Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) – Online Master of Arts in Counseling Programs

The School of Professional Studies Department of Education at Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers three online Master of Arts in Counseling programs: School Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. The curriculum for the MA in Counseling degree follows the standards of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). These standards ensure delivery of foundational knowledge in counseling as well as practical, hands-on counseling skills to be used in the workplace.

The School Counseling program prepares students for the Texas School Counseling certification or similar certifications in other states. Graduates will be prepared to serve school-aged students through assessment, counseling, and planning for the future.

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Students learn to identify and assess the mental health conditions of clientele ranging from children to the elderly and address these issues through counseling practices. Students may go on to work in government organizations, private practice, and inpatient or outpatient facilities.

The Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program prepares students for both Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure and certification as a Certified Rehabilitative Counselor (CRC). These professionals will be able to identify and diagnose complex issues and help patients learn to lead productive healthy lives. CRCs work hand in hand with physical and occupational therapists and other medical professionals to provide integrated care for those who need it.

The Master of Arts in Counseling can be completed part-time or full-time. The degree coursework is 100% online with required practicums and internships in the student’s geographical area.

The School Counseling program consists of 20 courses and 60 credits and can be completed in three and a half years. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling specializations consist of 20 courses and 60 credits and can be completed in as little as three years.

Courses begin in the fall, spring, and summer, and last 8 weeks. A background in social work, psychology, or counseling is recommended but not required.

Courses are delivered asynchronously with assignments having set deadlines. All new students participate in an online orientation to learn to navigate the virtual learning system. Discussion forums and other interactive activities create an atmosphere of collaboration between faculty and peers. Students can expect to spend 15-20 hours on each course per week. Students have access to faculty by phone and email, 24/7 technical support, as well as the Center for Career Development & Testing.

Courses for the Master of Arts in Counseling include foundational and core courses, with specific courses for each specialization. Foundational courses include Counseling Theories; Human Development and the Lifespan; and Research Methods & Program Evaluation. Core courses include Multicultural Issues in Counseling; Career Counseling; Ethical Issues in Counseling; Assessment and Appraisal; and Clinical Diagnosis. All specializations also require internships and practicums.

The School Counseling program includes Professional Orientation: School Counseling; Child and Adolescent Counseling; and Professional School Counseling Services: Implementation & Evaluation.

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program includes: Professional Orientation & Ethics; Interventions with Abnormal Behaviors; Addictions in Counseling; Child and Adolescent Counseling; Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Counseling; Play Therapy.

The Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program includes: Professional Orientation & Ethics; Couple and Family Counseling; Introduction to Rehabilitation Counseling; Medical & Psychosocial Aspects of Disability; Rehabilitation Service Delivery and Case Management; Child and Adolescent Counseling; Trauma, Crisis, and Grief Counseling; Play Therapy.

Our Lady of the Lake University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). OLLU will be seeking program accreditation through the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).