Major/Minor Detail

Mental Health Counseling Track

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The Mental Health Counseling Track of the Specialist degree program requires a minimum
of 30 hours beyond the master's degree or 60 hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. The
program of study is designed to prepare students for positions as professional counselors
in community, state, federal, and private social service agencies and for EAP positions in
business and industry. Graduates provide services such as child, youth, adult, couple, family,
employment, health, multicultural, gerontological, and/or wellness counseling. The program
provides the opportunity for students to develop skills and competencies in working with a
diversity of issues, including but not limited to, depression, anxiety, addiction and substance
abuse, suicidal impulses, stress management, grief, and issues relating to family, which can
include parenting, marital diffi culties, or other relationship problems. The program structure
is based on the professional standards established by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling
and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and is consistent with standards and
requirements set forth by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling.
The curriculum emphasizes the acquisition of specialized knowledge and skills relating
to theories of human behavior, human development, interpersonal relationships, and foundational
therapeutic interventions. Ethical and competent counseling practices are stressed.
Students will develop a professional identity as a competent ethical mental health counselor.