Program Overview
The University of North Alabama’s Counselor Education programs prepare compassionate, knowledgeable professionals to support the mental health, academic success, and personal growth of individuals across diverse settings. Through in-depth coursework, supervised clinical experiences, and faculty mentorship, students gain the expertise needed to serve clients, advocate for positive change, and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Why Choose This Program?
- Prepare for professional counseling practice through a combination of academic study and supervised field experiences
- Learn from experienced faculty committed to supporting your professional and personal growth
- Choose a specialization that aligns with your career goals and the populations you aspire to serve
Options + Tracks
Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA)
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares students to provide counseling services in community agencies, healthcare settings, private practice environments, and other mental health organizations. Coursework and clinical experiences emphasize assessment, intervention, advocacy, and ethical counseling practice.
School Counseling (MAEd)
The School Counseling program prepares students to support the academic, social, emotional, and career development of students in educational settings. Through specialized coursework and field experiences, graduates are fully equipped to foster student success and lead positive school environments.
Curriculum & Coursework
Counselor Education students engage in a comprehensive curriculum that blends counseling theory, human development, ethics, assessment, and supervised practice. Through classroom instruction and clinical experiences, students refine the knowledge and professional competencies needed to serve individuals, families, and communities effectively.
Sample Courses:
- CHD 604 Human Growth and Development
- CHD 606 Theories and Techniques of Counseling
- CHD 608 Group Counseling
- CHD 621 Assessment in Counseling
Career Paths & Outcomes
A graduate degree in Counselor Education prepares students to support the mental health, well-being, and development of individuals across a variety of settings. You will be fully equipped to provide counseling services, advocate for clients, and contribute to healthier communities through ethical and evidence-based practice.
Common Career Paths:
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Clinical Mental Health Counselor
- School Counselor
- Behavioral Health Counselor
- Student Support Specialist
- Community Agency Counselor
- Crisis Intervention Specialist
- College and Career Counselor
Student Experience
At UNA, Counselor Education students participate in meaningful learning experiences that combine academic preparation with practical application. Through supervised fieldwork, faculty mentorship, and collaborative learning environments, students build professional confidence while preparing to serve clients and communities with competence and compassion.
Opportunities include:
- Supervised practicum and internship experiences
- Clinical training in professional counseling settings
- Faculty mentorship and professional guidance
- Experiential learning focused on ethical and evidence-based practice
Meet the Faculty
Dr. Korinne H. Babel
Associate Professor, Interim Counselor Education Graduate Program Coordinator
kbabel@una.edu
Dr. Danyelle Brooks
Assistant Professor
djbrooks@una.edu
Dr. Keli M. Brothers
Assistant Professor, Clinical Mental Health Counseling
kvazquez@una.edu
