Want to pursue mental health masters in counseling programs in Florida? The Sunshine State offers a career path with unmatched growth potential. The demand for qualified counselors continues to rise, and job prospects look strong for years to come.

CACREP accreditation should top your checklist as you learn about Florida’s counseling programs. This prestigious recognition will give you confidence that programs meet the highest educational standards and match professional requirements. The quality programs also provide hands-on experience with over 100 practicum and 600 internship hours. These programs satisfy Florida’s licensure requirements set by the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling.

The financial rewards make counseling careers attractive. Florida’s school counselors earn around $60,160 on average. Your actual salary depends on your specialty, location, experience and workplace setting. This guide explains the 15 top-rated programs to think about for 2025 if you’re ready to advance your career with an online masters in mental health counseling in Florida.

1. Palm Beach Atlantic University

Palm Beach Atlantic University distinguishes itself from other Florida counseling programs through its faith-integrated approach to mental health education. Small class sizes and individual attention make this university’s educational experience unique in the field.

Program Overview

PBA’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling prepares students for rewarding counseling careers with a detailed curriculum rooted in Christian values. The program offers an all-encompassing approach that focuses on professional competencies, ethical judgment, and spiritual awareness. Students work closely with experienced faculty members and engage in rigorous academics. Field-based experiential learning helps develop clinical expertise and personal growth.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program received CACREP accreditation in April 2024, which extends through March 31, 2032. This prestigious recognition highlights the program’s steadfast dedication to excellence in education. The curriculum meets all requirements for Mental Health Counseling licensure in Florida. Graduates can register as interns with the state, complete supervised clinical experience, and ended up pursuing licensure.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The program combines traditional residential learning with select online courses. Students can choose between West Palm Beach and Orlando campuses. The Orlando location sits conveniently off Interstate 4 in south Orlando. Students learn through various methods including lectures, small-group discussions, presentations, research papers, role-playing activities, and field experiences.

Admission Requirements

The admission process requires:

A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (exceptions may apply)
An online application, official transcripts, two confidential recommendation forms, and an essay
A faculty interview upon invitation

Tuition and Affordability

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program costs $695 per credit hour. Students pay additional fees for safety and security ($12.50 per credit hour), technology ($40 per credit hour), and TimelyMD health services ($55 per semester). The university balances educational quality with affordability.

Best Fit For

Students looking for a Christian viewpoint in their counseling education will find PBA’s program valuable. The program serves South and Central Florida’s diverse cultural, ethnic, and linguistic communities effectively. Mental health counseling jobs should grow by 18% over the next decade, making graduates highly marketable.

2. Nova Southeastern University

Nova Southeastern University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program gives students detailed counseling education through its College of Psychology’s Department of Counseling. Students can prepare themselves to work in a variety of mental health careers.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Counseling program trains students to work in social agencies, mental health clinics, hospitals, and schools. Students need to complete 33 semester hours of graduate credit along with concentration-specific coursework. The program helps students develop professional skills through academic study and supervised clinical experience.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration earned CACREP accreditation in July 2021, valid through October 31, 2029. This recognition shows the program meets high professional standards. The CACREP accreditation will give students confidence that they learn essential knowledge and skills. Many states now require CACREP-accredited program graduation to qualify for licensure. Students applying for the National Certified Counselor credential after January 1, 2024, must graduate from these programs.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Students can pick from three flexible learning formats:

Traditional on-campus format at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie campus
Weekend intensive hybrid format at regional campuses in Miami, Orlando, and Tampa Bay
Online delivery with a required 3-day residential institute

The online format has a mandatory face-to-face residency as part of PYCL 0511 (Introduction to Counseling Techniques), usually taken in the second semester.

Admission Requirements

Students need these qualifications:

Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution
Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 undergraduate credits (alternative paths available)
Professional statement of goals (500 words)
Two recommendations from faculty, academic advisors, or supervisors

Tuition and Affordability

The M.S. in Counseling program costs $955 per credit hour, with yearly expenses around $24,975. Students should plan for additional costs like books, supplies, institutional fees, and other expenses.

Best Fit For

This program works well if you want detailed counseling education with flexible learning options. The CACREP accreditation makes it perfect for students worried about future state licensure requirements. Graduates can work in various settings and advance their careers in mental health counseling through professional certification.

3. Jacksonville University

Jacksonville University’s Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program earned recognition with the 2024 Southern Association for Counselor Education and Supervision Outstanding Master’s Counselor Education Program Award.

Program Overview

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Jacksonville University offers a detailed 60-credit hour curriculum that prepares counseling professionals. The program received the 2024 Innovation in Counseling: Counselor Education Community Engagement Award from the National Board for Certified Counselors. Students learn beyond standard mental health counseling education. The coursework has specialized training in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling that lets graduates pursue dual licensure paths.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The program’s CACREP accreditation runs through October 2027 and meets strict professional standards. This accreditation is vital for graduates who want to get licensed in different states. The curriculum meets educational requirements for both Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) credentials in Florida.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The hybrid program uses a cohort model that combines flexibility with community learning. Students attend classes once or twice weekly from 3:00-8:45pm. About half the coursework happens online. This setup works well if you have a full-time job while studying. Students complete an 800-hour clinical practicum/internship in their second year.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must submit:

Completed JU application
Unofficial transcripts from all degree-conferring institutions
Statement of intent
Resume/CV
Three letters of recommendation

Students with GPAs below 3.0 might need to provide GRE/GMAT scores. The admission team uses a rubric to evaluate academic performance, writing skills, recommendations, relevant experience, and interview performance.

Tuition and Affordability

Tuition costs $650 per credit hour, making the total program cost similar to other state and private institutions. The program accepts up to 24 qualified candidates each year.

Best Fit For

Mental health counselor jobs will grow by 22% (2018-2028). Florida ranks fifth in the nation for counselor employment. Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists earn an average of $58,510 annually. This program works best if you have professional experience and want close relationships with faculty and peers in a supportive learning environment.

4. Florida State University

Florida State University stands out as one of the best schools for mental health education in Florida. The university’s excellence in preparing counselors goes back many years and students can choose from several paths to get their advanced counseling credentials.

Program Overview

FSU’s Counselor Education program lets you specialize in three areas: Career Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and School Counseling. The program requires 64-66 credit hours, which goes beyond the usual 60-hour counseling degree. Students graduate with both Master of Science (MS) and Specialist in Education (EdS) degrees in Counseling and Human Systems. The program structure takes five full semesters to complete academic coursework, practica, and internship.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The Career Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs have earned CACREP accreditation through March 31, 2027. The school managed to keep this recognition for over 25 years, so graduates can get licensed in many states easily. The School Counseling program also has Florida Department of Education approval, which lets graduates become certified School Counselors for grades PK-12.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Career Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling students usually finish their degree in five back-to-back semesters (Fall, Spring, Summer, Fall, Spring). The School Counseling program works differently – it’s online and more flexible, taking about eight semesters of part-time study.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA. The GRE requirement (which used to ask for Verbal 145+ and Analytical 3.5+) isn’t needed through Fall 2026. You’ll also need to submit a personal statement, three recommendation letters, and a resume/CV. Getting in isn’t easy though – only 37% of applicants make it.

Tuition and Affordability

The 2025-2026 graduate tuition costs $479.32 per credit hour for Florida residents and $1,173.86 for non-residents. The whole program cost about $31,258 in 2021. The good news is that 96% of students get financial aid. Some students even land graduate assistantships at FSU’s Career Center, which might cover tuition.

Best Fit For

FSU’s counseling programs work great if you want to work in private practice, community agencies, hospitals, or schools. These programs are perfect for anyone who wants solid hands-on experience before graduating.

5. University of North Florida

The University of North Florida takes a hands-on approach to counseling education. Their programs require extensive field experience before graduation. This practical philosophy helps students face real-life challenges in counseling settings of all types.

Program Overview

UNF offers two distinct counseling paths: a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Education in School Counseling. Students progress through the curriculum together in a cohort model. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program needs 60 credit hours with 900 hours of field-based experience. The School Counseling program also requires 60 credit hours and includes 700 hours of supervised field experience.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

Both counseling programs have earned prestigious CACREP accreditation. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program’s accreditation runs through March 31, 2033. This ensures graduates meet Florida’s educational requirements to become licensed Mental Health Counselors. The School Counseling program prepares students to become fully certified PK-12 school counselors in Florida.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

We focused on campus-based learning for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, though some non-clinical courses offer online options. The School Counseling program uses a hybrid model – half online and half on-campus instruction. Classes run Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 PM, making them perfect for working professionals.

Admission Requirements

The admission process has two steps: apply to UNF Graduate School first, then meet program-specific requirements. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in your last 60 credit hours. A resume, letter of intent, and three recommendation letters are also required. The final step is an interview with program faculty.

Tuition and Affordability

The 2025-2026 graduate tuition costs $493.53 per credit hour for Florida residents and $1,044.27 for non-residents. Your total program cost will vary based on where you live.

Best Fit For

UNF’s counseling programs are perfect if you want to work in community mental health centers or schools. Mental health counselor jobs should grow 8% over the next decade. This makes it an excellent career choice.

6. Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic University trains future counselors through their Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in the Department of Counselor Education. Students learn practical skills while building strong theoretical foundations.

Program Overview

The Master of Education degree in Counselor Education with Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialization features a reliable 60-credit hour curriculum that gives you the skills to assess, diagnose, and treat clients with mental disorders. Students build strong foundations in counseling theories and techniques. The program includes specialty courses in mental health counseling practice, psychopathology, substance abuse counseling, and human sexuality counseling. Students gain hands-on experience through 750 hours of supervised practicum and internship at mental health agencies. They provide individual counseling, family counseling, and lead groups.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has CACREP accreditation until March 31, 2032. This recognition means graduates meet all academic requirements to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) in Florida. The College of Education holds National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) accreditation. Florida Atlantic University also maintains accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The program runs as a traditional, residential format at the Boca Raton campus. Students can start only in Fall terms, with the next entry cycle in Fall 2026. Students must apply by January 15, 2026. The GradCas application portal opens in September 2025.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need:

Undergraduate GPA of 2.5
GRE scores (no minimum sub-score requirements)
Three letters of recommendation
Statement of objectives
Resume

The admission process is competitive and all materials must reach by the deadlines.

Tuition and Affordability

The 2025-2026 graduate tuition costs $371.82 per credit hour for Florida residents and $1,026.81 for non-residents. The 60-credit program totals about $22,309 for in-state students and $61,608 for out-of-state students.

Best Fit For

Graduates work in a variety of settings. These include community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, university counseling centers, domestic violence agencies, substance abuse treatment facilities, and marriage counseling centers. Many professionals move into agency administration roles, start private practices, or pursue doctoral studies in counseling or psychology.

7. University of South Florida

University of South Florida’s Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (CRMHC) program ranks first in Florida and stands at #18 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report.

Program Overview

The CRMHC program has 60 credit hours that students complete in 2-3 years. Students learn quality behavioral healthcare and prepare to help people with disabilities. The program readies graduates for certification as Rehabilitation Counselors (CRC) and licensure as Mental Health Counselors (LMHC). The program’s graduates achieved a 71% passing rate on the CRC exam in 2023-2024.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

USF maintains CACREP accreditation until 2032. The program’s dual accreditation covers Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling specializations. Graduates meet all educational requirements to earn both CRC and LMHC credentials.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The Tampa campus hosts all in-person classes. Students must choose between Rehabilitation Counseling or Mental Health Counseling concentration from Fall 2025.

Admission Requirements

Students need these requirements to apply:

Bachelor’s degree (preferably in behavioral, social, health-related disciplines)
Three recommendation letters
Personal statement of goals
Resume/CV

Tuition and Affordability

Florida residents pay $431.43 per credit while non-residents pay $877.17 per credit. The total program cost reaches $25,885.80 for residents and $52,630.20 for non-residents.

Best Fit For

Career opportunities await graduates in state vocational rehabilitation agencies, community programs, federal agencies, mental health settings, substance abuse treatment facilities, and private practice.

8. University of Central Florida

UCF’s Counselor Education program stands out with its wellness and multicultural approach to counselor training. The program ranks among the nation’s top counseling programs and provides strong foundations for aspiring mental health professionals.

Program Overview

The MA in Counselor Education program features two specializations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Students learn evidence-based brief therapies and prevention measures. The program’s on-campus Community Counseling and Research Center serves over 1,000 clients each year and gives students hands-on training experience.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has CACREP accreditation through October 31, 2030. Students who graduate meet Florida’s Department of Medical Quality Assurance requirements for mental health counselor licensure.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Students in both tracks gain extensive clinical experience at UCF’s Community Counseling and Research Center. They also participate in field-based experiences throughout Central Florida.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need to submit:

Online application ($31 fee)
Official transcripts
Three recommendation letters
Personal goal statement (500-700 words)
Professional resume

Selected candidates take part in small-group interviews that assess their professionalism and emotional maturity.

Tuition and Affordability

Annual graduate tuition runs Florida residents $6,664, while non-residents pay $21,508.

Best Fit For

The program suits anyone looking to become a mental health counselor, school counselor, career counselor, or substance abuse counselor. Florida ranks fifth nationwide in counselor employment.

9. Rollins College

Rollins College stands out with its counseling program that champions social justice advocacy and transformative education in a supportive cohort-based setting.

Program Overview

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Rollins has 63 semester hours and prepares students to become agents of social change. Students learn in small classes (average of 12) with an excellent 9:1 student-faculty ratio. The program goes beyond traditional coursework. Students participate in a unique social justice pre-practicum and complete internships. They also attend a Master Therapist Series with nationally recognized experts.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The program’s CACREP accreditation validates its high educational standards. This credential and the detailed curriculum meet Florida’s requirements for mental health counselor licensure.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The program offers both three-year and four-year completion tracks where students advance together as a cohort. Classes take place at the Winter Park campus.

Admission Requirements

Successful applicants should have a 3.0+ GPA, official transcripts, two recommendation letters, current resume, and a 3-5 page personal statement.

Tuition and Affordability

Students pay $757 per credit hour. The college offers scholarships and graduate assistantships to help with expenses.

Best Fit For

The program excels at providing individual attention to students. 97% of graduates find employment within 180 days after completing the program.

10. Florida Gulf Coast University

FGCU is pioneering counselor education through its cohort-based model. The university’s CACREP-accredited programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling emphasize extensive field experience.

Program Overview

FGCU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling master’s programs serve distinct career paths. Students in the Clinical Mental Health program complete 1000 hours of practicum and internship experiences that prepare them to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors in Florida. The program can be completed in two or three years. The School Counseling program meets Florida Department of Education and American School Counselor Association standards and requires 600 hours of supervised internship.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

CACREP accreditation ensures both counseling programs meet strict educational standards. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has also accredited FGCU as an institution.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Students can choose from several course delivery options. The university offers traditional on-campus classes, online (asynchronous), synchronous online, hybrid, and BlendFlex options. These choices help students balance their studies with other commitments.

Admission Requirements

Admission requires:

Minimum 3.0 GPA
Three professional recommendations
Written statement of career goals
Personal interview

Tuition and Affordability

Florida residents pay annual tuition of $6,720 while non-residents pay $23,412. Total estimated costs range from $25,502 to $44,438 based on residency and housing choices.

Best Fit For

These programs suit aspiring professionals who want careers in school settings or mental health agencies. The curriculum focuses on college & career readiness, social-emotional learning, and academic achievement. Students committed to promoting wellness will find value in these programs.

11. University of Florida

The University of Florida offers a dual-degree program in counseling education. Students earn both Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degrees after completing their studies.

Program Overview

UF’s Mental Health Counseling program gives students professional knowledge to work in clinical settings. Students learn counseling skills, diagnosis, treatment, referral, and prevention of mental disorders. The program helps them develop multicultural understanding for case analysis and ethical professional behavior.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

Graduates can qualify for Registered Intern status and become licensed Mental Health Counselors in Florida after completing supervised clinical experience.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The program runs on campus with students taking 12 credits each semester. You can choose between full-time and part-time study options. Classes are small with about 15 students.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 undergraduate credits
No GRE requirement
Application deadline: November 15

Tuition and Affordability

The 2025-26 graduate tuition is $530.69 per credit hour for in-state students and $1,327.88 for out-of-state students. The total budget comes to $31,720 for in-state students living on campus.

Best Fit For

Recent graduates earn around $48,924 in their early career. This program works well if you want to work in mental health agencies, hospitals, or start your own practice.

12. Barry University

Barry University blends its Catholic liberal arts tradition with its Master of Science in Counseling program. This unique combination creates an educational journey that shapes ethical professionals who become skilled at counseling practice.

Program Overview

The program needs 42 semester hours of core courses plus specialization requirements. Students get 700 hours of clinical experience and supervised practicum at the on-campus CARE Center. Four core values shape the curriculum: knowledge and truth, inclusive community, social justice, and collaborative service. Students can join the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota, an award-winning international honor society that provides educational and social opportunities.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The program has managed to keep CACREP accreditation since 2003 in Mental Health Counseling, Marital/Couple/Family Counseling, and School Counseling specializations. This respected recognition will give graduates the qualifications they need for Florida’s counseling licensure.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Evening classes run Monday through Thursday (4:00-7:00 pm and 7:00-10:00 pm). Students can choose from asynchronous online courses, hybrid formats with some live sessions, and weekend formats for Bahamas cohorts. Most students finish the program in 2.5 years full-time or 4 years part-time.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
0+ GPA
Statement of purpose and goals
Two professional recommendations
Current resume

Tuition and Affordability

Each credit costs $850, plus lab and insurance fees for clinical courses. Barry works with federal and state financial aid programs to help with expenses.

Best Fit For

This program suits students looking for multicultural counseling expertise in a supportive setting that helps people, couples, and families tackle life’s challenges through counseling.

13. Florida International University

Florida International University provides innovative counseling education through its MPCAC-accredited Professional Counseling Psychology program and CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Professional Counseling Psychology has 60 credit hours that prepare students to become licensed Mental Health Counselors in Florida. Students must complete 840 hours of clinical training and pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination. The MS in Counselor Education with Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration also needs 60 credits.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The Professional Counseling Psychology program’s MPCAC accreditation runs through June 2033 and meets Florida’s licensure requirements. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling concentration maintains its CACREP accreditation until 2030, ensuring students can obtain licensure.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

The Professional Counseling Psychology program lets students choose between hybrid and fully online formats. Students attending the hybrid option come to campus one day weekly and complete 2-3 days of clinical work. The online option combines synchronous and asynchronous learning methods.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

0 GPA in last 60 credits of upper-level work
Three recommendation letters
Resume/CV
Two writing samples (one academic)
Video statement

Tuition and Affordability

Florida residents pay $455.64 per credit plus fees, which comes to about $4,100.76 per semester for three classes. Non-resident tuition costs $1,001.69 per credit hour.

Best Fit For

These programs help students launch careers in mental health agencies, psychiatric hospitals, or private practice. Students choosing the School Counseling major can get special scholarships if they commit to working in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

14. Stetson University

Stetson University’s Department of Counselor Education prepares students from all backgrounds to excel in their professional counseling roles. The program blends ethical behavior development with a deep understanding of personal strengths.

Program Overview

The department has CACREP-accredited Master of Science degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling. Students need 60 credit hours to graduate, with 51 credits of core courses and nine credits of practicum and internship. The curriculum builds expertise in eight core areas such as professional identity, social diversity, and assessment. Graduates can apply as Registered Mental Health Counselor Interns or Marriage and Family Therapist Interns.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The counseling programs at Stetson hold CACREP accreditation, meeting the highest educational standards. This recognition makes getting licensed easier across states since counselor licensure rules typically follow the CACREP model. Graduates qualify to take the National Counselor Examination or National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam.

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Classes run in traditional format with evening sessions from Monday through Thursday, 3:00-8:45pm. The Spring 2026 cohort should apply by August 31, 2025. Interview day happens on September 26, 2025.

Admission Requirements

Applicants need to submit:

Application with $50 fee
Three professional/academic recommendation letters
Professional resume
Personal statement
Group interview participation

The program recommends a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Tuition and Affordability

Each credit hour costs $895, which adds up to $16,110 per year based on six credits each semester. The total program expense reaches about $47,954 when you include housing, books, and other costs.

Best Fit For

This program works well if you want quality counseling education in a supportive setting. The program’s track record speaks volumes – 95% of graduates land jobs as professional counselors. Students can build rewarding careers in community agencies, hospitals, and independent practices.

15. Lynn University

Lynn University, located in Boca Raton, provides a flexible clinical program for working professionals who want to become licensed mental health counselors.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program has 60 total credits. Students learn about personality theory, psychopathology, and human sexuality. The curriculum covers legal and ethical aspects of counseling. The program connects students with mental health agencies through networking and internships.

Accreditation and Licensure Readiness

The program maintains CACREP accreditation. Graduates can register with Florida to complete two years of supervised clinical work. They can then take the national exam to become licensed mental health counselors (LMHC) or nationally certified counselors (NCC).

Delivery Format and Flexibility

Students can pick between on-campus classes or online synchronous sessions. Online students must attend two courses on campus. These courses usually happen over two separate weekend sessions.

Admission Requirements

The program needs a bachelor’s degree, completed application, personal statement, official transcripts, recommendation letter, and current resume. Candidates must complete interviews to join the CMHC program.

Tuition and Affordability

Each credit hour costs $650. The total program cost comes to about $39,000.

Best Fit For

The program works best for future substance abuse counselors, professional counselors, and mental health counselors.

Choose the Right Masters in Counseling in Florida

Picking the right counseling program is a big step toward a rewarding career in mental health. In this piece, you’ll find that there was exceptional educational opportunities in Florida with strong job prospects and competitive salaries. CACREP accreditation remains the gold standard for counseling education. This ensures programs meet strict standards and makes your path to licensure easier after graduation.

Florida’s counseling job market shows resilient growth. The projected increases are a big deal as it means that national averages. School counselors make around $60,160 per year. Your actual earnings will change based on your specialty, location, and experience.

These programs each bring their own strengths to the table. Some focus on Christian views, others excel in rehabilitation counseling, and several specialize in marriage and family therapy. On top of that, it’s possible to choose from different learning styles that fit your life. You can opt for traditional campus classes, mix online and in-person learning, or study completely online.

Rankings matter but there’s more to think about before making your final choice. Program costs, convenient locations, specialty options, hands-on training, and faculty expertise all play crucial roles. Each program’s placement success and licensure exam results tell you about the quality of education.

Starting your path as a licensed mental health counselor takes commitment and solid preparation. These top Florida programs are the foundations of professional success. Palm Beach Atlantic’s faith-based approach and University of South Florida’s rehabilitation focus are great examples. Both will give you the skills to make real changes in your clients’ lives.

Your counseling career starts with choosing the right program. Look at these options and take action. Connect with programs that line up with your goals. Visit campuses if you can and talk to current students about their time there. This knowledge helps you make the best choice for your future in counseling.