Northwestern University Mental Health Programs | Online
Gain the Skills You Need for a Fulfilling Career as a Mental Health Practitioner
Prepare for licensure as a licensed counselor or marriage and family therapist (MFT) in as few as 18 or 24 months.
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
Northwestern’s mental health master’s 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 or mental health 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
With your master’s in psychology, 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. Join Northwestern’s mental health counseling program today.
1–2
In-person immersive experiences
400–800
Hours of supervised clinical experience
No GMAT/GRE
GMAT/GRE scores not required
Prepare for What’s Next With a Mental Health Degree From Northwestern
Northwestern University’s online Master of Arts in Counseling and Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy programs are designed to offer a rigorous and rewarding experience that prepares you to help individuals, couples, and families thrive. Across both tracks, you’ll develop the skills to support different populations and address complex mental health needs. Through a combination of in-person clinical training, an immersion experience, and live online courses, these programs are structured to ensure your experience feels personal, meaningful, and actionable.
Attend live class sessions and office hours
Study with 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 online mental health master’s program.