Franklin Pierce University is introducing a Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling (CMHC). The hybrid program, which will include its first students this fall, aims to equip and empower students as leaders and caregivers in the field of mental health treatment.

According to an announcement from the university, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 18% growth in employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors from 2022 to 2032.

“The clinical mental health counseling program represents a significant step forward in our mission to prepare compassionate, skilled professionals who can meet the growing demand for mental health services,” stated Catherine M. Paden, provost and vice president for academic affairs at Franklin Pierce. “Through the hybrid learning model, not only will we be able to provide a comprehensive, flexible educational experience that meets the diverse needs of our students, but also equip them with the essential skills and understanding necessary to emerge as leaders in this vital field.”

The curriculum will include a framework in counseling theory and clinical methods, equipping students to advocate for clients facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma. Graduates of the program will be eligible to become licensed clinical mental health counselors.

The 24-month hybrid program aligns with the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards and blends online learning sessions with two five-day in-person labs. Additionally, students will conduct 30 weeks of clinical work.

With the announcement of the new program, Franklin Pierce has also named Hannah Bland as its inaugural director. Bland has previously served as a professor, CMHC clinical coordinator and CMHC program director. She is a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES) and Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC).

Bland’s  research, presentation and publication interests relate to the intersection between law and counseling ethics, bodily autonomy, marginalized religious groups, working with incarcerated populations and working within Appalachian and rural communities. She holds a doctorate in counselor education and supervision from Waynesburg University, a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Waynesburg University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Fairmont State University.

 “Franklin Pierce is thrilled to welcome Doctor Bland as our inaugural program director,” stated Jed Donelan, dean of the college of liberal arts and social sciences. “A licensed professional counselor with a rich background in various clinical settings, she brings a wealth of experience and insight to our newest graduate program.”

 “I am honored to lead this new, transformative program that addresses a crucial need in our society,” Bland stated. “I look forward to being at the forefront of hybrid learning in mental health education, ensuring we effectively meet and support the needs of our communities. This program is about nurturing empathetic, skilled professionals poised to address the complexities of mental health with knowledge and care.”

For information about the program, visit franklinpierce.edu/academics/programs/mental-heath-counseling/index.html or send email to fpuonline@franklinpierce.edu.