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.

2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Louisiana
Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Louisiana? 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 offer flexibility, making it easier to balance studies with other commitments. Distance learning options are great for those who need to study from home. Want to know how we ranked these programs? Check out our rankings methodology for details.
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 offers a Master of Science in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling, designed for aspiring K-12 school counselors. This CACREP-accredited, 60-credit online program blends research and practical experience, focusing on leadership, advocacy, and multicultural counseling. Students engage in practicum and internship experiences, preparing them to address the needs of diverse student populations. The curriculum includes career development, ethical practices, and electives like play therapy and addiction counseling. No entrance exam is required for this program, making it accessible for professionals seeking advancement in school counseling.
- 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.
- Electives in play therapy.
- Addiction counseling options.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Practical experience emphasized.
- Supports diverse populations.
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling
Concentration: Addictions Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on Addictions Counseling, the Master of Science in Counseling at the University of Louisiana at Monroe equips students for LPC licensure and careers in addiction treatment. This 60-credit online program covers the assessment and treatment of mental, emotional, and substance use disorders, with training in individual, group, and family counseling. While not CACREP-accredited, it offers comprehensive coursework in counseling theories, ethics, and multicultural counseling, alongside advanced addiction techniques. Clinical experiences are integral, preparing graduates for roles in various settings. The program does not require an entrance exam, facilitating entry for aspiring addiction counselors.
- 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
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 provides an online Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling concentration, accredited by CACREP. This program is tailored for those aiming to impact children's academic and personal development positively. Spanning three years, it combines online learning with two intensive residencies, totaling over 700 clinical hours. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, three recommendation letters, and a personal statement. The curriculum fosters cultural sensitivity, professional growth, and research, including chances to present at conferences. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for aspiring school counselors.
- 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.
- Specialization in School Counseling.
- Prepares for professional counseling.
- Hands-on training included.
- Flexible online coursework.
- Accelerated 3+3 program available.
Master's - Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
At the University of Holy Cross, the online Master of Arts in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration is designed for future counselors eager to make a difference in mental health. This CACREP-accredited program spans three years, offering flexible online coursework complemented by residencies and over 700 clinical hours. It prepares graduates to tackle mental health issues in diverse environments, emphasizing compassion and competence. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, without the need for an entrance exam, facilitating a smoother entry for dedicated students. Research and professional conference participation are key highlights, enriching the learning experience.
- 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
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 of Louisiana's Master of Arts in Counseling with a School Counseling concentration is a 60-hour, CACREP-accredited hybrid program. It combines online coursework with in-person experiences, catering to aspiring school counselors aiming to serve K-12 students. The program aligns with the ASCA Model and prepares graduates for Louisiana licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors and school counseling certification. Admission involves a graduate application, portfolio submission, and an interview, with no specific undergraduate degree required. The curriculum emphasizes professional best practices, offering both full and part-time study options. A comprehensive exam is required, with a thesis or project option available.
- 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
The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a 60-hour, CACREP-accredited hybrid program designed for future mental health professionals. This program blends online and on-campus learning, ideal for working students. It prepares graduates for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors in Louisiana and eligibility for the National Certified Counselor credential. The curriculum focuses on developing clinical skills for diverse settings, including community agencies and hospitals. Admission requires an interview, with no specific undergraduate degree prerequisite. Students must complete a comprehensive exam and choose between a thesis or project to graduate.
- 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 is a CACREP-accredited hybrid program, blending online and on-campus learning to accommodate working professionals. With a remarkable 100% completion, licensure pass, and job placement rate, this program is designed for those aiming to impact students' lives positively. It requires a comprehensive admissions package but does not specify an entrance exam. The curriculum focuses on preparing students for effective counseling in educational settings, emphasizing practical experience through field placements. This program stands out for its flexibility, practical focus, and high success rates, making it an excellent choice for aspiring school counselors.
- 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 New Orleans offers a hybrid Master of Science in Counseling with a focus on Clinical Mental Health Counseling, designed to equip students with the skills to tackle a wide range of mental health issues. This 60-credit program emphasizes a science-practitioner approach, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application through 740 clinical training hours. Graduates are prepared for licensure as Professional Counselors, with coursework covering assessment, diagnosis, and treatment across diverse populations. The program's hybrid format combines online and in-person learning, catering to working professionals. A unique aspect is its commitment to social justice, integrating this perspective into all aspects of counseling practice. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- 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.
2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling program in Louisiana for 2025 is key for students aiming to advance their careers without high costs. The table highlights options with varied tuition ranges, ensuring there are low-cost choices. These programs offer valuable training, making them cost-effective for future counselors. Louisiana's diverse regions provide accessible education opportunities, helping students find the right fit for their budget and goals.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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McNeese State University |
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University of Louisiana at Monroe |
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Louisiana State University-Shreveport |
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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