Gwynedd Mercy University’s Master of Science in Counseling program has received accreditation through 2032 by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

“This achievement is the result of the faculty’s extraordinary time, effort, and work over the past two and a half years,” said Dr. Lisa McGarry, Associate Professor and Dean of GMercyU’s College of Arts, Sciences, and Professional Studies.

The accreditation process involved submitting a report containing information about the program and institution resources and operations. A site visit by CACREP was also required and all materials needing review were submitted to the Board of Directors 45 calendar days before the meeting.

To qualify for accreditation, the program had to meet several requirements, including proof of foundational counseling curriculum and specialized areas of practice, such as School Counseling or Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Additionally, the program must meet standards regarding program mission and objectives, practicum experience, and program governance.

Extending back to July 11, 2022, the accreditation offers retroactive recognition of graduates from the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling specialty areas at GMercyU as graduates of a CACREP-accredited program.

The general mission of CACREP is the promotion of excellence in professional counseling education programs. The accreditation is representative of GMercyU’s campus-wide support of the program and the culmination of hard work by faculty, staff and administrators.

“We are most excited about what this means for students,” said Dr. Meghan Walter, Associate Professor in Counseling and Counseling Program Director. “There are many benefits to CACREP accreditation for students, including quality assurance; a streamlined process for obtaining recognition as a National Certified Counselor; support in preparing for and obtaining counseling licensure; greater ease in licensure portability and participation in licensure compact agreements; and enhanced professional recognition and employment opportunities.”

GMercyU’s Master of Science in Counseling is a two-and-a-half-year, 60-credit distance-learning program that prepares students to take on professional roles in primary and secondary schools and community mental health. Students can choose between two concentrations, School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, both of which are accredited by CACREP. Students are also required to compete a three-day on-campus residency.

Learn more about how Gwynedd Mercy University’s Master of Science in Counseling program prepares students to assume professional roles in community mental health and primary and secondary schools.