Phoenix Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Program Information

The Master of Arts (MA) degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University, Phoenix, offers students the education, training, and advanced skills required to excel as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor in private and group practices, substance abuse treatment facilities, hospitals and clinics, correctional institutions, and government agencies. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program meets Arizona requirements for licensure* and is accredited by the Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)*.

The first step toward earning your Master of Arts (MA) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is to apply today. You can learn more about financial aid options, available to those who qualify, by visiting our Financial Aid and Scholarships pages, or by contacting us to request more information.

About the Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University, Phoenix

The Master of Arts (MA) degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a 63 credit hour program that prepares students for professional careers as masters-level counseling practitioners.

The program is designed to integrate the theoretical and conceptual foundations of mental health counseling with training in client intervention and therapy skills. It emphasizes the development of attitudes, knowledge, and skills essential for mental health counselors who are committed to providing quality services.

Scheduled to enable busy professionals to balance the demands of career, family, and school, coursework is offered in both blended and online formats for optimal flexibility. The curriculum includes group training and offers electives for specialization.

A strong commitment to mentorship by our diverse, accomplished faculty is the cornerstone of our program. Our faculty actively practices counseling or consultation within the community, so students learn from practicing professionals who are current in their respective fields. Faculty members utilize a Scholar Practitioner Model, incorporating real-life experiences in the classroom curriculum. Professors actively support students in having a comprehensive learning experience, including the publication of papers and participation in organizations and groups related to Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Students may also participate in various Internship opportunities. The program carefully matches students with internship opportunities that are aligned with their learning and career goals.

Credentials and experience levels vary by faculty and instructors.

Students who complete the Master of Arts (MA) Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Argosy University, Phoenix, are eligible to sit for the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (NCMHCE). With required post-graduate experiences, students in this program are eligible to become Licensed Associate Counselors (LAC) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC). Students who elect to pursue additional learning opportunities can also become eligible for the Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) or the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) credentials. 

The program courses and curricula are designed to parallel prevailing licensure and certification requirements as closely as possible. Because of variations among states, each student should check with regional sources to confirm such requirements. Students are required to complete the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Evaluation (CPCE) while in the program.

What knowledge and skills can I gain from completing the Phoenix Master of Arts (MA) degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling?

Students are trained to diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They can learn and develop strong counseling, clinical writing and speaking, and presentation creation and implementation skills. Our program supports students in developing effective communication and leadership skills, increased self-awareness, confidence, compassion, and a commitment to advocacy. As a result, of the program’s focus on interpersonal development, students also can become more aware of their own values, beliefs and philosophies—and how they impact their lives. Throughout the process, students will have the opportunity to learn how to work effectively with a wide variety of people.

Students will have the opportunity to learn the application of core theory and research aspects of social and cultural diversity, human growth and development, and career development. They are also taught ethical and effective delivery of counseling and consultation services, the application of individual and group methods of assessment and evaluation, and the roles of research, statistical analysis needs assessment, and program evaluation. The program teaches clear and effective written and oral communication and interpersonal effectiveness. Students can review recorded training sessions and receive feedback from their professor and classmates.

Students can participate in the American Counseling Association (ACA) case competition and can also choose to participate as either a member or board leader in Chi Sigma Iota. Membership allows access to workshops, professional networking, and additional community engagement.

What career opportunities are there for graduates of the Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program?

Graduates of the MA program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling are equipped to compete for a wide variety of positions, including:

Private and Group Practices – Counseling individuals, families, and groups. Graduates who become Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors (LCPCs) have opened their own practices.
Substance Abuse Treatment Facilities – Graduates employed in this subspecialty work with inpatient and outpatient facilities, as well as with the court system.
Hospital and Clinics – Graduates are employed as case managers, therapists, and clinical supervisors, serving clients with a variety of issues and severities.
Correctional Institutions – In addition to helping clients develop new awareness and skills, graduates also provide support to families of individuals in correctional institutions.
Veterans Administration – As graduates of a program accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CAPREP), students may work with military veterans.