Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.)
Prepare yourself to diagnose and treat mental health across the lifespan
UNI's Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling program interweaves neuro-informed, trauma-sensitive practices throughout its curriculum. Learn psychopathology, psychopharmacology, assessment and treatment planning, addiction and dual diagnosis from a culturally sensitive perspective.
Faculty have expertise in counseling older adults, integrated behavioral health, expressive art and play therapy, and specialized evidenced-based trauma treatments.
#1 in the Nation
Our Clinical Mental Health Counseling program was the first accredited program in the nation.
Community Focused
Our students dedicate a mandatory 700 practicum hours to communities throughout the state of Iowa.
Grounded in Wellness
We prepare students to work in multidisciplinary teams in the field through a wellness philosophy.
Interested? Request information
Tell us more and we'll send information on how you can succeed with a graduate degree in Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa College of Social & Behavioral Sciences.
 | Darcie Davis-Gage, Ph.D Division Chair & Program Coordinator of Counseling (319) 273-4243 darcie.davis-gage@uni.edu |
 | Linda Davis Counseling Master of Arts Graduate Program Secretary (319) 273-6414 |
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program will be prepared to practice in a variety of mental health and community agencies, including hospitals, clinics, substance abuse agencies, hospice organizations and mental health centers. Many of our recent grads have also chosen to provide wellness, career and life planning counseling and consulting services. These professionals focus on helping clients work to their full potential and thrive in a variety of settings. Examples of these are:
- Brain Injury Specialist
- Client Specialization
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Clinician
- Family Counselor
- Mental Health Clinician/Counselor/Therapist
- School-Based Therapist
- Therapist
Courses & Curriculum
Along with the required core courses, specialty courses for the Clinical Mental Health option can be:
- Diagnosis and Psychopharmacology in Mental Health Counseling
- Practicum in Counseling
- Advanced Psychopathology and Treatment
- Dynamics of Family, Couples and Human Sexuality in Counseling
- Counseling Process and Practices for Substance Abuse and Co-occurring Disorders
- Integrated Counseling Practice and Clinical Supervision
- Internship
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) has granted accreditation from 2015 through 2022 to the following programs in the School of Applied Human Sciences at the University of Northern Iowa: Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.A.) and School Counseling (M.A.).
Next Steps
Apply Now
Our application process is smooth and easy. You can apply now and pay your fee later or even get it waived, if you qualify. Current or former UNI students will also have their app fee waived.
Requirements for Admission
- Official Transcripts
- Personal Narrative
- Resume
- Writing Sample
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- 2.75 is the minimum GPA to be accepted without provision; applicants with lower GPA may still be admitted provisionally, at the discretion of the program
- Application fee (this can be waived or deferred, see if you qualify).
Requirements for International Applicants
- Along with the basic application requirements, international applicants also need:
- Proof of English proficiency
- A copy of the personal data page of your passport
- A completed UNI Financial Statement and Certification form
- Non-refundable application fee.
Dr. Eran Hanke
Dr. Hanke is invested in training counselors to better serve older adults. She works closely with Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh, Professor of Gerontology, and together they run the Dementia Simulation House on campus. The purpose of the house is to educate the community about different forms of dementia and to promote culture change that leads to increased respect and safety for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Get the opportunity to learn and fund your degree through hands-on experiences, earning monetary awards or a combination of both. Visit one of the following pages to learn about graduate assistantships, scholarships or additional details on UNI's Counseling program at University of Northern Iowa College of Social & Behavioral Sciences.