Best Counseling Schools in Louisiana
The residents of Louisiana are no strangers to struggles and strife, and some need expert assistance when facing certain challenges. Counselors are an excellent resource for anyone in the state to seek assistance from, and providing counseling to residents can be a rewarding (and profitable) career track. If you want to work as a counselor, here are some of the best counseling programs in Louisiana to help you prepare.
2026 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Louisiana
University of Holy Cross
New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - uhcno.edu
Master's - Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Holy Cross offers a specialized online Master of Arts in Counseling focusing on School Counseling, designed for aspiring educators seeking comprehensive professional development. CACREP-accredited, this three-year program uniquely blends rigorous online coursework with two intensive four-day residencies, ensuring hands-on training. Students complete over 700 clinical hours, preparing them to support children's academic and personal growth. The program emphasizes cultural competence, research skills, and professional advancement, including opportunities to present at national conferences. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and a personal goal statement.
- CACREP accredited.
- Online program.
- 3 years completion.
- 700+ clinical hours.
- Two residencies required.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Personal goal statement.
- Focus on cultural respect.
- Research presentation opportunities.
Master's - Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Holy Cross's Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration provides a transformative online Master of Arts program for professionals dedicated to addressing complex psychological challenges. This CACREP-accredited three-year curriculum offers flexible learning with comprehensive clinical training, including over 700 experience hours. Students engage in intensive residencies and develop advanced counseling skills across diverse mental health settings. The program distinguishes itself through research opportunities, professional conference involvement, and a commitment to cultivating compassionate, competent counselors. Graduates emerge equipped with sophisticated therapeutic techniques and a holistic understanding of mental health intervention strategies.
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Fully online with residency components
- 700+ clinical experience hours
- Three-year flexible completion
- Multiple specialization options
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Research presentation opportunities
- Professional conference involvement
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - Public 4-Year - ulm.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Monroe's online Master of Science in Counseling with School Counseling concentration provides comprehensive preparation for K-12 educational settings. CACREP-accredited, this 60-credit program emphasizes leadership, advocacy, and multicultural counseling skills. Students receive robust training through research-based curriculum, including practicum and internship experiences. The program uniquely offers specialized electives in play therapy and addiction counseling, enabling graduates to develop versatile counseling competencies. Designed for aspiring school counselors, the curriculum equips students with ethical practices, career development strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration techniques. Military-friendly and focused on supporting diverse student populations, this program prepares professionals to effectively navigate complex educational environments.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60 credit hours required.
- Online program option.
- Prepares for K-12 certification.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Multicultural counseling focus.
- Career development courses.
- Ethical practices training.
- Leadership and advocacy skills.
- Research-based curriculum.
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Louisiana at Monroe's online Master of Science in Counseling with Addictions Counseling concentration delivers specialized training for mental health professionals. While not yet CACREP-accredited, the 60-credit program provides comprehensive preparation for LPC licensure and state addiction counselor certification. Students explore advanced techniques in assessing, diagnosing, and treating substance use disorders across diverse populations. The curriculum integrates counseling theories, multicultural perspectives, and clinical experiences in individual, group, and family counseling settings. Coursework covers psychopharmacology, DSM-5 disorders, and ethical practices, positioning graduates for employment in inpatient programs, private practices, and community mental health centers. The military-friendly program emphasizes practical skills and professional development.
- 60 credit hours
- Online program
- LPC licensure eligible
- Focus on DSM-5 disorders
- Training in diverse counseling methods
- Courses on psychopharmacology
- Multicultural counseling included
- Practicum and internship required
- Not yet CACREP accredited
- Prepares for state addiction counselor license
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA - Public 4-Year - nsula.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern State University's Master of Arts in School Counseling is a rigorous 60-hour hybrid program designed to transform educational landscapes. Through a strategic blend of online and face-to-face learning, students develop advanced skills aligned with the ASCA Model. CACREP-accredited, the program meets Louisiana's licensure requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors and school counseling certification. Graduates are prepared to support K-12 students' academic, personal, and career development. With flexible full and part-time study options, the curriculum emphasizes professional best practices and comprehensive clinical training. No specific undergraduate degree is required, and the program includes a comprehensive exam with thesis or project options.
- 60-hour program
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- Meets LPC licensure requirements
- School counseling certification
- Full or part-time study
- ASCA Model aligned curriculum
- Comprehensive exam required
- Thesis or project option
- No specific undergraduate degree required
Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Northwestern State University's Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a transformative 60-hour hybrid program targeting professionals seeking dynamic careers in mental health services. CACREP-accredited, the curriculum prepares students for roles in community health agencies, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals. Blending online and on-campus learning, the program develops advanced clinical skills and professional competencies. Graduates are positioned to obtain the National Certified Counselor credential and meet Louisiana licensure requirements. The program features an interview-based admission process, comprehensive exam, and flexible learning formats, making it ideal for working professionals seeking comprehensive mental health counseling training.
- 60-hour CACREP-accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Licensed Professional Counselor preparation
- No specific undergraduate degree required
- Interview-based admissions process
- Meets state licensure requirements
- Comprehensive exam and thesis/project required
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - Public 4-Year - mcneese.edu
Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
McNeese State University's Master of Education in School Counseling emerges as a comprehensive hybrid program designed for education professionals seeking advanced counseling expertise. With prestigious CACREP accreditation, the curriculum uniquely blends theoretical foundations and practical field experiences. Students benefit from an impressive 100% completion, licensure pass, and job placement rate, indicating the program's rigorous and effective training approach. The flexible format accommodates working professionals, integrating online and on-campus learning modalities. While specific entrance exam requirements aren't detailed, the program prioritizes holistic professional development, preparing graduates to effectively support student emotional and academic needs within educational settings.
- CACREP accredited.
- 100% completion rate.
- 100% job placement.
- Hybrid program format.
- Practical field experience.
Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, LA - Private 4-year - loyno.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Loyola University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program offers a robust hybrid learning experience designed to equip aspiring counselors with comprehensive skills in mental health treatment. Spanning 60 credits, the program emphasizes a science-practitioner model that prepares students for licensure as Professional Counselors. Students complete 740 clinical training hours, gaining expertise in assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based interventions across diverse populations. The curriculum integrates multiple theoretical orientations with a strong social justice framework, enabling graduates to address complex mental health challenges with cultural sensitivity and professional competence. Hybrid program format allows flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
- 60-credit comprehensive program
- 740 clinical training hours
- Science-practitioner learning model
- Licensure preparation (LPC)
- Multiple theoretical orientations
- Diverse client population training
- Social justice paradigm
- Hybrid program format
How to Find a Counseling Program in Louisiana
There are numerous counseling degree programs in Louisiana, and they have various tuition costs, class schedules, learning modes, specialization tracks, and other options. Make sure whichever counseling program you choose meets your needs well.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Louisiana
The different counseling degree programs in Louisiana include undergraduate and graduate programs. Depending on your current credentials, you might enroll in any of the following types of degree programs:
- Associate Program: An associate degree takes two years if studying full-time, and can be started after high school. Many graduates secure lower entry-level jobs.
- Bachelor's Program: A bachelor's degree takes four years, and can likewise be started after high school. Graduates may secure any job from entry-level to just below a licensed counselor.
- Master's Program: A master's degree takes one to two years, and can only be started after achieving a bachelor's. Graduates can become licensed counselors after meeting supervised hours requirements.
- Doctorate Program: A doctorate degree can take anywhere from three to six years, and can be started after a bachelor's or master's. Graduates may go into research (with a Ph.D. degree) or clinical work (with a Psy.D. degree).
- Graduate Certificate: A graduate certificate can take sixt to twelve months, and can be started after a bachelor's or master's. These are most often used to specialize in a particular type of counseling.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
Counseling degrees and certificates can prepare you for general counseling, or they can have tracks that let you focus on a specialty. Some tracks that are available through Louisiana counseling degree programs include:
- Clinical mental health counseling
- School counseling
- Addiction counseling
- Marriage, couple, and family counseling
- Community counseling
If you want to practice a particular type of counseling work, choose an appropriate specialization.
Check School Accreditation
To become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Louisiana, you must complete a CACREP-accredited master's degree. CACREP stands for the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
If you're pursuing a degree other than a master's, your program might be accredited by the CACREP or the APA (American Psychological Association).
Whatever program you choose, make sure it's fully accredited with one of these three bodies. Only accredited programs are guaranteed to be recognized by other institutions.
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Louisiana
Accredited Nebraska counseling programs are available via traditional or online instruction. A traditional program affords plenty of in-classroom interaction, but an online program will be more flexible and more affordable. Weigh these factors as you decide which type of program to enroll in.
Becoming a Licensed Counselor in Louisiana
To become a licensed counselor in Louisiana, you must complete a CACREP-accredited master's degree. An internship will be included in the degree curriculum, and you must then complete another 3,000 supervised hours after graduating. An exam and fee are also needed.
Once you are a licensed professional counselor (LPC), your license will have to be renewed every two years. You must complete 40 continuing education hours to renew.
2026 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
| School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| McNeese State University |
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| University of Louisiana at Monroe |
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| Northwestern State University of Louisiana |
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List of Counseling Degree Programs in Louisiana
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Louisiana? 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.
Baton Rouge, LA
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
- Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit CACREP accredited program
- Nationally recognized counseling faculty
- Clinical mental health concentration
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Hands-on clinical training opportunities
- Prepares for Licensed Professional Counselor
- Evidence-based counseling practices
- Emphasis on multicultural competence
- Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour program
- CACREP-accredited
- Focus on school counseling
- 3.0 GPA required
- GRE score of 297
- Hands-on clinical training
- Cultural competency emphasis
- Prepares for Louisiana certification
Southern University and A & M College
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 semester credit hours
- 100 hours practicum
- 600 hours internship experience
- Culturally sensitive approach
- Comprehensive mental health training
- Minimum 2.7 GPA required
- Clinical mental health focus
- Diverse counseling techniques
Hammond, LA
Southeastern Louisiana University
- Master's - Counseling, MS
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP nationally accredited program
- 60-credit comprehensive curriculum
- Meets LPC licensure requirements
- Core and specialty concentration courses
- Practicum and internship experiences
- Minimum 2.8 undergraduate GPA
- Nine behavioral studies credits required
- Professional interview required
- Master's - Counseling, MS
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- Meets LPC licensure requirements
- 2.8 GPA admission threshold
- GRE scores required below 3.0 GPA
- Comprehensive application portfolio
- Core and specialized courses
- Includes play therapy training
- Crisis intervention focus
Lafayette, LA
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Master's - Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited program.
- Prepares for LPC licensure.
- Hands-on clinic experience.
- Covers diverse therapy types.
- Ethical practice focus.
- Professional communication training.
- Faculty supervised learning.
- Real-world application emphasis.
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Concentration in School Counseling
- Meets Louisiana certification requirements
- Practical experience in local schools
- Focus on K-12 settings
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Ethical practice training
- Effective communication skills
- ASCA National Standards
Lake Charles, LA
McNeese State University
- Master's - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Prepares for licensure
- Diverse career settings
- Competitive tuition costs
- Supervised clinical experiences
- Bachelor's degree required
- Check catalog for details
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- 100% completion rate.
- 100% job placement.
- Hybrid program format.
- Practical field experience.
Monroe, LA
University of Louisiana at Monroe
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- 60 credit hours
- Online program
- LPC licensure eligible
- Focus on DSM-5 disorders
- Training in diverse counseling methods
- Courses on psychopharmacology
- Multicultural counseling included
- Practicum and internship required
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- CACREP-accredited program.
- 60 credit hours required.
- Online program option.
- Prepares for K-12 certification.
- Includes practicum and internship.
- Multicultural counseling focus.
- Career development courses.
- Ethical practices training.
Natchitoches, LA
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies
Online Learning - Website
- Online program flexibility.
- Ranked top in affordability.
- Focuses on addiction counseling.
- Prepares for HR careers.
- Emphasizes communication skills.
- Covers human behavior.
- Data analysis training.
- High demand field.
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour CACREP-accredited program
- Hybrid learning format
- Licensed Professional Counselor preparation
- No specific undergraduate degree required
- Interview-based admissions process
- Meets state licensure requirements
- Comprehensive exam and thesis/project required
- Master's - Master of Arts in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-hour program
- Hybrid learning format
- CACREP accredited
- Meets LPC licensure requirements
- School counseling certification
- Full or part-time study
- ASCA Model aligned curriculum
- Comprehensive exam required
New Orleans, LA
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans
- Master's - Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP fully accredited program
- 60 credit hour graduate degree
- On-campus classroom instruction
- Prepares for NCE certification
- Diverse counseling competency focus
- Minimum 2.5 undergraduate GPA
- Two recommendation letters required
- Professional counseling orientation
Loyola University New Orleans
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit comprehensive program
- 740 clinical training hours
- Science-practitioner learning model
- Licensure preparation (LPC)
- Multiple theoretical orientations
- Diverse client population training
- Social justice paradigm
- Hybrid program format
Southern University at New Orleans
- Bachelor's - Addictive Behaviors Counseling and Prevention
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor's and Associate's degrees available
- ADRA certification preparation
- 39 credit hours addiction counseling
- Two internship experiences required
- Multiple professional certification paths
University of Holy Cross
- Master's - Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Fully online with residency components
- 700+ clinical experience hours
- Three-year flexible completion
- Multiple specialization options
- Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA
- Research presentation opportunities
- Professional conference involvement
- Master's - Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Online Learning - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- Online program.
- 3 years completion.
- 700+ clinical hours.
- Two residencies required.
- 3.0 GPA for admission.
- Three recommendation letters.
- Personal goal statement.
University of New Orleans
- Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours
- CACREP accredited
- Evening classes
- 100-hour practicum
- 600-hour internship
- Prepares for LPC licensure
- Scholarships available
- Part-time option
- Master's - Master of Education in Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 60 credit hours required
- CACREP accredited
- Minimum 2.50 GPA for admission
- B or better in key courses
- Includes fieldwork experience
- Comprehensive exam required
- 9 credit hours transferable
- Focus on School Counseling
Xavier University of Louisiana
- Master's - Counseling, M.A.
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- Focus on School Counseling
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required
- GRE scores needed
- Two recommendation letters
- Personal statement required
- Prepares for diverse settings
- Emphasizes ethical professionalism
Ruston, LA
Louisiana Tech University
- Master's - Counseling & Guidance
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- 48 credit hours
- CACREP accredited
- School practicum included
- Two internships required
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Main campus option
- TECH-Barksdale AFB site
- Ethics and professional practice
Shreveport, LA
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
- Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Campus Based - Website
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration
- Practitioner-scientist training model
- Wellness model focus
- Cultural diversity included
- Ethical considerations emphasized
- Local professional collaborations
- Vibrant Shreveport community
- Bachelor's degree required
Thibodaux, LA
Nicholls State University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- 60-hour comprehensive curriculum
- Licensure preparation focus
- Clinical internship experiences
- Diverse career placement opportunities
- Minimum 2.50 undergraduate GPA
- Campus-based graduate program
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 60 academic hours plus internship
- CACREP accredited program
- K-12 field experience focus
- 2.50 minimum undergraduate GPA
- Comprehensive clinical training
- Louisiana certification preparation
- Professional counseling pathways