Academics - Wingate University
Source: https://www.wingate.edu/academics/graduate/clinical-mental-health-counseling/academics
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:20
Academics - Wingate University
Skip To Main Content
Academics
Curriculum
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling curriculum is designed so that traditional students can graduate in as little as two years.
The CMHC program prioritizes engaging in-person learning experiences for our students. The majority of our courses will be conducted face-to-face, ensuring that students benefit from direct interaction and hands-on learning. For those seeking flexibility, we offer the option to teach up to three non-skill related courses online asynchronously. Additionally, for selected courses, we may incorporate a hybrid model, where students will learn online during one week and come to campus the following week to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have developed. This combined approach aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience that accommodates various learning styles.
request information
Apply now
Year One
Year Two
Semester One (Fall) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 601 Foundations in Professional Counseling and Ethical Practice
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 602 Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 603 Counseling Theories and Practice
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Semester Two (Spring) - Course Title
Credit
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 604 Pre-practicum
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 606-Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 605 Counseling Children and Adolescents
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 611-Diagnosis, Case Conceptualization, and Psychopharmacology
Semester Total
3
3
3
3
12
Semester Three (Summer) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 607 Counseling across the Lifespan
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 615 Foundations of Addictions Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 608 Practicum
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Year One Total
30
Semester One (Fall) Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 609 Group Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 610 Couples and Family Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 614 Social Cultural Identities and Experience
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 618 Internship I
Semester Total
3
3
3
3
12
Semester Two (Spring) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 613 Principles and Application of Assessment in Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 619 Internship II
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 612 Research and Program Evaluation
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Semester Three (Summer) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 620 Advanced Counseling Practice
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 617 Advanced Theories, Methods, and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 616 Career Development
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Year Two Total
30
CMHC 601 Foundations of Professional Counseling and Ethical Practice
CMHC 602 Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 603 Counseling Theories and Practice
CMHC 604 Pre-practicum
CMHC 605 Counseling Children and Adolescents
CMHC 606 Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Interventions
CMHC 607 Counseling Across the Lifespan
CMHC 608 Practicum
CMHC 609 Group Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 610 Couples and Family Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 611 Diagnosis, Case Conceptualization, and Psychopharmacology
CMHC 612 Research and Program Evaluation
CMHC 613 Principles and Application of Assessment in Counseling
CMHC 614 Social Cultural Identities and Experience
CMHC 615 Foundations of Addiction Counseling
CMHC 616 Career Development
CMHC 617 Advanced Theories, Methods, and Interventions
CMHC 618 Internship I
CMHC 619 Internship II
CMHC 620 Advanced Counseling Practice
CMHC 640 Special Topics in Counseling
CMHC 630 Interim Supervised Counseling Practice
This course explores the history, philosophy, and evolution of counseling, focusing on specialized practices, professional roles, and ethical considerations. Topics include counselor responsibilities, advocacy, diverse delivery models, and ethical decision-making. Students will also learn self-evaluation strategies essential for maintaining ethical and effective counseling practice.
This course focuses on developing foundational skills essential for becoming a counselor. Students will learn effective strategies for building therapeutic relationships, assessing clients, setting goals, planning interventions, and progressing toward termination. Emphasis is placed on practical skill development through case studies, role-plays, and supervised practice. The course integrates culturally responsive practices and ethical considerations throughout the counseling process to enhance professional competence.
This course explores foundational counseling theories and models, emphasizing their application to clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Students will study a variety of theoretical frameworks, learning when and how to apply them in practice. Through theoretical case studies, research, and practical exercises, students will develop skills in integrating theories to develop their own personal model of counseling tailored to meet individual needs and contexts.
This pre-practicum course provides students with hands-on experience in applying counseling theories and skills with real clients under direct supervision. Students will engage in supervised practice sessions to develop and refine their abilities in building effective counseling relationships. Emphasis is placed on integrating theoretical knowledge into practical application, including assessment, goal setting, intervention planning, and termination strategies. Students will receive feedback and guidance from supervisors to enhance their clinical competence and ethical practice. The course prepares students for professional practice by emphasizing the importance of cultural competence, ethical considerations, and evidence-based interventions in building successful counseling relationships.
This course explores counseling theories, methods, and skills essential for working with children and adolescents. Students will learn developmental needs across different life stages, various counseling approaches (including cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, and family systems), and essential skills for effective engagement. Emphasis is placed on collaboration with parents, school systems, and government agencies to address emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. Practical exercises and case studies enhance understanding of assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations in child and adolescent counseling.
This course addresses crisis management and counseling in the context of disasters, stress, grief, and trauma across the lifespan. Students will learn suicide prevention and response strategies, crisis intervention models, and trauma-informed approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding the effects of crisis and trauma, developing effective response plans, and implementing strategies to support resilience and recovery. Practical applications include understanding the effects of trauma, developing crisis response plans, and implementing evidence-based interventions to promote resilience and recovery.
This course explores comprehensive theories and factors influencing individual and family development across the lifespan. Topics include theories of cultural identity, learning, personality, and neurobiological aspects. Students will examine ideologies of addiction, models of psychosocial adjustment, and the role of sexual development. Additionally, the course covers biological, neurological, and physiological factors impacting lifespan development, and the influence of mental and physical health conditions on coping, resilience, and overall wellness. Emphasis is placed on understanding diverse developmental pathways and promoting holistic well-being across different life stages.
This course provides students with a supervised counseling practicum experience, totaling a minimum of 100 hours over a full semester. Students will engage in direct service with actual clients, completing at least 40 hours of counseling sessions under supervision at a field placement site. The practicum is designed to enhance the development of counseling skills, including assessment, intervention, and therapeutic relationship building. Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical knowledge to practice, integrating ethical considerations, and fostering professional identity. Through reflective supervision and feedback, students will refine their counseling techniques and enhance their competence in client-centered care.
This course explores theoretical foundations of group counseling, dynamics of group processes, and therapeutic factors contributing to group effectiveness. Topics include characteristics of effective group leaders, approaches to group formation (recruitment, screening), and the application of technology in group settings. Students will learn about various types of groups across settings, and strategies for culturally sustaining and developmentally responsive group design. Ethical and legal considerations in group counseling will be addressed. Students will gain practical experience by participating in a minimum of 10 clock hours in a group setting.
This course explores theories of family development across the lifespan, examining structures for effective relationship bonds in couples, marriages, and families, including diverse relationship models beyond heterosexual relationships. Topics include models of resilience and optimal development for individuals and families, emphasizing strategies for promoting wellness throughout the lifespan. The course also addresses the impact of mental and physical health conditions on coping, resilience, and overall family wellness. Students will gain insights into practical applications of theory through case studies and discussions on enhancing couple and family dynamics and well-being.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the diagnosis, case conceptualization, and psychopharmacology associated with various mental health disorders. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic criteria and clinical features of major mental health conditions. The course will cover effective techniques for developing case formulations and individualized treatment plans. Additionally, students will learn about the pharmacological treatments used in managing mental health disorders, including indications, mechanisms of action, and potential side effects of psychotropic medications. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and practical applications, this course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assess and treat individuals with mental health disorders in a clinical setting.
This course explores the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession and informing practice. It covers the identification and evaluation of evidence-based theories, interventions, and practices. Students will learn qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research designs, practice-based action research methods, and program evaluation techniques. Emphasis is placed on data analysis, culturally sustaining and developmentally relevant outcome measures, and ethical considerations in research. The course prepares students to conduct, interpret, and report research effectively, supporting informed decision-making and advocacy in counseling.
This course offers a comprehensive overview of the historical perspectives on the nature and meaning of assessment and testing in counseling. It covers basic concepts of standardized and non-standardized testing, norm-referenced and criterion-referenced assessments, as well as group and individual assessments. Students will learn essential statistical concepts and culturally sustaining considerations for selecting and administering tests. The course emphasizes ethical and legal considerations, culturally sustaining interventions, and diagnostic processes, including differential diagnostic classification systems.
Students will also explore procedures to identify substance use, addiction, and co-occurring disorders and how to respond to risks of aggression, danger, or suicide. The course includes training in assessing clients' trauma, identifying and reporting signs of abuse, and collecting data on characteristics, protective factors, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders.
This course explores theories and models of multicultural counseling, social justice, and advocacy. It examines heritage, culture, identity, and the effects of historical events, trauma, stereotypes, discrimination, and power dynamics on diverse groups in the US and globally. Students will learn how social and cultural influences, public policies, and cultural values impact mental and physical health. The course emphasizes principles of independence, inclusion, and self-empowerment and reviews guidelines from professional organizations on social justice and eliminating oppression. It also addresses the role of religion and spirituality in the psychological functioning of clients and counselors.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of addiction counseling. Students will learn about the nature and theories of addiction, encompassing biological, psychological, and social perspectives, and addressing various addictions, including substance use, gambling, and pornography. The course covers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for different types of addictions, as well as evidence-based intervention strategies. Key topics include the pharmacology of addictive substances, co-occurring disorders, and the impact of addiction on families and communities. Ethical and legal considerations in addiction counseling are emphasized, along with culturally responsive practices. Students will also explore relapse prevention, recovery support systems, and advocacy for individuals affected by addiction.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of career counseling, focusing on theories and models of career development and decision-making. Students will learn techniques for assessing clients' interests, skills, values, and personality traits to facilitate career planning and development. The course covers the use of career assessment tools, job search strategies, labor market information, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on career choices. Ethical and legal considerations in career counseling are emphasized, along with culturally responsive practices. Additionally, students will explore the role of technology in career counseling, strategies for working with diverse populations, and methods for supporting clients through career transitions and workplace challenges.
This course teaches counseling students advanced theories, methods, and interventions essential for effective practice. Students will delve into sophisticated counseling models and therapeutic techniques, exploring their applications in diverse clinical settings. The course emphasizes the development of advanced skills in case conceptualization, treatment planning, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions. Ethical and legal considerations are integrated throughout the curriculum, along with culturally responsive practices. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, students will refine their abilities to address complex client issues and enhance their professional competencies in counseling.
This course is an immersive experience in which students will apply the foundational skills they learned in practicum, engaging in direct client contact. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 240 direct client contact hours and a total of 300 hours. The internship builds on foundational knowledge, focusing on the advanced application of counseling theories and techniques in clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on developing professional skills, ethical practice, and culturally responsive approaches to client care.
This course continues the immersive experience of internship, where students further develop their professional skills and theoretical knowledge gained in previous clinical experiences. Building on Internship I, students engage in advanced clinical practice, applying evidence-based interventions and refining their therapeutic approaches. Emphasis is on gaining independence in clinical decision-making, enhancing ethical awareness, and integrating cultural competence into professional practice. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 240 direct client contact hours and a total of 300 hours to meet the requirements of this internship.
This course provides a culminating experience in clinical practice, offering students real-world experience crucial for entering professional counseling roles in various settings such as agencies, schools, and private practice. Students will gain practical knowledge on navigating the process of building a career, including understanding insurance paneling procedures, licensure requirements, and ethical considerations across diverse counseling environments.
The course covers obtaining a National Provider Identifier (NPI) number and the role of the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare (CAQH) in credentialing and reimbursement processes. Students will learn strategies for establishing themselves in different settings, managing client records, and maintaining ethical standards. Emphasis is placed on developing business acumen, understanding legal requirements, and implementing effective marketing and networking strategies to support a successful counseling career while fostering a strong professional counselor identity.
"Special Topics in Counseling" is a dynamic course designed to explore varied and evolving topics essential to contemporary counseling practice. This course can cover diverse subjects such as sexuality and counseling, gender identity in counseling, religion or spirituality in counseling, and other emerging issues crucial for counselors in today's evolving landscape.
Designed to accommodate diverse licensure requirements, this course can be tailored to meet specific state regulations, ensuring students from other states can fulfill their licensure needs. Each offering will delve deeply into a specific topic, providing comprehensive knowledge, ethical considerations, and practical skills necessary for effective counseling practice. This course fosters a deeper understanding and sensitivity to the diverse needs of clients, preparing counselors to address a wide range of issues they may encounter in their professional careers.
This course provides a short-term, supervised clinical experience designed for students encountering gaps in continuity of care between semesters. Students will engage in a focused clinical practice under supervision, gaining practical experience in counseling techniques, client management, and ethical considerations. Emphasis is placed on enhancing clinical skills and maintaining professional standards in brief client engagements.
To receive the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Wingate University, students must meet the following requirements:
Maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Have received no more than one grade of C throughout the program.
Successfully completed 60 credit hours of the required courses.
Complete 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship during clinical field placement.
Receive successful scores in the professional fitness evaluations conducted by the core faculty.
Complete an exit survey.
Pass the Counselor Comprehensive Preparation Exam (CPCE).
Questions?
Jennifer Jordan
Founding Director of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
j.jordan@wingate.edu
Skip To Main Content
Academics
Curriculum
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling curriculum is designed so that traditional students can graduate in as little as two years.
The CMHC program prioritizes engaging in-person learning experiences for our students. The majority of our courses will be conducted face-to-face, ensuring that students benefit from direct interaction and hands-on learning. For those seeking flexibility, we offer the option to teach up to three non-skill related courses online asynchronously. Additionally, for selected courses, we may incorporate a hybrid model, where students will learn online during one week and come to campus the following week to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have developed. This combined approach aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience that accommodates various learning styles.
request information
Apply now
Year One
Year Two
Semester One (Fall) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 601 Foundations in Professional Counseling and Ethical Practice
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 602 Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 603 Counseling Theories and Practice
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Semester Two (Spring) - Course Title
Credit
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 604 Pre-practicum
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 606-Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 605 Counseling Children and Adolescents
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 611-Diagnosis, Case Conceptualization, and Psychopharmacology
Semester Total
3
3
3
3
12
Semester Three (Summer) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 607 Counseling across the Lifespan
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 615 Foundations of Addictions Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 608 Practicum
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Year One Total
30
Semester One (Fall) Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 609 Group Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 610 Couples and Family Counseling Skills and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 614 Social Cultural Identities and Experience
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 618 Internship I
Semester Total
3
3
3
3
12
Semester Two (Spring) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 613 Principles and Application of Assessment in Counseling
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 619 Internship II
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 612 Research and Program Evaluation
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Semester Three (Summer) - Course Title
Credits
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 620 Advanced Counseling Practice
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 617 Advanced Theories, Methods, and Interventions
Clinical Mental Health Counseling 616 Career Development
Semester Total
3
3
3
9
Year Two Total
30
CMHC 601 Foundations of Professional Counseling and Ethical Practice
CMHC 602 Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 603 Counseling Theories and Practice
CMHC 604 Pre-practicum
CMHC 605 Counseling Children and Adolescents
CMHC 606 Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Interventions
CMHC 607 Counseling Across the Lifespan
CMHC 608 Practicum
CMHC 609 Group Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 610 Couples and Family Counseling Skills and Interventions
CMHC 611 Diagnosis, Case Conceptualization, and Psychopharmacology
CMHC 612 Research and Program Evaluation
CMHC 613 Principles and Application of Assessment in Counseling
CMHC 614 Social Cultural Identities and Experience
CMHC 615 Foundations of Addiction Counseling
CMHC 616 Career Development
CMHC 617 Advanced Theories, Methods, and Interventions
CMHC 618 Internship I
CMHC 619 Internship II
CMHC 620 Advanced Counseling Practice
CMHC 640 Special Topics in Counseling
CMHC 630 Interim Supervised Counseling Practice
This course explores the history, philosophy, and evolution of counseling, focusing on specialized practices, professional roles, and ethical considerations. Topics include counselor responsibilities, advocacy, diverse delivery models, and ethical decision-making. Students will also learn self-evaluation strategies essential for maintaining ethical and effective counseling practice.
This course focuses on developing foundational skills essential for becoming a counselor. Students will learn effective strategies for building therapeutic relationships, assessing clients, setting goals, planning interventions, and progressing toward termination. Emphasis is placed on practical skill development through case studies, role-plays, and supervised practice. The course integrates culturally responsive practices and ethical considerations throughout the counseling process to enhance professional competence.
This course explores foundational counseling theories and models, emphasizing their application to clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Students will study a variety of theoretical frameworks, learning when and how to apply them in practice. Through theoretical case studies, research, and practical exercises, students will develop skills in integrating theories to develop their own personal model of counseling tailored to meet individual needs and contexts.
This pre-practicum course provides students with hands-on experience in applying counseling theories and skills with real clients under direct supervision. Students will engage in supervised practice sessions to develop and refine their abilities in building effective counseling relationships. Emphasis is placed on integrating theoretical knowledge into practical application, including assessment, goal setting, intervention planning, and termination strategies. Students will receive feedback and guidance from supervisors to enhance their clinical competence and ethical practice. The course prepares students for professional practice by emphasizing the importance of cultural competence, ethical considerations, and evidence-based interventions in building successful counseling relationships.
This course explores counseling theories, methods, and skills essential for working with children and adolescents. Students will learn developmental needs across different life stages, various counseling approaches (including cognitive-behavioral, play therapy, and family systems), and essential skills for effective engagement. Emphasis is placed on collaboration with parents, school systems, and government agencies to address emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. Practical exercises and case studies enhance understanding of assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations in child and adolescent counseling.
This course addresses crisis management and counseling in the context of disasters, stress, grief, and trauma across the lifespan. Students will learn suicide prevention and response strategies, crisis intervention models, and trauma-informed approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding the effects of crisis and trauma, developing effective response plans, and implementing strategies to support resilience and recovery. Practical applications include understanding the effects of trauma, developing crisis response plans, and implementing evidence-based interventions to promote resilience and recovery.
This course explores comprehensive theories and factors influencing individual and family development across the lifespan. Topics include theories of cultural identity, learning, personality, and neurobiological aspects. Students will examine ideologies of addiction, models of psychosocial adjustment, and the role of sexual development. Additionally, the course covers biological, neurological, and physiological factors impacting lifespan development, and the influence of mental and physical health conditions on coping, resilience, and overall wellness. Emphasis is placed on understanding diverse developmental pathways and promoting holistic well-being across different life stages.
This course provides students with a supervised counseling practicum experience, totaling a minimum of 100 hours over a full semester. Students will engage in direct service with actual clients, completing at least 40 hours of counseling sessions under supervision at a field placement site. The practicum is designed to enhance the development of counseling skills, including assessment, intervention, and therapeutic relationship building. Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical knowledge to practice, integrating ethical considerations, and fostering professional identity. Through reflective supervision and feedback, students will refine their counseling techniques and enhance their competence in client-centered care.
This course explores theoretical foundations of group counseling, dynamics of group processes, and therapeutic factors contributing to group effectiveness. Topics include characteristics of effective group leaders, approaches to group formation (recruitment, screening), and the application of technology in group settings. Students will learn about various types of groups across settings, and strategies for culturally sustaining and developmentally responsive group design. Ethical and legal considerations in group counseling will be addressed. Students will gain practical experience by participating in a minimum of 10 clock hours in a group setting.
This course explores theories of family development across the lifespan, examining structures for effective relationship bonds in couples, marriages, and families, including diverse relationship models beyond heterosexual relationships. Topics include models of resilience and optimal development for individuals and families, emphasizing strategies for promoting wellness throughout the lifespan. The course also addresses the impact of mental and physical health conditions on coping, resilience, and overall family wellness. Students will gain insights into practical applications of theory through case studies and discussions on enhancing couple and family dynamics and well-being.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the diagnosis, case conceptualization, and psychopharmacology associated with various mental health disorders. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the diagnostic criteria and clinical features of major mental health conditions. The course will cover effective techniques for developing case formulations and individualized treatment plans. Additionally, students will learn about the pharmacological treatments used in managing mental health disorders, including indications, mechanisms of action, and potential side effects of psychotropic medications. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and practical applications, this course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assess and treat individuals with mental health disorders in a clinical setting.
This course explores the importance of research in advancing the counseling profession and informing practice. It covers the identification and evaluation of evidence-based theories, interventions, and practices. Students will learn qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research designs, practice-based action research methods, and program evaluation techniques. Emphasis is placed on data analysis, culturally sustaining and developmentally relevant outcome measures, and ethical considerations in research. The course prepares students to conduct, interpret, and report research effectively, supporting informed decision-making and advocacy in counseling.
This course offers a comprehensive overview of the historical perspectives on the nature and meaning of assessment and testing in counseling. It covers basic concepts of standardized and non-standardized testing, norm-referenced and criterion-referenced assessments, as well as group and individual assessments. Students will learn essential statistical concepts and culturally sustaining considerations for selecting and administering tests. The course emphasizes ethical and legal considerations, culturally sustaining interventions, and diagnostic processes, including differential diagnostic classification systems.
Students will also explore procedures to identify substance use, addiction, and co-occurring disorders and how to respond to risks of aggression, danger, or suicide. The course includes training in assessing clients' trauma, identifying and reporting signs of abuse, and collecting data on characteristics, protective factors, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders.
This course explores theories and models of multicultural counseling, social justice, and advocacy. It examines heritage, culture, identity, and the effects of historical events, trauma, stereotypes, discrimination, and power dynamics on diverse groups in the US and globally. Students will learn how social and cultural influences, public policies, and cultural values impact mental and physical health. The course emphasizes principles of independence, inclusion, and self-empowerment and reviews guidelines from professional organizations on social justice and eliminating oppression. It also addresses the role of religion and spirituality in the psychological functioning of clients and counselors.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of addiction counseling. Students will learn about the nature and theories of addiction, encompassing biological, psychological, and social perspectives, and addressing various addictions, including substance use, gambling, and pornography. The course covers assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning for different types of addictions, as well as evidence-based intervention strategies. Key topics include the pharmacology of addictive substances, co-occurring disorders, and the impact of addiction on families and communities. Ethical and legal considerations in addiction counseling are emphasized, along with culturally responsive practices. Students will also explore relapse prevention, recovery support systems, and advocacy for individuals affected by addiction.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of career counseling, focusing on theories and models of career development and decision-making. Students will learn techniques for assessing clients' interests, skills, values, and personality traits to facilitate career planning and development. The course covers the use of career assessment tools, job search strategies, labor market information, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on career choices. Ethical and legal considerations in career counseling are emphasized, along with culturally responsive practices. Additionally, students will explore the role of technology in career counseling, strategies for working with diverse populations, and methods for supporting clients through career transitions and workplace challenges.
This course teaches counseling students advanced theories, methods, and interventions essential for effective practice. Students will delve into sophisticated counseling models and therapeutic techniques, exploring their applications in diverse clinical settings. The course emphasizes the development of advanced skills in case conceptualization, treatment planning, and the implementation of evidence-based interventions. Ethical and legal considerations are integrated throughout the curriculum, along with culturally responsive practices. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, students will refine their abilities to address complex client issues and enhance their professional competencies in counseling.
This course is an immersive experience in which students will apply the foundational skills they learned in practicum, engaging in direct client contact. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 240 direct client contact hours and a total of 300 hours. The internship builds on foundational knowledge, focusing on the advanced application of counseling theories and techniques in clinical settings. Emphasis is placed on developing professional skills, ethical practice, and culturally responsive approaches to client care.
This course continues the immersive experience of internship, where students further develop their professional skills and theoretical knowledge gained in previous clinical experiences. Building on Internship I, students engage in advanced clinical practice, applying evidence-based interventions and refining their therapeutic approaches. Emphasis is on gaining independence in clinical decision-making, enhancing ethical awareness, and integrating cultural competence into professional practice. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 240 direct client contact hours and a total of 300 hours to meet the requirements of this internship.
This course provides a culminating experience in clinical practice, offering students real-world experience crucial for entering professional counseling roles in various settings such as agencies, schools, and private practice. Students will gain practical knowledge on navigating the process of building a career, including understanding insurance paneling procedures, licensure requirements, and ethical considerations across diverse counseling environments.
The course covers obtaining a National Provider Identifier (NPI) number and the role of the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare (CAQH) in credentialing and reimbursement processes. Students will learn strategies for establishing themselves in different settings, managing client records, and maintaining ethical standards. Emphasis is placed on developing business acumen, understanding legal requirements, and implementing effective marketing and networking strategies to support a successful counseling career while fostering a strong professional counselor identity.
"Special Topics in Counseling" is a dynamic course designed to explore varied and evolving topics essential to contemporary counseling practice. This course can cover diverse subjects such as sexuality and counseling, gender identity in counseling, religion or spirituality in counseling, and other emerging issues crucial for counselors in today's evolving landscape.
Designed to accommodate diverse licensure requirements, this course can be tailored to meet specific state regulations, ensuring students from other states can fulfill their licensure needs. Each offering will delve deeply into a specific topic, providing comprehensive knowledge, ethical considerations, and practical skills necessary for effective counseling practice. This course fosters a deeper understanding and sensitivity to the diverse needs of clients, preparing counselors to address a wide range of issues they may encounter in their professional careers.
This course provides a short-term, supervised clinical experience designed for students encountering gaps in continuity of care between semesters. Students will engage in a focused clinical practice under supervision, gaining practical experience in counseling techniques, client management, and ethical considerations. Emphasis is placed on enhancing clinical skills and maintaining professional standards in brief client engagements.
To receive the Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Wingate University, students must meet the following requirements:
Maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Have received no more than one grade of C throughout the program.
Successfully completed 60 credit hours of the required courses.
Complete 100 hours of practicum and 600 hours of internship during clinical field placement.
Receive successful scores in the professional fitness evaluations conducted by the core faculty.
Complete an exit survey.
Pass the Counselor Comprehensive Preparation Exam (CPCE).
Questions?
Jennifer Jordan
Founding Director of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
j.jordan@wingate.edu