Explore Premier Counseling Psychology Programs Near Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles, California renowned for its entertainment industry and diverse communities faces a growing gap in access to mental health services. California is projected to be short 5,000 mental health practitioners by 2026, driving an urgent need for expanded training pipelines, according to the Los Angeles Times. Meanwhile, more than one-third of the state’s population lives in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area, with large swaths of Los Angeles County designated as underserved, according to KFF. For students and professionals drawn to counseling psychology, Los Angeles offers top-tier Online Counseling Psychology Programs with many with online or hybrid options that combine academic rigor with extensive practicum partnerships at clinics, schools, and community agencies.
From master's degrees emphasizing multicultural counseling to doctoral tracks preparing you for licensure and independent practice, premier programs in the LA area adhere to American Psychological Association (APA) and California Board of Psychology standards. Whether you aim to work in private practice, schools, or community mental health centers, Los Angeles provides affordable and flexible pathways. Read on to explore program levels, admissions requirements, career outcomes, and financing strategies before viewing our curated list of premier counseling psychology programs near Los Angeles.
2026 Premier Counseling Psychology Programs Near Los Angeles, California
Concordia University-Irvine
Irvine, CA - Private 4-year - cui.edu
Doctorate - Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision
Online Learning - Visit Website
Concordia University Irvine's Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision emerges as a cutting-edge online doctoral program tailored for licensed mental health professionals seeking advanced academic and leadership credentials. Distinguished by its comprehensive 60-unit curriculum, the program offers a transformative educational pathway that blends rigorous research methodology with practical supervision techniques. Strategically designed for working professionals, students benefit from accelerated 3-4 year completion timelines and two immersive in-person residencies. The program's distinctive approach cultivates advanced competencies in educational leadership, clinical supervision, and scholarly research, preparing counseling practitioners to become influential educators and change agents in the mental health landscape. Notably, the program requires extensive fieldwork, totaling 700 professional hours.
- Online + 2 In-Person Residencies
- $795 Cost Per Unit
- 3-4 Year Accelerated Program
- WSCUC Accredited
- 700 Total Fieldwork Hours
- 60 Total Units Required
- License Professionals Only
- 2 Face-to-Face Residencies
- Christian Thought Leadership
- Research-Focused Curriculum
Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA - Private 4-year - pepperdine.edu
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Marriage and Family Therapy - Online Learning - Visit Website
Pepperdine University's online MA in Clinical Psychology with Marriage and Family Therapy Emphasis offers a transformative pathway for professionals seeking licensure. Designed with exceptional flexibility, the program eliminates standardized test barriers and provides comprehensive clinical training. Students develop advanced therapeutic skills tailored to serving individuals, couples, and families. With four annual start terms and a robust 12:1 student-faculty ratio, the program ensures personalized learning. Graduates receive preparation for LMFT and LPCC licensure, benefiting from supervised clinical experiences and a curriculum that emphasizes practical, culturally sensitive intervention strategies.
- 100% Online Flexible Format
- No GRE Required
- 4 Annual Start Terms
- 62-68 Total Program Units
- 12:1 Student-Faculty Ratio
- Meets LMFT/LPCC Licensure Requirements
- Supervised Clinical Experience
- Average Class Size 14 Students
- Multiple Licensure Paths
- Clinical Training Near Community
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Concentration: Latinx Communities - Campus Based - Visit Website
Pepperdine's campus-based MA in Clinical Psychology with a specialized Latinx Communities emphasis delivers culturally competent mental health training. This program distinguishes itself through expert faculty guidance, practical experience, and a deep commitment to serving Latinx populations. Students engage in specialized family therapy training, developing nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics. The curriculum integrates academic rigor with hands-on learning, preparing professionals to address complex psychological needs within Latinx communities. With a diverse student body and strong alumni network, graduates emerge as skilled, empathetic practitioners ready to make meaningful therapeutic interventions.
- Focus on Latinx Communities.
- Campus-based program.
- Expert faculty guidance.
- Strong alumni network.
- Cultural competence training.
- Practical experience included.
- Diverse student body.
- Specialized family therapy training.
- Bachelor's degree required.
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy with Latinx Communities
Concentration: Latinx Communities - Campus Based - Visit Website
Pepperdine University's MA in Clinical Psychology focusing on Latinx Communities presents a comprehensive licensure pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. Spanning 2.5-3 years across multiple campuses, the program uniquely combines Spanish language development with targeted Latinx-specific content. Without GRE requirements, the program remains accessible while maintaining high academic standards. Students benefit from 130+ clinical practicum sites, supervised experiences, and a cohort-based learning model. The curriculum prepares graduates for LMFT or LPCC licensure, equipping them with specialized skills to effectively address mental health challenges within Latinx communities.
- Evening format available.
- Fall term start.
- West Los Angeles, Irvine, Calabasas locations.
- 2.5-3 years duration.
- 60-72 units required.
- $1,630 per unit tuition.
- No GRE required.
- LMFT or LPCC licensure prep.
- Latinx-specific credits.
- Spanish-language courses.
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
Campus Based - Visit Website
Pepperdine University's campus-based MA in Clinical Psychology with Marriage and Family Therapy emphasis offers a comprehensive professional development pathway. The program combines academic excellence with practical therapeutic training, featuring expert faculty guidance and intimate learning environments. Students receive holistic preparation for impactful counseling careers, supported by small class sizes and accessible financial aid options. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience, critical thinking, and compassionate intervention strategies. Designed for bachelor's degree holders passionate about mental health, the program provides a rigorous foundation for future therapists seeking to make meaningful contributions to individual and family wellness.
- Campus-based program
- Expert faculty guidance
- Small class sizes
- Financial aid available
- Bachelor's degree required
The Chicago School at Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA - Private 4-year - thechicagoschool.edu
Master's - M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Chicago School's downtown Los Angeles M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program offers a comprehensive training pathway for aspiring mental health professionals. CACREP-accredited, the campus-based program emphasizes ethical practice, multiculturalism, and advanced clinical skills across diverse settings. Students engage in extensive practical training through 700 total fieldwork hours, gaining expertise in counseling theories, mental health diagnosis, and lifespan development. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, essay submission, resume, three recommendation letters, and an interview. The program prepares graduates for careers in agencies, private practice, and community mental health services, with a distinctive focus on serving underserved populations.
- CACREP accredited program.
- Two years full time.
- Three years part time.
- Practicum and internship included.
- Focus on ethical practice.
- Multiculturalism and social justice.
- Advanced clinical practice.
- Personalized faculty advising.
- Diverse clinical settings training.
- Comprehensive curriculum.
Master's - M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Chicago School's online M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling program delivers a flexible, innovative educational experience for working professionals seeking advanced mental health training. CACREP-accredited, the program integrates rigorous online coursework with two mandatory in-person residencies, ensuring comprehensive clinical preparation. Students develop critical skills in multicultural counseling, research methodologies, ethical practice, and diagnostic techniques. The curriculum includes supervised clinical training and fieldwork practicums, providing hands-on learning opportunities. Designed for adult learners, the program offers personalized faculty advising and a holistic approach to professional development in mental health counseling.
- CACREP accredited.
- Flexible online format.
- Two in-person residencies.
- Supervised clinical training.
- Personalized faculty advising.
- Focus on multicultural counseling.
- Ethics and research training.
- Diagnosis and prevention skills.
- Fieldwork practicum and internship.
- Holistic educational approach.
Chapman University
Orange, CA - Private 4-year - chapman.edu
Master's - MA in Counseling with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Counseling
Concentration: School Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
Chapman University's MA in Counseling with School Counseling Credential offers a specialized pathway for aspiring school counselors. The program uniquely prepares professionals to support students from preschool through high school, integrating comprehensive mental health counseling skills with academic guidance techniques. Students develop critical collaborative strategies to enhance student success, focusing on holistic student development. With a Pupil Personnel Services Credential, graduates gain expertise in addressing academic, career, and personal growth challenges. The program emphasizes hands-on training, ensuring practitioners are equipped to provide nuanced support across diverse educational environments. Recommended entrance exam: GRE.
- Preschool to high school focus
- Mental health counseling training
- Academic and career guidance
- Pupil Personnel Services Credential
- Collaborative learning approach
Master's - MA in Counseling with an emphasis in Professional Clinical Counseling
Concentration: Professional Clinical Counseling - Campus Based - Visit Website
Chapman University's MA in Counseling with Professional Clinical Counseling emphasis provides robust training for future Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCCs). Located in Orange, CA, this intensive program demands 280 trainee hours, strategically designed for working professionals through convenient evening classes. Students receive comprehensive preparation for state and national licensure exams, with curriculum emphasizing advanced mental health crisis intervention and sophisticated psychotherapy techniques. The program distinguishes itself by cultivating individual and systems-level counseling competencies, dramatically expanding graduates' professional opportunities across diverse clinical settings. Recommended entrance exam: GRE.
- Campus-based program
- Evening classes available
- 280 trainee hours required
- Prepares for LPCC licensure
- Focus on mental health crisis
- Located in Orange, CA
- Advanced counseling skills
- Individual and systems-level focus
- State and national exams required
- Enhances job opportunities
Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, CA - Private 4-year - vanguard.edu
Master's - Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology
Online Learning - Visit Website
Vanguard University's Master of Science in Clinical Psychology offers a transformative educational journey blending academic rigor with faith-based perspectives. Designed for aspiring mental health professionals, this program provides comprehensive preparation for California licensure tracks in Marriage and Family Therapy and Professional Clinical Counseling. Students benefit from flexible online and on-campus learning options, intimate class sizes averaging 12 students, and extensive practicum experiences across 60+ partner sites. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on clinical skill development, personalized mentorship, and a holistic approach to therapeutic practice. With program units ranging from 61-66 and a competitive cost structure of $855 per unit, graduates are strategically positioned to serve diverse populations in various clinical environments.
- Online and on-campus formats
- 61-66 total program units
- $855 per unit cost
- Licensure preparation tracks
- Christ-centered educational approach
- Practicum at 60+ partner sites
- Small class sizes average 12
- 2-4 year completion options
University of Massachusetts Global
Irvine, CA - Public 4-Year - umassglobal.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Concentration: Preparation for Advanced Study in Counseling - Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Massachusetts Global's online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers a specialized concentration in Preparation for Advanced Study in Counseling, strategically designed for aspiring counseling professionals. This comprehensive program uniquely blends theoretical psychological foundations with practical skill development, targeting students committed to future graduate-level counseling education. Students explore critical domains including family dynamics, community mental health, and gerontological perspectives. The curriculum emphasizes building robust critical thinking, cultural competency, and scientific communication skills. Academic rigor is maintained through a course progression requiring minimum 'C' grades, ensuring high-quality educational preparation. Notably, the program's online flexibility accommodates diverse student backgrounds while maintaining academic excellence in counseling studies preparation.
- Online program format.
- Focus on counseling preparation.
- Covers family dynamics.
- Includes community mental health.
- Addresses aging issues.
- Prepares for graduate studies.
- Requires 'C' or better.
- Builds critical thinking skills.
- Enhances cultural understanding.
- Develops scientific writing.
The Chicago School at Anaheim
Anaheim, CA - Private 4-year - thechicagoschool.edu
Master's - M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
The Chicago School at Anaheim's online M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a transformative educational experience for aspiring mental health professionals. This CACREP-accredited program distinguishes itself through a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students to tackle complex psychological challenges. With a remarkable 91% licensure exam pass rate, students benefit from flexible learning pathways completed in under four years. The program emphasizes practical training, requiring two mandatory in-person residencies and a minimum of 700 clinical hours. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum integrates advanced counseling theories, diagnostic techniques, and intervention strategies. Graduates emerge equipped to excel in diverse settings including social services, non-profits, college counseling centers, and private practice, with personalized faculty advising supporting their professional journey.
- Online, flexible master's program
- Less than 4 years completion
- CACREP accredited program
- 91% licensure exam pass rate
- Minimum 700 clinical hours
- Two mandatory in-person residencies
- GPA requirement: 3.0+
- Career growth potential
- Personalized faculty advising
Antioch University-Los Angeles
Culver City, CA - Private 4-year - antiochla.edu
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology, LGBT-Affirmative Psychology
Concentration: LGBT-Affirmative Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Antioch University's MA in Clinical Psychology with LGBT-Affirmative Psychology concentration represents an innovative program designed to train mental health professionals in providing specialized, compassionate care for LGBTQIA+ populations. Students delve deeply into addressing minority stress, complex identity challenges, and intersectional oppression experiences. The two-year comprehensive curriculum emphasizes social justice principles and prepares graduates for California licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists or Professional Clinical Counselors. Through multiple LGBT identity workshops and advanced affirmative psychotherapy training, students develop nuanced skills to support diverse sexual and gender minority communities effectively.
- Pioneer LGBT psychology specialization
- California licensure preparation
- Social justice focused curriculum
- Two-year comprehensive program
- Addresses minority stress dynamics
- Multiple LGBT identity workshops
- Explores intersectional oppression experiences
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology, Applied Community Psychology
Concentration: Applied Community Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Antioch University's MA in Clinical Psychology with Applied Community Psychology concentration offers a dynamic, practice-oriented approach to mental health training. This award-winning program uniquely blends academic coursework with extensive field experiences, focusing on program development, community health interventions, and professional consultation. Students engage in psycho-educational groups, in-service training workshops, and collaborative projects with major organizations. The 17-unit specialization provides comprehensive preparation for state licensure, emphasizing practical skills, professional development, and meaningful community engagement through innovative research and service-learning opportunities.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on Applied Community Psychology
- Combines coursework with field experience
- Award-winning program
- Professional development model
- 17-unit specialization courses
- Includes field study and electives
- Prepares for state licensure
- Speakers Bureau community service
- Collaboration with major organizations
Master's - MA in Clinical Psychology, Spiritual and Depth Psychology
Concentration: Spiritual and Depth Psychology - Campus Based - Visit Website
Antioch University's MA in Clinical Psychology with Spiritual and Depth Psychology concentration presents a holistic approach to mental wellness, integrating mindfulness-based therapy, Jungian psychology, and socio-cultural diversity principles. The program prepares students for licensure through a unique curriculum that emphasizes intercultural competence, personal growth, and integrative psychotherapeutic practices. Students explore advanced therapeutic modalities including dreamwork and mindfulness techniques, developing skills to support diverse populations. The comprehensive training bridges traditional clinical approaches with evidence-based practices, creating versatile mental health professionals equipped to address complex psychological landscapes.
- Campus-based program
- Focus on Spiritual Depth
- Integrates mindfulness therapy
- Jungian psychology included
- Emphasizes diversity consciousness
- Prepares for state licensure
- Core and elective courses
- Fieldwork opportunities
- Professional development support
- Community networking events
University of Phoenix-California
Ontario, CA - Private 4-year - phoenix.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Online Learning - Visit Website
University of Phoenix's Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling offers a comprehensive online program strategically designed for aspiring mental health professionals in California. With a robust 600-hour clinical experience component, the curriculum rigorously prepares students for professional counselor licensure. The program uniquely addresses clinical assessment techniques, human development theories, and ethical practice standards. Tailored to meet California's LPCC educational requirements, students gain practical skills through flexible coursework accommodating working professionals. A graduate portfolio is required for admission, ensuring candidates demonstrate professional potential in this dynamic mental health counseling pathway.
- Online program
- 60 credits required
- Meets California LPCC requirements
- 600-hour clinical experience
- CACREP accredited
- Focus on clinical mental health
- Flexible for working professionals
- Admission requires graduate portfolio
- Covers human development
- Includes counseling theories
Master's - Master of Science in Counseling/Marriage, Family and Child Therapy
Concentration: Marriage, Family and Child Therapy - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Phoenix's Master of Science in Counseling, specialized in Marriage, Family and Child Therapy, provides an innovative online educational experience targeting future licensed marriage and family therapists. Meticulously crafted to align with LMFT and LPCC requirements, the 60-credit program emphasizes multicultural counseling perspectives and comprehensive clinical skill development. Students explore complex domains including human development, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations in therapeutic contexts. Designed with working professionals in mind, the program offers a noncredit assessment admission process and potential financial aid opportunities, creating an accessible pathway for advanced counseling specialization.
- Online program
- 60 credits required
- LMFT and LPCC aligned
- Multicultural counseling focus
- Clinical skills development
- Noncredit assessment for admission
- Financial aid available
- Scholarships may apply
- Designed for working professionals
- Human development topics
Why Pursue Counseling Psychology in Los Angeles?
Before exploring the options, consider why Los Angeles stands out as a destination for counseling psychology education. The region's multicultural population provides a living laboratory for exploring multicultural and social-justice perspectives in therapy. Major employers, from LAUSD to Cedars-Sinai, seek graduates trained in culturally responsive assessment and intervention. Premier programs here often partner with:
- Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health for community-based practicum.
- University-affiliated clinics offering sliding-scale services to underserved groups.
- School districts provide psychological services to diverse youth populations.
These partnerships ensure that even highly competitive, cost-effective programs deliver real-world training aligned with licensure requirements necessary for Counseling Schools in California
Program Levels & Curriculum Highlights
Counseling psychology training typically comes in three tiers: master's, specialist, and doctoral. Each level builds on core counseling theories, ethics, and research methods, with specialized electives and practicum hours.
Master's in Counseling Psychology
A Master's in Counseling Psychology (48–60 credits) balances theory and practice:
Programs cover foundational courses in:
- Human development and lifespan psychology
- Counseling theories (e.g., CBT, person-centered, family systems)
- Research design and statistics
- Ethics and legal issues in California practice
Students complete over 700 supervised practicum hours in settings such as community clinics and college counseling centers. Evening and weekend formats make it possible to work part-time. For detailed degree options, our Counseling Psychology Master's Degree Guide does a great job at outlining these details.
Master's in Mental Health Counseling
A Master's in Mental Health Counseling (60 credits) focuses on clinical assessment and treatment skills specific to mental health disorders:
Programs typically include:
- Psychopathology and diagnosis (DSM-5)
- Advanced counseling techniques for trauma, grief, and substance use
- Group counseling methods
- Supervised internships (1,000+ hours) in community mental health or private agencies
These degrees meet California LPCC licensure requirements.
Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy (MFT)
An MFT Program in California (60 credits) trains you for systemic therapy with families and couples:
Curriculum highlights:
- Family systems theory and interventions
- Child and adolescent therapy techniques
- Cultural and diversity considerations in family therapy
- 1,750 hours of combined coursework and clinical experience
Specialist & Doctoral Degrees
For advanced practice, Counseling Psychology PhD/PsyD or specialist EdS tracks (90+ credits) emphasize research, supervision, and leadership:
- EdS Programs provide focused training and an internship year, reducing time to licensure.
- Doctoral Programs involve dissertation research, teaching practicums, and 1,500+ supervised clinical hours.
Graduates pursue roles as supervisors, university faculty, or clinical directors.
Admission Requirements
Application criteria vary, but most premier counseling psychology programs require:
Before applying, gather:
| Requirement | Typical Expectation |
| Bachelor's Degree | Psychology, education, or a related field |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2–3 academic or professional references |
| Statement of Purpose | Articulating counseling philosophy and goals |
| Resume/CV | Highlighting relevant clinical/volunteer work |
| Transcripts | Officials from all post-secondary institutions |
Some programs also require the GRE or an admissions interview. Always verify program-specific requirements on the school’s website.
Career Paths & Specializations
Graduates of LA counseling psychology programs can work in:
- Private Practice: Providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
- Public Schools: Serving as school counselors or psychologists within LAUSD.
- Community Agencies: Leading mental health initiatives for underserved populations.
- Healthcare Settings: Integrating counseling services into hospitals and clinics.
- Higher Education: Offering student counseling services at universities like UCLA and USC.
Graduates of Los Angeles counseling psychology programs find roles across diverse settings—from private practice and community mental health centers to university counseling services and hospital outpatient clinics—helping individuals, couples, families, and specialized populations. Those particularly interested in school-based work can step into positions as school counselors or psychologists within LAUSD, collaborating on IEP teams, delivering social-emotional learning curricula, and supporting students through crisis intervention; for a deeper dive into these roles and their licensure pathways, explore School Psychologist Careers.
Practicum & Fieldwork Opportunities
Hands-on training is essential. Premier LA programs partner with:
- University counseling centers (e.g., UCLA Counseling & Psychological Services)
- Community mental health clinics offering pro bono services
- School districts for school-based internship placements
- Hospital outpatient programs for specialty populations (e.g., trauma, LGBTQ+ youth)
These supervised practicum experiences satisfy state licensure requirements and build professional networks.
Salary Expectations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles counselors earn competitive salaries reflecting urban demand:
| Role | Entry-Level | Median | Experienced |
| Licensed Professional Counselor (LPCC) | $50,000 | $65,000 | $85,000 |
| Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) | $55,000 | $70,000 | $90,000 |
| School Counselor | $45,000 | $60,000 | $75,000 |
Salaries vary by setting, credentials, and years of experience.
Financial Aid & Cost-Saving Strategies
Premier programs offer funding to reduce tuition costs:
- University scholarships and fellowships (e.g., CSU Chancellor's Doctoral Incentive)
- Teaching and research assistantships with stipends and tuition remission
- California state grants, such as Cal Grant and Chafee Grant
- Employer tuition reimbursement from school districts and health centers
Early application to funding sources can cover 50–100% of tuition expenses.
Balancing Flexibility, Quality & Cost
When selecting a program, weigh:
- Accreditation & Licensure Alignment: Ensure APA accreditation or CA Board approval.
- Program Format: Online, hybrid, or on-campus, based on your schedule.
- Practicum Support: Level of assistance in arranging field placements.
- Program Length & Cost: Compare total credits and per-unit rates.
- Local Partnerships: Strong ties to LA agencies enhance job placement.
How to Get Started
Kick off your application process:
- Research programs that match your career goals and budget.
- Attend virtual info sessions to ask questions about the curriculum and support.
- Gather application materials early to meet fall and winter deadlines.
- Explore funding opportunities through your financial aid office.
- Connect with alumni via LinkedIn or your school’s network to learn about their experiences.
Take the Next Step
Los Angeles offers some of the nation's most dynamic, culturally responsive, and premier counseling psychology programs. With flexible formats, robust practicum partnerships, and comprehensive support, you can launch a fulfilling career serving diverse populations across schools, clinics, and private practice.
Begin your journey today—Los Angeles communities are waiting for your expertise.
Sources
- L.A. County tries to hire mental health workers, fast Los Angeles Times
- Mental Health Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) KFF
- Ending the Shortage of Licensed Therapists in California California Health Care Foundation
- Counseling Schools in California
