For More Information

For specific questions regarding the Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling. please contact the program director, Dr. Signe M. Kastberg, skastberg@sjfc.edu, (585)385-7222.

Curriculum M.S. in Mental Health Counseling

Program Testimonial

Rahsaan DeLain:

Rahsaan DeLain The reason why I chose St. John Fisher’s Mental Health Counseling (MHC) Program was because I was in search of a Graduate level degree that would reinforce much of what I have already learned professionally, but to also develop new and more advanced skills. I attended an information session at SJFC and was very impressed by the comprehensiveness of the coursework, professionalism and personality of the faculty, and the testimony of a current student. The decision to attend SJFC was clear, I ‘m glad that I made that choice and I am excited about the rest of my journey.

There are three things that stand out in my mind when I think of what I like best about the MHC Program. The most significant part is that the program has made me take a serious look at ME. Not only the professional part of my life but my personal beliefs, values, experiences, and goals. A large part of who I am as a person reflects the how and why I became a Counselor. The program has allowed me to take a good look at my strengths and weaknesses in both areas, which have given me much more confidence in my abilities to help people help themselves.

The second major component of the program that I like best is the interactiveness of the faculty, staff, and students. The faculty and staff have made me feel very comfortable, are open to answering questions, and are very approachable. Their competency, experience, and professionalism are demonstrated in a variety of ways and permeate throughout the program. I am also gaining a great deal from the courses being set up so that I have a lot of interaction with my peers. The group exercises, presentations, out of class activities, and simply having fun learning have been extremely beneficial for me.

Lastly, the facilities at SJFC are the best I have seen. MHC students have access to beautiful classrooms, computers labs, and lounges. It makes the experience so much better when you are in an environment where a large investment has been made in resources for the students.

View the Course Schedule.

It is expected that students will have already completed undergraduate coursework in Abnormal Psychology. It is recommended that students also have completed courses in Theories of Personality, Research and Statistics, Developmental Psychology, and Tests and Measurement.

Required Courses Credit hours

GPSY 500 – Mental Health Counseling as a Profession (3)
GPSY 510 – Counseling Theories and Strategies (3)
GPSY 515 – Process of Counseling Clients from Diverse Backgrounds (3)
GPSY 520 – Assessment in Counseling (3)
GPSY 525 – Psychopathology and Differential Diagnosis (3)
GPSY 530 – Treatment Planning and Intervention (3)
GPSY 535 – Group Theory and Process (2)
GPSY 536 – Group Activity (1)
GPSY 550 – Counseling Practicum (3)
GPSY 575 – Research and Program Evaluation (3)
GPSY 585 – Biological foundations of Behavior and Psychopharmacological Interventions (3)
GPSY 600 – Family and Partner Counseling (3)
GPSY 610 – Adult Lifestyle and Career Counseling (3)
GPSY 603 – Human Development in Counseling (3)
GPSY 650 – Counseling Internship I (18)

Elective Courses (vary each year)

GPSY 590 – Assessment & Intervention of Childhood and Adolescent Disorders (3)
GPSY 615 – Counseling the Older Adult (3)
GPSY 620 – Counseling Issues and Strategies in the Health Setting Seminar (3)
GPSY 625 – Work and Health Psychology (3)
GPSY 630 – Substance Abuse Counseling (3)

>>>Read Course Descriptions

Degree Requirements: 60 hours