Best Counseling Schools in Michigan

Western Michigan University offers a Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, a hybrid program blending in-person and online learning. This 60-hour curriculum is designed for those aiming to address complex family dynamics with a family systems approach. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA in psychology or related fields. The program includes clinical training at on-site clinics in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, preparing students for licensure as professional counselors or marriage and family therapists. With a focus on practical experience, this program is ideal for those entering a growing field. No entrance exam is required.

• 60-hour master's program
• Family systems approach
• 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
• On-site clinics Kalamazoo/Grand Rapids
• Licensure pathway options
• Mostly in-person instruction
• Hybrid/online course options
• Collaboration with Family Sciences

The Master of Arts in School Counseling at Western Michigan University is a hybrid program, primarily in-person in Kalamazoo with some online options. It meets Michigan's requirements for school counselor licensure and offers three certification tracks. Accredited by CACREP, the program emphasizes practical training in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. A strong undergraduate GPA in psychology or related fields is required for admission, with scholarships and assistantships available to support students. This program prepares graduates to help young people achieve their potential, with no entrance exam required.

• Hybrid program format
• Meets Michigan licensure requirements
• Three certification tracks available
• Practical training opportunities
• Accredited by CACREP
• Scholarships and assistantships offered
• Strong undergraduate GPA required

Western Michigan University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master's program is a hybrid offering that prepares students for diverse counseling settings. Covering research methods, counseling techniques, and ethics, the program meets educational requirements for licensed professional counseling. Available in in-person and hybrid formats in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, it requires a 3.0 GPA in psychology or related fields for admission. This program is accredited and positions graduates for success in a rapidly growing field, with no entrance exam required.

• Accredited counseling program
• In-person and hybrid formats
• Meets LLPC requirements
• Multiple campus locations
• Strong job market outlook

Central Michigan University offers a Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling, designed to equip students with the skills to support K-12 students in academic, emotional, and social aspects. This hybrid program merges online coursework with on-campus sessions, providing flexibility for working professionals. Accredited by CACREP, it emphasizes advocacy, equity, and access, preparing graduates for impactful roles in schools. The program includes 60 credit hours, practicum, and internship experiences, ensuring practical, hands-on learning. Admission is based on graduate school standards, with priority deadlines for applications. This program is ideal for those aiming to advocate for student success and well-being.

• Hybrid learning format
• CACREP accredited
• 60 credit hours
• Hands-on practicum
• Internship with caseload
• Focus on K-12 counseling
• Advocacy and equity focus
• Flexible for professionals
• Licensed faculty
• Community counseling center

The Master's in Counseling at Central Michigan University, with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, is tailored for professionals passionate about making a difference in mental health. This CACREP-accredited hybrid program blends online and on-campus learning, offering flexibility. Students engage in 60 credit hours of coursework, including practicum and internship opportunities for real-world experience. The program focuses on developing advanced counseling skills, with faculty who are licensed counselors. It's designed for those seeking to balance career and education while preparing for diverse roles in mental health support.

• CACREP Accredited Program
• Hybrid Learning Format
• 60 Credit Hours Required
• Three Concentration Options
• Faculty are Licensed Counselors

Central Michigan University's Master's in Counseling with a concentration in Addiction Counseling is a hybrid program that prepares students to address addiction challenges through comprehensive education and practical experience. The 60-credit curriculum, accredited by CACREP, combines online and on-campus learning, catering to working professionals. Students benefit from practicums and internships, gaining hands-on experience in various settings. The program focuses on addiction prevention and care, with opportunities for part-time or full-time study. Admission requires meeting academic standards, with priority deadlines. Graduates are equipped for roles in addiction counseling, supported by licensed faculty and access to the Center for Community Counseling.

• CACREP accredited program.
• Hybrid learning format.
• 60 credit hours.
• Concentration in Addiction Counseling.
• Practical hands-on learning.
• Flexible for working professionals.
• On-campus and online options.
• Compulsory practicum and internship.
• Prepares for diverse counseling roles.
• Faculty are licensed counselors.

Spring Arbor University's Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling is a hybrid program designed for those aiming to become licensed school counselors in Michigan. This CACREP-accredited program combines a Christian perspective with clinical expertise, offering a 61-credit curriculum that includes clinical and practical internships. It prepares students to address the mental health and academic needs of K-12 students, emphasizing diversity, ethical practice, and professional competence. The program does not require an entrance exam, making it accessible to a wide range of students.

• CACREP-accredited counseling program
• K-12 School Counseling track
• Hybrid/online learning options
• Christian perspective integration
• Michigan licensure preparation
• 61-credit hour core program
• Clinical and practical internships

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration at Spring Arbor University is a hybrid Master of Arts in Counseling program that prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors in Michigan. This CACREP-accredited program integrates faith-based principles with clinical training, offering a 61-credit curriculum focused on psychopathology, crisis intervention, and diverse counseling approaches. With flexible online and virtual classroom options, the program emphasizes cultural responsiveness and holistic development. No entrance exam is required, facilitating access for aspiring mental health professionals.

• CACREP-accredited counseling program
• Hybrid/online learning options
• Prepares for LPC licensure
• Christian perspective integration
• Diverse clinical practice settings
• 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
• Focuses on cultural responsiveness

Spring Arbor University offers a unique Dual Track in its Master of Arts in Counseling program, allowing students to specialize in both Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling. This hybrid, CACREP-accredited program provides a comprehensive 61-credit curriculum that blends clinical training with a Christian perspective, preparing graduates for various counseling roles. The program features flexible learning options, including virtual classrooms, and does not require an entrance exam. It is designed for those seeking a versatile counseling education with a focus on professional and ethical practice.

• CACREP-accredited counseling program
• Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling tracks
• Hybrid and online learning options
• Christian perspective integration
• Prepares for Michigan licensure
• 61-credit comprehensive curriculum
• Face-to-face and virtual classroom
• Dual track concentration available

Siena Heights University offers a hybrid Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.A. program, blending online and on-campus learning to equip students with the skills needed for effective mental health practice. This Roman Catholic-affiliated institution, recognized for its military-friendly approach, does not require an entrance exam for admission. The program emphasizes advanced counseling techniques, assessment, and intervention strategies, preparing graduates to support diverse populations. Unique features include a flexible hybrid format, comprehensive professional training, and a focus on practical application in mental health settings. Ideal for those seeking a balanced educational experience with the convenience of online coursework and the depth of in-person interaction.

• Hybrid learning format
• Advanced mental health counseling skills
• Flexible course delivery
• Comprehensive professional preparation
• Blended on-ground and online options

Grand Valley State University offers a Master of Education in School Counseling, a hybrid program designed for educators aiming to make a difference in PK-12 settings. Combining online and on-campus learning, this 36-42 credit program follows a 15-week course structure, accredited by the Michigan Department of Education and aligned with the American School Counselor Association National Model. It's tailored for working professionals with evening, weekend, and online classes, focusing on anti-racist practices, college readiness, and effective counseling techniques. Admission requires a teaching certificate or relevant experience, with application deadlines in July, November, and March. GVSU's program prepares graduates for Michigan licensure with the support of experienced faculty and flexible scheduling.

• Hybrid program format
• 36-42 credits required
• 15-week course length
• Accredited by MDE
• Aligns with ASCA model
• Flexible scheduling options
• Evening and weekend classes
• Online for remote students
• Covers anti-racist practices
• Focus on college readiness