Handbook for Master’s Counseling Program

Table of Contents

Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The purpose of this guide is to provide information to assist students as they pursue the master’s degree in counseling. Students should check the Graduate Catalog and our departmental website for additional information.

Mission Statements

Counseling Program Mission Statement

Through rigorous education, research and leadership, a degree in counseling prepares students to create lasting change in individuals, communities and the broader fields of human services and higher education.

CMHC Mission Statement

There's a growing need for counselors in Texas and beyond. Turn your passion for helping others into a profession at East Texas A&M.

Locations

In addition to evening and summer classes on the Commerce campus, the Counseling Program offers numerous graduate-level counseling courses at the following locations.

Metroplex Center

3819 Towne Crossing Blvd., Mesquite, Texas 75150.
Phone 972.613.7591.

Plano, Sockwell Center

Class will be offered at the Plano Sockwell Center
6301 Chapel Hill Blvd, Plano, TX 75093

Dallas Center

The Counseling Program now offers weekend courses at its Dallas Center at
8750 North Central Expressway, Suite 1900, Dallas, Texas 75231.
Phone 214/954-3600.

Student Checklist for The Master’s Counseling Degree

Here is a checklist of what students need for the degree.

  • Apply to Graduate School. This includes:
    • Completing the Application for Admission or Readmission form
    • Submitting official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work.
  • Submit additional documents to the Graduate School as required by the Counseling Program. These include:
    • Three professional reference forms
    • A writing sample in response to a prompt provided by the Counseling Program.
    • Note: Once completed, the Graduate School will forward the student's file to the Counseling Program for faculty review. The Graduate School will initially admit students with provisional status. Degree-seeking students will not be allowed to progress through the program (e.g., completing a degree plan, field placement, etc.) until they are admitted.
  • After reviewing application materials, applicants meeting academic admission requirements may be invited to participate in a group applicant interview. These interviews are held once per term (February, October, June). After the interview, the Counseling program will make a program admission recommendation (full admission, conditional/probationary admission, or deny admission) to the Graduate School. The Graduate School will convey the “official” admission decision to the applicant.
  • Meet with advisor to complete a degree plan only after full or probationary/conditional admission to the master's degree program.
  • Complete the following courses COUN 501 & COUN 510 in your first semester.
  • Personal counseling requirement (Minimum of 10 counseling sessions). Students will start receiving personal counseling sessions during COUN 516 and will complete them before taking practicum COUN 551. The students must check with their insurance provider or research affordable counseling services in the community.
  • The student must have completed the following classes: COUN: 548, 522, 517, 540, 545, and 564 prior to taking the practicum.
  • Apply for COUN 551-Practicum the semester prior to enrolling in it. Check online for dates and deadlines.
  • Apply for the comprehensive examination after the majority of coursework is completed. The comprehensive examination covers material from the Counseling core classes (COUN: 501, 510, 512, 516, 517, 522, 528, 548, 545, 551, 595). Check online for dates and deadlines
  • Application is required for practicum (551) and Internship (552-I and 552-II).

Program Requirements

In addition to various printed materials for your information, students should regularly check our website for the latest online information from the department. This site is regularly updated with news, changes, forms, etc.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program (CMHC)

No prerequisites (mandatory first semester classes)
COUN 501: Intro. to Coun. Prof.
COUN 510: Coun. Theor. & Tech.

No prerequisites
COUN 512: Career Development
COUN 517: Assessment in Counseling
COUN 522: Social, Cultural, and Family Issues
COUN 545: Dev. Issues & Strat. / Coun.
COUN 581: Coun. Subs. Abusers Core Course

Prerequisites: COUN 501 and 510
COUN 516: Basic Coun. Skills
COUN 530: Ethical, Legal and Professional issues CMH
COUN 564: Individual and Family Crisis and Resources
COUN 595: Res. Lit. & Tech

Prerequisites: COUN 516
COUN 528: Group Dyn. and Proc.

Prerequisites: COUN 501, 510 and 540
COUN 535: Psychopharmacology

Prerequisites: COUN 516 and 528
COUN 513/611 – Communication In Marriage/Intro. To Marriage and Family Coun.
COUN 548: Adv. Coun. Skills

Prerequisites: COUN 501, 510, 564 and 545
COUN 540: Diagnosis and Abnormal

Prerequisites: COUN 548, 522, 517, 540, 564 and 545
COUN 551: Practicum

Prerequisites: COUN 551
COUN 552: Internship 1

Prerequisites: COUN 552-1
COUN 552: Internship 2

Required in-person classes:
COUN 501, 510, 513/611, 516, 528, 539, 540, 548, 551, and 552 (Internship I & II)

Elective course options
COUN 539 Play Therapy (Prerequisites: COUN 516 & 528)
COUN 534Coun. Children and Adolescents (Prerequisites: COUN 516 & 528)
COUN 597 – Special Topics (check with your academic advisor)

The courses above include course requirements for counselor licensure (LPC) in Texas. Licensure requires additional supervised post-degree experience, as indicated elsewhere in this handbook. An advisor in the department will assist students with selecting an elective course that will best meet the individual student’s needs as a clinical mental health counselor.

CACREP Objectives

Students in the CMHC program will identify, describe, explain, and/or apply knowledge of:

  1. Understand and apply ethical standards of professional counseling organizations.
  2. Apply theories of multicultural counseling.
  3. Apply various aspects of developmental theory within the counseling process.
  4. Apply theories and models of career development.
  5. Develop a personal model of counseling.
  6. Demonstrate their proficiency in forming, leading and facilitating group counseling
  7. Engage in the process of assessment.
  8. Identify evidence-based counseling practices.
  9. Comprehend the impact of trauma on mental health.
  10. Demonstrate developmentally appropriate responses to learning opportunities and challenges.

*The Counseling Department is in the process of updating to the 2024 CACREP Standards; the above listed
objective reflects CACREP 2016 standards

Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and Assessments

Key Performance Indicators and assessments are used to measure effectiveness, guide improvement and support data-informed decision-making across the institution.

1. Students will understand and apply ethical standards of professional counseling organizations

Assignment: Project A: Counseling Interest Paper Assignment and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Item 6 on the “Integrity and Ethical Conduct” domain on the CSCE (Skill)

2. Students will apply theories of multicultural counseling

Assignment: Theory and Model of Multicultural Counseling Paper and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Item 5 on the “Integrity and Ethical Conduct” domain on the CSCE (Skill

3. Students will apply various aspects of developmental theory within the counseling process

Assignment: Autobiographical Developmental Paper and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Item 6 on the “Counseling” domain from the Field Site Supervisor’s Evaluation of Internship Trainee (Skill)

4. Students will apply theories and models of career development

Assignment: Career Autobiography and Analysis and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Assessment Report (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory & O*NET Interest Profiler) (Knowledge and Skills)

5. Students will develop a personal model of counseling

Assignment: Theory Comparison Paper and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Item 7 on the “Counseling” domain from the Field Site Supervisor’s Evaluation of Internship Trainee (Skill)

6. Students will demonstrate their proficiency in forming, leading and facilitate group counseling

Assignment: Group Paper and Presentation (Knowledge)
Assessment: Group Facilitation Skills Scale (Skill)

7. Students will engage in the process of assessment

Assignment: Peer Biopsychosocial History and Treatment Plan and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Taping and Session Analysis 3 and Rubric (Skill)

8. Students will identify evidence-based counseling practices

Assignment: Journal Article Critique Assignment and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Taping and Session Analysis 3 and Rubric (Skill)

9. Students will comprehend the impact of trauma on mental health

Assignment: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Assignment and Rubric (Knowledge)
Assessment: Personal Assessment Paper Rubric (Knowledge)

10. Students will demonstrate developmentally appropriate responses to learning opportunities and challenges

Assignment and assessment: Professional Dispositions Competency Assessment—Revised (PDCA-R)

Counseling Clinics

There are two clinics available to students/trainees in the counseling program.

A. Harold Murphy Counseling Center

The Harold Murphy Counseling Center a partnership between East Texas A&M University and the McKinney ISD. The center provides counseling services for children and families enrolled in McKinney ISD. The counseling center also provides counseling services for employees of McKinney ISD. Additionally, Harold Murphy Counseling Center can provide services to children, families, and adults. Services include play therapy, sand-tray therapy, psycho-educational assessment, and group and individual counseling services. The Harold Murphy Center provides professional and responsible services to clients who request them and competent training for graduate students.

The Harold Murphy Counseling Clinic is at the Greer Annex Building, 510 Heard St., McKinney, TX. Please call 469.302.3618 for hours of operation.

B. Mesquite Family Support Center

Mesquite Family Support Center is a partnership between East Texas A&M University and Mesquite Independent School District. The center provides counseling services for children and families in Mesquite ISD. Mesquite Family Support Center can provide services to children, families, and adults at no cost to the family or individual. Services include play therapy, sand-tray therapy, and group and individual counseling services. The Mesquite Family Support Center provides professional and responsible services to clients who request them and competent training for graduate students.
The Mesquite Family Support Center is located at 405 East Davis Street, Mesquite, Texas 75149, in the Mesquite Administrative Annex across from Mesquite High School. Please call 972.882.7776 to inquire about hours of operation.

The CMHC programs include laboratory (COUN 516; COUN 528; COUN 548) and field experiences (COUN 551 & 552) in counseling. These courses will consist of practicing counseling skills with student peers, being interviewed by counseling peers, and practicing newly acquired and more advanced skills with actual clients at field sites. Essential components of student evaluation will include receptivity to giving and receiving feedback (from peers, university instructors, and site supervisors) and incorporating such feedback into the student's counseling behaviors. Feedback will include supervisor observations (from course instructors and site supervisors) of any limitations in counseling skills, professional practice, and personal qualities and behaviors that may inhibit the student's therapeutic abilities. Feedback (written and/or oral) will come in the classroom and lab settings and in group and individual supervision sessions. Additional individual meetings with the instructor and/or the field supervisor may be necessary. Progression through the sequence of COUN 516, COUN 528, COUN 548, COUN
551, and COUN 552 will depend upon a formative evaluation by the instructor that the student has acquired the skills necessary for the next level. Due to the nature of counseling and the faculty's responsibility to educate effective counselors, students may be encouraged to participate in experiential activities (including group) in courses other than COUN 516, 528, 548, 551, and 552. Students' rights concerning self-disclosure, however, are protected. Students are subject to the
conditions of the Program's Retention/Dismissal Procedure, which is included later in this guide.

The program includes field experience courses (Two semesters of COUN 552). These respective courses will consist of practicing skills with student peers and providing student services to clients at a field site. Essential components of student evaluation will include receptivity to giving and receiving feedback (from peers, university instructors, and site supervisors) and integrating such feedback into the student's professional behaviors. Feedback will include supervisor observations (from course instructors and site supervisors) of any limitations in skills, professional practice, and personal qualities and behaviors that may inhibit the student's performance. Feedback (written and/or oral) will come in the classroom and in supervision sessions. Additional individual meetings with the instructor and/or field supervisor may be necessary. Progression through both semesters of COUN 552 will depend upon formative evaluation by the instructor.
Due to the nature of counseling and the faculty's responsibility to educate effective counselors, students may be encouraged to participate in experiential activities (including group) in courses other than COUN 552. Student rights concerning self-disclosure, however, are protected. Students are subject to the conditions of the Program's Retention/Dismissal Procedure, which is included later in this guide.

Admission

Admission to Graduate Studies

Admission to Graduate Studies differs from admission to the master's degree program. Admission to Graduate Studies permits the student to enroll in graduate courses, but does not guarantee admission to the Counseling degree program. Suppose a student's Counseling Program application is incomplete. In that case, the student may take up to, and including, 12 semester hours (typically four graduate courses) before admission to Graduate Studies while gathering materials required for application for admission to the Counseling master's degree program. Any graduate coursework beyond 12 semester hours WILL NOT COUNT toward the MS in Counseling.

The graduate school also has a Non-Degree Admission Status, for students who wish to take graduate courses but who do not intend to get a master's degree. If a student in “non-degree” status changes his/her mind and decides to pursue a master's degree, the university specifies that no more than 12 graduate credit hours taken in non-degree status can be applied toward a master's degree.

Admission to the master's degree program in Counseling

Students seeking a master's degree in Counseling
must first apply to the Graduate School for admission. In addition to the Graduate School's required application
materials, the Counseling Program requires (a) three professional reference forms from persons who can address
the applicant's academic and/or professional qualifications (b) a writing sample in response to a prompt
provided by the Counseling Program, and (c) program approval for admission to the Counseling master's
program. All admission/ application materials should be sent directly to the Graduate School. Once all
application materials are received in the Graduate School, they are forwarded to the Counseling Program for
review. Our Counseling Master's Admission Committee reviews all completed application packets and
recommends one of the following: Full admission, probationary/conditional admission, or admission denied.

Full Admission Status in the Counseling Program

For full admission status into the master's program in counseling, a student must meet all Graduate School requirements for full admission and have approval of
the Counseling Program. A student with full admission status who does not maintain the university's required minimum graduate GPA should consult the appropriate university graduate catalog regarding academic probation and suspension from graduate degree programs. Students with full admission status may
file a degree plan.

Probationary/Conditional Admission Status in the Counseling Program

If an applicant does not meet the requirements for full admission to the Counseling Program but is not denied admission by the Master's Admission Committee, the student is admitted on “probation” (conditional admission) to the degree program. A student in conditional admission has submitted all application materials, but is not rated highly enough to receive a recommendation of full admission. On probationary/conditional status, the student must complete COUN 501, COUN 510, COUN 516, and COUN 528 with a minimum GPA of 3.00. None of these four courses may be transferred from another university, and failure to achieve a 3.0 GPA after completing the first twelve hours from this list will result in suspension of the student from further graduate study in any degree program in the university for three years. In this situation, a suspended student wishing to return for further study toward a degree would have to reapply for admission.
NOTE: Students who present with an overall undergraduate GPA of less than 3.0 will be admitted ONLY on probationary/ conditional admission status. Students may file a degree plan while on probationary/conditional admission status.

Admission Denied by the Counseling Program

A student not meeting the requirements for full admission or probationary/conditional admission will be denied admission to the master's degree program in
Counseling.

Non-Degree Status in the Counseling Program

Students who take courses prior to full or probationary/conditional admission status must do so in NON-DEGREE status. This status also applies to students who hold a master's degree and desire/require additional coursework for licensures and/or certifications but do not desire another master's degree. No more than 12 hours accumulated while the student is classified as a non-degree student can be applied to a graduate degree. If a student changes options from non-degree status to degree-seeking status, the student must apply for admission to the degree program. Permission to take graduate courses in non-degree status neither guarantees nor implies full or probationary/conditional admission to the Counseling master's degree program. Students may not file a degree plan while in non-degree admission status.

Student Expectations

As a student in the counseling program, you are entering a profession that requires self-awareness, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. The expectations outlined below are designed to support your success as a future counselor and uphold the integrity of the program:

  1. Uphold Professionalism: Demonstrate respect, integrity, and ethical conduct in all interactions—with peers, faculty, clients, and community partners. This includes maintaining appropriate boundaries, using professional language, and modeling the behavior expected of a professional counselor.
  2. Engage in Reflective Practice: Be open to self-examination and feedback. Personal growth is central to counselor development. Use supervision, classroom discussions, and assignments as opportunities to explore your values, biases, and areas for improvement.
  3. Prioritize Academic and Clinical Preparation: Complete assigned readings, coursework, and practicum/internship requirements thoughtfully and on time. Come to class and clinical settings prepared to contribute meaningfully.
  4. Practice Cultural Humility and Inclusivity: Respect diversity in all forms, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, and ability. Engage in ongoing learning to better understand the lived experiences of others.
  5. Commit to Ethical Standards: Adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics, university policies, and all applicable legal guidelines. Academic honesty, confidentiality, and client welfare must always guide your behavior.
  6. Develop Effective Communication Skills: Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally in both oral and written formats. Follow APA guidelines for written work, and regularly check your university email for important updates and communications.
  7. Participate Fully and Consistently: Your presence and engagement in all classes (in-person and online) are essential. Participate in discussions, activities, and group work in a way that enhances learning for yourself and others.
  8. Demonstrate Responsibility and Initiative: Take ownership of your learning by managing your time effectively, seeking help, and staying proactive about deadlines and requirements. Working ahead when possible is encouraged.
  9. Maintain Confidentiality and Respect Privacy: Treat all personal and clinical information shared in class or at field sites with the utmost confidentiality. This is a foundational element of ethical counseling practice.
  10. Embrace the Learning Process: Understand that becoming a counselor is a journey. It takes time, effort, vulnerability, and persistence. Be patient with yourself and others as you develop the skills, insight, and resilience needed for the profession.

Classroom Recording in Practicum/Internship Policy

To protect client confidentiality, uphold ethical and legal standards, and foster a safe learning environment, audio or video recording of any portion of group supervision, class discussion, or peer case presentation is strictly prohibited in practicum (COUN 551) and internship (COUN 552) courses. An unauthorized
recording constitutes a breach of confidentiality and jeopardizes clients' right to privacy, which is a clear violation of the ACA Code of Ethics, the CACREP Standards, and the department's policy regarding professional conduct. Students found in violation may face disciplinary action, which may include removal
from the course, formal remediation, referral to the Departmental Retention and Dismissal Committee, or dismissal from the program.

By enrolling in this course, students acknowledge the following:

  • I will not record, photograph, or capture any supervision sessions, client-related discussions, or
  • classroom activities in any format.
  • I understand that all supervision and clinical discussions are confidential and must remain within the professional training context (e.g., classroom, field site).
  • I agree to maintain confidentiality and uphold the privacy of clients, peers, and supervisors in accordance with the ACA Code of Ethics, the CACREP Standards, and the department's policy regarding professional conduct.
  • Lastly, if I am found to have recorded, or have had recorded, any portion of group supervision, class discussion, or peer case presentation, I will immediately delete all recordings and provide the instructor, site supervisor, and/or administrator access for verification of permanent deletion from any device, platform, or backup system to ensure full compliance with department's policy.

Technology Requirements

To fully participate in the counseling program, students must have regular and reliable access to essential technology. This includes a laptop or desktop computer with an up-to-date operating system (Windows or macOS) and sufficient storage and processing power to support video conferencing and word processing. A stable highspeed internet connection is also necessary for attending online classes, submitting assignments, and engaging in discussions. Students should have a functioning webcam and microphone required for virtual classes, telehealth simulations, supervision, and presentations. Additionally, access to word processing software—such as Microsoft Word or a compatible program—is required for completing written assignments in APA format. Students are also expected to engage regularly with the university’s digital platforms and communication tools, such as D2L and university emails. Students must know how to access Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

In addition to having access to the necessary technology, students in the counseling program are expected to demonstrate, or be willing to develop, essential technology competencies (recording videos for clinical courses). Telehealth readiness is also important, involving a basic understanding of how to use technology ethically and effectively in virtual counseling contexts, with attention to client privacy and HIPAA-compliant platforms. The university IT should be able to help with university email and D2L-related concerns.

Degree Works

In Degree Works, as students complete courses, the course’s outcome or “grade” is recorded. School Counseling (SC) students must also apply for admission to the Professional Certification Program before starting this process. The student may sign into Degree Works at their discretion to review what courses and
experiences must be completed. For further questions, contact the school counseling program coordinator.

All work for the master's degree must be completed within six years, immediately preceding the date the degree is awarded. See the Graduate Catalog for details.

No more than 1/3 of the credit required for a master's degree may be transferred into this degree program from another accredited university. Also, COUN 516: Basic Counseling Skills, COUN 548: Advanced Counseling Skills, COUN 551: Practicum, two semesters of COUN 552: Internship I, and COUN 595: Research Literature and Techniques cannot be transferred. If transfer courses are to be included in Degree Works, a Transfer/Substitution Course Request form must be completed, signed by an advisor or the department head, and returned to The Graduate School. This form is available from The Graduate School and the departmental office. The Graduate School office also requires an official transcript to verify transfer courses.

Retention and Dismissal

As the department is preparing and training future counseling professionals, students are expected to abide by the current professional ethical code as prescribed by the American Counseling Association (ACA), American School Counseling Association (ASCA), Texas Education Agency (TEA) and State of Texas statute and regulation as promulgated by Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors throughout their degree program.

Suppose a student cannot demonstrate sufficient academic progress and/or personal or professional limitations interfere with his/her/their effectiveness as a counseling student. In that case, the individual will be asked to secure remedial assistance when needed or may be dismissed from a course or the training program.

Student progress regarding personal or professional limitations is reviewed regularly by Counseling faculty. See details in the Retention/Dismissal Procedure and the Counseling Student Competency Evaluation (CSCE) later in this guide.

Personal Counseling

Personal counseling requirement (Minimum of 10 sessions of individual counseling): Students will start receiving personal counseling sessions during COUN 516 and will complete them before taking practicum COUN 551. The students must check with their personal insurance or research affordable counseling services in the community.

Documentation signed by the counseling service provider must be submitted by the student with the practicum application packet. Please check the clinical application website.

Clinical Sequence

The CMHC program options require 15 semester hours of clinical experience: COUN 516 (Basic Counseling Skills, 3 hours), COUN 528 (group dynamics and procedure), COUN 548 (Advanced Counseling Skills, 3 hours), COUN 551 (Practicum, 3 hours), and two semesters of COUN 552 (Internship I & II, 6 hours). The student must have completed the following classes: COUN: 548, 522, 517, 540, 545, and 564 prior to taking the practicum. COUN 551 and COUN 552 are field-based courses and involve placement and supervised experience at a site related to the student’s degree option, regular campus meetings, and individual supervision.

  • A. COUN 551 requires a minimum of 100 hours at the field site, while COUN 552 I and COUN 552 II require approximately 300 hours, respectively, in each course (a minimum of two semesters or one semester and a whole summer) at the field site. Total Internship hours are 600
  • B. COUN 551 – Practicum is NEVER offered during summer sessions.
  • C. COUN 551 and COUN 552 require a completed application and approval prior to enrollment. Applications must be submitted during the semester BEFORE the semester the student intends to take the course. Dates and application deadlines are posted on the clinical website. All clinical sequence course applications are submitted online from the program website and require a current student email address. Additional information about clinical sequence course applications is included in the Practicum and Internship Handbook, available for download from the program website. All SC and CMHC students must produce proof of liability insurance for the duration of 551 and 552. This should be arranged prior to entering the course.
  • D. The progress of students in the clinical sequence (COUN 516, COUN 528, COUN 548, COUN 551, and COUN 552) is reviewed regularly by Counseling faculty.
  • E. All practicum and internship field sites must be reviewed and approved by the Director of Training and Placement according to program guidelines. For field sites, this review and approval is made in conjunction with the program’s coordinator.
  • F. Use of regular employment site as a field site. Students may use their employment site for practicum and/or internship only under the following conditions:
    • CMHC track trainees: (1) The work setting is an agency providing a range of experiences, (2) students will perform duties different from those currently performed based on a bachelor's degree, and (3) the field site supervisor is different from the student's current work supervisor. Prior experiences will not count toward practicum/internship hours.
  • G. CMHC students should consult the current Practicum and Internship Handbook for guidelines and details regarding clinical sequence courses.

Grades

Students must receive a grade of “A” or “B” in COUN 516, 528, and 548. Students must receive a grade of “Satisfactory” in COUN 551 (Practicum) and two semesters of COUN 552 (Internship I and II). Graduate School policy on ‘C' grade in any other courses applies. Students are required to complete personal counseling and the program learning outcome assessment, as outlined in this handbook, to be permitted to enroll in COUN 551. Incomplete grades are not permitted for Practicum (i.e., COUN 551). Therefore, all course requirements— including direct client contact hours, supervision, documentation, and class participation—must be completed within the semester in which the student is enrolled.

At the instructor's discretion, students may be granted an Incomplete (“X”) for Internship I or Internship II if they have not completed the required 300 total hours by the end of the semester. To be eligible, students must meet the following requirements: (a) be making satisfactory academic and clinical progress in the course, with clinical hours remaining consistent; (b) establish a concrete plan to address the deficiency in hours; (c) enroll in Internship II in the subsequent semester; and (d) be able to reasonably complete the remaining Internship I hours by the midpoint of Internship II. Students who are granted an incomplete in Internship I and continue to Internship II in the following semester will not be granted an additional incomplete for Internship II if clinical hours from Internship I remain unfinished. In this case, students will receive a grade of “Fail” for Internship II and must repeat the course. For more information on a grade of “Incomplete,” please refer to the University's policy on a Grade of X (Incomplete).

Comprehensive Exam

Master's Comprehensive Examination: In order to be certified for graduation students must earn a passing grade on the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE). As of Fall 2014, a passing score on the CPCE is defined as z ≥ -1.25 (1.25 standard deviations BELOW the national mean) for the most recent
national mean reported by the Center for Credentialing in Education (CCE). The CPCE covers the 8 CACREP core academic areas, that include the following A&M Counseling classes: 501, 510, 512, 516, 517, 522, 528, 540, 548, 545, and 595. School counseling students refer school counseling handbook.

Registering for Examinations: Examination information is in the university internal resources page. Students are encouraged to take the test two semesters in advance.

Failing score and retake limit: If a student achieves a failing score for the first attempt, they will be granted a second attempt by the department. According to the Graduate Catalog, “Under extenuating circumstances, a third attempt may be granted but only upon recommendation of the advisory committee (or department) and approval of the Dean for Graduate Studies and Research.” Therefore, if a student fails a second time, the student must file an appeal to the Department Head to be considered for a third attempt. The Department Head only makes a recommendation– the Dean for Graduate Studies and Research makes the final decision as to whether or not a third attempt will be granted. If the Dean approves a third attempt, it is considered the final appeal. If a student fails the comprehensive exam for the third time, they will not be eligible to receive a degree in this master's/specialist program. The result of the third attempt is final.

Notification of results: The student will receive a letter from the department head stating the results of the exam.

Student Appeal of Instructor’s Evaluation

If a student wishes to appeal an instructor’s evaluation of his/her work, the first step is to discuss the problem with the instructor. If the student still wishes to appeal, he/she should consult the department head. The process for further appeal is outlined in University Procedure 13.99.99.RO.05, available in the offices of the department head, the college dean, and the provost and vice president for academic affairs and student services.

Registration For Graduation

Register to graduate by the deadline listed in the current catalog or course schedule. Carefully follow all university requirements regarding the final procedures related to the degree. If courses have been substituted for those printed on the degree plan, a form for substitute approval (available from the student’s advisor or The Graduate School) must be completed prior to the registrar’s final transcript audit. Make sure this completed form is on file in The Graduate School.

Licensure

CMHC student is seeking to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), the student must submit an application to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. The state currently requires the completion of a 60-semester hour program of graduate study and 3,000 hours of supervised counseling experience after completion of the graduate program. This is referred to by the BHEC as “LPC-Associate” and is not to be confused with the COUN 552 Internship course within our graduate program. Before beginning this post-degree experience, the student must obtain the Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) designation.
Consult with your 552 instructor, advisor, or directly with the BHEC regarding the LPC-A. One must pass the licensure exam (the National Counseling Examination, NCE), prior to applying for licensure.

Career Placement Services

Students who wish to use the university’s placement service should contact the Student Career Preparedness office for information regarding activating a placement file. Services provided by the Student Career Preparedness office include sending copies of a student’s credentials (including designated references) to potential employers; coordinating on- campus interviews with recruiters from business, government, and school districts; and providing information about major companies, school districts, graduate schools, job-search skills, and career planning. Videotapes on writing a resume and interviewing can also be viewed in this office.

Vacancy notices received from public schools, business and government, and higher education are posted daily in the Student Career Preparedness office and are published twice each month. Bulletins from other universities and other job vacancy publications are also on file and available for student use in the Student Career Preparedness Office.

The Counseling Department maintains a bulletin board on which positions are posted.

Disability Services

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact:

Office of Student Disability Services
East Texas A&M University
Water’s Library – Room 162
Phone 903.886.5150 or 903.886.5835
Fax 903.468.8148
Email: [email protected]

Nondiscrimination Notice

East Texas A&M University will comply in the classroom, and in online courses, with all federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination and related retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic information or veteran status. Further, an environment free from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression will be maintained.

Financial Aid

The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships has information regarding loans, grants, College Work-Study, on-campus employment and other types of financial assistance which are available for qualified graduate students. Financial Aid is available for students with full admission status only. The Office of Financial Aid may be contacted at 903.886.5096.

The Office of Veterans‘ Affairs may be contacted at 903.886.5123 which has information regarding Veterans’ Administration educational benefits and the Hazelwood Act.

The Graduate School has information regarding several scholarships that are available for master’s-level students. Additionally, several named scholarships are available to degree seeking students who have been fully admitted into the master's program. Master’s-level graduate assistantships are occasionally available in the department, the College of Education Dean’s Office, and Academic Advising.

Formal Endorsement Policy

Program faculty endorsement is given only:

  • A. after the candidate has completed a substantial portion of the program, necessarily including supervised practicum and/or internship experiences during the program at East Texas A&M-and,
  • B. on the basis of evidence of demonstrated proficiency specifically in the vocational and/or credential area for which endorsement is sought,
  • C. for the professional credential for which the candidate has been prepared, necessarily including appropriate course work and practicum and/or internship placement(s).

The faculty reserves the rights to withhold professional endorsement.

Course Syllabi

Each instructor prepares syllabi for the courses he/she is currently teaching. Current syllabi for all departmental courses are posted in schedule of classes.

Program Evaluation

The Counseling Program conducts formal program evaluations annually. Results of the most recent evaluations are posted on the department page.

Professional Associations

A variety of professional associations have student members. As a whole, these associations provide many benefits, products, and services to counselors and counseling students. They promote public recognition of the profession, advocate for counselor parity with other helping professionals, and represent counselors’ interests before federal, state, and local governments. Addresses for professional associations most directly related to our master ‘s level options are provided below.

General

American Counseling Association
5999 Stevenson Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22304-3300
800.347.6647

Texas Counseling Association (TCA)
1210 San Antonio, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78701

800/580-8144

CMHC

Texas Mental Health Counselors Association
(contact TCA above)

American Mental Health Counselors Association
107 S. West St., Suite 779
Alexandria, VA 22314

800/326-2642

Additional Suggestions

  • A. Donate to a program scholarship foundation. Donations in any amount are welcome. These foundations fund scholarships and awards for master's and doctoral students in the Counseling program. Foundations have been established to honor the following former faculty members: Richard Lampe, John McQuarry, Harold Murphy, David Talbott, William Truax, and Ruth Ann White.
  • B. Keep your memberships current in professional associations such as TCA and ACA – attend conferences, network, and serve as an officer, among other opportunities. Become a major contributor, in the tradition of A&M, to your profession. Students can enhance their development by joining these groups as students–do not wait until graduation.
  • C. Explore the possibility of entering our CACREP-accredited doctoral program after graduation and gaining full-time counseling-related work experience.
  • D. Attend the annual spring Harold D. Murphy Continuing Education Conferences.
  • E. Department has a listserv subscribe to students can subscribe with your leomail.
  • F. Keep your address, email address, and phone number current with the department and inform us of the newsworthy events in your own personal and professional life (including name changes). Our department has a history of long-standing involvement with former students, so please keep us up to date.
  • G. Participate in any program evaluation requests (i.e., Alumni Survey, Employer/Site Supervisor Survey) you receive from the department after you graduate. This will enable us to adjust our program to meet the evolving needs of students and counselors, as well as to comply with CACREP accreditation standards.
  • H. Students are encouraged to continue the relationship with the department through: (1) Responding to the postgraduation survey; (2) active engagement in the counseling academic honor society, Chi Sigma Iota; and (3) participating in the advisory committee.

Retention/Dismissal Procedure – All Programs

Document effective beginning with the Summer, 2007 semester

Academic dismissal will result from failure to maintain the university’s required grade-point average. The student should consult the appropriate university catalog regarding academic probation and suspension from degree programs.

Any student who wishes to contest a final grade shall follow the provisions outlined in East Texas A&M University Procedure 13.99.99.R0.05.

In order to receive a master’s degree, the student must pass the Counseling Program's Master’s Comprehensive Examination.

Master's Program: The following course grades are required for progression in the clinical skills sequence: COUN 501 (Introduction to Counseling), COUN 516 (Basic Counseling Skills), COUN 528 (Group dynamics and procedure), COUN 548 (Advanced Counseling Skills) require grade of” B” or higher; COUN 551 (Practicum), COUN 552 (1st), and COUN 552 (2nd) require grade of “S”.

In accordance with East Texas A&M University Procedure 13.99.99.R0.10 (Academic Honesty), a student may be suspended or expelled for academic dishonesty, including, but not limited to, cheating, falsifying assignments, and plagiarism. If the student disagrees with the charge or level of penalty related to academic honesty, University procedure 13.99.99.R0.10 provides the appeals process.

University Procedure 11.04.99.R0.16 (Graduate Academic Probation, Retention and Suspension) states “individual departments may reserve the right to suspend from their programs, students who, in their judgment, would not meet the professional expectations of the field for which they are training.” (Revised April 2004). Therefore, a student who fails to demonstrate appropriate communication, interpersonal, or professional skills as identified by a faculty member may be required by the department to seek remediation including, but not limited to, repeating a clinical skills course and/or receiving counseling. In addition, a student who demonstrates personal limitations that impede professional performance, who is harmful to clients, or who violates ethical standards, may be asked to leave the
program.

The Counseling Program is obligated by professional ethics and University procedure to assess students as to their potential for meeting the expectations of the professional counseling field. The Code of Ethics of the American Counseling Association (2014) includes the following:

  • F.5.a. Ethical Responsibilities: Students and supervisees have a responsibility to understand and follow the ACA Code of Ethics (2014). Students and supervisees have the same obligation to clients as those required of professional counselors.
  • F.5.b. Impairment: Students and supervisees monitor themselves for signs of impairment from their own physical, mental, or emotional problems and refrain from offering or providing professional services when such impairment is likely to harm a client or others. They notify their faculty and/or supervisors and seek assistance for problems that reach the level of professional impairment, and, if necessary, they limit, suspend, or terminate their professional responsibilities until it is determined that they may safely resume their work.
  • F.9.a. Evaluation of Students: Counselor educators clearly state to students, prior to and throughout the training program, the levels of competency expected, appraisal methods, and timing of evaluations for both didactic and clinical competencies. Counselor educators provide students with ongoing feedback regarding their performance throughout the training program.
  • F.9.b. Limitations: Counselor educators, through ongoing evaluation, are aware of and address the inability of some students to achieve counseling competencies. Counselor educators do the following: 1) assist students in securing remedial assistance when needed, 2) seek professional consultation and document their decision to dismiss or refer students for assistance, and 3) ensure that students have recourse in a timely manner to address decisions requiring them to seek assistance or to dismiss them and provide students with due process according to institutional
  • policies and procedures.
  • Note: It must be noted that all students in the Counseling Program are expected to abide by the American Counseling Associations most recent code of ethics.

Retention/Dismissal Procedure

If a faculty member has sufficient concerns regarding the personal and/or professional limitations of a student, they should consult with colleagues and the Department Head.

  • A. The faculty member will confer with the student, clarifying that the student’s continuation in the program could come under review according to the Counseling Program's Retention/Dismissal Procedure. The faculty member will document concerns using a Counseling Student Competency Evaluation form (CSCE). If warranted, a remediation plan will be developed, including a review date. Copies of the completed CSCE and remediation plan will be placed in the student's Department file and given to the student. It is the responsibility of the faculty member to monitor the remediation plan according to the review date and provide follow-up documentation in the student's file.
  • B. If an agreement is NOT reached with the student, if the student fails to progress satisfactorily after the conference, or if the situation is of a nature that suggests Departmental action might be necessary, the faculty member will consult with the Department Head regarding options. If resolution is not reached at this point, the Department Head will refer the matter to the Departmental Retention Committee (DRC). The faculty member will provide the DRC with a written summary of the situation, other pertinent documentation, and his/her recommendation. The DRC may consult with other professionals as appropriate.
  • C. The Department Head will notify the student in writing that the DRC will review the matter and that the student may (a) prepare a written statement for the committee's consideration and (b) has the option to appear before the committee in person. If the student wishes to present a written statement to the DRC, this is due within 14 days of the date of the notification letter from the Department Head. If the student wishes to appear before the DRC in person, the student must notify the committee chair in writing within 14 days of the date of the notification letter from the Department Head. The DRC chair will establish the date, time, and location of the meeting and inform the student in writing.
  • D. The DRC will make its decision regarding the case and inform the student in writing, with a copy to the Department Head. If the student wishes to appeal, the appeal goes to the Dean for Graduate Studies and Research.

Important Forms

Counseling Student Competency Evaluation: The Counseling Student Competency Evaluation document outlines the required competencies and standards for counseling students' academic and clinical performance.

Professional Dispositions Competency Assessment: The Professional Dispositions Competency Assessment evaluates a student's professional behavior and attitudes in clinical training settings to ensure they demonstrate key competencies expected of counseling professionals.

Remediation Plan: The Remediation Plan outlines steps and support measures to help a student address and improve areas of academic or clinical performance that do not meet program expectations.

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