Lesley University

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core clinical theory, applied counselling techniques and research methods to prepare students for direct client work and program development. Typical modules cover psychopathology and diagnosis, counselling theories and interventions, clinical assessment and psychological testing, crisis intervention, ethics and professional practice, multicultural and community-based approaches, developmental psychopathology, and evidence-based treatments such as CBT and trauma-informed care.

Training emphasises skill development through role-plays, case formulation, and ongoing supervised clinical practica. Students complete coursework in research design and outcome measurement to support evidence-informed practice, and many programmes require a practicum and a culminating clinical project or internship that places students in community agencies, schools, hospitals or specialised outpatient settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in psychology or a related field, with a record of satisfactory academic performance. Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining clinical interests and career goals, a current résumé or CV, and professional or academic references. Some applicants may be invited to an interview.

For applicants whose undergraduate preparation is in a different discipline, programmes commonly require completion of foundational coursework in psychology before or during the early stages of the degree. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to university policy and provide equivalent credential documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers as counsellors, clinical staff in community mental health services, crisis and intake clinicians, case managers, school-based mental health practitioners, and programme coordinators in non-profit and private practice settings. With required supervised clinical hours and relevant state licensing steps, graduates may pursue licensure as professional counsellors or mental health therapists; those seeking to become licensed psychologists typically pursue doctoral training after the master's.

Other career pathways include roles in behavioural health programme development, research assistantships, employee assistance programmes, and positions in rehabilitation, substance-use treatment, and trauma recovery services. The programme’s applied focus supports graduates aiming for direct-service roles as well as those moving into clinical supervision, training or clinical administration with additional experience and credentials.

Why study at Lesley University

Lesley University is known for small class sizes, practitioner faculty and an emphasis on experiential learning in community settings. Students benefit from supervised practicum placements in greater Boston and partnerships with local agencies, allowing real-world clinical experience alongside coursework. The university’s interdisciplinary culture encourages collaboration across education, creative arts therapies and social services, supporting a holistic approach to mental health practice.

Additionally, Lesley typically offers flexible scheduling options and student support services designed for working professionals, including academic advising, career services and opportunities for mentorship with clinical faculty. These features help students integrate professional commitments with rigorous clinical training.