Designed for:

The program emphasizes five major components:

• individual and group counseling theory and technique;
• influence of career acquisition and personal independence on the daily lives of persons with disabilities;
• social and psychological impact of disability on an individual and family;
• federal, state, and private service delivery systems for persons with disabilities; and
• self-awareness on the part of counselors-in-training.

The Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling program offers a M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling degree with a mental health counseling concentration. Graduates of this option provide counseling and consultative services to the general population of persons who have disabilities. Graduates of this track are also eligible to seek Oregon licensure as a licensed professional counselor in mental health settings. This program provides the freedom to complete the program in as little as 2-years while attending full-time, or 2.5-3 years for students who need additional flexibility due to work demands or distance. The flexible format combines fully online classes with hybrid courses that only require students to meet on our WOU:Salem campus 1-2 Saturdays per month during the term. This makes the RMHC program a great option for students who may live outside of the Salem area. 

Where this degree can take you:

• Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
• Mental health counselor in a community or higher education setting
• Case Manager with a vendor who serves vocational rehabilitation setting
• Youth Transition Specialist
• Community services coordinator for adults with disabilities
• Disabled student services
• Client Advocate
• Group or supported living coordinator

To start, you need:

• A bachelor’s degree
• 2 years of working experience is preferred

Get the details on admission requirements, processes, and timelines

Finishing will take:

• 2-3 years
• 90 credits
• Internship
• Comprehensive Case Presentation

Begin your MS in Rehabilitation Counseling program:

• Fall term

Where you will take classes:

• Online/distance fall, winter, spring, and summer
• On-campus weekend courses (1-2 times per month) at the WOU Salem Campus

Technology you will need:

• Computer with internet connection

What you will learn:

You will receive training to provide individuals who are Deaf and/or have disabilities an opportunity to live fulfilling, productive, and independent lives. FAQs

Learning outcomes:

1. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of the rehabilitation counseling related theories and policies.
2. Demonstrate competency in facilitating employment, independent living, community integration and personal adjustment for individuals who are deaf or have disabilities and come from diverse cultural backgrounds.
3. Show commitment to professional excellence and leadership through the practice of ethical behavior and integrity.

Accreditation

The program is certified by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling & Related Education Programs (CACREP) through July 31, 2025.

CONTACT US:

If you haven’t found the information you need or are still not sure where to direct your question, contact Kathy Heide -Program Assistant heidek@wou.edu or 503-838-8322 Fax: 503-838-8228