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Eastern Washington University Mental Health Counseling

  • Overview of EWU Mental Health Counseling Program
  • Program Admission Requirements
  • Courses and Curriculum for Mental Health Counseling
  • Faculty and Staff in the Counseling Program
  • The Role of Professional Counselors in Mental Health Care
  • Counseling Techniques and Strategies for Various Mental Health Issues
  • Internship and Practicum Opportunities in Mental Health Counseling
  • Student Resources and Support Services for Mental Health Needs
  • Career Paths and Opportunities for Mental Health Counselors
  • Community Outreach and Mental Health Advocacy by EWU Counseling Program

Overview of EWU Mental Health Counseling Program

Eastern Washington University (EWU) offers a comprehensive and rigorous Mental Health Counseling program designed to prepare students for a successful career as professional counselors. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring that the curriculum meets the highest standards of quality in the field of counseling. The program offers both a Master of Science (MS) and a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Mental Health Counseling, providing students with the flexibility to choose the level of education that best suits their career goals.

Program Admission Requirements

Admission into the Mental Health Counseling program at EWU is competitive and selective. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They must also submit official transcripts, GRE scores, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. In addition, applicants must complete an interview with faculty members in the counseling program to assess their fit and potential for success in the program.

Courses and Curriculum for Mental Health Counseling

The Mental Health Counseling program at EWU offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of counseling theory, practice, and research. Courses include Counseling Theories and Techniques, Multicultural Counseling, Group Counseling, Career Counseling, and Assessment and Diagnosis of Mental Disorders. Students also take courses in Research Methods, Ethics and Legal Issues in Counseling, and Professional Orientation to Counseling. The program requires a minimum of 60 credits for the MS degree and 32 credits for the CAS.

Faculty and Staff in the Counseling Program

The faculty and staff in the Mental Health Counseling program at EWU are highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in counseling and related fields. They are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to succeed in their careers. The faculty members are actively engaged in research and professional activities and are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of counseling.

The Role of Professional Counselors in Mental Health Care

Professional counselors play a critical role in the mental health care system, providing support, guidance, and therapy to individuals dealing with a wide range of mental health issues. They work with clients to identify their needs, develop treatment plans, and monitor progress towards their goals. They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure that clients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Counseling Techniques and Strategies for Various Mental Health Issues

The Mental Health Counseling program at EWU provides students with a variety of counseling techniques and strategies that can be applied to different mental health issues. Students learn how to use cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and other evidence-based approaches to address anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other mental health concerns. They also gain experience in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

Internship and Practicum Opportunities in Mental Health Counseling

EWU's Mental Health Counseling program requires students to complete a minimum of 700 hours of supervised clinical experience, including a 600-hour internship and a 100-hour practicum. This hands-on experience provides students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations. Students work in a variety of settings, including community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, and private practices.

Student Resources and Support Services for Mental Health Needs

EWU offers a variety of resources and support services for students who need help with their mental health. The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) office provides individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and consultation services to students. The Student Health and Wellness Center offers medical services, health education, and wellness programs. The university also has a Disability Support Services office that provides accommodations and support for students with disabilities.

Career Paths and Opportunities for Mental Health Counselors

Graduates of the Mental Health Counseling program at EWU are well-prepared to pursue a variety of career paths in the mental health field. They can work in community mental health centers, hospitals, schools, private practices, and other settings. They may also choose to specialize in areas such as substance abuse counseling, marriage and family therapy, or career counseling. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for mental health counselors is expected to grow by 25% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Community Outreach and Mental Health Advocacy by EWU Counseling Program

The Mental Health Counseling program at EWU is committed to promoting mental health awareness and advocacy in the community. The program hosts events and workshops on mental health topics, collaborates with local organizations to provide counseling services to underserved populations, and advocates for policies that support mental health care. The program also offers a Student Wellness Ambassador program that trains students to promote wellness and mental health on campus.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eastern Washington University Mental Health Counseling

What services does the Mental Health Counseling Center at Eastern Washington University provide?

The Mental Health Counseling Center at Eastern Washington University provides individual counseling, couples counseling, group counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to other mental health resources.

Who is eligible for services at the Mental Health Counseling Center?

All currently enrolled Eastern Washington University students are eligible for services at the Mental Health Counseling Center.

How much does it cost to use the Mental Health Counseling Center?

There is no additional cost to use the Mental Health Counseling Center for currently enrolled Eastern Washington University students. The cost of services is covered by the student health fee.

Are the counseling sessions confidential?

Yes, all counseling sessions at the Mental Health Counseling Center are confidential. Information about a student's counseling sessions will not be shared with anyone outside of the counseling center without the student's written consent, except in cases where there is an immediate danger to the student or others.

How do I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment at the Mental Health Counseling Center, call (509) 359-2366 or stop by the center located in Martin Hall, Room 225.