areas like clinical supervision, co-occurring disorder counseling, psychopathology, and psychopharmacology. With a requirement of 12 credit hours, courses are available in fall, summer, and spring, making it flexible for working professionals. Applicants must submit an application, fee, official transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Importantly, students are advised to confirm with their state licensing board whether this program aligns with their licensure needs. No entrance exam is mentioned as required.
- 100% online delivery
- 12 credit hours required
- CACREP approved curriculum
- Specialized training areas
- Courses offered seasonally
- Admission documents required
- For licensure enhancement
- Check state licensure requirements
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA - Private 4-year - regent.edu
Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Graduate Studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Regent University's online Certificate of Graduate Studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is tailored for professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in mental health care. This program, blending online flexibility with rigorous academic standards, focuses on advanced counseling techniques, diagnostic skills, and trauma-informed interventions. With a curriculum grounded in a Christian worldview, it prepares students for enhanced clinical practice or additional credentialing. The program spans 9 credit hours at $730 per credit, totaling around $6,570, and does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to licensed professionals seeking to expand their knowledge in psychopathology, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment without the hurdle of standardized testing.
- Online and on-campus options
- 9 total credit hours
- Cost per credit: $730
- Christian worldview integration
- Advanced clinical training
- Focused on mental health counseling
- Professional endorsement credential
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA - Public 4-Year - uni.edu
Graduate Certificate - Advanced Studies Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Northern Iowa offers an Advanced Studies Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, tailored for school counselors seeking to fulfill Iowa's Licensed Mental Health Counselor criteria. This 18-credit, CACREP-accredited online program emphasizes brain-based, evidence-based, and holistic counseling techniques, with a special focus on rural mental health. Participants will develop expertise in mental health diagnosis, psychopathology, and psychopharmacology. Admission prerequisites include a master's degree in school counseling from a CACREP-accredited institution and two years of post-master's counseling experience. Designed for summer cohort starts, the program equips graduates to enhance mental health services in underserved areas, without requiring an entrance exam.
- Entirely online
- 18 credits
- Cohort every summer
- Focus on rural mental health
- CACREP-accredited
- Skills in diagnosis
- Evidence-based interventions
- Holistic counseling approaches
- Requires master's degree
- Two years experience needed
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX - Public 4-Year - lamar.edu
Graduate Certificate - Program Certificate in Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lamar University offers an online Program Certificate in Mental Health Counseling designed for master's-level graduates seeking to fulfill Texas' LPC licensure prerequisites. This 18-hour program enhances counseling skills through specialized courses in psychopathology, ethics, and family counseling, equipping students for impactful careers in mental health. With its affordable tuition and flexible online format, the program is ideal for working professionals. Applicants must hold a master's in counseling and maintain a 3.0 GPA. No entrance exam is required, making it an accessible option for those aiming to advance their counseling credentials and pursue licensure in Texas.
- 18-hour bridge program
- Online learning format
- Affordable tuition
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Master's degree required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Courses in psychopathology
- Advanced ethics focus
- Family counseling included
- Flexible for professionals
Butler University
Indianapolis, IN - Private 4-year - butler.edu
Graduate Certificate - Licensed Mental Health Counselor Certificate
Online Learning - Visit Website
Butler University offers an online Licensed Mental Health Counselor Certificate program tailored for individuals seeking to fulfill Indiana's licensure prerequisites, with possible reciprocity in other states. Priced at $580 per credit-hour, this 100% online program requires completion of 12 credit hours through four courses, emphasizing mental health counseling fundamentals, practical skills, community engagement, and clinical practice. Ideal candidates are school counseling graduates or those holding a 48-credit-hour master’s in counseling, boasting a 3.5 GPA, and having completed 700 practicum/internship hours. An interview is part of the admission process. The program supports multicultural awareness and crisis management, with federal financial aid available for eligible students.
- 100% online format
- $580 per credit-hour
- 12 credit hours required
- Four courses total
- Focus on mental health counseling
- Open to out-of-state students
- 3.5 GPA requirement
- 700 practicum/internship hours needed
- Interview required
- Federal financial aid available
- Designed for school counseling graduates
- Meets Indiana licensure requirements
- Potential reciprocity in other states
- Asynchronous instruction
- Experienced instructors
- Multicultural awareness emphasis
- Community and agency focus
- Clinical documentation skills
- Crisis management training
- Professional staffing of cases
Salve Regina University
Newport, RI - Private 4-year - salve.edu
Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Mental Health
Concentration: Rehabilitation Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
Salve Regina University offers an online Graduate Certificate in Mental Health with a concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling, designed for professionals who already hold a master's degree in counseling. This program is structured to prepare students for state licensure as mental health counselors, emphasizing advocacy and the application of evidence-based practices. The curriculum integrates psychology, education, and behavioral sciences to equip graduates with the skills needed to assist individuals facing disabilities and mental health challenges. Priced at $2,190 per course, the program offers flexible payment plans and is eligible for tuition reimbursement. Admission necessitates a master's degree in a related field, and the program includes internship opportunities for practical experience. Notably, it is recognized as a Military Friendly School and supports veterans' benefits, making it an excellent choice for those looking to specialize in rehabilitation counseling within the mental health sector.
- Online program format.
- Four-course curriculum.
- $2,190 per course.
- Master's degree required.
- Focus on rehabilitation counseling.
- Prepares for state licensure.
- Evidence-based practices.
- Internship opportunities included.
- Flexible payment options.
- Tuition reimbursement available.
- Eligible for federal loans.
- Veterans benefits approved.
- Military Friendly School.
- Advocacy and accessibility focus.
- Interdisciplinary curriculum.
Manhattan College
Riverdale, NY - Private 4-year - manhattan.edu
Graduate Certificate - Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Manhattan College offers an Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling, a 27-credit post-master's hybrid program tailored for professionals aiming for licensure in New York State. This program equips clinicians with the skills needed for diverse mental health settings, focusing on advanced assessment and intervention techniques. It's designed for those with a master's in counseling or counseling psychology, blending online coursework with practical training. The curriculum meets New York's educational requirements for independent practice, emphasizing clinical skills development. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for qualified candidates. This program stands out for its licensure preparation and flexible hybrid format, ideal for working professionals.
- 27-credit post-master's program
- Licensure qualifying in New York
- Prepares for mental health clinical practice
- Requires master's degree in counseling
- Blended learning format available
What Will I Learn in an Online Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate Program?
While training in a mental health counseling program leading to a graduate-level certificate, you will cover a variety of topics. This includes clinical counseling and applied therapy coursework that exposes you to interview principles. Learn how to engage with patients in a number of practice areas in a professional way when you complete this certificate course.
Keep in mind that this is an advanced-level mental health counseling program. You will already have a general framework of counseling and therapy from undergraduate-level counseling courses. Therefore, you will be prepared to take the courses that are typical of mental health counseling and therapy.
These courses in mental health counseling will provide advanced-level training in clinical counseling theories. This includes training on how to identify and treat common mental health conditions. Coursework also covers ethics and the ethical treatment of patients during counseling. Evidence-based practices are provided that cover a wide range of individuals, groups, and families. Some topics that you may cover include:
- Clinical diagnosis of patients with mental health issues
- Substance abuse disorder counseling
- Advanced counseling techniques
- Marriage and family therapy
- Counseling for religious groups
- Career counseling and development
- Counseling research and evaluation
- Social diversity
- Cultural diversity
- Family and couple counseling
- Ethics and professional organization
- Human growth and development
Succeed at providing more accurate diagnoses and treatments for patients while in practice with this certificate. Find out more about how to begin training with information about admission to a program that will lead to your mental health counseling certificate. This will prepare you for the job market or help you be able to work with more types of patients.
Admissions Requirements for a Mental Health Certificate
As you prepare to start a program in mental health counseling leading to a graduate certificate, there are some areas that must be attended to. Start by locating your school and academic records for any of your previous colleges and degrees.
This includes any prior certificate programs you have successfully completed. You may also be required to request letters of recommendation from past colleagues or professors.
While most of the schools are currently offering 100 percent remote and online training for mental health counseling, you may still be required to submit traditional application documents. This is the typical process of applying to a college or technical institute.
You may also be required to submit health insurance information and get a drug screen to be eligible to work with patients in a clinical setting. This will depend on the type of certificate program and school you are applying to for admission.
- Applicants should have a graduate degree, such as a preferred Master’s Degree of Arts in Counseling degree
- Previous therapy, counseling, and mental health training with patients
- College transcripts and work records, such as a resume
- Letters of recommendation from employers and professors
- Personal essay or statement of intent
- Application fees
Once you are accepted into a mental health counseling program, you will earn the certificate you need to exceed at your job.
2025 Affordable Grad Certificates in Mental Health Counseling Program Options
Finding affordable grad certificates in mental health counseling is key for students across the USA. These programs help start careers without high debt. The table lists options with their tuition range and highlights. It shows how low-cost and cost-effective choices make education reachable. Whether in big cities or smaller towns, these 2025 programs offer paths to advance in mental health. They prove quality education doesn't have to break the bank.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Lamar University |
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| Texas Tech University |
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| University of North Carolina at Pembroke |
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2025 Shortest Mental Health Counseling Grad Certificate Program Options
Finding the shortest mental health counseling graduate certificate programs can help you start your career faster. These programs are designed for those who want to enter the field quickly. The table lists options across the USA, with details on program highlights, graduation rates, and retention rates. Fastest programs save time while providing essential skills. This is ideal for students eager to begin working in mental health counseling by 2025. Whether you're in a big city or a smaller town, there are quickest options available to fit your needs.
| School Name | Highlights | Retention & Grad Rates |
|---|---|---|
| University at Buffalo |
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| University of Northern Iowa |
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| Colorado Christian University |
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List of Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate Programs
Find an online or campus-based graduate certificate program in mental health counseling today – our state-by-state listings make it easy to find a great program near you.
Alabama
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Counseling
Concentration: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- 15 Semester Hours Total
- 400-Hour Internship Required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA Needed
- Two Face-to-Face Intensive Days
- Aligned with Alabama Guidelines
- Multiple Professional Entry Options
- Specialized Mental Health Focus
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Online program format
- 15 semester hours required
- Includes internships
- For master's degree holders
- Focuses on clinical skills
- Elective courses available
- Admission interview required
- Professional references needed
California
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto University
- Graduate Certificate - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- CACREP accredited
- Online and hybrid formats
- Two-year program
- Focus on social justice
- No GRE required
- 700 fieldwork hours
- Flexible for working adults
- Prepares for LPCC licensure
Colorado
Lakewood, CO
Colorado Christian University
- Graduate Certificate - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60 total credit hours
- Online and hybrid formats
- 700 hours of practicum/internship
- Optional emphases available
- Prepares for licensure exams
- Christian faith integration
- Designed for busy adults
Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
University of Northern Iowa
- Graduate Certificate - Advanced Studies Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Entirely online
- 18 credits
- Cohort every summer
- Focus on rural mental health
- CACREP-accredited
- Skills in diagnosis
- Evidence-based interventions
- Holistic counseling approaches
Des Moines, IA
Grand View University
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 24-credit online graduate certificate
- No GRE required
- Transfer up to 12 credits
- Local internship opportunities
- Flexible seven-week online courses
- Meets Iowa licensing requirements
- Focus on multicultural competence
Illinois
Peoria, IL
Bradley University
- Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate Program in Clinical Mental Health
Online Learning - Website
- 12 credit hours required.
- CACREP accreditation preferred.
- Focus on clinical mental health.
- Includes ethics and law.
- Diagnosis and treatment courses.
- Clinical supervision included.
- Electives available.
- For licensed professionals.
Indiana
Indianapolis, IN
Butler University
- Graduate Certificate - Licensed Mental Health Counselor Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online format
- $580 per credit-hour
- 12 credit hours required
- Four courses total
- Focus on mental health counseling
- Open to out-of-state students
- 3.5 GPA requirement
- 700 practicum/internship hours needed
North Carolina
Pembroke, NC
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- CACREP-Accredited required
- Focus on clinical mental health
- Financial aid available
- Includes field experience
- Covers diagnosis and treatment
- Addictions counseling included
- For UNCP School Counseling graduates
North Dakota
Bismarck, ND
University of Mary
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 15-credit program
- Hybrid format available
- $640 per credit
- Flexible scheduling
- Focus on licensure requirements
- Interactive video conferencing
- Evening classes option
- For master's level counselors
New Jersey
Ewing, NJ
The College of New Jersey
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Post-Master's Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 15-credit program
- Online delivery
- Mix of synchronous/asynchronous
- $686 per credit
- No GRE required
- Rolling admissions
- Prepares for licensure
- Advanced training areas
New York
Brockport, NY
SUNY Brockport
- Graduate Certificate - Mental Health Counseling Bridge (CAS)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 15 credit-hour program
- Hybrid learning format
- Master's degree required
- B or higher grades needed
- Prepares for NYS licensure
- Includes clinical courses
- Three letters of recommendation
- Transcripts required
Buffalo, NY
University at Buffalo
- Graduate Certificate - Mental Health Counseling Advanced Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- 1 to 2 years duration
- 15-27 credit hours
- Full-time or part-time options
- New York State accredited
- Prepares for licensure
- Focuses on diversity
- Emphasizes ethical practice
Riverdale, NY
Manhattan College
- Graduate Certificate - Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 27-credit post-master's program
- Licensure qualifying in New York
- Prepares for mental health clinical practice
- Requires master's degree in counseling
- Blended learning format available
Oregon
Newberg, OR
George Fox University
- Graduate Certificate - Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- Flexible online/in-person.
- 2-4 years completion.
- 60 credit hours.
- $826 per credit.
- Prepares for LPC licensure.
- Spiritual integration focus.
- Diverse clinical settings.
Rhode Island
Newport, RI
Salve Regina University
- Graduate Certificate - Graduate Certificate in Mental Health
Concentration: Rehabilitation Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- Online program format.
- Four-course curriculum.
- $2,190 per course.
- Master's degree required.
- Focus on rehabilitation counseling.
- Prepares for state licensure.
- Evidence-based practices.
- Internship opportunities included.
South Dakota
Vermillion, SD
University of South Dakota
- Graduate Certificate - Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- 100% online delivery
- 12 credit hours required
- CACREP approved curriculum
- Specialized training areas
- Courses offered seasonally
- Admission documents required
- For licensure enhancement
- Check state licensure requirements
Texas
Beaumont, TX
Lamar University
- Graduate Certificate - Program Certificate in Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 18-hour bridge program
- Online learning format
- Affordable tuition
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Master's degree required
- 3.0 GPA admission requirement
- Courses in psychopathology
- Advanced ethics focus
Virginia
Virginia Beach, VA
Regent University
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate of Graduate Studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Online and on-campus options
- 9 total credit hours
- Cost per credit: $730
- Christian worldview integration
- Advanced clinical training
- Focused on mental health counseling
- Professional endorsement credential
Wisconsin
Milwaukee, WI
Mount Mary University
- Graduate Certificate - Post-Master's Certificate in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- 12-30 credit requirements
- Clinical Mental Health concentration
- Optional 500-hour practicum
- For licensed professionals
- Professional career advancement
- State licensure preparation
