KINGSTON, R.I. — In response to escalating societal mental health challenges and a commitment to enhancing community well-being, the University of Rhode Island (URI) College of Health Sciences has announced the launch of a new master’s program in Mental and Behavioral Health Counseling within its Department of Psychology.
The program adopts a practitioner-scholar model, equipping students with comprehensive training in intervention, assessment, ethics, and supervision, alongside core psychology studies. It emphasizes practice-oriented research, evidence-based intervention models, and the integration of psychological science with practical application, including a focus on psychometrics—the psychological measurement of knowledge, abilities, attitudes, and personality traits.
Participants in the program will explore various psychotherapies and treatment modalities, applying their knowledge during internships at local hospitals, private practices, and community health centers. This hands-on experience will prepare students to fulfill the minimum requirement of 2,000 hours of supervised counseling experience post-graduation, necessary for licensure as a mental health counselor in Rhode Island. Internships will provide exposure to diverse populations in experiential settings, highlighting the importance of cultural values and other diversity factors that influence mental health and behavior.
This master’s program serves as a crucial workforce development pathway for students pursuing degrees in psychology and related fields, addressing the growing demand for mental health services in Rhode Island and the surrounding region. Graduates will gain a solid understanding of core concepts mandated by the American Psychological Association and will meet the educational requirements for becoming a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Rhode Island, as well as in several other states. Additionally, they will acquire the knowledge needed to pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination, administered by the National Board of Certified Counselors.
The two-year, full-time program is set to commence in June 2025, with students graduating in August 2027. Applications for the program are due by January 15, 2025.
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