Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling

In the second year of the MSMHC program, students take a major step forward with a yearlong internship at a mental health agency. This experience allows students to directly engage with clients, making a meaningful impact while developing essential counseling skills.

Career-Ready Counseling Skills

Faculty actively guide students in the internship search through meetings, fairs, and connections to alumni—leveraging their own networks and Suffolk’s ideal location in downtown Boston, a hub of leading healthcare, education, research, and human service organizations. Students work with clients under the supervision of licensed clinicians, applying classroom learning to real life situations. This hands-on experience helps them refine their skills, understand the complexities of mental health care, and gain exposure to diverse treatment settings.

Throughout the internship, students receive dual supervision—from both their on-site clinicians and MSMHC faculty. Regular feedback, guidance, and mentorship ensure they are fully supported as they develop their own counseling styles. Students also have access to alumni, peers, and current interns for additional insights and support. Flexible class schedules allow students to balance coursework with their training rotations.

During the second-year internship, you’ll develop crucial counseling skills and form the professional networks you need to launch a rewarding career.

At Suffolk, you’ll be just a short walk or T ride from some of the most innovative hospitals and treatment centers in the world. Our diverse and growing list of internship and practicum partner sites includes top-tier institutions where students gain clinical experience while making a real difference in the lives of those in need. From community mental health clinics and public schools to college counseling centers, hospitals, jails, and residential treatment facilities, you’ll have the opportunity to work with diverse and often underserved populations while you sharpen your clinical skills.

Recent placements include:

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute Counseling Center
• Lahey Behavioral Health Services
• Lesley University Counseling Center
• Riverside Community Care
• Suffolk County House of Correction at South Bay
• Lemuel Shattuck Hospital
• Newton Public Schools
• South Bay Community Services
• Bay Cove Human Services
• The Gifford School
• Wayside Youth and Family Support Network

In Suffolk’s mental health counseling program, you’ll find a supportive, close-knit community designed to help you succeed. With small cohorts of 20 students, you'll receive personalized attention from peers and faculty who are invested in your growth. This intimate setting fosters strong connections that last well beyond graduation.

Our faculty, who are experienced clinicians, will help you prioritize your own wellbeing so you can build a sustainable career in this rewarding and challenging field. As you build your clinical skills, faculty-led group supervision sessions will empower you to tackle complex challenges, set professional boundaries, and navigate your internship and career paths with confidence. Many graduates continue to rely on these connections, reaching out to their cohort for advice on everything from salary negotiations to self-care strategies.

With a strong support system, meaningful relationships, and access to top-tier internships, you’ll be prepared not only for licensure but for a fulfilling career that positively impacts the lives of others.

As you approach graduation, our faculty and Suffolk’s Center for Career Equity, Development & Success will offer tailored guidance to help you plan your next steps. You’ll also have access to the Human Service & Social Impact Career Community, providing additional resources and events to support your transition into the field.