Best Counseling Schools in Hawaii

2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Hawaii

Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Hawaii? counselingpsychology.org ranks top schools to help you find the right fit. Hawaii offers unique opportunities for students, blending traditional and online learning. Online programs are key for those needing flexibility, especially with distance learning options. They allow students to balance studies with personal commitments. Explore our rankings to start your journey in counseling. Learn how we rank programs at https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/.

#1

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Honolulu, HI - Private 4-year - chaminade.edu

Master's - Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website

Chaminade University of Honolulu's online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, with a concentration in School Counseling, is designed for Neighbor Island residents seeking licensure. This 30-month program addresses Hawaii's demand for licensed school counselors through a flexible online format, blending synchronous and asynchronous learning. Focused on holistic approaches and community engagement, it prepares students for licensure with a curriculum that includes working with exceptional children. Accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, the program is ideal for working professionals. No entrance exam is required, emphasizing a commitment to serving Neighbor Island communities.

• Fully online program.
• 30 months completion.
• Focus on School Counseling.
• Flexible learning options.
• Accredited by CAEP.
• Prepares for Hawaii licensure.
• Holistic educational approaches.
• Serves Neighbor Island residents.
• Combines theory and practice.
• Supports working professionals.

Master's - Master of Pastoral Theology

Concentration: Pastoral Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The hybrid Master of Pastoral Theology at Chaminade University of Honolulu, concentrating in Pastoral Counseling, integrates theological study with practical ministry skills. Rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition, this 20-month program offers flexibility with three terms per year and 34 credit hours. It prepares students for roles as ministers, chaplains, or educators, emphasizing service-learning and moral theology within the Marianist tradition. The program's hybrid format supports personal growth and community connections, with no entrance exam required, aligning with the university's commitment to education for peace and justice.

• Hybrid program format
• Complete in 20 months
• 34 credit hours
• Three terms per year
• Focus on Pastoral Counseling
• Rooted in Catholic tradition
• Prepares for active ministry
• Emphasizes service-learning
• Flexible scheduling
• Marianist education values

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*Based on data from: IPEDS 2023, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics.

How to Find a Counseling Program in Hawaii

A number of colleges and universities in Hawaii have counseling degree programs. These include programs for different degrees, with different specialty focuses, and taught through different modes. Consider your budget, schedule, locale, and goals as you compare the various program options that are available.

Counseling Degree Pathways in Hawaii

You can work within the counseling field after completing any of several degrees. Which of the following degrees is best depends on your personal goals:

• Associate Degrees are two-year programs that require a high school diploma (or GED). They may be appropriate for entry-level work within the field.

• Bachelor's Degrees are four-year programs that require a high school diploma or associate degree (in which case the bachelor's is two years). These may be appropriate for entry-level work, mid-level work under a licensed counselor, or before continuing on to a master's.

• Master's Degrees are one to two-year programs that require an undergraduate bachelor's. These may be appropriate if you have an undergraduate degree and intend to pursue licensure as a professional counselor.

• Doctorate Degrees are three to six-year programs that require a bachelor's or master's degree. These may be appropriate if you want further clinical study (Psy.D. degree) or to go into research (Ph.D.).

• Graduate Certificates are one to two-semester programs that require at least a bachelor's. These may be appropriate if you wish to specialize in a particular type of counseling.

Choose a Counseling Specialty

Counselors may choose to provide generic counseling services, or they may specialize in a particular type of counseling. Some specialties you may be able to pursue are:

• Mental health counseling

• Substance/alcohol abuse counseling

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)

• Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)

• Internal family systems counseling

Should you decide to specialize, think both about your personal interests and the clients whom you'd like to work with. You might not decide to specialize until you've learned the basics of several approaches, and thus can make a more informed career decision.

Accreditation

To ensure that your degree will be accepted both academically and professionally, only consider properly accredited counseling schools. The University of Hawaii is fully accredited, but it's hardly the only accredited school in the state.

The accrediting bodies for counseling programs are the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs (CACREP). Programs accredited by either one of these entities will be recognized and respected.

Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Hawaii

While many students understandably choose to study in person when attending a Hawaii school, online programs have their advantages too. You may choose online so that you don't have to move, can still work, or pay lower tuition. You may choose in-person classes if you want more interaction with students and faculty, better library and internship sources, and to surf nearby beaches with friends in between cramming sessions.

Becoming Licensed as a Counselor in Hawaii

Hawaii requires a master’s degree of at least 48 semester hours before you can apply to become a licensed counselor in the state. The program must include supervised mental health counseling experience and 300 hours of supervised client contact. You must also pass an exam, and pay a small fee when applying for licensure.

Licensure renewal is required every three years but involves little more than completing a form. There aren't any continuing education requirements.

List of Counseling Degree Programs in Hawaii

Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Hawaii? 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.