NAU–YUMA to launch M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling this August
Prospective students have until July 31 to apply
Starting in August, NAU–YUMA will once again offer a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Assistant clinical professor and program coordinator Dr. Ryan Cheung recently outlined what the opportunity entails.
The 60-credit program is accredited through the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and involves a practicum and internship opportunity.
The program can be completed in three years with full-time enrollment (three classes per semester), though people can also enroll part-time and complete the degree at their own pace.
Cheung pointed out that the institution previously offered the program back in the 2000s, though it as eventually phased out over time, with Dr. Cheung noting, “The pond was stocked.”
Now, Cheung says that the program is starting back up to meet a “growing need.”
“There’s been an increasing growing need over time, so – to fill that need or gap – I’m here to restock the pond,” he added.
Regarding the significance of this development, Cheung declared, “Here in Yuma, there’s a lot of mental health needs that exist and may be increasing over time, and there’s also a need for more licensed counselors and clinicians.”
“Students will graduate and work toward licensure. They can help the community and then help guide the next generation of counselors. So, it’s hopefully going to be this good cyclical loop,” he continued.
In a statement to the Yuma Sun, Cheung also highlighted the importance of counselors obtaining licensure.
“I think the pressing concern is that unlicensed individuals are providing therapy, so clients may think they’re receiving counseling when they’re not actually seeing someone who’s licensed as a counselor,” he said. “There’s a need to develop and create well trained therapists in order to provide these services adequately and appropriately.”
The university is currently accepting program applications throughout July 31, and classes kick off on Aug. 26.
For more information on the program, visit degree-search.nau.edu/degree/couma or contact Dr. Ryan Cheung at Ryan. Cheung@nau.edu.