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MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Trauma and Crisis Counseling Specialization

Master the skills to provide compassionate, impactful guidance as people navigate crises and heal from trauma.

Learn How You Can Save Time and Money on Your Degree

Fill out the form to speak with an enrollment specialist.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Current Step 1: About You
  • Step 2: Contact Information
""

MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Trauma and Crisis Counseling Specialization

Learn How You Can Save Time and Money on Your Degree

Fill out the form to speak with an enrollment specialist.

Please use our International Form if you live outside of the U.S.

  • Current Step 1: About You
  • Step 2: Contact Information
""
HELP OTHERS HEAL

In our Trauma and Crisis Counseling specialization, you’ll explore the theoretical foundations and clinical skills needed to support those facing severe emotional anguish due to extraordinarily stressful life events.

3 MINUTE QUIZ

Build an Education Plan, Suited for You

Create and download your comprehensive plan with scholarships, financial aid, credit transfer, and more!

3 MINUTE QUIZ

Build an Education Plan, Suited for You

Create and download your comprehensive plan with scholarships, financial aid, credit transfer, and more!

Program Details

Take a Closer Look

This specialization covers theory, intervention strategies, and treatment models needed to counsel and support individuals and families in crisis.

 

Curriculum ComponentRequirementsCostamount
Tuition100 credits of core courses$535 per quarter hour

$53,500 
 

Pre-Practicum LabsTwo in program$1,450 each (virtual)
$1,550  (in-person: travel, lodging, and other expenses are additional)

$2,900–$3,100 

Program FeePer quarter$180

$1,980 

   $58,380–$58,580**
BELIEVE & ACHIEVE SCHOLARSHIP

YOUR TUITION

-$7,490

$50,890*

*Represents specialization, two virtual pre-practicum labs, minimum time to completion, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.

**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 45 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0199.

Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $4,500.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Be a Beacon of Hope

With an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling-Trauma and Crisis Counseling degree, you’ll be prepared to help diverse populations address complex trauma and respond to a range of crises—from domestic violence to natural disasters.

 

1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)

No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the MC in CMHC with a Trauma and Crisis Counseling specialization will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentile.

Meet Your Academic Team

Walden’s counseling faculty includes active practitioners and subject matter experts who are dedicated to supporting your academic success.

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MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling-Trauma and Crisis Counseling FAQ

What is the difference between trauma and crisis counseling?

Trauma counseling and crisis counseling are two related but distinct fields of mental health care. Trauma counseling focuses on helping people who have experienced a traumatic event cope with the aftermath of the event and heal from its effects. Crisis counseling, on the other hand, is designed to help people who are experiencing a sudden and unexpected crisis, such as a natural disaster, a personal loss, or a medical emergency. Both trauma and crisis counseling can be helpful in providing support and guidance to people who are struggling to cope with difficult life events.

What skills do you need for crisis counseling?

In order to be a successful crisis counselor, you must have a strong understanding of the psychological effects of trauma and crisis, as well as the ability to provide support and guidance to those who are struggling. It is also important to be able to build rapport with clients and create a safe and supportive environment in which they can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Finally, crisis counselors must be able to remain calm and objective under pressure and make decisions that are in the best interests of their clients.

How do I become a trauma counselor?

To become a trauma counselor, you will need to complete a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling or social work with a specialization in trauma. You will then need to pass the National Counselor Examination, which is the certification exam to become a licensed counselor. It is always a good idea to choose an accredited program. Walden University’s MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, commonly known as CACREP. Having CACREP accreditation indicates that a program’s content and quality have been evaluated and meet strict, consistent standards set by the profession.