3 Best Masters in Counseling Programs in Vermont (2025 Guide)

A master’s in counseling program from a Vermont university can reshape your career in the mental health field. Vermont’s 625,000 residents have access to 10 degree programs throughout the state. These programs provide a focused yet diverse range of counseling education options.

Vermont offers accredited paths to licensure for aspiring clinical mental health and school counselors. Students can complete their master’s degree in counseling within two to three and a half years. Bennington College stands out with its flexible hybrid program that features unique concentrations in Expressive Arts Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Vermont State University specializes in training counselors who want to work in PK-12 educational settings. On top of that, the University of Vermont’s master’s in mental health counseling equips graduates to take the National Counselor Examination – a vital step toward professional licensure under the Board of Allied Mental Health Practitioners.

Let’s take a closer look at Vermont’s three best master’s in counseling programs for 2025. This information will help you choose the right educational path for your future.

Bennington College – MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Bennington College offers a fresh take on counseling education through its Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. This program blends clinical training with the college’s rich creative arts tradition, carving out its own space in Vermont’s counseling education landscape.

Program overview

The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program shines with its hands-on approach to mental health training. Students can complete this 60-credit program and prepare for licensure in just 2.5 years. The program addresses today’s growing need for qualified mental health professionals. Students learn a mix of evidence-based Western practices and global approaches to become well-rounded counselors who can make a difference right away.

The program follows the latest standards set by major professional organizations. These groups include the American Psychological Association (APA), American Counseling Association (ACA), and International Expressive Arts Therapy Association (IEATA). This alignment with industry standards will give a solid foundation for your professional practice.

Bennington’s student-centered philosophy sets it apart. The program builds on the college’s progressive education heritage and lets students shape their learning path. Students develop a strong professional identity based on compassion and authenticity. This personalized approach mirrors Bennington’s undergraduate model, where students create individualized Plans instead of declaring traditional majors.

The job market looks promising. Clinical Mental Health Counseling is growing faster than most fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19 percent growth in mental health counselor jobs from 2023 to 2033. The Association of American Medical Colleges reports that over 150 million people live in areas with too few mental health professionals. The country will need between 14,280 and 31,109 more mental health professionals soon.

Specializations and concentrations

The program stands out by offering specialized concentrations that help students focus on their clinical interests. Students can choose the general clinical mental health counseling track or pick one of three unique concentrations:

1. Expressive Arts Therapy: This option builds on Bennington’s strong arts background and prepares students to become Registered Expressive Arts Therapists. Students learn to use various art forms—music, movement, drama, and visual arts—as therapy tools. The curriculum follows IEATA guidelines for professional recognition.
2. Narrative Therapy: Based on Michael White and David Epston’s groundbreaking work, this focus explores storytelling’s power to heal. Students learn to help individuals, families, and communities reshape their lives through storytelling, media, and narrative construction.
3. Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression: This concentration helps meet the growing need for inclusive counseling services. Students gain expertise in LGBTQIA+ issues, relationships, and affirming therapy practices to support clients of all sexual and gender identities.

Students can also choose between two completion paths:

• Capstone Path: A practical project that applies clinical skills
• Thesis Path: Research-focused work for those interested in academic advancement

Accreditation and licensure path

The program meets licensure requirements in almost every state and internationally. Graduates can start their supervised postgraduate experience based on their state’s requirements.

Students complete 600 hours of practicum and internships in ground settings. This hands-on experience helps build clinical skills and professional networks before graduation.

Graduates can work in:

• Private practice
• Community organizations
• Telehealth services
• Hospitals
• Schools and colleges
• International settings

The program also prepares students for specialized certifications like registered sex therapist, certified narrative therapist, registered expressive arts therapist, or registered expressive arts educator. It provides excellent preparation for doctoral studies too.

Program format and flexibility

Recognizing the needs of working professionals and those balancing personal commitments, Bennington offers a low-residency format that combines intensive on-campus experiences with flexible remote learning.

Each semester begins with a 10-day on-campus residency that fosters intensive learning and meaningful connections with faculty and peers. These residencies take place on Bennington’s campus, widely noted as one of the most beautiful nationwide, providing an inspiring environment for study.

Between residencies, you’ll continue your studies remotely through a combination of:

• Dynamic online coursework
• Live discussions
• Individualized faculty advising

This hybrid approach blends hands-on support with independent learning, allowing you to maintain your current professional and personal commitments while advancing your education. The structure creates a supportive community despite the distance learning component.

A key strength of this format is the dedicated faculty support. You’ll work closely with experienced counseling professionals who provide genuine mentorship. Regular meetings with a dedicated faculty advisor and course instructors ensure you receive support, guidance, and clinical placement supervision throughout your educational journey.

The program follows Bennington’s individualized approach to education, with study plans that include course descriptions and learning objectives but allow you the freedom to direct, demonstrate, and document your learning according to your professional interests. This flexibility is particularly valuable for those who want to develop a specialized counseling practice.

Tuition and financial aid

For the 2025-2026 academic year, tuition for Bennington’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is $22,416 per year based on full-time enrollment. In addition to tuition, you should plan for the following fees:

• Administration fee: $1,200
• Residency fee: $1,320
• Enrollment deposit: $500 (applied toward first term’s tuition)

Notably, all students in the inaugural class receive the Royce Stanley Pitkin Scholarship, which covers 20% of tuition costs. This significant reduction makes the program more accessible for the first cohort of students.

Bennington College demonstrates a strong commitment to making education affordable. For undergraduate programs, 98% of students receive some form of financial assistance, with 77% receiving need-based financial aid (average award of $54,636) and 22% receiving merit-based aid (average award of $25,005).

In 2022-2023, Bennington awarded more than $32 million in scholarships and grants to 740 students. While these figures pertain to undergraduate programs, they reflect the institution’s overall approach to financial accessibility.

Financial aid packages typically include various funding sources. For undergraduate students, the average financial aid award for 2022-23 totaled $54,636, including merit scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. Graduate students may find similar support structures available, though specific amounts will vary.

For undergraduate students, financial assistance varies by income level:

• $0-50,000 income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $50,892
• $50,001-100,000 income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $52,595
• $100,001-150,000 income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $44,675
• $150,001-200,000 income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $39,122
• $200,001-300,000 income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $32,548
• $300,001+ income: Average Bennington scholarships and grants of $32,307

For graduate students specifically, scholarships and financial aid options are available to ensure program costs remain manageable for qualified applicants.

Admission requirements

Admission to Bennington’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program requires several components beyond the standard application form. In addition to biographical information, you’ll need to submit:

• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended, showing completion of a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution
• Resume or CV detailing your relevant experience
• Two letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
• Personal statement of approximately 1,500 words describing your experiences and goals related to mental health practice, licensure, and research
• Interview via Zoom with two faculty members from the program

For international applicants, English language proficiency must be demonstrated through one of the following:

• Being a native English speaker
• Having been taught fully in English for at least three years
• Submitting an English proficiency test score (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE Academic)

Importantly, no undergraduate experience in psychology is required. This makes the program accessible to career-changers and those from diverse academic backgrounds who wish to enter the counseling profession.

The application deadlines are:

• March 1 for priority admission
• May 1 for regular admission

Early application is encouraged, particularly for those seeking financial aid or scholarships.

When comparing Bennington’s program to other university of Vermont masters in counseling options, several factors stand out. First, the low-residency format offers greater flexibility than many traditional programs, making it accessible for working professionals. Second, the specialized concentrations provide focused training paths that may not be available elsewhere. Finally, the emphasis on arts-based and narrative approaches distinguishes Bennington’s curriculum from more conventional counseling programs.

Considering how long masters in counseling programs typically take to complete, Bennington’s 2.5-year timeline is relatively efficient. Many traditional university of Vermont masters in mental health counseling programs require three years or more to complete when attending part-time, making Bennington’s accelerated path attractive for those eager to enter the profession quickly.

The library at Bennington College provides significant support for graduate students, with access to relevant resources both during campus residencies and remotely. Digital resources remain available to students when they are away from campus, ensuring continuous access to research materials regardless of location.

Through its innovative curriculum, flexible format, and strong professional preparation, Bennington College’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program represents a compelling option for aspiring counselors in Vermont and beyond.

Vermont State University – MA in School Counseling

Vermont State University offers a unique way to learn counseling through its Master of Arts in Counseling program with School Counseling focus. This program helps professionals create lasting change in Vermont’s educational settings and beyond.

Program overview

The MA in Counseling with School Counseling focus at Vermont State University gives you key skills to become an effective K-12 school counselor. The program helps create supportive environments where students can excel in their academic, social, and emotional growth.

The program aims to prepare counselors who can work in schools while promoting wellness, resilience, recovery, and education. Students learn a complete set of counseling practices tailored to school settings.

Working professionals will find this program particularly appealing. Vermont State University structures the program to fit the schedules of educators and related professionals. Career-changers and those looking to advance in education find this program especially helpful.

Students who complete the program gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills needed for school counseling. The curriculum uses person-centered and strength-based methods that match current best practices.

The program teaches you to create healthy, supportive school communities that help students grow emotionally and socially. Graduates become change-makers in their educational systems.

Specializations and concentrations

Vermont State University’s MA in Counseling has two main paths:

• School Counseling: Prepares you for K-12 education work
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Matches American Counseling Association standards

The School Counseling path follows standards set by the American School Counseling Association (ASCA) and Vermont School Counselor Association (VTSCA). This helps students meet current industry needs and tackle today’s school counseling challenges.

The program builds strong skills in:

1. Leadership development
2. Systemic change strategies
3. Advocacy skills

These areas help you work effectively with families, schools, agencies, and communities. You’ll learn to work with different groups to support student success.

The program puts theory into practice. A good example is the Curriculum Design and Classroom Management class – a week-long intensive course with small groups, workshops, and hands-on technology use.

Accreditation and licensure path

The School Counseling concentration is specifically designed as a licensure preparation program leading to PK-12 School Counseling licensure. This professional credential enables graduates to work as school counselors throughout Vermont’s educational system.

Important to realize, the program aligns with licensure requirements both within Vermont and potentially across other states. For those considering practice outside Vermont, it’s worth noting that state licensure requirements can vary significantly. Hence, if you plan to practice in another state, you should research specific requirements for that location.

The licensure path includes supervised practical experiences that form a crucial component of professional preparation. Specifically, the program requires an internship comprising at least 600 hours in a school counseling setting, completed over a full academic year. This extended practical experience provides invaluable real-world application of theoretical concepts learned in coursework.

Additionally, Vermont State University offers a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in School Counseling for individuals who already hold a master’s degree in counseling or a related area. This pathway provides an alternative route for those with existing credentials who wish to specialize in school counseling.

Program format and flexibility

Vermont State University’s MA in Counseling program is structured with working professionals in mind, offering exceptional flexibility to accommodate various schedules and commitments. The program typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 years to complete, depending on your individualized plan of study. This self-paced approach allows you to balance educational advancement with existing personal and professional responsibilities.

The program delivery format includes several student-friendly features:

• Hybrid learning model combining online coursework with in-person experiences
• Evening course options making classes accessible for working professionals
• No thesis requirement, focusing instead on practical application

Course delivery modalities vary based on instructor preferences and course content, ranging from:

• Hybrid courses
• In-person evening classes during fall, spring, and summer semesters
• Intensive, in-person seminars on or off campus

This multi-modal approach ensures you receive the benefits of both face-to-face instruction and distance learning activities specifically geared toward adult learners. The program is based primarily at the Johnson campus, providing a consistent home base while maintaining flexibility in delivery methods.

As part of the practical experience component, Vermont State University helps arrange individualized internship placements. The program provides guidance and supervision throughout your fieldwork, ensuring you receive appropriate support during this crucial hands-on learning phase.

Vermont State University tuition and financial aid

Attending Vermont State University’s counseling program represents a significant yet manageable investment in your professional future. For in-state students, tuition is set at $684.00 per credit. Based on standard tuition rates, full-time annual in-state tuition amounts to $10,704.00 ($446.00 per credit).

For out-of-state and international students, tuition costs are understandably higher but remain competitive with similar programs nationwide. The full-time annual out-of-state tuition is $21,408.00 ($892.00 per credit).

Vermont State University also offers an online-only tuition option of $388.00 per credit, available to both Vermont residents and out-of-state students. This rate provides an affordable alternative for those able to complete coursework remotely.

Beyond tuition, you should consider additional costs when calculating your total educational investment. These may include:

• Estimated on-campus housing: $8,388.00
• Estimated on-campus food plan: $5,506.00
• Health insurance (required for full-time students unless waived)

Fortunately, Vermont State University demonstrates a strong commitment to financial accessibility. More than 80 percent of students receive some form of financial aid. The university’s dedicated financial aid team works to make education affordable through various support mechanisms, including:

1. Scholarships: Merit-based institutional scholarships awarded through the admissions office
2. Grants: Federal and institutional grants for students demonstrating financial need
3. Loans: Federal loan options as part of financial aid packages
4. State Aid: Vermont residents can apply for Vermont State Grants through VSAC
5. Work-Study: On-campus employment opportunities to help offset educational costs

Graduate students specifically can access financial aid by completing the FAFSA, typically resulting in federal unsubsidized loans. Additionally, Vermont residents with family adjusted gross income of $65,000 or less may qualify for the Vermont State University Free Tuition Guarantee, which covers general tuition after other aid is applied.

Admission requirements

Admission to Vermont State University’s graduate counseling program involves several key components. Most importantly, applicants must submit:

• Application fee or fee waiver
• Personal statement/essay (topics vary by program)
• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Current letters of recommendation (typically 2-3 letters, submitted directly from authors)
• Resume/CV

The program generally requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 for consideration. Simultaneously, it’s worth noting that most graduate programs at Vermont State University do not require standardized test scores unless specifically indicated.

For international applicants, additional requirements include:

• Evaluated, translated transcripts
• English proficiency test scores (for non-native English speakers)
• International Student Certification of Finances and Financial Documentation
• Copy of passport ID page

International students whose English proficiency does not meet minimum standards may be eligible for conditional admission through the Vermont State University English Pathway Program. This program allows students to take major-related courses while simultaneously completing required English courses, potentially saving both time and money compared to separate English instruction programs.

The program is specifically designed to encourage diverse applicants, including those already working in educational settings. This inclusive approach enriches the learning environment by bringing together students with varied backgrounds and experiences.

The School Counseling concentration at Vermont State University is a compelling option for those interested in university of Vermont masters in counseling programs. Its focus on preparing counselors specifically for educational settings distinguishes it from broader mental health counseling programs. The question of how long for masters in counseling is clearly answered with the program’s flexible 2.5-3.5 year timeframe, allowing students to progress at a pace that accommodates their individual circumstances.

Compared to other university of Vermont masters in mental health counseling options, the School Counseling concentration offers a specialized pathway for those specifically interested in working within educational environments. The program’s emphasis on practical application, coupled with its alignment with professional association standards, ensures graduates are well-prepared for the unique challenges and opportunities of school counseling roles.

The combination of experienced faculty, flexible program delivery, comprehensive curriculum, and supportive resources creates an educational environment where aspiring school counselors can develop the knowledge, skills, and professional identity needed for success in this vital field.

University of Vermont – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The University of Vermont ranks among the state’s oldest institutions that offers a complete MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. UVM’s counseling program builds on its academic excellence legacy by blending theoretical foundations with practical skills that today’s mental health professionals need.

Program overview

UVM’s Counseling Program prepares students to work as counseling professionals in culturally and socially diverse settings. Students need 60 credit-hours to become licensed clinical mental health counselors in Vermont, along with additional post-degree requirements.

The program’s balanced approach to learning experiences sets it apart. Theory combines seamlessly with supervised practice. Students develop both conceptual understanding and practical counseling skills they need for effective client work.

Students must complete 700 hours of practicum and internship in field settings. This ground experience under qualified supervision helps develop professional competence. Students build confidence in clinical settings before graduation.

The curriculum blends theory-based classes with clinical seminars:

• Theory-based classes typically have about 25 students and use various teaching methods like lectures, break-out group activities, role-plays, and online discussions
• Clinical classes stay smaller (6-12 students) and run as seminars that focus heavily on skill building through triadic supervision, group supervision, video review of counseling sessions, role play, and small group discussions

Specializations and concentrations

Students can choose from three distinct pathways:

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track has these core courses:

• Foundational Counseling Skills
• Developmental Perspectives in Counseling
• Professional Issues in Counseling
• Counseling Theory & Practice
• Counseling Practicum
• Practice of Mental Health Counseling
• Diagnosis in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Diversity & Intersectionality

Advanced courses cover therapeutic psychopharmacology, advanced group theory and practice, counseling children and adolescents, family and couples counseling, assessment, addictions counseling, and career development.

Accreditation and licensure path

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) accredits UVM’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. CACREP extended the accreditation status through October 2029. This extension shows the program’s dedication to high educational standards.

CACREP accreditation ensures graduates meet recognized professional standards. The program follows Vermont licensure laws and CACREP standards. Graduates can work as licensed professionals in Vermont and many other states.

The program meets all educational requirements to become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Vermont. This qualification transfers to many other states. Graduates need to complete additional practice requirements in Vermont, like most states, for full licensure.

Clinical mental health students must pass an oral defense examination that tests fundamental elements of clinical mental health practice. This exam includes written work and digital video recordings of clinical sessions at three points during the program.

Program format and flexibility

Students can study full-time or part-time. Graduate College policy states full-time students take at least 9 credit hours per semester. Half-time students take 5-8 credits per semester. Part-time students enroll in 4 or fewer credits.

Full-time students usually finish the 60-credit program in 2 years, including summers. This timeline shows how long it takes to earn a masters in counseling at UVM. Students who commit to full-time study can complete their degree efficiently.

Students must enroll in at least 6 credits per semester to qualify for federal financial aid. This requirement matters when planning each semester’s course load.

Faculty advisors help design each student’s program progression. They ensure it meets university, college, and program requirements along with licensure and accreditation standards.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2025-2026 academic year MS in Counseling program tuition rates are:

• Vermont residents: $692.00 per credit
• Out-of-state residents: $1,375.00 per credit

Mandatory student fees vary based on credit load. Students taking 9 or more credits pay:

• Comprehensive fee: $1,136.00
• Graduate Student Senate fee: $25.00

The comprehensive fee supports university services like academic support, online learning platforms, career counseling, and student organizations.

Estimated costs per semester include:

• Food and housing: $9,442.00
• Books and course materials: $253.00
• Miscellaneous personal expenses: $1,653.00
• Transportation: $888.00 (Vermont residents) or $1,100.00 (out-of-state)

Out-of-state students pay less for the counseling program than the standard Graduate College tuition rate. This makes the program more available to non-Vermont residents.

Admission requirements

UVM’s counseling program uses a selective admission process. Applications submitted by January 15 receive consideration for fall entry. Applicants must submit:

• Graduate Application Form
• Statement of Purpose showing clear expression, proper grammar, and insight about pursuing counseling studies
• Three letters of recommendation from professional contacts
• Official college transcripts from all schools attended
• Professional resume showing education, work, and volunteer experience
• TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native English speakers

The program’s group interview makes its admission process unique. Faculty invite qualified applicants to meet in small groups with other candidates. They assess self-awareness, understanding of social and cultural issues, communication skills, and dedication to counseling.

The program values but doesn’t require counseling or related work experience. This opens doors for career-changers while recognizing relevant professional experience.

UVM’s masters in counseling program stands out with its proven track record, CACREP accreditation, and thorough curriculum. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track prepares students for licensure and gives them ground experience they need in this growing field.

Choose a Vermont Counseling Grad Program Today

Your professional future in Vermont’s mental health field starts with picking the right master’s in counseling program. Three exceptional programs offer different paths to licensure and professional practice.

Bennington College features an innovative low-residency format with specialized concentrations in Expressive Arts Therapy and Narrative Therapy. Students who need a flexible approach will find this program matches their needs by combining creative counseling methods with evidence-based practices.

Vermont State University excels as a choice for future school counselors. The program works well for professionals who want to impact educational settings. Their curriculum lines up with professional standards and prepares graduates to support student success in PK-12 environments.

University of Vermont offers a CACREP-accredited program with multiple specializations and hands-on training. UVM’s strong reputation and dual track options make it ideal for students who want career flexibility.

Program length should shape your decision. Bennington students can graduate in 2.5 years. Vermont State University’s adaptable structure lets you finish in 2.5-3.5 years. UVM students usually complete their degrees in 2 years of full-time study with summer sessions.

Each school structures costs differently. Bennington gives substantial scholarships to first-time students. Vermont State has competitive in-state rates and possible tuition-free options for eligible Vermont residents. UVM costs less for out-of-state students compared to similar graduate programs.

Your career goals, preferred learning style, and personal situation will guide your final choice. These three programs create solid paths to becoming a licensed counseling professional in Vermont and beyond, whether you plan to work in clinical settings, schools, or both.

Reach out to program representatives with questions about courses, admission requirements, or financial aid. This direct contact will help you pick a program that matches your career goals and personal needs.