Washington state is a great place to study if you have ambitions to train in fields like mental health, school, and other specialized counseling. There are 17 CACREP-accredited programs spread across multiple universities.
CACREP accreditation means that a counseling program meets specific national standards for quality, ensuring that graduates are adequately prepared for professional practice. These 17 programs in Washington have met the criteria and provide the optimal degree path for those looking to become Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), and other licensed mental health professionals.
If you want to study in Washington, you have access to numerous opportunities for programs that have traditional on-campus and flexible online learning options that meet the rigorous standards. Let’s get into them.
Quick Facts
- Total CACREP Accredited Programs in Washington: 17
- CACREP Accredited CMHC Programs in Washington: 8
- CACREP Accredited School Counseling Programs in Washington: 5
- CACREP Accredited Marriage/Couple/Family Counseling Programs in Washington: 2
- CACREP Accredited Doctoral Programs in Washington: 1
- CACREP Accredited Rehabilitation Programs in Washington: 1
17 Washington State CACREP Accredited Counseling Programs
Here are the CACREP-accredited counseling programs. To make it easier, they are sorted according to the programs themselves. Let’s get into it:
CACREP Accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs
Washington State offers eight CACREP-accredited clinical mental health counseling programs to its residents and out-of-state students seeking quality graduate training. These programs prepare students to become Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs) or pursue other clinical licensure pathways.
Clinical mental health counseling programs focus on diagnosing and treating mental and emotional disorders, substance abuse issues, and behavioral problems across diverse populations and settings.
Antioch University Seattle
- Seattle, Washington
- 60 Credits
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: Online with two one-week residencies or weekend low-residency format
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 60 credits
Total Program Cost: Approximately $39,360
Accreditation Start Date: July 12th, 2012
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2029
Program Contact: Dr. Misty Grant. mgrant3@antioch.edu
Program Overview:
Antioch University Seattle’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is very specific in that it aims to develop its students into professional counselors and social justice advocates.
This program is offered in two aspects. First, there is one online with two-week-long intensive residencies and weekend low-residency in Seattle and other spaces like Keene, NH. Then they have a new site anticipated for Fall 2025 in Yellow Springs. However, they are mainly based in Seattle.
The students will engage with eight core areas, including professional ethics, social and cultural diversity, human growth and development, career development, counseling relationships, group counseling, assessment and testing, and research and program evaluation.
To complete all the requirements needed, you need to commit to about 100 practicum hours and 900 internship hours across four semesters.
Key Highlights:
- Flexible delivery with fully online options including residencies and weekend low-residency formats
- Social justice focus for working with underserved populations
- Elective specializations in trauma, substance abuse/addiction, and military counseling
Eastern Washington University
- Cheney, Washington
- 2 years
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: Hybrid (on-campus Mondays with online synchronous and asynchronous components)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 2 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $126,720
Accreditation Start Date: July 14th, 2018
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2026
Program Contact: Dr. Keely Hope. khope@ewu.edu
Program Overview:
Eastern Washington University offers a Clinical Mental Health Counseling program designed to equip students with the skills to become effective counselors and therapists. For convenience, the program provides physical classes on Mondays at the Cheney campus, and students then complete the remainder of their coursework online.
Key Highlights:
- 100% NCE pass rate and 100% placement rate
- Hybrid model with Monday on-campus instruction and flexible online coursework
- Personalized feedback from experienced faculty throughout the program
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, Washington
- 90 Quarter Credits
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: Hybrid with some Saturday in-person classes
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 90 quarter credits
Total Program Cost: Approximately $63,900
Accreditation Start Date: January 14th, 2016
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2032
Program Contact: Dr. Diana Charnley charnleydiana@cityu.edu
Program Overview:
City University of Seattle’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program uses a practitioner-scholar model to train well-rounded clinical mental health counselors for diverse communities.
Key Highlights:
- Anti-racist counselor education approach with liberation ideology
- Meets educational requirements for Washington State LMHC licensure
- Small class sizes with practitioner faculty maintaining active clinical practices
- Strong social justice emphasis
Gonzaga University
- Spokane, Washington
- 60 Credits
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 60 credits
Total Program Cost: Approximately $67,320
Accreditation Start Date: January 4th, 2013
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2030
Program Contact: Dr. Melanie Person. person@gonzaga.edu
Program Overview:
Gonzaga University’s Counseling program follows the Jesuit tradition and emphasizes care for the whole person while preparing ethical, competent counselors. The program uses a cohort model where students progress through the curriculum together.
Key Highlights:
- Two-year cohort model building strong peer support networks
- Licensed faculty who maintain active clinical practices
- Jesuit values integrated throughout curriculum
- Graduate assistantships available
University of Puget Sound
- Tacoma, Washington
- 2-3 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Education in Counseling – Clinical Mental Health Track
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 60-65 credits / 2-3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $309,300 to $335,075
Accreditation Start Date: January 13th, 2023
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2031
Program Contact: Dr. Heidi Morton. hmorton@pugetsound.edu
Program Overview:
The University of Puget Sound offers a Clinical Mental Health counseling track within its Master of Education in Counseling program, creating culturally sound professionals prepared for diverse mental health settings.
Key Highlights:
- Strong Tacoma/Pierce County community partnerships
- Small class sizes with individualized faculty attention
- Comprehensive clinical training for Washington State licensure
Seattle University
- Seattle, Washington
- 3 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MAEd)
Modality: On-campus (evening classes) and fully online
GRE Requirement: Not required (unless undergraduate degree was non-graded)
Length: 90 quarter credits / 3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $68,130
Accreditation Start Date: July 14th, 2018
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2026
Program Contact: Dr. Juquatta Brewer. jbrewer1@seattleu.edu
Program Overview:
Seattle University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is ranked as the top graduate counseling program in Seattle based on program completion rates, job placement, and licensing exam pass rates.
The program develops culturally sound leaders for mental health settings with a distinctive focus on both mental health and substance use disorder counseling. This is the only program in the nation where graduates are eligible to pursue Washington State substance use disorder certification upon graduation.
Key Highlights:
- Only program nationally where graduates qualify for both LMHC and Washington State Substance Use Disorder certification
- Both on-campus evening and fully online delivery options
Northwest University
- Kirkland, Washington
- 2-3 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 90 credits / 2-3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $64,800
Accreditation Start Date: July 17th, 2025
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2033
Program Contact: Dr. Genee Glascoe. genee.glascoe@northwestu.edu
Program Overview:
Northwest University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is a three-year post-bachelor’s program designed to meet Washington state licensure requirements. The program combines academic curriculum with required on-campus residency and clinical training, emphasizing a holistic approach integrated with a Christian worldview.
Key Highlights:
- Strong reputation in Northwest Washington
- Holistic approach to counseling
- Christian worldview integration
- Application deadlines in April 2026
Western Washington University
- Bellingham, Washington
- 2-3 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 90 credits / 2-3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $40,950
Accreditation Start Date: October 1st, 1993
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2031
Program Contact: Dr. Diana Gruman grumand@wwu.edu
Program Overview:
Western Washington University has a rigorous Clinical Mental Health Counseling program with strong foundations in theoretical and applied counseling perspectives. The program is paused for restructuring and will resume in 2027.
Key Highlights:
- Strong reputation in Northwestern Washington
- Evidence-based practices and multicultural counseling competencies
- Extensive clinical training in Bellingham and surrounding communities
Washington CACREP Accredited Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Programs
Washington State offers two CACREP-accredited marriage, couple, and family counseling programs for students interested in relational and systemic approaches to therapy. Students learn to work with individuals, couples, and families to address communication problems, life transitions, parenting challenges, and relational conflicts within a systemic framework.
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, Washington
- 2.5-3 years
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling – Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
Modality: Hybrid (some Saturday in-person classes)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 93 quarter credits / Approximately 2.5-3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $66,030
Accreditation Start Date: January 14th, 2016
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2032
Program Contact: Dr. Diana Charnley. charnleydiana@cityu.edu
Program Overview:
City University of Seattle’s Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling program applies family systems theory to clients’ presenting problems and diagnoses, preparing students to work with couples and families using systemic approaches.
Key Highlights:
- Family systems theory focus
- Anti-racist counselor education approach integrated throughout
- Practitioner faculty with active clinical experience
- Meets Washington State licensure requirements for marriage and family therapy
Gonzaga University
- Spokane, Washington
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 60 credits / 2 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $67,320
Accreditation Start Date: January 4th, 2013
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2030
Program Contact: Dr. Melanie Person. person@gonzaga.edu
Program Overview:
Gonzaga’s Marriage and Family Counseling program prepares students to work with couples and families from a systemic perspective, integrating Jesuit values of care for the whole person.
Key Highlights:
- Two-year cohort model
- Faculty maintain active clinical practices
- Jesuit tradition emphasizes social responsibility
Washington CACREP Accredited School Counseling Programs
Washington State offers five CACREP-accredited school counseling programs designed to prepare graduates for careers as professional school counselors in K-12 educational settings. These programs lead to school counselor certification and focus on supporting students’ academic achievement, personal/social development, and college and career readiness.
School counselors work within educational systems to provide individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, developmental guidance curriculum, and collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to create supportive learning environments.
Seattle University
- Seattle, Washington
- 3 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Education in Counseling – School Counseling (MAEd)
Modality: On-campus and fully online
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 90 quarter credits / 3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $68,130
Accreditation Start Date: July 14th, 2018
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2026
Program Contact: Dr. Juquatta Brewer. jbrewer1@seattleu.edu
Program Overview:
Seattle University’s program prepares students for K-12 school counseling positions while grounding them in social justice principles and anti-racism, developing leaders who implement comprehensive school counseling programs.
Key Highlights:
- Both on-campus evening and fully online options
- Meets Washington State requirements for Residency level Educational Staff Associate (ESA) Certification
- Social justice, equity, and anti-racism emphasis
- Evening classes for working professionals
Gonzaga University
- Spokane, Washington
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in School Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 60 credits / 2 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $67,200
Accreditation Start Date: July 20th, 2006
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2030
Program Contact: Dr. Melanie Person. person@gonzaga.edu
Program Overview:
Gonzaga University’s School Counseling program prepares socially responsible and ethical leaders who serve K-12 school communities with care. 45% of applicants receive scholarships.
Key Highlights:
- Two-year cohort model
- K-12 ESA certification and clinical licensure eligibility
- Director works individually with students for school placements
City University of Seattle
- Seattle, Washington
- 2-3 years
- Hybrid
Program:
Master of Arts in Counseling – Professional School Counseling (MAC)
Modality: Hybrid (mix of online and on-campus classes)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 93 quarter credits / 2-3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $48,360
Accreditation Start Date: July 10th, 2021
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2032
Program Contact: Dr. Diana Charnley. charnleydiana@cityu.edu
Program Overview:
City University of Seattle’s program advances anti-racist counselor education with intentional pathways steeped in liberation ideology, preparing graduates as licensed mental health counselors and/or certified professional school counselors.
Key Highlights:
- Meets Washington State Educational Staff Associate (ESA) credential requirements
- Also qualifies for Washington state associate licensure toward LMHC
- Yellow Ribbon school offering military tuition discounts
University of Puget Sound
- Tacoma, Washington
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Education in Counseling – School Counseling (M.Ed.)
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 15 units / 2 years (four semesters and one summer session)
Total Program Cost: Approximately $77,325
Accreditation Start Date: January 12th, 2023
Accreditation Expiration: March 30th, 2031
Program Contact: Dr. Heidi Morton. hmorton@pugetsound.edu
Program Overview:
The program integrates intentional school-based placements in local public schools with coursework focused on culturally sensitive counseling skills.
Key Highlights:
- Meets Washington State Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) standards
- Small cohort model with personalized attention
- Two-year completion timeline
Western Washington University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Bellingham, Washington
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Education in School Counseling (M.Ed.)
Modality: On-campus only (Bellingham campus)
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: Minimum 90 quarter credits / 2 years full-time
Total Program Cost: Approximately $39,510
Accreditation Start Date: October 1st, 1993
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2031
Program Contact: Dr. Diana Gruman. grumand@wwu.edu
Program Overview:
This School Counselor Program prepares students to provide professional counseling services in educational settings, emphasizing equity, social justice, and multicultural competence.
Key Highlights:
- CACREP and NCATE accredited
- K-12 public school counselor certification recommendation
- Graduates receive 50 hours supervision credit and 500 hours experience credit toward Washington LMHC licensure
Washington Online, No GRE & CAREP Accredited Counseling Masters Programs
| Specialty | University Name | Degree | City | State | Accreditation | Modality | GRE Required? | Program Length | URL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Central Washington University | M.S. | Ellensburg | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | City University of Seattle | M.A. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | |||
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | City University of Seattle | M.A. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | |||
| School Counseling | Eastern Washington University | M.S. | Cheney | WA | CACREP | School Counseling | |||
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Eastern Washington University | M.S. | Cheney | WA | CACREP | Online & Campus | No GRE Required | 1 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| School Counseling | Gonzaga University | M.A. | Spokane | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | School Counseling |
| Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling | Gonzaga University | M.A. | Spokane | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Gonzaga University | M.A. | Spokane | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| School Counseling | Seattle Pacific University | M.Ed. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 3 Years | School Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Seattle University | M.A.Ed. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 3 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| School Counseling | Seattle University | M.A. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 3 Years | School Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | University of Puget Sound | M.Ed. | Tacoma | WA | CACREP | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | |||
| School Counseling | University of Puget Sound | M.Ed. | Tacoma | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | School Counseling |
| School Counseling | Western Washington University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences | M.Ed. | Bellingham | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | School Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Western Washington University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences | M.S. | Bellingham | WA | CACREP | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | |||
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS) | Eastern Washington University | M.S | Cheney | WA | CACREP | Online & Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MS) |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Western Washington University | M.S | Bellingham | WA | CACREP | Campus | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Seattle University | M.A | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Clinical Mental Health Counseling | |||
| Master of Science in Counseling with two concentrations: School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling | University of the District of Columbia | M.S | Washington | WA | CACREP | 60 semester hours | Master of Science in Counseling with two concentrations: School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling | ||
| Mental Health Counseling | University of Puget Sound | M.Ed | Tacoma | WA | CACREP | 2 Years | Mental Health Counseling | ||
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Seattle University | M.A.Ed. | Seattle | WA | CACREP | Hybrid | No GRE Required | 3 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Northwest University | M.A. | Kirkland | WA | CACREP | Hybrid | No GRE Required | 3 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
| Mental Health Counseling | University of Puget Sound | MEd | Tacoma | WA | CACREP | Campus | 2 Years | Mental Health Counseling | |
| Clinical Mental Health Counseling | Northwest University | M.A. | Kirkland | WA | CACREP | Hybrid | No GRE Required | 2 Years | Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
Washington CACREP Accredited Rehabilitation Counseling Programs
If you want to specialise in rehabilitation counseling, there is only a single program in Washington that offers you the opportunity. Western Washington University.
Western Washington University
- Bellingham, Washington
- 2-3 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling
Modality: On-campus
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 90 credits / 2-3 years
Total Program Cost: WA Residents: $36,540; Non-Residents: $78,480
Accreditation Start Date: July 1st, 2017
Accreditation Expiration: March 31st, 2029
Program Contact: Dr. Elizabeth Boland. elizabeth.boland@wwu.edu
Program Overview:
One of few CACREP-accredited rehabilitation counseling programs on the West Coast, this program prepares counselors to work with individuals with disabilities, advocating for inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment.
Key Highlights:
- Rare West Coast rehabilitation counseling specialization
- Training with diverse disability populations
- Strong connections to Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
- Curriculum covers vocational evaluation, job development, disability legislation, and assistive technology
Washington CACREP Accredited PH.D (Doctorate Programs)
The doctorate program in Washington is also limited to a single program in Antioch University.
Antioch University, Seattle
- Seattle, Washington
- 3 years
- Low-Residency
Program:
Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision
Modality: Low-residency with weekend and online components
GRE Requirement: Not required
Length: 72 credits / 3 years
Total Program Cost: Approximately $67,968
Accreditation Start Date: July 14th, 2018
Accreditation Expiration: October 31st, 2026
Program Contact: Dr. Misty Grant. mgrant3@antioch.edu
Program Overview:
Antioch University’s doctoral program in Counselor Education and Supervision is a low-residency program with two four-day residencies, designed to prepare doctoral students to be competent in graduate-level teaching, research, counseling supervision, leadership and advocacy, and multiculturally sensitive counseling practice.
Key Highlights:
- Low-residency format accommodating professional commitments
- Social justice and equity emphasis
- Prepares graduates as counselor educators, clinical supervisors, program directors, and advanced practitioners
What Does Completing a CACREP-accredited Program Mean For Washington Residents?
Completing a CACREP-accredited counseling program offers numerous benefits for Washington residents seeking professional counseling licensure. Most notably, graduates of CACREP-accredited programs in Washington are granted credit for 50 hours of postgraduate supervision and 500 hours toward postgraduate experience requirements, per the Washington Administrative Code. This allows graduates to obtain independent licensure faster than those from non-CACREP programs.
Washington State Licensure Requirements
Here are the requirements for getting a license if you are in Washington.
Educational Requirements:
- Master’s degree or higher in counseling or a related field from a regionally accredited institution
- Minimum of 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits
- Coursework covering core areas
Clinical Requirements:
- 100 hours of supervised practicum during graduate program
- 600 hours of supervised internship during graduate program
- 3,000 hours of post-degree supervised experience (2,500 hours for CACREP graduates)
- Minimum 100 hours of face-to-face supervision during post-degree experience
Examination:
- Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)
How Do Washington CACREP Accredited Programs Prepare Graduates To Work in Mental Health in Washington
Washington ranks among the highest in many favorable health indicators. However, when it comes to mental health, they are sadly ranked near the bottom of the pack. In 2018, Western State Hospital lost both its federal certification and $53 million in annual funding. CACREP-accredited programs are preparing graduates who can fill the void in this stretched environment.
- Urban mental health access: Programs like Seattle University, City University of Seattle, and Antioch University Seattle include training on urban mental health issues, trauma-informed care, substance use disorder counseling, and multicultural counseling relevant to Washington’s diverse urban populations.
- Rural mental health access: Programs like Eastern Washington University and Gonzaga University emphasize preparing counselors to work in rural areas to address provider shortages and access barriers.
- Military Presence: Washington has significant military presence, including Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Naval Station Everett. Several programs, including Antioch University Seattle, offer specialized electives in military counseling and combat-related trauma.
- Substance Use Disorders: Seattle University uniquely prepares graduates for both mental health counseling licensure and Washington State Substance Use Disorder Professional certification, addressing the need for integrated care providers.
- Indigenous and Tribal Communities: Washington is home to 29 federally recognized tribes. CACREP programs throughout Washington emphasize cultural humility to help students adopt indigenous approaches to wellness.
Types of Counselors in Washington State
Washington State licenses and recognizes multiple types of counseling professionals:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC): Independent mental health counseling license for private practice, community mental health agencies, hospitals, integrated healthcare settings, schools, and other settings.
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA): Entry-level license for recent graduates accruing post-degree supervised hours under supervision.
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): Specialized license for therapists working primarily with couples, families, and relationship issues from a systemic perspective.
- Professional School Counselor: Holds Educational Staff Associate (ESA) certification from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) for K-12 school settings.
- Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP): Washington State chemical dependency certification for substance use disorder assessment and treatment.
- Rehabilitation Counselors: Professionals working with people with disabilities who pursue Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification in addition to state licensure.
Counseling Career Outlook in Washington State
The career outlook for counseling professionals in Washington State is promising.
Employment Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of mental health counselors is projected to grow much faster than average for all occupations. Demand increased significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Washington State’s commitment to behavioral health integration has created increased demand for mental health counselors in primary care settings, community health centers, and specialized mental health agencies.
Salary Information
Mental health counselors in Washington State earn competitive salaries compared to national averages. According to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, counselors earn annual mean salaries ranging from approximately $60,000 for entry-level positions to over $80,000 for experienced counselors.
Employment Settings
Washington counselors work in diverse settings including:
- Community mental health agencies
- Private practice (solo and group)
- Integrated healthcare settings and primary care clinics
- Hospitals and psychiatric facilities
- Schools (K-12)
- Colleges and universities
- Substance use disorder treatment programs
- Veterans Affairs facilities and military counseling centers
- Correctional facilities
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
- Nonprofit social service agencies
- Telehealth platforms
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Online CACREP Accredited Programs in Washington State?
Yes, Washington has 3 online CACREP-accredited programs. Two are for clinical mental health counseling (Antioch and Seattle University), and one is for school counseling (Seattle University).
What is the Cheapest CACREP Accredited Program in Washington State?
Western Washington University is the most affordable for residents at $455 per credit hour (approximately $40,950 for 90 credits). For comparison, Northwest University costs about $720 per credit, making Western Washington University significantly more affordable.
What is the Average Salary for a Counselor in Washington State?
Washington counselor salaries consistently exceed the national average. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor earns about $70,396 on average ($59,586 – $87,231 range). This varies by specialization and experience.
What Are the Clinical Requirements for Counselors in Washington State?
To become a fully Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington:
Supervised Experience:
- 36 months full-time OR 3,000 hours of postgraduate counseling
- 100 hours of immediate supervision
- 1,200 hours of direct client counseling
Examination:
- Pass the NCE or NCMHCE exam
CACREP graduates receive credit for 50 supervision hours and 500 experience hours, reducing the total required hours to 2,500.
Does Graduating From a CACREP-accredited program Better Position You For Career Success in Washington State?
Yes. While not explicitly required in Washington, CACREP accreditation offers significant advantages including 500 fewer clinical hours needed (2,500 vs. 3,000) and a faster path to full licensure.
