The mental health field has experienced positive changes in the last decade. These changes have helped mental health professionals gain greater national recognition and acceptance, and have made mental health counseling an exciting professional career.

At USF Polytechnic, the master's in counselor education prepares professional counselors to facilitate the development of individuals, assist in enriching the quality of their lives. A mental health counselor may also help those who experience difficulties in overcoming or resolving complex adjustment problems associated with modern living.

The major goals of the program are to train practitioners who:

• Provide helping interventions for individuals, groups and organizations.
• Serve as effective counselors in schools and community agencies.
• Provide leadership in educational and human service settings.
• Use the resources of the family, school and the community to meet the developmental needs of the client.

USFP's counselor education program holds accreditation in the Southern Association of Colleges & Schools (SACS). USFP is the only program in Polk, Highlands and Hardee counties to hold accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

The program adheres to the curriculum requirements for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Florida. In accordance with CACREP standards, the Community/Mental Health Counseling Program curriculum covers the following core areas:

• The helping relationship.
• Human growth and development.
• Group dynamics, processing and counseling.
• Lifestyle and career development.
• Social and cultural foundations.
• Appraisal of individuals..
• Research and evaluation.
• Professional orientation.

The program also includes the study of basic concepts in psychopathology and mental disorders, evidence-based practices and diagnostic specific therapeutic interventions, alcohol and substance abuse, sexual behavior and treatment, and collaboration with other service providers.

The program includes a 180-hour practicum and a 900-hour internship in community mental health agencies. The practicum and internship give students the opportunity to develop skills in direct service settings where academic knowledge can be directly applied to real world counseling activities.