Best Counseling Schools in Oregon
As the need for mental health professionals continues to rise, counseling degree programs have expanded in scope and popularity over the years. Those in Oregon looking for a rewarding and practical career pathway have a multitude of educational options in the counseling field. From undergraduate counseling degree programs to graduate and even doctoral degrees, read on to find out more about your choices in counseling in the greater Oregon area.

2025 Best Master's in Counseling Programs in Oregon
Looking for the best master's in counseling programs in Oregon? counselingpsychology.org has ranked the top options to help you decide. 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. Find out how we rank these programs and what makes them stand out. https://counselingpsychology.org/rankings-methodology/
Oregon Institute of Technology
Klamath Falls, OR - Public 4-Year - oit.edu
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.
Concentration: Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon Institute of Technology offers a hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with concentrations in Medical Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, and Integrated Behavioral Healthcare. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in mental health services with a focus on rural mental health, multicultural competence, and trauma-informed care. The curriculum includes advanced counseling techniques, ethical practice, and cultural sensitivity training. No entrance exam is required for admission. The program is military-friendly and emphasizes practical training in integrated behavioral healthcare.
- Multicultural mental health focus
- Rural healthcare specialization
- Trauma-informed training
- Medical Family Therapy concentration
- Substance use disorder expertise
- Ethical practice emphasis
- Integrated behavioral healthcare
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.
Concentration: Substance Use Disorder Treatment - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program at Oregon Institute of Technology specializes in Substance Use Disorder Treatment, preparing students to address rural mental health challenges with a multicultural and trauma-informed approach. The program focuses on developing clinical skills in substance use disorder treatment and medical family therapy, with an emphasis on ethical practice and cultural sensitivity. Admission does not require an entrance exam. This military-friendly program offers collaboration with local organizations for practical experience.
- Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy
- Focuses on rural mental health
- Multicultural therapy training
- Trauma-informed care emphasis
- Integrated behavioral healthcare
- Medical Family Therapy practices
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Culturally responsive approach
- Collaboration with local organizations
Master's - Marriage and Family Therapy M.S.
Concentration: Integrated Behavioral Healthcare - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon Institute of Technology's hybrid Marriage and Family Therapy M.S. program with a concentration in Integrated Behavioral Healthcare equips students with the skills to serve diverse communities, focusing on rural mental health, medical family therapy, and substance use disorders. The program emphasizes multicultural competence, trauma-informed care, and ethical practice. No entrance exam is needed for admission. It is a military-friendly program that includes strong local service collaboration and a culturally responsive curriculum.
- Multicultural mental health focus
- Rural healthcare specialization
- Trauma-informed training
- Medical Family Therapy integration
- Strong local service collaboration
- Culturally responsive curriculum
- Ethical practice emphasis
- Substance use disorder expertise
George Fox University
Newberg, OR - Private 4-year - georgefox.edu
Master's - Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
George Fox University offers a hybrid Master's in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling, designed for those seeking dual licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT). This CACREP-accredited program blends online and in-person learning, requiring 64 semester credit hours and a 700-hour clinical internship. With a focus on systemic perspectives and spiritual integration, the program prepares students for a field with a 16% job growth projection. Flexible scheduling options include day, evening, and weekend classes, making it accessible for working professionals. Total tuition is approximately $51,328, with financial aid available. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- 2-4 year program length
- Dual licensure (LPC/LMFT)
- 64 semester credit hours
- Online and in-person tracks
- CACREP accredited
- 700-hour clinical internship
- $51,328 total tuition
- Day, evening, weekend classes
- Spiritual integration approach
- 16% job growth projection
Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The hybrid Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at George Fox University is a CACREP-accredited program that prepares students for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC). Offering both online and in-person tracks, the program can be completed in 2-4 years, featuring a curriculum that emphasizes cultural competency, systemic approaches, and trauma response. With tuition at $826 per semester credit hour and a total program cost around $49,560, financial aid options are available. The program includes opportunities for specialization in play therapy and integrates a spiritual perspective. Graduates enter a field expected to grow 19% by 2033. No entrance exam is required.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 2-4 Year Completion Options
- Online and In-Person Tracks
- $826 Per Semester Credit Hour
- Prepares for LPC Licensure
- Flexible Day/Evening Courses
- Systemic Counseling Perspective
- Spiritual Integration Approach
- Play Therapy Opportunities
- Trauma Response Specialization
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - Public 4-Year - oregonstate.edu
Master's - Master of Counseling in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Oregon State University's Master of Counseling in School Counseling is a CACREP-accredited hybrid program tailored for working professionals aiming to become school counselors. This part-time, three-year program combines online coursework with bimonthly in-person sessions in Corvallis, allowing students to balance studies with employment. The curriculum focuses on diversity, social justice, and equipping graduates to support diverse student populations effectively. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam and prepares students for national counselor certification. Its unique collaborative cohort model enhances learning, making it an ideal choice for those seeking flexibility without compromising on quality education.
- CACREP-accredited program
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- Part-time, 3-year duration
- Work while studying
- Diversity and social justice focus
- National counselor certification eligible
- No full-time enrollment option
- Twice-quarterly campus meetings
- Collaborative cohort learning
Master's - Master of Counseling in Clinical Mental Health
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Counseling in Clinical Mental Health at Oregon State University offers a CACREP-accredited hybrid program designed for aspiring licensed counselors. This three-year part-time program blends online learning with face-to-face sessions twice per quarter, catering to working professionals. It emphasizes diversity, equity, and social justice, preparing graduates for licensure in multiple states. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible to a broader range of students. With a favorable faculty-student ratio of 1:12, the program ensures personalized attention, focusing on developing competent mental health professionals ready to address contemporary challenges in the field.
- Hybrid online/face-to-face format
- CACREP-accredited program
- 3-year part-time completion
- Work while studying
- Licensure preparation
- Diversity and social justice focus
- 1:12 faculty-student ratio
- No full-time option available
Western Seminary
Portland, OR - Private 4-year - westernseminary.edu
Master's - MA in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Seminary's MA in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a CACREP-accredited, hybrid program that integrates Christian theology with professional counseling training. Designed for those seeking licensure, it requires 700 clinical hours and offers a flexible schedule for completion in three years. The program does not require an entrance exam and is military-friendly, with a 98% national exam pass rate. Highlights include addiction studies certification and a strong emphasis on multicultural counseling.
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 68 Total Credits
- 3-Year Completion Option
- Hybrid Learning Model
- 700 Clinical Experience Hours
- Christian Theological Integration
- 98% National Exam Pass Rate
- Addiction Studies Certificate Available
- Portland Campus Location
- 3.0 GPA Admission Requirement
Master's - MA in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The MA in Counseling at Western Seminary, focusing on Clinical Mental Health Counseling, is a hybrid program accredited by CACREP. It blends biblical studies with clinical training, requiring 700 clinical hours and a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA for admission. No entrance exam is needed. The program is tailored for licensure preparation in Oregon, featuring early hands-on training and financial aid options, all within a Christian framework.
- CACREP accredited
- Hybrid program format
- 700 clinical hours
- 3 years to complete
- Biblical and theological integration
- Licensure preparation
- Hands-on training early
- Financial aid available
- 3.0 GPA requirement
- Portland campus location
Master's - MA in Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Seminary offers an MA in Counseling with a hybrid format, combining online and in-person classes in Portland, OR. This CACREP-accredited program emphasizes a Christian worldview and clinical mental health training, requiring 700 clinical hours. Admission is based on a bachelor's degree and a 3.0 GPA, with no entrance exam required. Designed for flexibility, it can be completed in three years, integrating biblical studies with professional counseling skills.
- CACREP accredited
- Hybrid program format
- 700 clinical hours
- Christian worldview integration
- 3-year completion time
- Portland, OR location
- Bachelor's degree required
- 3.0 GPA for admission
- Biblical studies included
- Clinical mental health focus
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR - Public 4-Year - uoregon.edu
Master's - Couples and Family Therapy
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Oregon offers a Master of Science in Couples and Family Therapy (CFT) program, a hybrid learning experience that blends online coursework with in-person clinical training. This COAMFTE-accredited program requires no entrance exam, focusing instead on preparing students for licensure through a 90-credit curriculum. Highlights include a small cohort model, 350 direct client contact hours, and training at the Center for Healthy Relationships. The program emphasizes diversity, social justice, and inclusive learning, offering graduates multiple career pathways in therapeutic settings.
- 90-credit Master of Science
- Nationally accredited program
- Small cohort model (22-24 students)
- COAMFTE accredited curriculum
- Two clinical training sites
- 350 direct client contact hours
- Supports state licensure requirements
- Inclusive learning environment
- Intensive clinical supervision
- Multiple career opportunity settings
Master's - Couples and Family Therapy
Concentration: Spanish Language Specialization - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of Oregon, the Master of Science in Couples and Family Therapy with a Spanish Language Specialization is a hybrid program that does not require an entrance exam. This 90-credit, COAMFTE-accredited program prepares students for professional therapy roles, emphasizing hands-on clinical training and small cohort learning. Students benefit from live therapy observations and practice at the Center for Healthy Relationships, alongside a curriculum focused on diversity and social justice. The program supports licensure preparation and offers multiple clinical training sites, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse therapeutic settings.
- 90-credit Master of Science program
- COAMFTE nationally accredited
- 22-24 students admitted annually
- Multiple clinical training sites
- Licensure preparation focus
- Small cohort learning model
- Center for Healthy Relationships
- 350 direct client contact hours
- Multiple career placement options
- Faculty with teaching awards
How to Find a Counseling Program in Oregon
There is more to finding a good counseling program in Oregon than simply choosing any college or university that offers a counseling program. A good Oregon counseling program provides students with the knowledge and skills that they need to become competent counselors. Many things, including counseling specialties and accreditation, are some considerations for choosing an Oregon counseling program.
Counseling Degree Pathways in Oregon
Students have the opportunity to choose a variety of counseling degree pathways from among the Oregon counseling programs.
- Associate's Degree – This is a two-year degree and provides the minimum education for some entry-level counseling jobs.
- Bachelor's Degree – This is a four-year degree and provides a basic level of education for a counselor.
- Master's Degree – The most common degree amongst counselors. It requires a bachelor’s degree and an additional two years of study.
- Graduate Certificate – A graduate certificate is not a degree, but it is helpful in providing a better understanding of a counseling specialty. It can be achieved in less than a year.
- Doctorate Degree – The highest level of education for a counselor. It requires either a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree and an additional three to six years of study.
Choose a Counseling Specialty
Many students start their counseling education journey having already chosen a counseling specialty. Some students choose to explore available counseling specialties when they consider a particular Oregon counseling program.
The counseling psychology program at the University of Oregon offers a Spanish-language specialization.
George Fox University provides students with the opportunity to choose three specializations in the School Counselor program. Choose the master's degree in school counseling track I, the master's degree in school counseling track II, or the certificate in school counseling, which is a licensure-only program.
Check School Accreditation
It is important to check school counseling program accreditation before enrolling in a program. Schools in Oregon that offer counseling programs often provide accreditation information on the counseling program page. Usually, accreditation is provided either by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling or Related Educational Programs (CACREP) or the American Psychological Association (APA).
Oregon State University provides accreditation information that is easy to locate on the page. The Western Seminary Counselor page also displays easily identifiable accreditation information on its page that lists counselor programs in Oregon.
Online vs. Traditional Counseling Programs in Oregon
Most counseling programs in Oregon are offered in the traditional format. Students who want to pursue a counseling program in an online format do have options.
Oregon State University offers a Ph.D. in Counseling in a hybrid format. Students complete some degree requirements in class, and some requirements online.
Becoming Licensed As a Counselor in Oregon
Becoming licensed in Oregon is required for students who want a counseling career. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that they complete the licensure and credentialing requirements for their Oregon counseling degree program.
The Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists regulates the counselors in Oregon.
2025 Affordable Master's in Counseling Program Options
Finding an affordable Master's in Counseling in Oregon for 2025 is key for students. The right program balances cost with quality. Our table shows options with their tuition range and highlights. It helps you compare low-cost and cost-effective choices. This makes picking the best fit easier without overspending. Oregon offers diverse settings from cities like Portland to quieter areas. Each program has unique features to match different career goals. Start your search here to find a program that fits your budget and aspirations.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
---|---|---|
Eastern Oregon University |
|
|
Oregon Institute of Technology |
|
|
Portland State University |
|
|
List of Counseling Degree Programs in Oregon
Are you searching for a counseling degree program in Oregon? 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.
Ashland, OR
Southern Oregon University
- Master's - Master in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- CACREP National Accreditation
- Licensed Professional Counselor Preparation
- Western Regional Graduate Program
- Out-of-State Tuition Assistance
- Diversity and Academic Excellence Scholarships
Corvallis, OR
Oregon State University
- Master's - Master of Counseling in Clinical Mental Health
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/face-to-face format
- CACREP-accredited program
- 3-year part-time completion
- Work while studying
- Licensure preparation
- Diversity and social justice focus
- 1:12 faculty-student ratio
- No full-time option available
- Master's - Master of Counseling in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program
- Hybrid online/in-person format
- Part-time, 3-year duration
- Work while studying
- Diversity and social justice focus
- National counselor certification eligible
- No full-time enrollment option
- Twice-quarterly campus meetings
- Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling
Concentration: Counselor Education - Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid online/face-to-face format.
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Part-time, designed for working professionals.
- Focus on antiracism and social justice.
- Requires Master's in Counseling or related.
- 3.0 GPA minimum for admission.
- Cohort-based learning model.
- Faculty-student mentoring relationships.
Eugene, OR
Bushnell University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- 60-credit hybrid program
- CACREP accredited program
- 28-month completion time
- 81-90% licensure exam pass rate
- Onsite counseling clinic experience
- Licensure preparation focused
- Multicultural counseling emphasis
- $830 per credit tuition
- Master's - Master of Arts in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 48-57 total program credits
- Two specialized program tracks
- 600-hour supervised internship
- Evening class format
- TSPC accredited program
- $755 per credit cost
- Two-year completion time
- Christian-oriented approach
- Graduate Certificate - Certificate in School Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid evening and online format
- 33 total credit program
- 22-month completion time
- Practitioners as instructors
- TSPC accredited program
- 600 hours internship experience
- Requires existing graduate degree
- Preliminary PK-12 Counseling License
La Grande, OR
Eastern Oregon University
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Coursework
- No GRE Required
- 90 Quarter Credits Total
- $537 Per Credit
- Two-Year Program Option
- No In-Person Residency
- Three Clinical Experience Terms
- Expert Faculty Mentorship
Newberg, OR
George Fox University
- Master's - Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 2-4 Year Completion Options
- Online and In-Person Tracks
- $826 Per Semester Credit Hour
- Prepares for LPC Licensure
- Flexible Day/Evening Courses
- Systemic Counseling Perspective
- Spiritual Integration Approach
- Graduate Certificate - Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP accredited.
- Flexible online/in-person.
- 2-4 years completion.
- 60 credit hours.
- $826 per credit.
- Prepares for LPC licensure.
- Spiritual integration focus.
- Diverse clinical settings.
Portland, OR
Lewis & Clark College
- Master's - Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling—Specialization in Addictions
Concentration: Addictions - Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited counseling program
- Specialization in Addictions treatment
- Minimum 62 semester hours required
- Practicum and internship included
- Eligible for professional counselor licensure
- Master's - Master of Education in School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 45 semester hours required.
- Full-time or part-time study.
- 21-24 months program length.
- Campus-based program.
- Focus on K-12 school counseling.
- Emphasizes social justice.
- Includes school placements.
- Advisors support students.
Portland State University
- Master's - Counseling: Clinical Mental Health
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program.
- Focuses on practical training.
- Prepares for diverse settings.
- Skills for mental health care.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
- Master's - School Counseling
Campus Based - Website
- 90 credit master's degree.
- On-campus delivery method.
- Fall start term.
- Prepares for P-12 school counseling.
- Focus on social justice and equity.
- Cultural competence emphasis.
- Transformative field experiences.
- Accredited by TSPC and CACREP.
- Graduate Certificate - School Counseling Certificate
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Focus on Pre-K to 12th grade
- Meets licensure requirements
- For post-master's students
- Blends theory and practice
University of Western States
- Master's - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Website
- 100% Online Degree
- 90 Quarter Credits Total
- MPCAC Accredited Program
- Standardized Patient Program
- Licensure Exam Preparation
- 5 Terms Clinical Placement
- $631 Per Credit Tuition
- Spring and Fall Entry Terms
Western Seminary
- Master's - MA in Counseling
Concentration: Clinical Mental Health Counseling - Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP Accredited Program
- 68 Total Credits
- 3-Year Completion Option
- Hybrid Learning Model
- 700 Clinical Experience Hours
- Christian Theological Integration
- 98% National Exam Pass Rate
- Addiction Studies Certificate Available
Salem, OR
Corban University
- Master's - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online & Campus Based - Website
- CACREP-accredited program.
- Hybrid learning model.
- 60 credits in two years.
- Christian perspective integrated.
- Prepares for Oregon licensure.
- Evening and online classes.
- Scholarships available.
- Diverse practicums and internships.