Northwestern University Mental Health Programs | Online
Prepare for Licensure as a Licensed Counselor or Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) in as Few as 18 or 24 Months
Gain the evidence-based knowledge and hands-on clinical experience you need to become a practitioner who helps communities to thrive.
Take the Next Step Today
Four Start Dates
January, April, June, September
Top 10
Best national university
CACREP-Accredited
Master of Arts in Counseling
COAMFTE-Accredited
Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
Two Programs From a Leader in Mental Health
The MA in Counseling and the MS in Marriage and Family Therapy programs uphold high academic and professional standards, and develop effective practitioners who can work with diverse populations and a wide range of client concerns.
The Online Master of Arts in Counseling
18 months full-time | 36 months part-time
You will build your practice by reflecting on your own strengths and unique experiences while studying key counseling concepts. If you do not have previous clinical experience or a psychology degree, you may begin the Bridge to Counseling Program, which introduces fundamental concepts in introductory classes.
The Online Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
24 months full-time | 36 months part-time
You will learn to conduct therapy by utilizing the Integrative Systemic Therapy (IST) framework in your practice. This framework will help you demonstrate multicultural sensitivity and ethical competence as you work with diverse populations and clinical presentations.
A Leader in Mental Health for 50+ Years
The Family Institute is a leading relationship-based behavioral health organization that provides clinical services, conducts research, and educates the next generation of aspiring mental health professionals.
For over 50 years, The Family Institute has focused on providing behavioral health services to youth, adults, couples, and families as they seek strength and healing across their lifespan.
1–2
In-person immersive experiences
500–800
Hours of supervised clinical experience
No GMAT/GRE
GMAT/GRE scores not required
Prepare for What’s Next
Counseling@Northwestern has been carefully designed to offer a rigorous and rewarding experience that prepares you to help families, couples, and individuals thrive. Through a combination of in-person clinical training, an immersion experience, and live online courses, our program is structured to ensure your entire experience feels personal, meaningful, and actionable.
Attend live class sessions and office hours
Learn from expert faculty
Complete coursework anywhere, anytime
Work with a placement specialist
Provide direct services to clients in need
Get Admission and Tuition Information
Answer a few quick questions to get more information about the program.