Oklahoma Counseling Degrees (2024)

Featured Online Counseling Programs

Oklahoma has 25 programs available in associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Some individuals may be more effective working with couples in marriage counseling, while others work better with children in school counseling.

These are just two of the many options available to counselors. Counseling is a diverse field that serves people of all backgrounds, and there are number of different specialization tracks you can choose from at the Master's level (as well as a General MA in Counseling degree). A specialization track can help you get direct and specific coursework and experience in a particular field of counseling.

⚑ Search Online Counseling Programs

Here are a few schools in Oklahoma with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:

  • Langston University: M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Northeastern State University: M.S. in Addiction Counseling M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. in School Counseling
  • Oklahoma State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. in School Counseling
  • Southeastern Oklahoma State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Click to jump to the full list of Oklahoma counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.Here are a few schools in Oklahoma with CACREP-accredited counseling programs:

  • Langston University: M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
  • Northeastern State University: M.S. in Addiction Counseling M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. in School Counseling
  • Oklahoma State University: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling M.S. in School Counseling
  • Southeastern Oklahoma State University: M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Click to jump to the full list of Oklahoma counseling programs, or consider learning more about one of the below online counseling program currently accepting applicants.

Snapshot: Online CACREP Accredited Programs

☰ For detailed degree information, view the guides to:
Online CACREP Accredited programs | Online MPCAC Accredited programs

Counseling Licensure in Oklahoma

In counseling, individuals find that Oklahoma is a preferred state to work. The median income for counselors in the state of Oklahoma is $37,200. Licensed counselors must take part in an accredited graduate school program and a period of supervised experience under a licensed counselor.

Upon completing these steps, a state board exam is administered. These requirements set forth by the state of Oklahoma ensure the public that the professionals providing care are qualified and knowledgeable in their field. Once an individual is licensed to provide care to the state, they are free to serve in numerous settings.

There are many factors to consider prior to enrolling in available programs, such as their current accreditation status. CACREP accredited programs provide opportunities to obtain licensure after graduation and are required by the Oklahoma Licensing Professional Counselor Advisory Board during the licensing process.

⚑ Search Online Counseling Programs

On-Campus Options for Counseling Degrees in Oklahoma

Throughout the state of Oklahoma, promising students who seek to pursue a Master’s degree in counseling may have several universities to choose from.

Prospective students that live in Ada, Langston, Broken Arrow, Tahlequah, Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Denant have Universities right in their hometown which provides easy access to available accredited counseling programs. If you are interested in pursuing specialty fields as part of your degree program, you might be pleased to discover that Oklahoma offers specialty programs in four concentrations including Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, Addiction and Rehabilitation Counseling.

There are five university locations that can be an excellent choice for people that are in need of convenience for their degree programs. One of these programs is found at East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma with concentrations offered in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling upon completion of the program.

Several Colleges with Counseling Programs in Oklahoma

Well known Jackson State University in Jackson, Oklahoma, offers concentrations in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling. Langston University is an accredited school located in Langston, Oklahoma and offers a Master’s in Counseling with a concentration in Rehabilitation Counseling.

Northeastern State University offers two convenient campuses located in Tahlequah and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and offers the Master’s in Counseling Degree with concentrations in School Counseling, Addictions Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Oklahoma State University also offers three convenient campuses located in popular Stillwater, Tulsa and Oklahoma City and offers concentrations in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health. Southeastern Oklahoma State University is located in Denant, Oklahoma, and offers concentrations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Different programs at these universities offer students flexible schedules whether attending part-time or full-time. These programs are all accredited and accepting new applications in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma brings to mind the old-fashioned way of life. However, in recent years, the state has become anything but traditional. The technological advancements and commercial significance of this state have made it an ideal place for workers to prosper.

Oklahoma Counseling Licensure: Oklahoma Counseling Licensing Boards

Oklahoma Counseling Licensure

State Board of Licensed Professional Counselors
1000 N.E. 10th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73117
405/271-6030
[emailprotected]
www.ok.gov/behavioralhealth/
Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

School Counseling Licensure

Department of Education Professional Standards Teacher Certification
2500 N. Lincoln Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 521-3337
sde.ok.gov/teacher-certification
Elementary Counselor [K-8]
Secondary Counselor [9-12]
School Counselor [PK-12]

Counseling Careers in Oklahoma

According to the BLS, average salary for Oklahoma professional counselors is around $50,380 annually.

Oklahoma has a moderate ratio of counselors to individuals. With a population nearing 4 million, there is a need for more counselors throughout the state. Those interested in the field should choose a degree program that suits their personality.

Those with mental disabilities rely on counselors to find comfortable ways to adjust to life. Individuals that do not suffer from any disorders may appreciate the use of a counselor for stress-management or communication skills. Regardless of the use, counseling is a service that contributes to a better society overall. For those that genuinely appreciate a healthy emotional lifestyle, counseling is a degree choice that will satisfy both financially and emotionally.

If you are looking for Marriage and Family Therapy programs, go to our guide on MFT programs in Oklahoma.

Featured Counseling Programs

Schools With Campus-Based CACREP Accredited Oklahoma Counseling Degrees

Oklahoma Counseling Degrees (1)

CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs) is the top accrediting board for counseling programs. Below, you will find a list of all of the CACREP accredited counseling programs in Oklahoma. Keep scrolling or jump to all programs for all programs or view online CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Langston University

Oklahoma City

M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/1/2017 to 10/31/2022

Northeastern State University

Tahlequah

M.S. in Addiction Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023

M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023

M.S. in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/9/2014 to 10/31/2023

Oklahoma State University

Stillwater

M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 7/9/2013 to 10/31/2021

M.S. in School Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 2 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/1/2004 to 10/31/2021

Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Durant

M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

CACREP Accredited

  • CACREP Status: Accredited, 8 Year
  • CACREP Accreditation Runs: 1/12/2011 to 10/31/2020

All Accredited Schools with Counseling Degrees in Oklahoma

View all programs in Oklahoma below, or jump to all Oklahoma CACREP accredited counseling programs.

Langston University Oklahoma City
  • M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling
Mid-America Christian University Oklahoma City
  • Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Northeastern State University Tahlequah
  • M.S. in Addiction Counseling
  • M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.S. in School Counseling
Oklahoma Baptist University Shawnee
  • Bachelors - Counseling Psychology
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
  • M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • M.S. in School Counseling
Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City Oklahoma City
  • Associates - Substance Abuse and Addiction Counseling
Southeastern Oklahoma State University Durant
  • M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Norman
  • Doctorate - Counseling Psychology

Still Looking for a Counseling Degree?

Here are some of the most popular online counseling programs. On each page you will find a detailed write-up of the program, specific courses, and schools that offer that program that are currently accepting applicants.

  • Online Counseling Degrees
  • Online Masters in Counseling
  • Bachelors in Counseling
  • Masters in Counseling
  • Counseling Schools by State
  • Counseling Career Guide
  • Highest Paid Counseling Jobs
Oklahoma Counseling Degrees (2024)

FAQs

What degree do you need to be a counselor in Oklahoma? ›

Oklahoma LPC licensure (PDF, 264 KB) open_in_new requires the completion of a master's degree in counseling or a related mental health graduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university recognized by the United States Department of Education.

How do I become a certified counselor in Oklahoma? ›

At least sixty (60) semester credit hours or ninety (90) quarter credit hours of graduate counseling-related course work, including internship, must be earned. In order to be considered acceptable, your graduate degree(s) must follow a planned, sequenced mental health program.

What is the lowest degree for counselor? ›

Requirements for Counseling Jobs

The mandatory licensing and education prerequisite for counselors varies depending on the area of specialty. Most states require a minimum of a master's degree in social work, psychology, or counseling.

How long does it take to become a counselor in Oklahoma? ›

How Long Does it Take to Become a Counselor in Oklahoma? You can expect to invest around eight years into becoming a fully licensed LPC. It takes six years to acquire the education you need: four years to earn a bachelor's degree and two additional years to earn a master's degree in Counseling.

How much does a LPC make in Oklahoma? ›

How much does a Licensed Professional Counselor make in Oklahoma? The average Licensed Professional Counselor salary in Oklahoma is $52,691 as of May 25, 2023, but the range typically falls between $47,344 and $59,032.

How much does a licensed counselor make in Oklahoma? ›

The average licensed counselor lpc salary in Oklahoma is $87,500 per year or $42.07 per hour. Entry level positions start at $84,000 per year while most experienced workers make up to $87,500 per year.

Can LPC practice independently in Oklahoma? ›

No person may engage in the private or independent practice of professional counseling work or open a facility with the intent of providing private or independent counseling practice unless that person: (1) is licensed under this Act as a Licensed Professional Counselor; and, (2) has met all requirements of OAC Section ...

How do I become a genuine counselor? ›

A skilled counsellor is tactful, does not put a “filter” between his/her inner life and what he/she expresses to others, and is assertive in the counselling process without being aggressive. Non defensive: The genuine person is non defensive and is aware of his/her strengths and limitations.

How much does an addiction counselor make in Oklahoma? ›

Salaries by years of experience in Oklahoma
Years of experiencePer hour
1 to 2 years$22.92
3 to 5 years-
6 to 9 years-
More than 10 years$29.75
1 more row
Jun 10, 2023

What degree do most counselors have? ›

It will typically be a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. Be sure to know the specific requirements of your prospective certification before applying to a graduate degree program to ensure that you're meeting the necessary requirements.

What counseling degree makes the most money? ›

15 Highest Paying Counseling Degree Jobs
  • #1 Marriage Counselor. ...
  • #2 Geriatric Counselor. ...
  • #3 Family Counselor. ...
  • #4 Sports Psychologist. ...
  • #5 School Counselor. ...
  • #6 Mental Health Counselor. ...
  • #7 Career Counselor. ...
  • #8 Domestic Violence Counselor.

What is the hardest part of being a counselor? ›

One of the most challenging aspects of conducting therapy is finessing the balance between meeting clients where they are at and also encouraging them to grow.

How many LPCS are in Oklahoma? ›

As of May 2021, over 9,480 counselors work in the state in a range of subspecialties. The path to an Oklahoma counseling license can take many years and requires a significant commitment to upgrading your skills and experience.

How long is the average time in counseling? ›

If you're going for individual counseling, then your session will last approximately 50-55 minutes. This 50-55 minutes is referred to as a "therapeutic hour." This is standard practice, although some clinicians will offer 45-minute sessions or 60-minute sessions.

How long do most people go to counseling? ›

The number of recommended sessions varies by condition and treatment type, however, the majority of psychotherapy clients report feeling better after 3 months; those with depression and anxiety experience significant improvement after short and longer time frames, 1-2 months & 3-4.

Which state pays LPC the highest? ›

Maine is the best state for licensed professional counselors, where the median salary is $110,234. The highest position that you can reach as a licensed professional counselor is clinical director. The median salary of a clinical director is $96,497.

What state has the highest LPC salary? ›

Licensed professional counselors make the most in New York, Washington, Oregon, Maine, and Arizona. Research Summary. The average salary for a licensed professional counselor is $94,675 in the US. The average licensed professional counselor salary ranges between $73,000 and $122,000 in the US.

How much do private practice therapists get paid in Oklahoma? ›

Private Practice Therapist Salary in Oklahoma. $75,800 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $100,300 is the 75th percentile.

Where do counselors make the most money? ›

Highest-Paid Counselors By State
RankStateAverage Counselor Salary
1California$41,223
2Hawaii$41,191
3New Jersey$39,911
4Connecticut$39,779
46 more rows
Apr 17, 2023

What is the student to counselor ratio in Oklahoma? ›

WELCOME TO THE OKLAHOMA SCHOOL COUNSELOR ASSOCIATION

P.I. 2A: The appropriate role as defined by the ASCA National Model of a school counselor impacts student achievement. P.I. 2B: :The recommended student to counselor ratio (250:1) promotes equity, access, and success for every student.

How much does a high School Counselor make in Oklahoma? ›

School counselors earn an average yearly salary of $49,300.

What is the easiest state to be a therapist in? ›

1. West Virginia. They don't have a list of required courses; they don't require that the program be designed for licensure; they don't require a certain specialty (many states only recognize school, clinical, counseling, health services, and I/O psychology); or a pre-doctoral, supervised experience.

How to apply for LPC candidate in Oklahoma? ›

Apply Yourself: A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting LPC Candidacy
  1. Submit OFFICIAL Transcripts.
  2. Pass the OLERE.
  3. Submit the OSBI Background Check Form.
  4. Secure a Supervisor.
  5. Secure W2 employment.
  6. Complete the Initial Candidacy Application.
  7. Pass the NCE.
  8. Wait.

What is LPC in Oklahoma? ›

The Health Certification Project offers the following written certification exams for the State Board of Behavioral Health Licensure: Licensed Professional Counselor (OLERE) Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (OLMFTE)

What are some weaknesses of a counselor? ›

5 Disadvantages of Being A Therapist
  • Difficult patients. There are certainly easy-to-work-with patients, however, the fact is there are also difficult patients. ...
  • Difficult co-workers. Just like most careers, you could have to work with difficult co-workers. ...
  • Stress. ...
  • Physical demands. ...
  • Emotional strain.
Jan 26, 2019

What is the difference between counseling and therapy? ›

Usually, counseling focuses on a specific issue for a limited amount of time. Therapy can be more long-term and focuses on you as an individual — how you see yourself and the world, your thoughts, and your behaviors, as well as the underlying patterns of why you do the things you do.

What are the 6 steps in basic counseling? ›

Stages of the counselling process:
  • Initial Disclosure- Relationship Building,
  • In-depth Exploration - Problem Assessment.
  • Commitment to action - Goal Setting.

How long does it take to become a substance abuse counselor in Oklahoma? ›

Before full licensure, the candidate will need 270 hours of education related to drug and alcohol counseling. The CADC will complete 300 hours of supervised alcohol and drug counseling practicum. The candidate must have at least two years of supervised work experience; the Board defines this as 4,000 hours.

How much does a CADC make in Oklahoma? ›

How much do cadc jobs pay per hour in oklahoma? $17.79 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers. $23.56 is the 75th percentile.

How much does an advanced medication aide get paid in Oklahoma? ›

As of Jun 19, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Certified Medication Aide in Oklahoma City is $35,778 an hour.

What is higher than a Counsellor? ›

Clinical Psychologists

A clinical psychologist is again someone trained to doctoral level. They are experts in the study of mind and behaviours, and they are great at evaluating and treating both mental and emotional disorders.

Where do most counselors work? ›

Counselors can work in agencies, community health centers or hospitals. They can start a private practice. They can run a clinic. They can work in or with schools.

What is the best part of being a counselor? ›

The most rewarding part of being a counsellor is knowing that you had a part in affecting the life of another human being. Giving hope when people feel hopeless. Inspiring others to be all that they are capable of being, so that they can go out into the world and pay it forward by helping others.

What is the fastest growing field in counseling? ›

Marriage and Family Therapy is one of the fastest-growing mental health professions in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment for MFTs to grow at a rate of 14 percent from 2021 through 2031.

What is the highest paying job in mental health? ›

Here's a list of 10 of the highest-paying jobs working in mental health:
  • Mental health technician. ...
  • School psychologist. ...
  • Registered mental health nurse. ...
  • Psychology professor. ...
  • Clinical psychologist. ...
  • Psychiatric nurse. ...
  • Industrial-organizational psychologist. ...
  • Psychiatrist.
Mar 16, 2023

What is the best state to be a therapist in? ›

New Jersey comes in first on our "Best States for Psychologists" list. The state ranks highest on average salary at $139,110.

What are the pros and cons of being a counselor? ›

11 pros and cons of being a mental health therapist
  • Job satisfaction. ...
  • Good salary.
  • Status. ...
  • Flexibility. ...
  • Working with a variety of people and topics. ...
  • Many employment opportunities.
  • Good job outlook. ...
  • Schedule can be inconsistent and unpredictable.
Mar 10, 2023

What do counselors struggle with? ›

5 Biggest Challenges for Licensed Mental Health Counselors
  • Healing past trauma.
  • Learning new and better coping skills.
  • Understanding critical thinking.
  • Feel more comfortable entering social situations.
  • Learning stress management.
  • Fighting substance abuse.
  • Increasing emotional health.

Are counselors happy with their job? ›

Counseling is an emotionally taxing job and sometimes the clients' problems can hit too close to home. With adequate self-care, however, counselors are happy (and happy to help).

How much does an LPC make in OKC? ›

An early career Licensed Professional Counselor with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of $39,221 based on 5 salaries.

Which state employs the most counselors? ›

Geographic profile for Counselors, All Other:
StateEmployment (1)Employment per thousand jobs
California16,1200.91
Texas2,9900.23
Louisiana1,8000.98
Illinois1,4800.25
1 more row

What do you need for LADC in Oklahoma? ›

Degree Requirements & Education. The CADC requires the applicant to have a Bachelor's Degree in a Behavioral Science. The applicant must have taken at least 45 hours in Co-Occurring Disorders or Abnormal Psychology courses. The LADC must have a Master's Degree in a Behavioral Science.

Why are counseling sessions 1 hour? ›

It Encourages Good Use Of Time

Keeping therapy sessions under an hour may also motivate both parties to make the best of the time allotted. “It can encourage both therapist and client to get to the heart of the problem rather quickly,” Stuempfig noted.

Do therapists do 2 hour sessions? ›

Typically, a therapy session can run 40 to 60 minutes long but may run longer. Group therapy sessions can run around 90 minutes, while more intensive individual counseling sessions can go for two to three hours. The length of your therapy session depends on the type of mental health services you're receiving.

How often do most people see a counselor? ›

Therapy has been found to be most productive when incorporated into a client's lifestyle for approximately 12-16 sessions, most typically delivered in once weekly sessions for 45 minutes each. For most folks that turns out to be about 3-4 months of once weekly sessions.

Can there be too much therapy? ›

In fact, according to one psychotherapist, some patients actually suffer from too much therapy. Jonathan Alpert, a psychotherapist and author of "Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days," contends that in many cases, the more therapy sessions someone attends, the less likely they are to be effective.

What to do after therapy ends? ›

Cope with your own emotions.

To ensure your own feelings don't impact the patient, Feindler suggests processing them with your supervisor, a colleague, or your own therapist. It may also help to reframe how you view the termination. You should feel a sense of pride in your patient, and in yourself for helping them.

Are therapists worth it? ›

Therapy can increase your confidence, self-esteem, and communication skills. If you have trouble in areas of confidence and self-esteem, therapy is a great way to work on underlying causes – and learn tools to overcome them. Take low confidence, for example.

How do I become a child therapist in Oklahoma? ›

Child (Pediatric) Behavioral Therapy Licenses in Oklahoma
  1. Complete an application.
  2. Complete a background check.
  3. Pay $145 application fee.
  4. Submit an Internship/Practicum Documentation Form.
  5. Be 21 years old.
  6. Submit official transcripts from an accredited institution demonstrating a master's in counseling.

How do I become a marriage counselor in Oklahoma? ›

Marital and Family Therapist License Requirements
  1. A master's or doctoral degree in marital and family therapy, or a related subject with equivalent coursework as defined by the Board.
  2. Passed the exam approved by the board.
  3. Completion of two years of post-degree supervised work experience as an MFT.

What counselor makes the most money? ›

Highest paid counseling jobs
  • Pediatric counselor.
  • Licensed clinical social worker.
  • Direct support professional.
  • Therapist.
  • Physician assistant.
  • Mental health counselor.
  • Registered nurse.
  • Physical therapist.
Mar 10, 2023

What state pays the most for drug counselors? ›

Substance abuse counseling salary by location

These are the top five paying states for substance abuse and mental health counselors (including both bachelor's and master's degree graduates): Utah: $66,330. Alaska: $62,920. District of Columbia: $59,850.

How much does a child therapist get paid in Oklahoma? ›

Child Psychologist Salary in Oklahoma
Annual SalaryMonthly Pay
Top Earners$141,020$11,751
75th Percentile$137,300$11,441
Average$114,369$9,530
25th Percentile$96,200$8,016

How do I start therapy with my child? ›

  1. Find a good time to talk and assure them that they are not in trouble. ...
  2. Take your child's concerns, experiences, and emotions seriously.
  3. Try to be open, authentic, and relaxed.
  4. Talk about how common the issues they are experiencing may be.
  5. Explain that the role of a therapist is to provide help and support.
May 17, 2018

What states have LPC reciprocity with Virginia? ›

Virginia does not have reciprocity with any state. All applicants are required to complete the application process. You may apply at any time. It is not required that you have a Virginia address in order to apply for licensure.

What are the best credentials for a marriage counselor? ›

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

These professionals focus on helping people repair relationships and develop essential relationship skills. A LMFT must have a master's degree in marriage and family therapy or a similar discipline.

How long is premarital counseling in Oklahoma? ›

Oklahoma law requires that you spend at least 4 hours on the premarital course.

Do you have to have premarital counseling in Oklahoma? ›

A minimum of four (4) hours of education or counseling shall be necessary for successful completion of the marriage education curriculum.

How much do LPC private practices pay in Oklahoma? ›

Private Practice Therapist Salary in Oklahoma. $75,800 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $100,300 is the 75th percentile.

What is the best state to be a LPC in? ›

We found that Maine is the best state in the nation for licensed professional counselors, and people in New York earn the most in the field. To that end, we dove into our dataset of job and salary numbers to figure out which states have the best opportunities for licensed professional counselors.

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