Best Counseling Schools in Alabama
Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) help Alabama residents face many difficulties. Even if you don’t become an LPC, you can still complete a degree program and do good work in this field. Here are some of the best counseling programs in Alabama to help you start your career (or further advance it).
2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Alabama
Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Alabama? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you find the right fit. These programs prepare students for rewarding careers in mental health. Online programs are key, offering flexibility for those balancing work or family. Distance learning options make it easier to earn your degree from anywhere. Want to know how we ranked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for details.
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AL - Public 4-Year - uwa.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Family Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of West Alabama provides an online Master of Science in Family Counseling, designed for professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of family dynamics and therapeutic strategies. This 33-credit program, priced at $429 per credit hour, is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals. It spans 1-2 years and is taught by licensed professionals, focusing on ethical practices and advanced counseling techniques without preparing students for independent licensure. The program is ideal for those seeking to enhance their skills in family counseling, with an emphasis on affordability and international practice opportunities.
- Online Master's in Family Counseling
- 33 total credit hours
- 1-2 years program length
- Next start date March 17
- $429 per credit hour
- 8-week course format
- No independent licensure preparation
- Taught by licensed professionals
- International practice focused
Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
Accredited by CACREP, the University of West Alabama's online Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for careers in diverse mental health settings. The 60-credit program, costing $429 per credit hour, can be completed in 2-3 years and includes a mandatory four-day residency. Admission requires a comprehensive portfolio, including a resume, essay, recommendations, and a video interview. This program is tailored for individuals pursuing licensure, offering a curriculum focused on counseling theories and techniques to serve varied populations, all within an affordable and flexible online format.
- CACREP accredited.
- 60 credit hours.
- $429 per credit.
- 2-3 years completion.
- Includes residency.
- Online format.
- Portfolio admissions.
- Focus on diverse populations.
- Experienced faculty.
- Affordable tuition.
Faulkner University
Montgomery, AL - Private 4-year - faulkner.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Faulkner University's Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a hybrid program blending online coursework with essential on-campus training, tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their counseling skills within a Christian framework. This 61-hour program prepares students for Alabama licensure, offering a curriculum that combines academic rigor with practical experience through practicum and internship opportunities. With nearly 85% of the coursework available online and two mandatory 5-day on-campus sessions, it provides flexibility for working adults. Admission requires a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA, with no GRE mentioned. The program stands out for its affordable tuition at $555 per semester hour and its focus on diverse mental health career paths.
- 61-hour hybrid counseling program
- Nearly 85% online coursework
- Christian worldview integration
- Two 5-day on-campus trainings
- $555 per semester hour
- Licensure preparation focus
- Flexible part-time options
- Practicum and internship experiences
- Diverse career pathway preparation
Auburn University
Auburn, AL - Public 4-Year - auburn.edu
Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Auburn University offers a hybrid M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, blending online and on-campus learning to suit diverse student needs. This two-year, CACREP-accredited program emphasizes practical experience, requiring 100 practicum and 600 internship hours in settings like inpatient, outpatient, and community agencies. Specialized courses in crisis counseling, adolescent counseling, and substance use disorders enrich the curriculum. No entrance exam is mentioned, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants. Ideal for those seeking flexibility, the program prepares graduates for various counseling roles, supported by Auburn's military-friendly policies.
- Two-year step-lock program
- Hybrid campus/online format
- CACREP-aligned curriculum
- Diverse practicum placements
- 600 clinical internship hours
- Specialized counseling courses
- Professional practice preparation
Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville, AL - Public 4-Year - jsu.edu
Master's - Counselor Education - School Counseling P-12
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Jacksonville State University's Master of Science in Counselor Education - School Counseling P-12 is a hybrid program, combining online coursework with in-person sessions, ideal for those balancing work and study. Accredited by CACREP, it emphasizes a comprehensive curriculum including counseling theories, ethics, and career development, alongside practical training through practicum and internships. Graduation demands a 3.25 GPA and prepares students for P-12 certification. Admission prerequisites include a bachelor's degree, with extra steps for applicants lacking a professional educator certificate. Notably, the program is military-friendly and requires a comprehensive exam, background check, and professional resume for entry, but does not specify an entrance exam requirement.
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- 3.25 GPA required
- 60-63 credit hours
- Practicum and internship included
- Prepares for P-12 certification
- Focus on counseling theories
- Ethics and legal issues covered
- Career development courses
- Admission requires bachelor's degree
- Special education requirement
- Comprehensive exam required
- Background check needed
- Professional resume required
- Three reference forms
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL - Public 4-Year - southalabama.edu
Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of South Alabama offers a Master of Education in School Counseling, a hybrid program designed to cultivate culturally competent advocates for preK-12 students. Without requiring prior teaching experience, it welcomes bachelor's degree holders from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum, aligned with the ASCA National Model, emphasizes academic, career, and social-emotional development through courses in counseling theories, ethics, and multicultural counseling. Students can choose between a five or seven-semester plan, preparing them to lead systemic changes and implement data-driven counseling programs. This program stands out for its flexibility, comprehensive training, and focus on advocacy and leadership in school settings.
- Hybrid program format
- No teaching experience required
- Aligns with ASCA National Model
- Focuses on academic, career, social-emotional development
- Five or seven-semester options
- Covers counseling theories, ethics
- Multicultural counseling included
- Prepares for leadership, advocacy
- Data-driven program design
- Accessible to diverse bachelor's degrees
Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of South Alabama, the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a 60-hour, CACREP-accredited hybrid program that molds students into skilled, culturally aware counselors. It combines online coursework with hands-on clinical training, including a two-semester internship, to prepare graduates for work in various settings like counseling agencies and private practices. The program focuses on developing advanced skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions, ensuring graduates are ready for professional certifications and impactful careers in mental health. Its emphasis on cultural competency and advocacy makes it a standout choice for aspiring counselors.
- 60-hour CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Two-semester internship
- Diverse practicum sites
- Professional certification preparation
- Focus on cultural competency
How to Find a Counseling Program in Alabama
There's no shortage of counseling programs in Alabama. You'll find programs at different degree levels, with different course types, and with different specializations. Consider your budgetary needs, scheduling needs, interests, and aspirations as you compare various degree options.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Alabama
Counseling degrees are offered at several different levels. Each level has its own prerequisites and time requirement. You might choose any of the following degree options:
- Associate Degree – usually requires a high school diploma and lasts two years
- Bachelor's Degree – usually requires a high school diploma and lasts four years
- Master's Degree – usually requires a bachelor's degree and lasts one to two years
- Doctorate Degree – usually requires a bachelor's/master's degree and lasts three to six years
- Graduate Certificate – usually requires a bachelor's degree and lasts one year at most
A GED can be substituted for a high school diploma, and any program requiring a bachelor's degree can also be completed after earning a master's. A two-year master's program is typically needed for licensure as a professional counselor, but you can work in the field with other degrees. Graduate certificates provide opportunities for specialization.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
As a counselor, you can provide generalized counseling or specialized counseling. Should you choose to become specialized, you have many focus areas to choose from. Some popular ones that degree programs are available for include:
- School counseling
- Marriage, couples, and family Counseling
- Clinical mental health counseling
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Play therapy
Most counseling specialties are in high demand throughout Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery and the rest of Alabama.
Accreditation
You should only consider accredited counseling degree programs, as accreditation ensures your program's quality and recognition. Unaccredited programs likely won't qualify for transferring credits or licensing.
The main body accrediting Alabama counseling programs is the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). The American Psychological Association (APA) is the other recognized accrediting body. Any of these will ensure your degree is widely recognized.
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Alabama
Colleges and universities offer both online counseling programs and traditional (in-person) counseling programs. Traditional programs afford plenty of interaction with classmates and instructors, and they also sometimes have better internship opportunities and library resources. Online programs tend to cost less and have more flexible scheduling options. Online also, obviously, doesn't require relocating.
Consider these variables as you evaluate whether an online program or traditional program would be better for you.
Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in Alabama
You can work within the counseling field and not be licensed. Only licensed professional counselors can provide services without supervision, though. LPCs also can supervise others below them.
To become an LPC in Alabama, you must complete a master's degree with at least 48 credits, 12 credits shorter than many other states require. You must also complete a 40-hour practicum, 600-hour internship, and 3,000 hours of supervised counseling. After meeting these requirements, you must pass a national exam and pay a nominal fee.
Counseling licenses must be renewed biannually. Renewal requires 40 hours of continuing education and a fee.
2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling program in Alabama for 2025 is key for students aiming to advance their careers without high costs. The table highlights options with low-cost tuition and cost-effective features, making higher education more accessible. It lists schools by their programs, what makes each stand out, and price ranges. This helps students compare and choose wisely. Affordable education opens doors for more people to become counselors, meeting the growing need for mental health services in Alabama and beyond.
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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| University of West Alabama |
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| Troy University |
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| Jacksonville State University |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in Alabama
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Alabama? Browse our comprehensive list of schools offering counseling programs, both online and on-campus, and follow the links to learn more about what each program has to offer.
Athens, AL
Athens State University
- Bachelor's - Behavioral Science
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility
- Focus on psychology and sociology
- Prepares for social work grad studies
- Emphasizes sociocultural diversity
- Career paths in advocacy, marketing
- Undergraduate admissions requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree option
- Minor available
Auburn, AL
Auburn University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Two-year step-lock program
- Hybrid campus/online format
- CACREP-aligned curriculum
- Diverse practicum placements
- 600 clinical internship hours
- Specialized counseling courses
- Professional practice preparation
- Doctorate - Counselor Education
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 64 credit hours
- Hybrid program type
- Post-masters requirement
- Graduate assistantships available
- Focus on social justice
- February 1 deadline
- CACREP-accredited masters needed
- Stipends and tuition waivers
Birmingham, AL
University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health - Campus Based - Website
- On-campus program format
- Clinical Mental Health concentration
- Supervised field experience
- Supportive academic environment
- Diverse career opportunities
Florence, AL
University of North Alabama
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours.
- Campus-based program.
- Faculty recommendation required.
- CPCE exam for graduation.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Focus on ethics and diversity.
- Prepares for licensure.
- Comprehensive counseling techniques.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- On-campus learning
- Flexible for working students
- No test scores if GPA≥3.0
- Includes internships
- For educators and career changers
- Focus on practical skills
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- On-campus learning
- No test scores required for 3.0 GPA
- Flexible for working students
- Diverse teaching methods
- Includes internships
- Prepares for professional counseling
- Accommodates various learning styles
Jacksonville, AL
Jacksonville State University
- Master's - Counselor Education - School Counseling P-12
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- 3.25 GPA required
- 60-63 credit hours
- Practicum and internship included
- Prepares for P-12 certification
- Focus on counseling theories
- Ethics and legal issues covered
Livingston, AL
University of West Alabama
- Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- 60 credit hours.
- $429 per credit.
- 2-3 years completion.
- Includes residency.
- Online format.
- Portfolio admissions.
- Focus on diverse populations.
Mobile, AL
University of South Alabama
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format
- No teaching experience required
- Aligns with ASCA National Model
- Focuses on academic, career, social-emotional development
- Five or seven-semester options
- Covers counseling theories, ethics
- Multicultural counseling included
- Prepares for leadership, advocacy
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour CACREP accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Two-semester internship
- Diverse practicum sites
- Professional certification preparation
- Focus on cultural competency
- Graduate Certificate - Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Minimum 5 courses (15 hours)
- Grades must be A or B
- Personalized program planning
- Professional competency evaluation
- Comprehensive examination required
Montgomery, AL
Alabama State University
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 48-51 semester hours
- Campus-based program
- Includes practicum and internship
- Covers diverse populations
- Prepares for certification
Auburn University at Montgomery
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Master's degree program
- Focus on Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Blend of in-person and online classes
- Internship required
- Prepares for diverse career settings
- Skills for working with diverse populations
- Technology-enhanced learning
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format
- Focus on ethical counseling
- Internship required
- Prepares for diverse settings
- Supportive academic environment
Faulkner University
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 61-hour hybrid counseling program
- Nearly 85% online coursework
- Christian worldview integration
- Two 5-day on-campus trainings
- $555 per semester hour
- Licensure preparation focus
- Flexible part-time options
- Practicum and internship experiences
Troy, AL
Troy University
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 60 semester hour curriculum
- State licensure preparation
- Multiple campus locations
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Practicum and internship included
- Master's - School Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- Accredited by CAEP
- Flexible online format
- No application deadline
- Competitive tuition rates
- Blended course delivery
- Prepares for leadership roles
- Covers crisis management
- Advanced counseling theories
- Graduate Certificate - Addictions Counseling Certificate
Online Learning - Website
- Online program
- Competitive tuition
- Flexible scheduling
- No application deadline
- Graduate level
- Focus on addictions
- Theory and application
- Treatment planning
- 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
Tuscaloosa, AL
The University of Alabama
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours
- CACREP accredited
- 100 practicum hours
- 600 internship hours
- Direct client contact
- Focus on mental health
- Includes addictions counseling
- Play therapy options
- Master's - Counselor Education: School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit CACREP-accredited program
- Comprehensive school counseling training
- 600-hour internship experience
- Praxis exam required
- Multiple practicum placements
- GPA requirement: 3.25
- Professional educator certification path
- Doctorate - Counselor Education
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Prepares for academic and clinical roles.
- Advanced coursework in counseling.
- Requires master's in Counselor Education.
- Focus on diversity and cultural competence.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Prepares for leadership in counseling.
- Admission interview required.