#United States #mental health #Portland #University of Western States #Counseling Programs

University of Western States' Counseling Programs Gain Prestigious Accreditation

The University of Western States (UWS), recognized for its commitment to whole-person health education, has recently achieved national accreditation from the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) for its Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs. This accreditation is vital as the nation grapples with increasing demand for trained mental health professionals. Rick Long, the university's President, expressed that the programs are designed to meet the growing need for qualified counselors and psychologists across the United States. He emphasized the university's rigorous academic framework, which balances compassion with professional standards.

The UWS offers a 100 percent online Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling that students can pursue independently or as a specialization within its Doctor of Education in Sport and Performance Psychology. Both programs are designed to inspire confidence in potential employers regarding the qualifications of UWS graduates, as they are now officially recognized to meet the rigorous national training standards established by MPCAC.

The demand for mental health services is staggering. According to Mental Health America's 2024 Annual Report, over 122 million individuals reside in areas classified as mental health workforce shortage zones, while only 27 percent of clinical needs are effectively being met. The National Center for Health Workforce Analysis forecasts a shortfall, especially for licensed counselors and psychologists, as access to mental health care becomes an urgent issue. The programs at UWS respond directly to this escalating crisis, ensuring that their graduates are well-prepared to step into roles within clinical settings.

UWS has crafted two distinct online counseling pathways that offer flexibility while ensuring in-depth clinical training. Both the master's program and the integrated doctoral specialization equip students for licensure, complemented with supervised fieldwork and practical learning experiences designed to bridge the gap between academic study and real-world application.

UWS's initiatives are in lock-step with government and health organization efforts aimed at addressing mental health provider shortages. The university prepares its students with comprehensive training that aligns with workforce needs, preparing them for impactful careers in the mental health sector. Nathan Long stated, “This accreditation not only highlights our commitment to quality education but also reinforces our mission to enhance access to effective mental healthcare.”

For those interested in embarking on a mental health profession or seeking to elevate their career prospects within the field, UWS’s newly accredited counseling programs represent a promising opportunity. As the landscape of mental health care evolves, UWS remains at the forefront, equipping its students with the essential skills to make a meaningful difference in people's lives.

To explore more about the accredited counseling programs at the University of Western States, visit UWS.edu.

About the University of Western States

For over 120 years, the University of Western States has dedicated itself to whole-person health education, focusing on various health-related disciplines like chiropractic and naturopathic medicine, sports psychology, and clinical mental health counseling. Its mission is to develop forward-thinking health professionals grounded in scientific knowledge and compassionate understanding of patient care. Based in Portland, Oregon, UWS is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and is part of The Community Solution Education System, promoting collaborative student success and community contributions.