FAQs
How long is the program?
The program is 2.25 years. The program begins in early summer, continues for two academic years (including the interim summer), and then concludes with an August graduation.
Will URI undergraduates get preferred acceptance into the program?
While URI undergraduates will have priority in admissions into the program, we look forward to enrolling applicants from outside of URI as well.
Who hires LMHC’s?
Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) are hired by a wide range of organizations that provide mental health and wellness services. These include hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community mental health centers, where they offer counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, families, and groups. LMHCs are also employed by schools and educational institutions to support student mental health, as well as by government agencies, including Veterans Affairs and correctional facilities. Additionally, many LMHCs work in private practice, offering specialized mental health services, or are hired by telehealth companies to provide remote therapy.
Can you have your own business with an LMHC?
Yes, LMHCs are often found in private practice settings where their role is predominantly focused on individual, couples, or family counseling.
What is the difference between an LMHC and a LICSW?
The key differences between a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) lie in their education, scope of practice, theoretical approaches, and the types of services they typically provide. Both are qualified mental health professionals, but they have distinct training and areas of focus.
LMHCs typically hold a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related mental health field. Training emphasizes counseling and psychotherapy techniques, mental health assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of emotional and behavioral disorders. The curriculum is heavily centered on therapeutic methods (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and they are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of mental health disorders.
LICSWs have a master’s degree in social work (MSW). Their curriculum combines social work theory with clinical practice, focusing on not only individual therapy but also on the social context of the individual, advocacy, and access to social services. They often help clients navigate systems, access community resources, and manage casework issues (e.g., housing, employment, social benefits). LMHC’s work tends to be more focused on direct psychological counseling and therapy, with less involvement in resource management or social advocacy compared to an LICSW.
If you complete the program in RI, how does that impact your ability to seek licensure in other states?
Completing the Mental and Behavioral Health Counseling program can position you well for licensure in states other than Rhode Island, but eligibility depends on each state’s specific requirements. While many states have similar educational and experiential criteria, variations exist in areas such as supervised experience hours, examination requirements, and coursework content. Reach out directly to the licensing boards of your desired states to obtain accurate and current information.
What is the job outlook for Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs)?
RI has a growing need for licensed mental health professionals, particularly due to the increasing focus on mental health in schools, healthcare settings, and community organizations. With relatively high rates of mental health challenges (like anxiety and depression) across the state of RI (and elsewhere), LMHCs are highly sought after in various roles.