UST’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program has received the prestigious CACREP accreditation for its master’s program in counseling. CACREP, The Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Education Programs, was founded 40 years ago. Their stamp of approval is a mark of excellence for programs in the United States and throughout the world.

UST is the Only CACREP Institution in Houston

UST’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program is the only CACREP-accredited program in Houston proper. The CMHC program began at UST in 2015 and the first cohort of students graduated in August 2017.

“The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is delighted at the recent CACREP accreditation decision,” Dr. Jennifer Boswell, associate professor and chair of the CMHC program, said. “The accreditation represents years of dedicated work and collaboration by the faculty and staff, which has resulted in a strong and nationally recognized program. We would not have been able to achieve this milestone without the support of our colleagues, School of Education and Human Services dean, and the University administration.”

Benefits to Students & Alumni

An accredited program ensures students receive quality training and education, which meets state and national standards. CACREP accreditation also helps to streamline licensure portability and reciprocity requirements. States have differing licensure requirements, and CACREP accreditation can help a graduate’s degree be recognized for licensure in another state. Additionally, three federal agencies require graduation from a CACREP accredited program to provide mental health treatment within their organizations: the Department of Veterans Affairs, Tricare and the Army Substance Abuse Program.

Program’s Mission

 “We look forward to continued quality education and training of future counselors and the ongoing realization of our program mission,” Boswell said. “The mission of the CMHC program is to prepare students to become effective and culturally competent Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs). We are committed to professional excellence, the promotion of social justice, and the dignity of the whole person.”