PHX Reporter

The University of Phoenix's College of Social and Behavioral Sciences has received programmatic accreditation for its Online Master of Science in Counseling/Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MSC/CMHC) program. The accreditation, which covers an eight-year term, was granted by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The accreditation confirms that the program's purpose, curriculum, and student experience meet CACREP standards.

"Mental health needs across the country continue to grow," commented Christina Neider, EdD, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. "Clinical mental health counselors save lives. They bring experience, healing and hope to their clients and communities. Accredited programs like ours elevate the experience of online learning for counselors in a practical, flexible and accessible virtual space while they are contributing to their local communities."

The field of mental health counseling is experiencing growth, with employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors projected to rise by 19 percent from 2023 to 2033. The MSC/CMHC program aims to prepare students for leadership roles and to meet patient needs effectively.

The MSC/CMHC program's accreditation followed a voluntary self-study, a site visit, and a program evaluation by CACREP. "We built this program to give our counseling students a dynamic, community-driven, learning experience," stated Sheila Babendir, EdD, LPC, associate dean in the College. "Earning accreditation is a huge win. This accreditation reinforces our vision and commitment to offer a meaningful, hands-on experience that helps future counselors grow in this critical field."

The mission of the MSC/CMHC program is to train confident, competent counselors who can assess and treat clients dealing with conditions such as anxiety and depression. Although the program is delivered online, it includes two in-person residencies and one digital synchronous residency.

University of Phoenix offers career-oriented education, focusing on working adults through its "Skills in Weeks" approach. This includes courses, skill assessments, and digital badges, backed by Career Services for Life and the Career Navigator platform, which assist students and alumni with career planning and job exploration.

The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences faculty have, on average, 28.3 years of professional experience, and include various professionals such as police chiefs and clinical directors, alongside many counselors and psychologists who contribute to the program's foundation.