Best Counseling Schools in Washington

Seattle University offers an Online Master's in School Counseling, a CACREP-accredited program designed for those aiming to make a difference in K-12 education. This 90-credit, three-year program focuses on multicultural competence and data-driven practices, preparing graduates for roles as ethical school counselors. Unique features include mental health counseling training, Substance Use Disorder Certification, and a curriculum centered on social justice. The program includes a summer campus residency and a year-long practicum, blending asynchronous online learning with hands-on experience. No entrance exam is required, making it accessible for aspiring counselors committed to educational support and leadership.

• CACREP-accredited online program
• 3-year, 90-credit master's degree
• Multicultural, anti-racist curriculum
• Residency ESA Certification
• Substance Use Disorder Certification
• Asynchronous online learning format
• Summer campus residency
• Year-long practicum
• Nationally renowned faculty
• Prestigious fellowship opportunities

The online MAEd in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seattle University is tailored for professionals seeking licensure and Washington State Substance Use Disorder Certification. Over three years and 90 credits, students engage in asynchronous online courses, summer residencies, and practicum experiences, all designed for flexibility. The program emphasizes social justice, equity, and cultural competence, supported by personalized success coaching. Graduates are equipped to advocate for mental health in diverse settings. Notably, the program does not require an entrance exam, welcoming candidates dedicated to fostering social change through counseling.

• Online and asynchronous courses.
• Summer residency requirement.
• Prepares for state licensure.
• Eligible for Substance Use Disorder Certification.
• 90 credits over 3 years.
• Flexible scheduling for professionals.
• Personalized Student Success Coordinator.
• Hybrid third-year experience.
• Focus on social justice and equity.
• Nationally renowned faculty.

City University of Seattle's M.A. in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling is a hybrid program designed for those aiming to specialize in therapeutic interventions for relationships and families. This program stands out for its culturally attuned approach and ethically grounded curriculum, preparing students to address complex interpersonal dynamics. With a focus on both personal and professional growth, graduates are well-equipped for roles in mental health settings and private practices. The program does not require an entrance exam, emphasizing accessibility and practical skill development.

• In-person and mixed mode formats
• Culturally attuned therapeutic approach
• Professional expertise development
• Ethically grounded curriculum
• Focus on personal and professional growth

The Master of Arts in Counseling at City University of Seattle, specializing in Professional School Counseling, is a CACREP accredited hybrid program. It prepares students for K-12 school counseling roles with a strong emphasis on social justice and multicultural understanding. The 90-credit curriculum meets Washington state credentialing requirements, offering hands-on training through internships. Priced at $710 per credit, the program is accessible with financial aid options. No entrance exam is required, focusing instead on a holistic review of applicants' potential to contribute to the field of school counseling.

• CACREP Accredited Program
• 90 Total Credits
• Hybrid Learning Format
• Washington State Credential
• Social Justice Focus
• $710 Per Credit
• Multiple Internship Opportunities
• K-12 Counseling Specialization
• Multicultural Counseling Emphasis
• Practitioner-Scholar Model

City University of Seattle offers a Master of Arts in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration, a 90-credit hybrid program accredited by CACREP. This program is designed for future licensed mental health professionals, emphasizing a social justice approach to counseling. With tuition at $710 per credit, it includes comprehensive ethical training and multicultural counseling emphasis. Admission does not require an entrance exam, but a 2.75 undergraduate GPA and professional references are needed. Graduates are prepared for diverse clinical settings, aligning with Washington state licensure requirements.

• CACREP Accredited Program
• 90 total program credits
• Hybrid learning format
• Social justice focused curriculum
• Meets LMHC licensure requirements
• Clinical mental health concentration
• Practitioner-scholar model
• Multiple internship opportunities
• Multicultural counseling emphasis
• Comprehensive ethical training

Northwest University offers an online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, blending academic rigor with a Christian perspective over a 32-month, 60-credit curriculum. This program stands out for its flexibility, featuring asynchronous coursework complemented by three on-campus residencies, catering to students balancing professional and personal commitments. Priced at $720 per credit, it's designed to prepare graduates for Washington state licensure without the need for a GRE. Emphasizing a holistic approach, the program addresses mental health through biological, psychological, spiritual, and cultural lenses, making it ideal for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in diverse communities. CACREP accreditation is pending, enhancing its appeal to prospective students.

• Online program with campus residencies
• 60 total credit hours
• $720 per credit
• 32-month program duration
• CACREP accreditation pending
• Washington state licensure preparation
• Christian worldview integration
• Flexible asynchronous format
• No GRE required
• Cohort-based learning model

Northwest University's Center for Online and Extended Education provides a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling entirely online, catering to students seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality. This 60-credit program, designed to be completed in 32 months, blends asynchronous coursework with three essential on-campus residencies, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. It stands out for its integration of a Christian worldview with evidence-based practices, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations effectively. Notably, the program does not require the GRE for admission, making it accessible to a broader range of applicants. With a focus on meeting Washington state licensure requirements, it offers a culturally responsive counseling approach at a tuition rate of $720 per credit.

• 60-credit online master's degree
• Meets Washington state licensure requirements
• Three on-campus residency experiences
• Flexible asynchronous program format
• No GRE required for admission
• Christian worldview integration
• $720 per credit tuition
• 32-month program length
• Culturally responsive counseling approach