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About the Program

Developing Compassionate Counselors

The Master of Science in Counseling Psychology at California Baptist University is designed for those who wish to gain the theoretical knowledge and practical experience to counsel in a variety of settings. Catering to a diverse range of professional and personal goals, the MS in Counseling Psychology offers a concentration in Professional Counseling (for licensure), Professional Ministry and a certificated concentration in Forensic Psychology. Additionally, the MS can be paired with the Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry.

Professional Counseling Concentration: Academically Prepared For MFT Licensure

The CBU MS in Counseling Psychology with the Professional Counseling Concentration meets the educational requirements for licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) as set forth by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS). Beyond preparing candidates for licensure, the MFT Program develops compassionate, ethical counselors dedicated to improving the lives of others. Licensed MFTs may counsel in a variety of private, public and ecclesiastical settings.

Course Requirements and Descriptions for Professional Counseling (MFT) Program

M.S. in Counseling Psychology, Suggested Course Rotations for MFT Concentration

Dual Licensure Option (LPCC)

Students beginning graduate study after August 1, 2012, and who have completed the 60-unit MFT core and the additional 18 units required for LPCC, will have satisfied the academic requirements for licensure as both an LMFT and LPCC in the State of California. For more information regarding the dual licensure, please click onto the following: Dual Licensure Information

For specifics regarding LPCC requirements, please visit the BBS website (www.bbs.ca.gov).

Professional Ministry Concentration: Clinical Training in a Congregational Context

Designed for credentialed clergy seeking to provide counseling within congregational communities, the Professional Ministry Concentration combines the core courses of the MS in Counseling Psychology with additional Christian Behavioral Science courses.

Course Requirements and Descriptions for Professional Ministry Concentration

M.S. in Counseling Psychology, Suggested Professional Ministry Course Rotations

Forensic Psychology Certificated Concentration Option: Expand Your Specialized Expertise

CBU offers the option of pairing the MS in Counseling Psychology with an abbreviated, complementary version of the Forensic Psychology program as a certificated concentration. This concentration establishes an excellent balance between traditional counseling, theory and skills and a specialized understanding of the legal and judicial system. Students will be prepared to function as effective clinicians in a variety of professional counseling and forensic settings by completing 18 additional units.

Certificated Forensic Psychology Concentration

Students with questions concerning this concentration may contact the Director of the Forensic Psychology program, Dr. Anne-Marie Larsen (alarsen@calbaptist.edu). For more information on the MA in Forensic Psychology program, click here.

Combined Counseling Ministry Degree Option: Extending Your Training to the Church

CBU students also have the opportunity to earn both an MS in Counseling Psychology and a complementary MA in Counseling Ministry. This option prepares candidates for MFT licensure as well as church based counseling. Students pursuing this option may take MA courses concurrently. For more information on the MA in Counseling Ministry program, click here.