The Charger Blog
CounselingPsychology.org, rated the UniversityӰԭs Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program #2 in the country, recognizing the programӰԭs unique strengths, its transformative impact on students, and its commitment to excellence.
December 17, 2024
The University of New HavenӰԭs Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) masterӰԭs degree program earned the #2 spot in national rankings. Since its inception in 2021, the program has distinguished itself through its innovative curriculum, expert faculty, and a community-centered approach that is resonating deeply with its students.
ӰԭThis recognition is meaningful for the CMHC program as it reinforces that the culture weӰԭre building is valued,Ӱԭ shared Taylor Bigelow, Ph.D., the program's coordinator and assistant professor in psychology. ӰԭFor our students, it signifies they are part of a respected, evolving program committed to excellence.Ӱԭ
The program's rapid growth has been underpinned by its unique offerings and the flexibility it offers.
Students such as Shira Flowers Ӱԭ26 M.A. and Marlee Wood Ӱԭ25 M.A. have found the online format to be a perfect fit for their personal and professional lives. ӰԭThe ability to self-schedule my study time while balancing work and family commitments has been invaluable,Ӱԭ said Flowers. ӰԭItӰԭs allowed me to focus deeply on my studies and build meaningful connections with my peers.Ӱԭ
This sense of connection extends beyond coursework. Annual residencies, professional development opportunities, and collaborative assignments create a supportive network that benefits students during their studies and beyond. ӰԭResidency week is such a fun, enriching experience,Ӱԭ added Wood ӰԭIt fosters community and provides opportunities to celebrate our achievements together.Ӱԭ
At the heart of the programӰԭs success is its dedicated faculty, whose diverse professional experiences enhance every aspect of the curriculum. ӰԭOur CMHC faculty bring a blend of clinical practice, supervision, and research expertise,Ӱԭ said Dr. Bigelow. ӰԭThis ensures students receive a well-rounded education grounded in real-world application and academic rigor.Ӱԭ
Flowers described how faculty membersӰԭ anecdotes and mentorship have inspired her career goals. ӰԭHearing about their work in private practice, counseling centers, and as expert witnesses has broadened my perspective. TheyӰԭre consistently kind, thoughtful, and available for support whenever needed.Ӱԭ
Wood echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the invaluable guidance faculty provide. ӰԭThey are such a great resource, offering connections and insights that prepare us for our careers. Their dedication to our success is evident in everything they do.Ӱԭ
This collective expertise is particularly impactful in the programӰԭs , a unique feature that sets it apart. Students gain specialized skills to navigate the intersection of mental health and the legal system, preparing them for roles in underserved and challenging fields.
ӰԭHaving access to courses in forensic psychology and criminal justice has been critical for me,Ӱԭ said Wood. ӰԭItӰԭs given me the foundational knowledge needed to confidently pursue my goal of working within the incarcerated population.Ӱԭ
The programӰԭs alignment with the standards ensures students are equipped with practical skills essential for success in the mental health field. Hands-on experiences such as clinical internships allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, fostering cultural competency, crisis intervention skills, and ethical decision-making.
ӰԭDr. Teejay BrownӰԭs ӰԭMulticultural Issues in CounselingӰԭ class challenged me to reflect deeply on how my own history shapes my perspectives,Ӱԭ shared Flowers. ӰԭThis self-awareness is crucial for effective counseling, and the program emphasizes this at every step.Ӱԭ
As the program continues to grow, its impact on students and the community remains profound. ӰԭWe strive to build a culture that supports studentsӰԭ success and prepares them for diverse challenges,Ӱԭ said Dr. Bigelow. ӰԭThis recognition validates our efforts and inspires us to continue evolving.Ӱԭ
For students such as Wood, the program has been transformative. ӰԭThe CMHC program has not only given me the tools I need but also the confidence to make a difference in the world,Ӱԭ said Wood. ӰԭIӰԭm excited to be part of a program that truly prepares us to bridge gaps and create meaningful change.Ӱԭ
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