Counseling

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  Unique Features About Detroit Mercy's Counseling Program

   

  Counseling Program Alumni:  Adam Harris, Kori Lowe, and Amanda Gohl with Professor and Chair, Nancy Calleja and Assistant Professor Kelli Anderson

  Trailblazing Titan Counselor Panel Discussion featured Adam Harris, MA, LPC, Director of Upward Bound, Grand Valley State University, author and motivational speaker; Kori Lowe, MA, LPC, Owner and Counselor, Center for Establishing Recovery; and Amanda Gohl, MA, LPC, School Counselor, Birmingham Groves High School, Vice President of Oakland Counseling Association.  The annual event brings Counseling alumni together with Counseling students for an evening of lively discussion and mentoring.  The event was held October 24, 2023.

  Program Features

  University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling Program prides itself on being unique---on offering a richer graduate experience. We accomplish this in several ways, from our emphasis on the personal and professional development of students to the core values of social justice, advocacy and serving those in greatest need, that form the academic program's foundation.

  Student-Centered Environment

  We strive to create a highly robust student-centered environment, and most students choose University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program because of this. Our average class size is 14 and clinical skill development courses are capped at even lower enrollments of 8 and 12 to ensure the most effective learning environment. We believe that promoting a student-centered environment requires committed faculty, an engaging academic climate, and dedication to the personal and professional identity of all students. As a result, we strive to achieve each of these integral components. 

  
  Developmental Curriculum

  The Counseling curriculum is developmentally designed to progressively meet the needs of students while ensuring an effective foundation upon which to engage in deep learning. There are four levels of learning that comprise the curricular structure.

  The curriculum begins with theoretically-based and knowledge courses (e.g., counseling theories, human development) forming the first level while the initial skills courses comprise the second level (e.g., counseling skills, testing & evaluation). Students are exposed to higher order learning in both theory and clinical skill development (e.g., counseling strategies and interventions, group counseling). Students then apply theoretical knowledge and acquire clinical skills (e.g., counseling strategies and interventions, group counseling) before proceeding to the semester long Practicum in our public mental health clinic followed by the Internship in counseling (field placement).

  Counseling Clinic

  University of Detroit Mercy Counseling Clinic is a teaching clinic that prepares Master's level students while meeting the needs of individuals without access to mental health treatment.  Counseling students complete their Practicum experience in the Counseling Clinic, benefiting from a rigorous clinical training experience prior to beginning their clinical internship. 

  The Counseling Clinic is one of the key features of the University of Detroit Mercy Counseling program, arguably offering among the most intense clinical training available. In addition to the Clinic serving as a key part of the University of Detroit Mercy Counseling program, as a no-cost mental health clinic solely operated by the University of Detroit Mercy Counseling program, the Clinic exemplifies our program's commitment to service and social justice. The Clinic is fully staffed by students, alumni, and faculty.

  Student Researchers

  As a result of Detroit Mercy's Graduate Research Assistantship program, each year Counseling students publish in peer-reviewed journals.  This type of enhanced preparation of Master's level Counseling students is another feature that makes the Detroit Mercy program so unique.

  Recent Student Publications 

  Kondili, E. Isawi, D. & Interiano-Shiverdecker, C & Maleckas, O. (2022). Predictors of cultural humility in counselors-in-training. Counselor Education and Supervision, 61, 129-140.

  Interiano-Shiverdecker, C.G., Kondili, E. & Bazzi, R. (2022). Refugees in Context: A Systemic, Intersectional Exploration of Discrimination in the United States. Int J Adv Counseling. 

  Palmer, K. M. & Burrows, V. (2020). Ethical and safety concerns regarding the use of mental health-related apps in counseling:  Considerations for counselors.  Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science.  

  Marburger, K., & Pickover, S. (2020).  A comprehensive perspective on treating victims of human trafficking. The Professional Counselor Volume 10, Issue 1, 13–24.

  Calleja, N. G., Rodems, E., Groh, C. J., Baiardi, J. M., Loewen, J., & Kaiser, R. J. (2019). Differences in substance use-related attitudes and beliefs across behavioral and primary health trainees, gender, race, and ethnicity: A screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) training investigation. Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly.   

  Calleja, N. G. & Dadah, A. M. (2018). Addressing faulty prescribing practices of psychotropic medication among court-involved children and adolescents. The Family Journal, 1-8.

  Tellier, S. & Calleja, N. G. (2017). Renegotiating sexual identity after disability.  AdultSpan, 16(1), 47-59. 

  Financial Support for Counseling Students & Alumni

  There are several forms of financial support available for the Master’s programs in Counseling that include:

   

  Graduate Research Assistantship Stipends (GRA)

   

  Financial support is available each year to all Counseling students with typically $45,000 available annually for Graduate Research Assistant scholarships.  GRAs are designed to enhance the graduate school experience by allowing students to work directly with faculty on specific research projects expanding their research skills and preparing students for careers as scientist-practitioners while receiving financial support. In addition to the GRA, an annual scholarship is available to a Counseling student to provide operational and administrative support in the Counseling Clinic.   

   

  Counseling Fellowship Programs

  As a result of federal grant awards, students enrolled in the Detroit Mercy Counseling program through 2021 are eligible to apply to the Counseling Underserved Populations (CUSP) Fellowship program to receive advanced specialized training as well as $10,000 in financial incentive to pursue careers in working with those in greatest need.  Read more about the program under "Current Events." 

   

  Specialized Tuition Rate for Addiction Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling Students

  Recognizing the growing demand for counselors, these programs have a reduced tuition rate.

  60% K-12 Educators Tuition Remission Program

  Employed k-12 Michigan educators are eligible to receive a 60% tuition remission when enrolled in the University of Detroit Mercy School Counseling Program.

  Loan Forgiveness for Counselors

  Because Counseling has been identified as a national need program by the United States government, several federal loan forgiveness programs have been established that offer specific support to Master’s level Counselors.  Because this federal legislation will require time to fully implement, individuals should continue to await further information as it becomes available.  Briefly, the programs include the following: 

  • A portion of debt or complete debt forgiveness for counselors working in public service fields (including mental health and education)
  • Up to $10,000 for school counselors working in low-income schools
  • Up to $50,000 for loan repayment of Licensed Professional Counselors. Learn more.
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  Academic Excellence in Detroit Mercy's Counseling Program

  University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program strives for academic excellence in all that we do. As a result, the program has been nationally recognized for its academic quality and for its commitment to social justice. The Counseling program receives ongoing recognition from professionals in the counseling field as well as from those that matter most to us: our students and alumni---who comprise the future and current generation of professional counselors.

  
  National Program Recognition

  • In 2020, Nancy Calleja (Principal Investigator), Elvita Kondili (Lead Trainer) and the Counseling program were awarded $200,000 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to train physician assistants and nurses in substance use treatment
  • In 2017, Nancy Calleja (Principal Investigator) and the Counseling program were awarded more than $930,000 by the Health Resources and Services Administration to provide specialized advanced training to Counseling students to dedicate their early careers to working with highly marginalized individuals and those in medically underserved regions 
  • In 2016, the Counseling program was nationally reaccredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) for the full eight years (through 2024)
  • In 2015, Nancy Calleja (Principal Investigator) and the Counseling program were awarded $780,000 to train primary and behavioral health professionals in addiction screening and coordination of treatment by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)  
  • In 2015, the Counseling program received almost $1,000 from MEEMIC to support textbook purchases for School Counseling students
  • In 2014, the School Counseling program received $10,000 for new curriculum development in school counseling focused by the Michigan Career Access Network
  • In 2014, Counseling faculty member and Principal Investigator, Nancy Calleja, was recognized as a critical partner and awarded more than $700,000 in funding by the Health Resources and Services Administration as part of the federal government's initiative to expand the professional behavioral health workforce
  • The Counseling Clinic received over $50,000 from corporate and philanthropic donors in 2008-09 for its work in providing no-cost mental health counseling services to uninsured and underserved populations
  • The Addiction Counseling program received the Program Excellence Award by the International Association of Addiction and Offenders Counseling in 2007
  • The Counseling Clinic was recognized by Lahaska Press for the Clinic's commitment to service and social justice for its role in meeting the mental health needs of marginalized persons. The Counseling program's no-cost counseling clinic was honored through the Lahaska Cares Campaign in 2007

  100% Job Placement Rate

  100% of graduates with an MA in Addiction, Community, or School Counseling who seek employment are employed within 6 months of graduation while approximately 84% of our graduates are employed immediately upon degree completion directly by their internship site or by another employer.   

  10:1 Student to Faculty Ratio

   We create a vibrant student-centered academic environment by maintaining an average 10:1 student to faculty ratio in the classroom

  100% of Faculty hold Terminal Degrees in Counseling

  All of our full-time faculty hold a Ph.D. in Counseling from CACREP-accredited doctoral programs.  In addition, all of our part-time faculty either hold a Ph.D. in Counseling from a CACREP-accredited doctoral program or are working towards a doctorate in Counseling.  

  Recognition from our Alumni

  "When I let prospective employers know that my Counseling degree was from University of Detroit Mercy, there were no more questions---the power my degree gave me to enter the field of Counseling has been amazing."

  "University of Detroit Mercy's addiction counseling program prepared me to be the best counselor I could be. I know exactly why University of Detroit Mercy is so widely regarded in the state and nationally/" 

  "Unlike many academic programs at larger universities, University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program is extremely student-centered. The professors, chairperson, and staff are easily accessible--- with their doors always open. As a result, some of the most valuable learning also takes place outside of the classroom."

  "I thoroughly enjoyed my experience in University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program. The professors are dedicated and wonderful and are always approachable. All of the hard work paid off immediately. My internship supervisor thought that I had prior years of experience as a counselor not that I was just beginning my career in counseling---thank you University of Detroit Mercy!"

  "University of Detroit Mercy's Community Counseling program prepared me to not just be an effective counselor, but to be an engaged citizen, to be committed to social justice, and to better understand my role in the world---there is no better Counseling program."     

  "I would definitely recommend University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program because of the knowledgeable and dedicated faculty and the experience in the Counseling Clinic. I have learned so much from faculty both inside and outside of the classroom, and felt well prepared to enter the field."

  "University of Detroit Mercy's School Counseling program made me recognize the significant role of school counselors today, and taught me to think differently about how I could impact children and families. I was hired before I completed my internship, and I know my degree from University of Detroit Mercy played a huge part in my hiring."  

  "The strengths of University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program include small class size, relevant subject matter, and committed faculty. The professors always push students to become involved in the student body, community, and professional organizations, and promote advocacy throughout the curriculum."

  "I believe that the faculty, setting, and the level of community involvement are critical areas that set University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program apart from other Counseling programs."

  "I  understand why University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program is in a class by itself--it is unlike any of the public school programs, and different from any private school program.  The faculty have worked in the field for years, the expectations for students are high, and the sense of community among the students and faculty is incredible.  You learn how to be the best counselor while learning exactly what it means to advocate, serve and make a difference in the world."        
  

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  Ideological Foundations of the Program

  University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program is founded on five ideological foundations. These foundations are interdependent and reflect the core principles and values of the program.

  Cultural Competence

  Cultural competence requires the awareness, knowledge, and skills of understanding the unique differences and experiences of others towards the development of effective models of helping. Traditional modes of learning combine with reflective exercises and experiential learning to promote an in-depth understanding of multiculturalism and the development of cultural competence.

  Ethics

  Ethics education provides the essential value base guiding professional behavior in counseling. Students engage in various learning opportunities to translate ethical principles into practice, thus developing clinical styles guided by ethical conduct. 

  
  Service

  Active participation in service to marginalized individuals and communities is an integral part of the University of Detroit Mercy tradition and the program’s no-cost Counseling Clinic reflects the value of service. The program emphasizes a lifelong commitment to service as active citizens of social justice. 

  
  Advocacy

  Advocacy gives voice to those without voice and ensures that the needs of marginalized individuals and systems are recognized. Advocacy efforts are integrated throughout the curriculum to promote advocacy to individuals, communities, and to the profession.

  Social Justice

  Directly related to service and advocacy, social justice is based upon the notion that all individuals have the right to equitable access and treatment, opportunities, and amenities and that all acts of injustice and discrimination must be addressed and rectified. A commitment to social justice demands that professional counselors possess the tools to be a change agent committed to an equitable and just society.

Graduate Programs

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  Addiction Counseling

  Degree: Master of Arts
  Major: Addiction Counseling
  Credits: 60

  The Master of Arts with a major in addiction counseling program at University of Detroit Mercy is Michigan's premier addiction counseling program. The program has the longest history in the state and is among the first of its kind in the nation. As a result, Detroit Mercy's program is the leader in addiction counseling, known for its innovation in providing cutting-edge education related to substance and behavioral addiction counseling. Partnering with an array of addiction treatment programs in Southeast Michigan, Detroit Mercy's Addiction Counseling Program has been pivotal in improving the field of addiction counseling in Michigan and throughout the United States.

  The Master of Arts with a major in addiction counseling provides specialized training in the prevention, assessment and treatment of addictive disorders. With a foundation in mental health counseling, specific course work in addiction counseling is completed to fulfill requirements for competence in both substance and process/behavioral (e.g., gambling, sexual) addictions. The program prepares individuals for working with addictions in a variety of settings, such as private and public agencies, rehabilitation centers, as well as outpatient clinics.

  The intensive program of study combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience and promotes deep knowledge and competencies related specifically to addiction counseling to promote highly competent mental health clinicians specializing in the prevention, assessment and treatment of addiction. Upon completion of the program, individuals are eligible for both professional licensure as a counselor within the State of Michigan (LLPC) and certification as an addictions counselor (CAC) within the State of Michigan. The 60-credit-hour program generally requires three years to complete.

  Graduates of our program are typically well-sought after and hired immediately upon graduation as addiction counselors/therapists, clinical supervisors, administrators and program developers.

  Curriculum & Course Information ▶

  Praise for Our Program

  • "The program is more than just coursework--there are continuous opportunities for growth and professional development!"
  • "The size of the program, the support from faculty, and the real world learning experiences allowed me to grow and flourish, and quickly gain employment as a professional counselor."
  • "The program has thoroughly prepared me for all aspects of my career."
  • "I was constantly challenged to fully examine what was right and ethical and ensure that care for the client always came first--the foundation of any counseling situation."
  • "The Addiction Counseling program at Detroit Mercy is by far better than any other!"
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  Clinical Mental Health Counseling

  Degree: Master of Arts
  Major: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  Credits: 60

  The Master of Arts with a major in clinical mental health counseling offers graduate training to those interested in being a master's-level clinician across a variety of settings including outpatient clinics, human service organizations, public systems (mental health, child welfare, criminal justice), health care systems and psychiatric facilities. The curriculum is grounded in counseling theory and a strong emphasis on counseling skill development complements assessment practices, cultural competence, human development, and comprehensive program development and evaluation. The semester-long practicum experience in the University of Detroit Mercy Counseling Clinic followed by a 600-hour internship at a community-based organization provides the highest quality hands-on experience for counselors-in-training.

  The content and sequence of courses aim at promoting deep knowledge and competencies to work effectively with individuals experiencing serious mental health issues and/or challenges related to living. Completion of the program qualifies individuals for licensure as a professional counselor within the state of Michigan. The 60-credit-hour program generally requires three years to complete.

  Graduates of Detroit Mercy's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program are typically hired immediately either by their internship site or by another organization. Our graduates fulfill such roles as therapist, clinical supervisor,program director, and researchers in an array of organizations such as the Veterans Administration, human service organizations, psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics.

  Curriculum & Course Information ▶

  Praise for Our Program

  • "Detroit Mercy's Counseling taught me how to be the most effective counselor I could be. I not only learned clinical skills, but I learned how to think critically about the world, how to design mental health programs, and how to engage in social justice. Because of my degree, I was hired immediately, and am now directing my own outpatient program."
  • "I would wholeheartedly recommend Detroit Mercy for a degree in Counseling because of the quality, richness, and rigor of the program."
  • "My graduate experience at Detroit Mercy was one of the greatest experiences of my life."
  • "The diversity, opportunities for outreach, and understanding of advisors and professors make Detroit Mercy's Counseling program the best!"
  • "The professor/student relationships, availability of professors, and practical experience of professors working in the field are just some of the strengths of Detroit Mercy's program."
  • "The small class sizes, small advisor loads, and incredible community of learning in Detroit Mercy's Counseling program are un-matchable!"
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  School Counseling

  Degree: Master of Arts
  Major: School Counseling
  Credits: 60

  University of Detroit Mercy’s Master of Arts with a major in School Counseling prepares individuals to for employment as K-12 school counselors. Students benefit from strong experiential learning where they can apply curriculum learning in developmental theory, counseling theory, assessment practices, counseling skills, comprehensive school counseling program development, strategies and interventions.

  Detroit Mercy's School Counseling program is nationally accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

  Curriculum & Course Information ▶

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  Post-Graduate School Counselor License

  Non-Degree Program: Post-Graduate School Counselor License
  Credits: 18 Credits

  The Post-Graduate School Counselor License program is another unique program offered by the University of Detroit Mercy's Counseling program. The program is specifically designed for individuals who possess a Master's degree in Counseling (Community/Clinical Mental Health, Addiction, Mental Health, Marriage and Family, or College Counseling from a CACREP-accredited institution) who wish to become certified as school counselors. The 18-credit-hour curriculum consists of an intensive focus on the role of the counselor in the K-12 school and the broader context of K-12 education. In addition to traditional coursework in school counseling, a 300-hour internship completed in a K-12 setting is required. Individuals completing this program are eligible for the School Counselor License authorized by the Michigan Department of Education.

  Admission Requirements

  The requirements for admission to the Post-Graduate School Counselor License program includes the following: an MA in Counseling from an equivalent graduate Counseling program (granted within the past 15 years); a 1 - 2 page Letter of Intent that outlines the applicant's personal career goals; one Letter of Recommendation written by an employer or former Counseling faculty member; and, an interview with the Program Director. Any gaps in the initial Counseling curriculum may require additional coursework.

  Curriculum & Course Information ▶

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  Post-Graduate School Counselor Endorsement

  Non-Degree Program: Post-Graduate School Counselor Endorsement
  Credits: 30 Credits

  The School Counselor Endorsement Only Program is designed specifically for individuals that possess a Master’s degree in education or a related field and a valid Michigan teaching certificate.  Applicants must have a Master's degree in education or a related field and a valid Michigan teaching certificate, and must also submit a one to two page letter of intent that outlines the applicant's personal career goals; one letter of recommendation written by an employer or former graduate faculty member; and an interview with the Program Director. 

  Curriculum & Course Information ▶