BUFFALO, NY -- Canisius University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling programs have had their accreditations reaffirmed through October 31, 2033, from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
What Makes a Quality Counseling Education Program
The CACREP Board of Directors awarded reaffirmed accreditation following a comprehensive self-study and peer review process that confirmed Canisius University's counseling programs are in substantial compliance with the 2016 CACREP Standards. Both the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling master's degree programs, offered in person, were evaluated under the rigorous national accreditation standards.
"Receiving reaffirmed CACREP accreditation validates our continued commitment to preparing exceptional counseling professionals," says Shawn O'Rourke, PhD, dean of the Division of Business, Communications and Health Studies. "At Canisius, we take pride in developing highly effective, socially committed counselors who embody the Jesuit traditions of social justice and servant leadership. Our programs, expert faculty and strong partnerships create an environment in which future counselors can thrive and develop the skills needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities."
David Farrugia, PhD, chair of the Department of Counseling and Human Services, served as the lead contributor to the accreditation report.
What do Mental Health Counselors Do
The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program prepares licensed mental health counselors to make a difference in the lives of others, with careers that include work in mental health programs, substance abuse treatment, veteran's affairs, college counseling centers, youth support programs and private practice.
What do School Counselors Do
The School Counseling program prepares counselors to focus on academic support, social and emotional needs, and career readiness of students in kindergarten through grade 12, working with individual students, small groups, classrooms, other professionals and parents.
Why Choose an Accredited Counseling Program
CACREP accreditation is recognized as the standard of excellence for counselor preparation programs. Graduates of CACREP-accredited programs are eligible for licensure as professional counselors in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and many employers prefer or require candidates to have graduated from CACREP-accredited programs. CACREP is the sole accrediting body for counselor preparation programs and sets the standard for the preparation of professional counselors. Currently, there are over 900 CACREP-accredited programs across the United States, preparing counselors who provide quality services to clients in various settings.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
