Best and Affordable Mental Health Counseling Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers a wide range of opportunities for aspiring mental health counselors, with 27 nonprofit colleges and universities providing master’s programs in mental health counseling (MHC) or clinical mental health counseling (CMHC).1 Students can choose from on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options to suit their personal and professional schedules. This guide features reputable and affordable programs that meet Illinois’s educational requirements for the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credential. It also includes details on counselor salaries, employment outlook, and professional organizations that serve the counseling community across the state.
Table of Contents
- Illinois MHC Program Comparison
- Best MHC Programs
- Most Affordable MHC Programs
- Online MHC Programs
- Illinois MHC Salary and Outlook Information
- Additional Resources
Comparison of Illinois Schools With Mental Health Counseling Programs
The table below compares 27 Illinois mental health counseling programs across key factors, including accreditation status, institution type, program format, US News & World Report rankings, in-state and out-of-state tuition, and total number of credit hours required. All institutions listed below are not-for-profit. If we’ve missed an Illinois school with a mental health counseling program, please let us know. For more information on these schools, please visit our Illinois counseling degrees page, master’s in mental health counseling degree guide, or individual school websites.
| School Name | Accreditation2,3 | MHC Degrees Offered | Program Format | US News National Rank4 | In-State Tuition Per Credit Hour | Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit Hour | Total Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adler University | CACREP | MA CMHC; MA Counseling: Art Therapy | Traditional; Online | — | $1,617 | $1,617 | 62 |
| Bradley University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional; Online | #183 tie | $1,135 | $1,135 | 60 |
| Chicago State University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $349 | $675 | 60 |
| Concordia University-Chicago | CACREP | MA CMHC | Hybrid | — | $535 | $535 | 60 |
| DePaul University | CACREP | MA/M.Ed. CMHC | Traditional | #169 tie | $744 | $744 | 60 |
| Eastern Illinois University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | — | $354 | $849 | 60 |
| Governors State University | CACREP | MA Counseling | Traditional | — | $413 | $413 | 60 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | CACREP | MS Clinical Counseling | Traditional; Online | #117 tie | $1,851 | $1,851 | 60 |
| Judson University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $750 | $750 | 60 |
| Lewis University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $670 | $670 | 60 |
| Loyola University Chicago | — | M.Ed. Community Counseling | Traditional | #132 tie | $1,025 | $1,025 | 60 |
| McKendree University | — | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $525 | $525 | 60 |
| Moody Bible Institute | — | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $565 | $565 | 60 |
| National Louis University | CACREP | MS Counseling | Traditional | #395-434 | $790 | $790 | 60 |
| Northeastern Illinois University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $477 | $955 | 60 |
| Northern Illinois University | CACREP | MSEd Counseling | Traditional | #301 tie | $533 | $533 | 60 |
| North Park University | — | MA CMHC | Online | — | $860 | $860 | 60 |
| Northwestern University | CACREP | MA Counseling | Traditional; Online | #7 tie | $1,914 | $1,914 | 60 |
| Quincy University | CACREP | MSEd CMHC | Traditional | — | $520 | $520 | 60 |
| Roosevelt University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | #395-434 | $1,050 | $1,050 | 60 |
| Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | CACREP | MS Clinical Rehabilitation & MHC | Traditional | #301 tie | $470 | $1,174 | 60 |
| The Chicago School | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional; Online | — | $1,458 | $1,458 | 60 |
| Trinity Christian College | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $711 | $711 | 60 |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $339 | $702 | 61 |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | — | MS MHC | Traditional | #36 tie | $536 | $1,158 | 61 |
| Western Illinois University | CACREP | MSEd CMHC | Traditional | — | $394 | $394 | 60 |
| Wheaton College | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $910 | $910 | 60 |
Best Mental Health Counseling Programs in Illinois
The schools below offer the top-ranked mental health counseling programs in Illinois, as determined by program accreditation and third-party school ratings. Tiebreakers are determined by total in-state program cost.
Northwestern University
Northwestern University (NU) offers a 60-credit Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling through The Family Institute. This CACREP-accredited program prepares students for professional counselor licensure (LPC/LCPC) in Illinois and other states. Delivered in two formats–on campus and online–it provides flexibility while maintaining strong clinical training standards. Coursework integrates counseling theory, ethics, multicultural competence, and evidence-based practice, supported by supervised practicum and internship placements in approved sites. Students receive individualized mentorship from licensed faculty members and complete two intensive clinical immersions. Graduates are prepared to provide counseling services in hospitals, schools, community agencies, and private practice settings.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) offers a 60-credit Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Counseling with specializations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) and Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling. This CACREP-accredited program meets Illinois LPC and LCPC educational requirements. It is available in two formats–traditional on-campus and fully online–offering flexibility for students across the state and beyond. Coursework emphasizes counseling theory, ethics, multicultural awareness, and advanced clinical skills, complemented by practicum and internship experiences in mental health and rehabilitation settings. Students gain hands-on experience through partnerships with community agencies and healthcare organizations. Graduates are prepared to pursue professional licensure and work in clinical, hospital, and private practice environments.
DePaul University
DePaul University (DPU) offers a 90-quarter-credit (approximately 60 semester-hour) Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC). The program is CACREP-accredited and fulfills Illinois LPC/LCPC licensure requirements. Offered in a traditional, on-campus format, it emphasizes multicultural awareness, ethical practice, and social justice in counseling. Students complete coursework in clinical techniques, lifespan development, and assessment, as well as supervised practicum and internship experiences. Faculty provide individualized support through mentoring and supervision. Graduates are prepared to become LPCs and LCPCs serving clients in community, school, and healthcare settings.
Bradley University
Bradley University (BU) offers a 60-credit Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) that is CACREP-accredited and designed to meet Illinois LPC and LCPC licensure requirements. The program is available both on campus and online, offering flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum covers counseling theory, multiculturalism, ethics, and clinical practice, along with supervised practicum and internship experiences in diverse community settings. Faculty members provide clinical supervision and individualized mentorship throughout training. Graduates are equipped to pursue licensure and work in schools, hospitals, agencies, and private practice.
Southern Illinois University–Carbondale
Southern Illinois University–Carbondale (SIUC) offers a 60-credit Master of Science in Education (MSEd) in Counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC). The program is CACREP-accredited and satisfies Illinois requirements for LPC and LCPC licensure. Delivered in a traditional, on-campus format, the curriculum emphasizes professional ethics, multicultural awareness, and counseling skills development. Students complete coursework in theory, human development, and clinical techniques, along with supervised practicum and internship experiences in community-based settings. Graduates are prepared for careers in mental health agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practice.
Other Notable Programs
- Northern Illinois University
- National Louis University
- Roosevelt University
Most Affordable Mental Health Counseling Programs in Illinois
The following 13 schools offer the most cost-effective mental health counseling degrees, based on their minimum tuition, not including additional fees. Required credit hours may differ depending on the concentration area, so be sure to check with schools of interest for more details on specific program options. For a detailed comparison, you can refer to the comparison table above to find the quality indicators that align with your needs. Tuition shown is the lowest per-credit rate published as of the most recent catalog; confirm totals with each school.
- University of Illinois at Springfield ($20,679)
- Chicago State University ($20,940)
- Eastern Illinois University ($21,240)
- Western Illinois University ($23,640)
- Governors State University ($24,780)
- Southern Illinois University-Carbondale ($28,200)
- Northeastern Illinois University ($28,620)
- Quincy University ($31,200)
- McKendree University ($31,500)
- Northern Illinois University ($31,980)
- Concordia University-Chicago ($32,100)
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign ($32,696)
- Moody Bible Institute ($33,900)
Online Mental Health Counseling Programs in Illinois
The following schools offer online or hybrid degrees in mental health counseling:
- Adler University (Online)
- Bradley University (Online)
- Concordia University-Chicago (Hybrid)
- Illinois Institute of Technology (Online)
- North Park University (Online)
- Northwestern University (Online)
- The Chicago School (Online)
Illinois Mental Health Counselor Salary and Outlook Information
Projections for Illinois mental health counselors are on par with national trends, with an expected growth rate of 17.4% in the state compared to 18.4% nationwide.5 This growth is likely to result in an average of 1,450 annual openings in Illinois through 2032.5 The table below shows salaries by metro area for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, compared to the statewide average.
| City | Number Employed6 | 10th Percentile Salary6 | 25th Percentile Salary6 | 50th Percentile (Median) Salary6 | 75th Percentile Salary6 | 90th Percentile Salary6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | 18,170 | $42,500 | $47,640 | $59,570 | $81,250 | $107,630 |
| Bloomington | 300 | $37,050 | $41,750 | $50,170 | $76,040 | $97,460 |
| Champaign-Urbana | 320 | $41,480 | $46,890 | $63,180 | $81,250 | $105,720 |
| Chicago | 14,010 | $44,330 | $47,980 | $61,150 | $83,770 | $114,400 |
| Decatur | 120 | $40,990 | $45,370 | $45,370 | $61,170 | $76,650 |
| Kankakee | 110 | $37,740 | $44,580 | $61,240 | $76,520 | $103,350 |
| Peoria | 410 | $40,610 | $46,630 | $52,740 | $72,380 | $90,400 |
| Rockford | 530 | $37,670 | $45,540 | $46,640 | $59,190 | $77,250 |
| Springfield | 310 | $40,790 | $46,890 | $60,600 | $77,630 | $100,020 |
Additional Resources
- Counseling Degrees Guide: Explore counseling degree options by level and specialization, including online and on-campus programs.
- Counseling Interviews and Advice: Read our interviews page for career advice from experienced clinical mental health counselors.
- Counseling School Accreditation Information: Learn about accreditation at both the institutional and program levels.
- Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR): The official licensing authority for counselors in Illinois, providing detailed requirements on education, supervised experience, and examinations.
- Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Mental Health: Oversees statewide behavioral health policy, community mental health programs, and services for individuals and families throughout Illinois.
- Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA): The Illinois branch of the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA), offering continuing education, advocacy, and professional development for LPCs and LCPCs.
- Illinois Counseling Association (ICA): A statewide professional organization affiliated with the American Counseling Association (ACA) that supports professional counselors through advocacy, education, and networking.
- Illinois LPC Licensing Process: Step-by-step information on how to become an LPC and LCPC in Illinois.
- Illinois Counseling Schools: Find accredited counseling programs in Illinois, including on-campus, online, and hybrid options.
- Mental Health Counselor Career Guide: An overview of the counseling profession, including job duties, skills, and work settings.
References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, Accredited Programs: https://www.cacrep.org/directory/
3. Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council Accredited Programs: https://mpcacaccreditation.org/accredited-programs/
4. US News & World Report 2026 Best National University Rankings: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities
5. Projections Central, Long Term Occupational Projections: https://projectionscentral.org/longterm
6. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024 Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Area Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oessrcma.htm