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Clinical Mental Health Counseling Addiction Treatment and Recovery

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  2. Master’s
  3. Counseling & Therapy
  4. Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  5. Addiction Treatment and Recovery

Addiction Treatment and Recovery coursework overview

Coursework structured for your success

  • Capella sets the deadlines
  • Weekly online interactions
  • 24/7 courseroom access
  • Online
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Planning for your degree

  • total quarter credits: 90
  • Quarter length: 10 weeks
  • Course length: 10 weeks
  • Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Example sequence Specialization Residency Practicum Internship Core

Course requirements

  • Core 13 courses
  • Specialization 4 courses
  • Residencies 2 courses
  • Practicum 1 course
  • Internship 2 courses

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, you can take up to three courses per quarter; the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
COUN5002 Required Course Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze the diverse contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life, and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN5217 Required Course Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners evaluate current legal and ethical guidelines used in the counseling profession. Learners apply decision-making models and formulate effective collaboration strategies used to resolve legal and ethical issues that arise when working with children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings. Learners also analyze how personal belief systems can influence counselors¿ responses to those issues. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5239 Required Course Theories of the Counseling Profession 4 quarter credits Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to a diverse client population. 4 quarter credits
COUN5279 Required Course Life Planning and Career Development 4 quarter credits Learners develop foundational knowledge and skills applicable to career counseling and development. Learners analyze theoretical models of career development as they relate to client interests, aptitudes, personalities, traits, values, and work preferences. In addition, learners explore the ways in which social interests, family relationships, cultural facets, and developmental factors and circumstances resulting from life transitions relate to career development across the lifespan. Learners also discuss legal and ethical issues associated with career counseling practice. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5336 Required Course Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations 4 quarter credits Learners engage with theory, research, and models that inform ethical and culturally competent counseling and social justice advocacy in a variety of settings. Learners analyze counseling theories and evidence-based practices that emphasize the relevance of multicultural counseling and advocacy roles of counselors. Throughout the course, learners investigate cultural assumptions, values, counselor credibility, prejudice, and racism within the counseling context. Learners identify their own overt and covert beliefs, and messages around cultural characteristics to determine how these experiences might influence the counseling process. In addition, learners gain an understanding of the role of the counselor and advocate in promoting social justice at multiple levels Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5106 Required Course Assessment, Tests, and Measures 4 quarter credits Learners examine the assessment process and how tests and measures are used in counseling. Learners also explore the evolution of assessment methods, testing strategies and interpretation, and fundamental measurement constructs. 4 quarter credits
COUN5223 Required Course Introduction to Clinical Mental Health Counseling 4 quarter credits This course is an introduction to current practices and trends in the clinical mental health counseling profession. Learners analyze the effects of current issues and public policy on the practice of clinical mental health counseling. Learners examine professional counselors' roles in a variety of health service delivery modalities within the continuum of care. In addition, learners review models and strategies of professional consultation and supervision. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, MS in School Counseling degree program and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior, Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Services, Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services, and Systemic Couple and Family Therapy graduate certificate learners only. 4 quarter credits
COUN5260 Specialization Course Theories of Addiction Treatment 4 quarter credits Learners investigate the nature of addiction problems, studying various theories and models of addiction to evaluate the validity and efficacy of associated treatment approaches. Learners also utilize critical thinking skills in the application of theory to therapeutic work with specific populations. 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5861 Residency The Counseling Relationship: Concepts and Skills 4 quarter credits In this first residency, learners gain an understanding of clinical skills practice through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate counseling concepts and skills. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: MS in Addiction Studies learners must have completed ADD5217, ADD5336, COUN5260. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5223; COUN5239 or COUN5830; COUN5279; COUN5336. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5239 or COUN 5812; COUN5279; COUN5280; COUN5336. 4 quarter credits
COUN5107 Required Course Principles of Psychopathology and Diagnosis 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine psychopathology principles, professional literature, and current issues associated with assessing mental disorders. Learners critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches used in diagnosing and treating individuals, couples, and families. Learners also explore the current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues associated with multicultural populations. Prerequisite: COUN5239 or SWK5013. 4 quarter credits
COUN5238 Required Course Crisis Assessment and Intervention 4 quarter credits Learners assess crisis intervention and emergency management models and strategies used in the counseling field and develop the crisis intervention skills needed to provide counseling services in mental health settings in a timely, effective, and ethical manner. Learners also investigate related topics, including working with situational crises, assessing suicide and other risks, and supporting the implementation of emergency management plans. Prerequisite: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN-R5861. Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services graduate certificate learners must have completed COUN5002. 4 quarter credits
COUN5225 Required Course Sexuality and Gender in Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners in this course study sexuality within the broad context of human experience. Learners examine a systemic psychosexual approach to development across the lifespan and evaluate the functionality of sexual behavior in individuals, couples, and families. In addition, learners explore theory, assessment, treatments, and interventions for various issues associated with sexuality, as well as sexuality-related concerns of diverse populations. Throughout the course, learners are challenged to expand personal awareness of limitations and biases that could impact the therapeutic relationship. Prerequisite: COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5261 Specialization Course Interventions for Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders 4 quarter credits Learners investigate current treatment interventions for substance-related and addictive disorders. In addition, learners evaluate diagnoses for substance-related and addictive disorders and apply appropriate treatment. Topics include inpatient and outpatient treatment options, self-help groups, the use of alternative treatment modalities, and continuum of care including community resources, relapse prevention, and recovery planning. 4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization Course 4 quarter credits
COUN5241 Required Course Group Counseling and Psychotherapy 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine the theoretical components and developmental aspects of groups. Topics include types of groups, group dynamics and processes, group leadership and membership roles, ethical awareness in relation to groups, and crisis management within groups. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Prerequisite(s): COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
Specialization Course Choose a Specialization Course 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5863 Residency The Advanced Counseling Relationship: Concepts, Skills, and Approaches 4 quarter credits In this second residency, learners build upon clinical skills practice and group counseling. Learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate advanced counseling concepts, skills, and approaches during their face-to- face residency. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5106, COUN5238, COUN5241, COUN-R5861. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5107, COUN5225. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5420. 4 quarter credits
COUN5108 Required Course Foundations of Addiction and Addictive Behavior 4 quarter credits This course provides learners with fundamental knowledge of addiction from its historical roots through contemporary issues. Learners examine theory and research that guides treatment for substance use disorders and related addictive behaviors, including the diagnosis and treatment of co-occurring mental health issues. In addition, learners review empirically supported interventions for individuals, families, groups, and diverse populations, as well as emerging issues in the field based upon current research. Learners may earn credit for either COUN5108 or CST5108, but not both. Prerequisite: COUN-R5861 or COUN5260 or SWK5013. 4 quarter credits
COUN5007 Required Course Research Methods for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches to counseling research and program evaluation. Learners apply graduate-level approaches to research methodology for the counseling profession. 4 quarter credits
COUN6302 Practicum Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum 4 quarter credits The clinical practicum is an online-directed, supervised site-based learning experience in a mental health counseling setting during which learners practice specific clinical skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing principles and perform initial assessments with individuals, couples, and/or families. This course requires 100 hours of clinical experience, which must consist of no fewer than 40 hours of direct client contact and no fewer than 10 hours of face-to-face contact with an approved site supervisor. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5007, COUN5108, COUN-R5863 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN6301 Practicum Mental Health Counseling Clinical Practicum 5 quarter credits The clinical practicum is an online-directed, supervised site-based learning experience in a mental health counseling field setting during which learners practice specific clinical skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing principles and perform initial assessments with individuals, couples, and/or families. This course requires 100 hours of clinical experience, which must consist of no fewer than 40 hours of direct client contact and no fewer than 10 hours of face-to-face contact with an approved site supervisor. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5007, COUN5108, COUN-R5863 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 5 quarter credits
COUN6321 Internship Clinical Mental Health Counseling Internship 1 5 quarter credits This is the first course in a sequence of two clinical internship courses during which learners fulfill 600 total required contact hours in a mental health counseling setting. Of the 600 total hours, learners must complete 240 hours of direct client contact and a minimum of 20 hours of face-to-face contact with the approved site supervisors. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. The internship consists of a courseroom experience accompanied by supervised experience in a mental health counseling setting and provides learners with specific clinical skills in interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation with individuals, couples, and/or families. The focus of the internship is on learner professional development and the application of counseling skills under the supervision of site and faculty supervisors. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner's responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Prerequisite: COUN6301 or COUN6302 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
COUN6322 Internship Clinical Mental Health Counseling Internship 2 5 quarter credits This course serves as the capstone course for the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Learners engage in an online courseroom experience in addition to a supervised experience in a mental health counseling setting. Learners develop specific clinical skills in interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation with individuals, couples, and/or families. Learners gain skills in professional development, including career preparation, and the application of counseling skills under the supervision of site and faculty supervisors. Upon successful completion of the internship, and passing the state board license exam, learners are prepared to transition into roles as professional counselors who make active contributions to the field. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner's responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN6321 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Specialization course requirements

Complete at least 16 quarter credits from the specialization courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
COUN5260 Specialization Course Theories of Addiction Treatment 4 quarter credits Learners investigate the nature of addiction problems, studying various theories and models of addiction to evaluate the validity and efficacy of associated treatment approaches. Learners also utilize critical thinking skills in the application of theory to therapeutic work with specific populations. 4 quarter credits
COUN5258 Specialization Course Group Therapy and the Treatment of Substance-Related and Addictive Behavior 4 quarter credits Learners explore group counseling as an important aspect of addictions treatment, recovery, and relapse prevention. Learners develop a personal model of group treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders that is informed by counseling and group theories; ethical, legal, and cultural considerations; and group development models. 4 quarter credits
COUN5258 Specialization Course Group Therapy and the Treatment of Substance-Related and Addictive Behavior 4 quarter credits Learners explore group counseling as an important aspect of addictions treatment, recovery, and relapse prevention. Learners develop a personal model of group treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders that is informed by counseling and group theories; ethical, legal, and cultural considerations; and group development models. 4 quarter credits
COUN5266 Specialization Course Family Systems and Psychoeducation in Addiction 4 quarter credits Learners apply the lens of systemic thinking to examine how addiction impacts family systems. Learners assess the role of psychoeducation in treating and preventing addiction with individuals and families as well as other complex facets of addiction that include the role of family dynamics, the relationship between professional systems, models of recovery, and pathology. Learners also develop psychoeducation-informed family group therapy lesson plans. 4 quarter credits
COUN5266 Specialization Course Family Systems and Psychoeducation in Addiction 4 quarter credits Learners apply the lens of systemic thinking to examine how addiction impacts family systems. Learners assess the role of psychoeducation in treating and preventing addiction with individuals and families as well as other complex facets of addiction that include the role of family dynamics, the relationship between professional systems, models of recovery, and pathology. Learners also develop psychoeducation-informed family group therapy lesson plans. 4 quarter credits
COUN5268 Specialization Course Psychopharmacology and Medication Management 4 quarter credits Learners examine the neurobiological, behavioral, psychological, and physical effects of psychoactive substances on individuals and analyze the classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medication. Learners also apply principles of psychopharmacology to the clinical practice of counselors and therapists, including consultation and interfacing with the medical community and other systems of care. 4 quarter credits
COUN5268 Specialization Course Psychopharmacology and Medication Management 4 quarter credits Learners examine the neurobiological, behavioral, psychological, and physical effects of psychoactive substances on individuals and analyze the classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medication. Learners also apply principles of psychopharmacology to the clinical practice of counselors and therapists, including consultation and interfacing with the medical community and other systems of care. 4 quarter credits
COUN5261 Specialization Course Interventions for Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders 4 quarter credits Learners investigate current treatment interventions for substance-related and addictive disorders. In addition, learners evaluate diagnoses for substance-related and addictive disorders and apply appropriate treatment. Topics include inpatient and outpatient treatment options, self-help groups, the use of alternative treatment modalities, and continuum of care including community resources, relapse prevention, and recovery planning. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Show all descriptions
COUN-R5861 Residency The Counseling Relationship: Concepts and Skills 4 quarter credits In this first residency, learners gain an understanding of clinical skills practice through coursework and a face-to-face residency. During the face-to-face residency, learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate counseling concepts and skills. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Addiction Studies, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: MS in Addiction Studies learners must have completed ADD5217, ADD5336, COUN5260. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5223; COUN5239 or COUN5830; COUN5279; COUN5336. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5217; COUN5239 or COUN 5812; COUN5279; COUN5280; COUN5336. 4 quarter credits
COUN-R5863 Residency The Advanced Counseling Relationship: Concepts, Skills, and Approaches 4 quarter credits In this second residency, learners build upon clinical skills practice and group counseling. Learners analyze, develop, and demonstrate advanced counseling concepts, skills, and approaches during their face-to- face residency. This course requires a time commitment after the face-to-face residency beyond the online course activities. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners only. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5106, COUN5238, COUN5241, COUN-R5861. MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners must have completed COUN5107, COUN5225. MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN5420. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Show all descriptions
COUN6302 Practicum Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum 4 quarter credits The clinical practicum is an online-directed, supervised site-based learning experience in a mental health counseling setting during which learners practice specific clinical skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing principles and perform initial assessments with individuals, couples, and/or families. This course requires 100 hours of clinical experience, which must consist of no fewer than 40 hours of direct client contact and no fewer than 10 hours of face-to-face contact with an approved site supervisor. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5007, COUN5108, COUN-R5863 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN6301 Practicum Mental Health Counseling Clinical Practicum 5 quarter credits The clinical practicum is an online-directed, supervised site-based learning experience in a mental health counseling field setting during which learners practice specific clinical skills, including interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation. Learners use fundamental communication and interviewing principles and perform initial assessments with individuals, couples, and/or families. This course requires 100 hours of clinical experience, which must consist of no fewer than 40 hours of direct client contact and no fewer than 10 hours of face-to-face contact with an approved site supervisor. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner¿s responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: COUN5007, COUN5108, COUN-R5863 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Show all descriptions
COUN6321 Internship Clinical Mental Health Counseling Internship 1 5 quarter credits This is the first course in a sequence of two clinical internship courses during which learners fulfill 600 total required contact hours in a mental health counseling setting. Of the 600 total hours, learners must complete 240 hours of direct client contact and a minimum of 20 hours of face-to-face contact with the approved site supervisors. Learners also meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous group supervision meetings with their course instructor. The internship consists of a courseroom experience accompanied by supervised experience in a mental health counseling setting and provides learners with specific clinical skills in interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation with individuals, couples, and/or families. The focus of the internship is on learner professional development and the application of counseling skills under the supervision of site and faculty supervisors. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner's responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Prerequisite: COUN6301 or COUN6302 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
COUN6322 Internship Clinical Mental Health Counseling Internship 2 5 quarter credits This course serves as the capstone course for the MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Learners engage in an online courseroom experience in addition to a supervised experience in a mental health counseling setting. Learners develop specific clinical skills in interviewing, assessment, intervention, documentation, and consultation with individuals, couples, and/or families. Learners gain skills in professional development, including career preparation, and the application of counseling skills under the supervision of site and faculty supervisors. Upon successful completion of the internship, and passing the state board license exam, learners are prepared to transition into roles as professional counselors who make active contributions to the field. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. It is the learner's responsibility to research and comply with the specific clinical experience requirements of their states. Prerequisite(s): COUN6321 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.

Core course requirements

Complete at least 52 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
COUN5107 Required Course Principles of Psychopathology and Diagnosis 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine psychopathology principles, professional literature, and current issues associated with assessing mental disorders. Learners critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches used in diagnosing and treating individuals, couples, and families. Learners also explore the current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues associated with multicultural populations. Prerequisite: COUN5239 or SWK5013. 4 quarter credits
COUN5108 Required Course Foundations of Addiction and Addictive Behavior 4 quarter credits This course provides learners with fundamental knowledge of addiction from its historical roots through contemporary issues. Learners examine theory and research that guides treatment for substance use disorders and related addictive behaviors, including the diagnosis and treatment of co-occurring mental health issues. In addition, learners review empirically supported interventions for individuals, families, groups, and diverse populations, as well as emerging issues in the field based upon current research. Learners may earn credit for either COUN5108 or CST5108, but not both. Prerequisite: COUN-R5861 or COUN5260 or SWK5013. 4 quarter credits
COUN5225 Required Course Sexuality and Gender in Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners in this course study sexuality within the broad context of human experience. Learners examine a systemic psychosexual approach to development across the lifespan and evaluate the functionality of sexual behavior in individuals, couples, and families. In addition, learners explore theory, assessment, treatments, and interventions for various issues associated with sexuality, as well as sexuality-related concerns of diverse populations. Throughout the course, learners are challenged to expand personal awareness of limitations and biases that could impact the therapeutic relationship. Prerequisite: COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5279 Required Course Life Planning and Career Development 4 quarter credits Learners develop foundational knowledge and skills applicable to career counseling and development. Learners analyze theoretical models of career development as they relate to client interests, aptitudes, personalities, traits, values, and work preferences. In addition, learners explore the ways in which social interests, family relationships, cultural facets, and developmental factors and circumstances resulting from life transitions relate to career development across the lifespan. Learners also discuss legal and ethical issues associated with career counseling practice. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5217 Required Course Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling 4 quarter credits Learners evaluate current legal and ethical guidelines used in the counseling profession. Learners apply decision-making models and formulate effective collaboration strategies used to resolve legal and ethical issues that arise when working with children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of treatment settings. Learners also analyze how personal belief systems can influence counselors¿ responses to those issues. Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5106 Required Course Assessment, Tests, and Measures 4 quarter credits Learners examine the assessment process and how tests and measures are used in counseling. Learners also explore the evolution of assessment methods, testing strategies and interpretation, and fundamental measurement constructs. 4 quarter credits
COUN5002 Required Course Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze the diverse contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life, and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
COUN5239 Required Course Theories of the Counseling Profession 4 quarter credits Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to a diverse client population. 4 quarter credits
COUN5241 Required Course Group Counseling and Psychotherapy 4 quarter credits Learners in this course examine the theoretical components and developmental aspects of groups. Topics include types of groups, group dynamics and processes, group leadership and membership roles, ethical awareness in relation to groups, and crisis management within groups. Learners must meet weekly via web conferencing for synchronous (live) group meetings with their course instructor. Prerequisite(s): COUN-R5861. 4 quarter credits
COUN5223 Required Course Introduction to Clinical Mental Health Counseling 4 quarter credits This course is an introduction to current practices and trends in the clinical mental health counseling profession. Learners analyze the effects of current issues and public policy on the practice of clinical mental health counseling. Learners examine professional counselors' roles in a variety of health service delivery modalities within the continuum of care. In addition, learners review models and strategies of professional consultation and supervision. For MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, MS in School Counseling degree program and Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior, Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Services, Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services, and Systemic Couple and Family Therapy graduate certificate learners only. 4 quarter credits
COUN5238 Required Course Crisis Assessment and Intervention 4 quarter credits Learners assess crisis intervention and emergency management models and strategies used in the counseling field and develop the crisis intervention skills needed to provide counseling services in mental health settings in a timely, effective, and ethical manner. Learners also investigate related topics, including working with situational crises, assessing suicide and other risks, and supporting the implementation of emergency management plans. Prerequisite: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN-R5861. Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services graduate certificate learners must have completed COUN5002. 4 quarter credits
COUN5336 Required Course Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations 4 quarter credits Learners engage with theory, research, and models that inform ethical and culturally competent counseling and social justice advocacy in a variety of settings. Learners analyze counseling theories and evidence-based practices that emphasize the relevance of multicultural counseling and advocacy roles of counselors. Throughout the course, learners investigate cultural assumptions, values, counselor credibility, prejudice, and racism within the counseling context. Learners identify their own overt and covert beliefs, and messages around cultural characteristics to determine how these experiences might influence the counseling process. In addition, learners gain an understanding of the role of the counselor and advocate in promoting social justice at multiple levels Prerequisite: BS in Psychology Pre-Counseling and Therapy learners require special permission for registration (Student Group UCOU) and must have completed PSYC3700 or PSYC4700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. 4 quarter credits
COUN5007 Required Course Research Methods for the Counseling Professions 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches to counseling research and program evaluation. Learners apply graduate-level approaches to research methodology for the counseling profession. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 90 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Capella University cannot guarantee eligibility for licensure, endorsement, other professional credential, or salary advancement. State licensing regulations and professional standards vary; learners are responsible for understanding and complying with the requirements of the state in which they intend to work. State licensing boards review each applicant's completed education, exam scores, supervised experience, criminal history, and application materials at the time of license application to determine eligibility. For more information, see the professional licensure disclosures for this program on Capella’s website.