Why Post-Masters Clinical Mental Health Licensure Eligibility Certificate
The Post-Masters Clinical Mental Health Licensure Eligibility Certificate at APSU is designed for individuals who have already earned a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and need additional coursework to qualify for LPC-MHSP licensure in Tennessee. This flexible certificate helps students meet the 60-credit-hour educational requirement by offering coursework that aligns with the Tennessee Board’s core licensure areas.
What sets this program apart is its focused support for students who only need a limited number of additional hours—up to 27—to become license-eligible. Taught by experienced faculty with clinical and research expertise, the program emphasizes cultural competence, counseling diverse populations, and addressing community mental health needs.
Graduates are prepared to work in outpatient and inpatient treatment centers, community
agencies, residential facilities, and private practice. With mental health counseling
projected to grow 23% through 2030, this certificate helps meet the increasing demand
for skilled professionals in Tennessee and beyond—particularly in underserved areas
like Clarksville-Montgomery County.
Ideal students may have a background in counseling, psychology, social work, or a
related field, and are seeking licensure as LPC-MHSPs. They are compassionate, analytical,
and strong communicators, often passionate about helping others, working with diverse
populations, and making a meaningful impact in their communities.
The Post-Masters Clinical Mental Health Licensure Eligibility Certificate program
supports students in developing key NACE Career Readiness Competencies essential for
success in the counseling profession. Through targeted coursework and supervised clinical
experiences, students strengthen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills
by applying evidence-based interventions to real-world mental health challenges. The
program fosters oral and written communication through case documentation, client
interactions, and professional collaboration. Students enhance their equity and inclusion
competency by working with diverse populations and engaging in culturally responsive
counseling practices.
As students prepare for licensure, they develop professionalism and strong career and self-development habits through ethical practice, reflective learning, and adherence to licensure standards. The team-oriented nature of mental health work also cultivates teamwork and collaboration, particularly in interdisciplinary settings. Overall, this certificate program equips emerging mental health professionals with the competencies necessary to meet client needs, adapt to evolving workplace demands, and contribute meaningfully to the field of counseling.
Program completers are employed in outpatient mental health centers, private practice, and community-based counseling agencies.
Admission Requirements
For information related to admission requirements please visit the graduate bulletin.
What Will I Learn
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Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the helping process; counseling theories and techniques; prevention, education, consultation, and wellness models; counselor self-understanding; and the change process.
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Students will demonstrate the knowledge and application of theories and models related to clinical mental health counseling; roles and settings of clinical mental health counselors; mental health service delivery modalities; professional organizations, preparation standards, and credentials relevant to the practice of clinical mental health counseling.
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Students will demonstrate knowledge and application of culturally, situationally, and developmentally appropriate diagnosis practices; including the etiology, nomenclature, and treatment, of emotional and mental disorders.
Program Information
Post-Masters Clinical Mental Health Licensure Eligibility Certificate Program Requirements
Post-Masters Clinical Mental Health Licensure Eligibility Certificate 2 Year Plan