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50 of the top Christian Colleges and Universities with CACREP-Accredited Counseling Programs for 2025

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Overview of Christian Colleges and Universities with CACREP-Accredited Master's Programs in Counseling (Part 2)

In recent years, the demand for highly qualified mental health professionals has significantly increased. For students seeking to integrate their Christian faith with advanced counseling practices, numerous institutions offer programs that blend spiritual formation with academic rigor. This document highlights a comprehensive list of Christian colleges and universities with CACREP-accredited master's programs in counseling. Each entry provides key details about the program's focus, CACREP status, credit hour requirements, and public reviews to assist prospective students in making informed decisions about their education and future careers. The rankings reflect the programs' integration of faith-based values, clinical excellence, and preparation for licensure, ensuring graduates are equipped to serve in both faith-based and secular contexts.

1. Colorado Christian University (CCU)

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Optional emphases in Marriage and Family Therapy, Substance Use Disorders
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: CCU’s program is praised for its strong integration of counseling principles with Christian faith. It offers one of the largest counseling programs in the U.S., with both online and on-campus options.
  • Rating: 8.5/10

2. Liberty University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integration of Christian faith with counseling practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Liberty's program is recognized for its comprehensive curriculum and flexibility, offering online courses with required intensives. Students appreciate the integration of faith and learning.
  • Rating: 8/10

3. Regent University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes leadership, Christian integration, and holistic care
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Regent University is highly rated for its faith-based approach and academic rigor. Students highlight the supportive faculty and comprehensive training.
  • Rating: 8/10

4. Messiah University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Tracks in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling, and School Counseling
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Messiah’s program is noted for its academic excellence and online format, allowing flexibility for students. The integration of Christian principles is a highlight for many.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

5. Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS)

  • Program: Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Ethical integration of Christian faith into counseling theory and practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 64
  • Reviews: TEDS is recognized for its rigorous curriculum and commitment to integrating faith with professional practice. Students value the mentorship and comprehensive training provided.
  • Rating: 8.5/10

6. Reformed Theological Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Combines clinical mental health counseling with a Reformed theological foundation
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 78
  • Reviews: The program is esteemed for its deep integration of theology and counseling, preparing graduates to serve both churched and non-churched populations.
  • Rating: 8/10

7. Richmont Graduate University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Focus on integrating Christian principles with counseling practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: Information not specified
  • Reviews: Richmont is known for its strong emphasis on faith integration and practical training through its network of counseling centers.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

8. Divine Mercy University

  • Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integration of Catholic-Christian anthropology with counseling
  • CACREP Status: Accredited as of October 2023
  • Credit Hours: Information not specified
  • Reviews: DMU’s program is valued for its unique integration of Catholic teachings with psychological sciences, appealing to those seeking a faith-based approach.
  • Rating: 7/10

9. Ashland Theological Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integration of Christian faith with clinical counseling training
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: Information not specified
  • Reviews: Ashland’s program is recognized for its commitment to combining theological education with practical counseling skills, serving a diverse student body.
  • Rating: 7/10

10. Montreat College

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Fully online program with a Christian perspective
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: Information not specified
  • Reviews: Montreat’s transition to a fully online format has been well-received, maintaining rigorous standards and offering flexibility for students.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

11. Evangel University

  • Program: Master's in Counseling
  • Specialties: Online program integrating Christian faith with professional counseling practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: Information not specified
  • Reviews: Evangel’s program is respected for its solid academic foundation and Christian integration, though limited data on recent evaluations exists.
  • Rating: 7/10

12. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Integration of Christian theology with clinical mental health practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Gordon-Conwell is recognized for its academic rigor and commitment to preparing students for licensure and ministry. The program combines theological depth with practical counseling skills.
  • Rating: 8/10

13. Huntington University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Offers a strong integration of Christian faith with clinical training
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Huntington’s program is highly regarded for its faculty support and comprehensive curriculum. Students appreciate the small class sizes and emphasis on faith.
  • Rating: 8/10

14. Campbell University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Prepares students for licensure with a focus on Christian values and ethics
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Campbell’s program is noted for its strong emphasis on professional and ethical development, combined with a Christian worldview.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

15. Indiana Wesleyan University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates faith-based principles with clinical practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: IWU’s program is recognized for its dedication to student success and practical training. The curriculum emphasizes both professional competence and spiritual growth.
  • Rating: 8/10

16. Malone University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Focuses on holistic care and Christian worldview integration
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Malone’s program is highly regarded for its small class sizes and personalized faculty support, fostering strong student development.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

17. Bethel University (Minnesota)

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes Christian ethics and professional development
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Bethel’s counseling program is appreciated for its strong academic foundation and commitment to integrating faith with practice. Graduates are well-prepared for licensure and diverse counseling roles.
  • Rating: 8/10

18. MidAmerica Nazarene University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: MidAmerica Nazarene is recognized for its student-focused approach, providing a strong foundation in both faith and counseling practice.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

19. Cairn University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates biblical principles with counseling practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Cairn is appreciated for its strong commitment to a Christ-centered education and robust clinical training that equips students for diverse counseling roles.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

20. Reformed Theological Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates Reformed theology with clinical mental health practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 78
  • Reviews: Reformed Theological Seminary is widely respected for its theological depth and commitment to preparing students for both ministry and professional counseling roles.
  • Rating: 8.5/10

21. Palm Beach Atlantic University

  • Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Strong emphasis on spiritual integration and practical application
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students praise Palm Beach Atlantic for its personalized approach and commitment to fostering a strong Christian worldview alongside clinical expertise.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

22. Southern Methodist University

  • Program: Master of Science in Counseling
  • Specialties: Professional counseling and clinical training with an emphasis on cultural competence
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Southern Methodist University is known for its strong academic standards and commitment to ethical counseling practices.
  • Rating: 8/10

23. Wayland Baptist University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Christian counseling perspective with professional licensure preparation
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Wayland Baptist offers a supportive learning environment, and students appreciate the integration of faith and counseling practice.
  • Rating: 7/10

24. Charleston Southern University

  • Program: Master of Science in Clinical Counseling
  • Specialties: Combines Christian principles with evidence-based practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students highlight the personalized support and the program’s ability to prepare them for diverse counseling careers.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

25. Trevecca Nazarene University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates Christian faith with counseling theory and practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Trevecca is noted for its excellent faculty support and holistic training, emphasizing both spiritual and professional growth.
  • Rating: 8/10

26. Hardin-Simmons University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling and Human Development
  • Specialties: Christian worldview integration with professional counseling training
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Hardin-Simmons offers a nurturing academic environment, focusing on ethical and compassionate care.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

27. Northwest University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes faith-based care and professional licensure preparation
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students commend Northwest for its dedicated faculty and strong integration of Christian values in its curriculum.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

28. Johnson University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates biblical worldview with clinical training
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Johnson is praised for its supportive community and robust preparation for both ministry and professional counseling roles.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

29. Oklahoma Baptist University

  • Program: Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Specialties: Christian-focused therapy training with professional licensure preparation
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students value the program’s emphasis on ethical practice and its nurturing, faith-centered approach to training.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

30. Olivet Nazarene University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Prepares students for licensure with a Christian perspective
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Olivet’s program is known for its strong academic foundation and integration of faith with counseling practice.
  • Rating: 8/10

31. Abilene Christian University

  • Program: Master of Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Specialties: Faith-based integration with family and systemic therapy
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Abilene Christian University is celebrated for its faculty mentorship and preparation for family therapy licensure with a Christian foundation.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

32. Lipscomb University

  • Program: Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes evidence-based practices within a Christian framework
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Lipscomb’s program is known for fostering both spiritual and academic growth while preparing students for licensure.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

33. Anderson University (South Carolina)

  • Program: Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Christian-focused clinical practice and supervision
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Anderson provides a robust curriculum and supportive community for students looking to integrate faith with counseling practice.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

34. King University

  • Program: Master of Science in Counseling
  • Specialties: Prepares students for LPC and LMFT licensure
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: King University is known for its small class sizes and personalized instruction, with a focus on Christian ethics and leadership in counseling.
  • Rating: 7/10

35. Geneva College

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Integrates Reformed theology with professional counseling practices
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Geneva provides students with an excellent grounding in counseling principles combined with Reformed Christian theology.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

Overview of Christian Colleges and Universities with CACREP-Accredited Master's Programs in Counseling (Part 2)

36. Carson-Newman University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Faith integration with trauma-informed care
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students praise Carson-Newman for its small class sizes and a curriculum that emphasizes spiritual and emotional health.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

37. Harding University

  • Program: Master of Science in Professional Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes spiritual integration and prepares students for LPC licensure
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Harding's program is recognized for its supportive faculty and strong focus on both clinical skills and spiritual growth.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

39. Spring Arbor University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Counseling
  • Specialties: Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Spring Arbor University is known for its emphasis on faith-based education and strong preparation for licensure in counseling.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

40. Hardin-Simmons University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Family Ministry and Counseling
  • Specialties: Focus on family dynamics and Christian ministry
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Hardin-Simmons is celebrated for preparing students to serve in both faith-based and secular settings.
  • Rating: 7/10

41. Belmont University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasis on community mental health and leadership
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Students appreciate Belmont’s innovative curriculum and strong integration of Christian values in counseling practice.
  • Rating: 8/10

43. Winebrenner Theological Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Christian counseling with a focus on spiritual growth and professional competence
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Winebrenner is valued for its strong integration of faith and clinical practice, preparing graduates for professional licensure and ministry roles.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

44. Azusa Pacific University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy
  • Specialties: Faith integration with diverse cultural perspectives
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: APU offers a comprehensive program with a strong focus on multicultural counseling and Christian values.
  • Rating: 8/10

45. Wheaton College

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Trauma-informed care and spiritual integration
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Wheaton is widely regarded for its academic rigor and integration of faith in counseling education.
  • Rating: 9/10

46. Grand Canyon University

  • Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Trauma, substance abuse, and crisis counseling
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: GCU is appreciated for its flexible online program and commitment to Christian principles in clinical practice.
  • Rating: 8/10

47. George Fox University

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasis on spiritual formation and ethics
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: George Fox is known for its holistic approach, combining faith and clinical excellence.
  • Rating: 8.5/10

48. Central Methodist University

  • Program: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Emphasizes holistic care and professional counseling with Christian values
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Central Methodist University is recognized for its commitment to blending faith and evidence-based counseling practices, offering flexibility and strong faculty support.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

49. Milligan University

  • Program: Master of Science in Counseling
  • Specialties: Prepares students for licensure as LPCs
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 60
  • Reviews: Milligan offers a supportive, faith-centered environment with a robust clinical curriculum.
  • Rating: 7.5/10

50. Denver Seminary

  • Program: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Specialties: Integration of Christian theology and clinical practice
  • CACREP Status: Accredited
  • Credit Hours: 67
  • Reviews: Denver Seminary is highly regarded for its rigorous training and commitment to preparing students for licensure with a focus on faith and service.
  • Rating: 8.5/10

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AI Disclosure: This document has been prepared using advanced AI tools to gather, analyze, and organize information effectively. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and clarity. Please verify details with official university sources for the most current information.

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As a result, the compact will likely continue expanding gradually as additional states complete the required steps. Michigan’s Current Status Michigan is not currently a member of the Counseling Compact, but legislative activity related to the compact has taken place in the state. Michigan House Bill 4591, introduced during the 2025–2026 legislative session, proposes adopting the Counseling Compact within Michigan law (Michigan Legislature, 2025). The bill was introduced in June 2025 and passed the Michigan House before being transmitted to the Michigan Senate on October 30, 2025 (Michigan Legislature, 2025). As of March 2026, however, Michigan has not yet enacted the compact legislation, meaning counselors licensed in Michigan are not currently eligible to participate in the compact system. The existence of pending legislation suggests that Michigan may still consider joining the compact in the future, but participation would require passage of the legislation and subsequent implementation steps before counselors could apply for interstate privileges. States That Have Not Yet Joined the Compact Although the compact has expanded rapidly, several large states have not yet enacted the legislation. As of early 2026, some of the most notable states outside the compact include California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, and Oregon (Counseling Compact Commission, 2026b). These states represent large populations of both counselors and clients, meaning their eventual participation could significantly expand the reach and impact of the compact. However, legislative priorities and regulatory considerations vary widely among states, and the timeline for potential adoption in these jurisdictions remains uncertain. Understanding the Privilege-to-Practice Model One important feature of the Counseling Compact is that it does not create a national counseling license. Instead, it uses a privilege-to-practice model that preserves state regulatory authority while allowing counselors to obtain permission to practice in multiple states. Under this model, counselors maintain their primary license in their home state, defined as the state where they reside. If the home state is a member of the compact, the counselor may apply for privileges to practice in other compact states. Each remote state grants a privilege that allows the counselor to practice within that jurisdiction while remaining regulated by both the home state and the remote state licensing authorities (Counseling Compact Commission, 2026c). To qualify for compact participation, counselors must hold an independent counseling license at the highest level available within their state, maintain an unencumbered license, meet educational requirements established by the compact, and complete an FBI background check (Counseling Compact Commission, 2026c). Fees Associated With Compact Privileges The Counseling Compact Commission has established a standardized administrative fee structure for interstate privileges. Counselors applying for a privilege must pay a $30 administrative fee to the compact commission for each privilege issued. In addition, each remote state may charge its own administrative fee for granting the privilege to practice (Counseling Compact Commission, 2026c). As a result, the total cost of obtaining a privilege varies depending on the state issuing the privilege. For example, Ohio’s current fee structure results in a total cost of approximately $55 for an initial privilege, although fees may differ in other jurisdictions (Counseling Compact Commission, 2026c). Privileges generally expire when the counselor’s home state license expires and must be renewed accordingly. Implications for Telehealth Practice One of the primary motivations behind the Counseling Compact is expanding access to mental health services through interstate practice, particularly via telehealth. Under traditional licensing rules, counselors must hold a license in the state where the client is physically located during the counseling session. This requirement can create significant barriers for clients who move between states, travel temporarily, or live near state borders. The compact addresses this issue by allowing counselors to obtain privileges in multiple states without completing the full licensure process in each jurisdiction. Once more states become operational, the compact may significantly expand the availability of interstate telehealth services (NBCC, 2024). However, because only three states are currently operational, the immediate impact on telehealth remains limited. As additional states complete the implementation process, the practical effects of the compact are expected to expand considerably. What Counselors Should Expect Moving Forward The next phase of the Counseling Compact will likely focus on expanding the number of operational states. Because most states have already enacted the legislation, the primary barrier to broader implementation is now technical and administrative rather than legislative. Over the next several years, additional states are expected to complete the requirements necessary to activate their compact systems. As more states become operational, counselors will gain greater flexibility to provide services across state lines, particularly in telehealth settings. For counselors following these developments, the most important takeaway is that the Counseling Compact has moved beyond the legislative stage and is now entering the operational phase. Although implementation remains gradual, the infrastructure necessary for interstate counseling practice is now in place. References Counseling Compact Commission. (2026a). Compact implementation updates. Counseling Compact Commission. Counseling Compact Commission. (2026b). Compact member states. Counseling Compact Commission. Counseling Compact Commission. (2026c). Compact participation requirements and fees. Counseling Compact Commission. Michigan Legislature. (2025). House Bill 4591 (2025–2026): Counseling compact legislation. State of Michigan. National Board for Certified Counselors. (2024). The counseling compact: Interstate licensure portability for professional counselors. NBCC.
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