Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS)

Can I defer my acceptance into the Counseling program?

Yes, applicants who have paid the required non-refundable admissions deposit may defer their acceptance by one year.

I have a non-psychology related degree. Am I eligible to apply to the program?

Yes! The Pitt Counseling program consists of students from diverse academic majors who greatly contribute to the learning experience. You may also view the specific admission requirements on our Admissions page.

How do I become a licensed counselor?

As with all counseling programs, becoming licensed is a three-step process:

1. Graduate from the program
2. Pass a certification exam
   • This varies by state—In Pennsylvania, graduates can take either the National Counselor Examination (NCE) or the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Exam (CRCE)
3. Additional supervised practice post-graduation is required for SHRS Counseling program graduates.

I want to work with substance abuse/addiction. Can I do that with this degree? Why should I pick this program over a substance use-focused program?

While you won’t get as much specific training in addictions that you would in a substance abuse program, many students and alumni are currently working with this population. With our program being a general counseling program, you will have a course on substance abuse/addictions and can choose clinical placements that focus on working with that population. Several of our alumni have gone on to obtain additional Substance Abuse certifications such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and the Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC).

A general program can be a great option because you’ll get a substance abuse/addiction foundation, plus other training so that if you want to change your focus down the road, you’ll still have the foundational counseling knowledge and skills.

Can I work during the my time in the counseling program?

The program  strongly discourages full-time students from working during the academic year. Some students work part-time during the program, particularly during their first year. During the second year, students complete their clinical internship while attending classes two days a week, making opportunities for work difficult.

Is there a formal research requirement? What research opportunities are available?

While the program emphasizes training in evidence-based practice, which involves education in clinical research methods, there is no requirement to conduct research. Limited research opportunities are sometimes available by working on faculty members’ research projects or across the school.

If I’m leaning towards mental health counseling in schools, is this program good for that?

This program prepares students to provide a wide range of counseling services and students have completed practicum and internship in school settings. However, the current curriculum does not contain the required CACREP standards for the school counseling specialization. 

I am trying to decide between counseling and social work. I know that Pitt has both. What is the difference?

Check out this answer shared in our newsroom.