Best and Affordable Mental Health Counseling Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to 21 nonprofit colleges and universities offering master’s-level programs in mental health counseling (MHC) and clinical mental health counseling (CMHC).1 These programs are available in traditional, online, and hybrid formats, giving students flexibility to balance graduate education with work and personal responsibilities. This guide highlights respected and affordable MHC programs that meet Tennessee’s educational requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Services Provider designation (LPC/MHSP). You will also find information on job outlook, salary trends, and professional organizations that support mental health counselors throughout the state.
Table of Contents
- Tennessee MHC Program Comparison
- Best MHC Programs
- Most Affordable MHC Programs
- Online MHC Programs
- Tennessee MHC Salary and Outlook Information
- Additional Resources
Comparison of Tennessee Schools With Mental Health Counseling Programs
The table below compares 21 Tennessee 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 a Tennessee school with a mental health counseling program, please let us know. For more information on these schools, please visit our Tennessee 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Peay State University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | — | $512 | $800 | 60 |
| Belmont University | CACREP | MA MHC | Online | #213 tie | $1,595 | $1,595 | 60 |
| Carson-Newman University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Hybrid | #358 tie | $550 | $550 | 60 |
| East Tennessee State University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | #301 tie | $535 | $803 | 60 |
| Freed-Hardeman University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Hybrid | — | $700 | $700 | 60 |
| Johnson University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | — | $610 | $610 | 63 |
| Lincoln Memorial University | CACREP | M.Ed. MHC | Traditional | #343 tie | $490 | $490 | 60 |
| Lipscomb University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | #222 tie | $962 | $962 | 61 |
| Middle Tennessee State University | CACREP | EdS CMHC | Traditional | #257 tie | $597 | $1,651 | 61 |
| Milligan University | CACREP | MS Counseling (MSC) | Traditional | — | $525 | $525 | 60 |
| Pentecostal Theological Seminary | CACREP | MA CMHC | Hybrid; Online | — | $669 | $669 | 60 |
| Richmont Graduate University | — | MA CMHC | Online | — | $740 | $740 | 66 |
| Southern Adventist University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | — | $795 | $795 | 60 |
| Tennessee State University | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | #395-434 | $527 | $669 | 60 |
| Tennessee Technological University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Traditional | #257 tie | $577 | $717 | 60 |
| The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | CACREP | M.Ed. CMHC | Hybrid | #329 tie | N.Av. | N.Av. | 60 |
| The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | #102 tie | $639 | $1,011 | 60 |
| The University of Tennessee-Martin | CACREP | MSEd CMHC | Online | — | $680 | $741 | 60 |
| Trevecca Nazarene University | CACREP | MA CMHC | Online | #363 tie | $775 | $775 | 60 |
| University of Memphis | CACREP | MS CMHC | Traditional | — | $678 | $678 | 60 |
| Vanderbilt University | CACREP | M.Ed. CMHC | Traditional | #17 tie | $2,405 | $2,405 | 60 |
Best Mental Health Counseling Programs in Tennessee
The schools below offer the top-ranked mental health counseling programs in Tennessee, as determined by program accreditation and third-party school ratings. Tiebreakers are determined by total in-state program cost.
Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University (VU) offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) delivered in a traditional, on-campus format. The program emphasizes rigorous academic training alongside intensive clinical preparation, with coursework covering counseling theory, ethics, assessment, and multicultural practice. Students complete supervised practicum and internship experiences in approved clinical settings, gaining hands-on experience with diverse populations. Faculty mentorship and small cohort sizes support individualized professional development throughout the program. Graduates are academically prepared to pursue LPC/MHSP licensure and work in clinical, healthcare, and community-based counseling settings.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (UTK) offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) delivered in a traditional, campus-based format. The curriculum integrates foundational counseling theory with applied clinical skills, emphasizing ethical practice, cultural responsiveness, and evidence-based interventions. Students complete both practicum and internship experiences under the supervision of licensed professionals in approved counseling settings. The program places a strong focus on professional identity development and clinical competence. Graduates are prepared for LPC/MHSP licensure and employment in mental health agencies, hospitals, and related service environments.
Belmont University
Belmont University (BU) offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts (MA) in Mental Health Counseling (MHC) delivered fully online. Designed for flexibility, the program allows students to complete coursework while engaging in supervised clinical experiences within their local communities. The curriculum addresses core counseling competencies such as ethics, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Practicum and internship requirements provide applied training in approved clinical settings. Graduates are prepared to pursue LPC/MHSP licensure and work in community mental health agencies, private practice settings, and integrated healthcare environments.
Lipscomb University
Lipscomb University (LU) offers a CACREP-accredited Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) delivered in a traditional, on-campus format. The program combines a strong theoretical foundation with experiential learning, emphasizing counseling techniques, professional ethics, and evidence-based practice. Students complete supervised practicum and internship placements that support the development of clinical skills across a range of counseling settings. Faculty engagement and cohort-based learning are central to the program structure. Graduates are prepared for LPC/MHSP licensure and entry-level counseling roles in clinical and community settings.
Middle Tennessee State University
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) offers a CACREP-accredited Education Specialist (EdS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) delivered in a traditional, campus-based format. The program builds on foundational counseling coursework and provides advanced clinical training through supervised practicum and internship experiences. Emphasis is placed on ethical decision-making, assessment, and culturally responsive counseling practice. Students gain applied experience in approved clinical environments that support professional skill development. Graduates are academically prepared to pursue LPC/MHSP licensure and work in mental health agencies, healthcare systems, and community organizations.
Other Notable Programs
- Carson-Newman University
- East Tennessee State University
- Lincoln Memorial University
- Tennessee State University
- Tennessee Technological University
- The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga
- Trevecca Nazarene University
Most Affordable Mental Health Counseling Programs in Tennessee
The following 10 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.
- Lincoln Memorial University ($29,400)
- Austin Peay State University ($30,720)
- Milligan University ($31,500)
- Tennessee State University ($31,620)
- East Tennessee State University ($32,100)
- Carson-Newman University ($33,000)
- Tennessee Technological University ($34,620)
- Middle Tennessee State University ($36,507)
- The University of Tennessee-Knoxville ($38,340)
- Johnson University ($38,430)
Online Mental Health Counseling Programs in Tennessee
The following schools offer online degrees in mental health counseling:
- Belmont University (Online)
- Carson-Newman University (Hybrid)
- Freed-Hardeman University (Hybrid)
- Pentecostal Theological Seminary (Hybrid; Online)
- Richmont Graduate University (Online)
- The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga (Hybrid)
- The University of Tennessee-Martin (Online)
- Trevecca Nazarene University (Online)
Tennessee Mental Health Counselor Salary and Outlook Information
Projections for Tennessee mental health counselors are significantly stronger than national trends, with an expected growth rate of 32.5% in the state compared to 18.4% nationwide.5 This level of growth is projected to generate an average of 690 job openings per year in Tennessee 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 | 7,310 | $30,890 | $36,910 | $48,170 | $60,900 | $75,240 |
| Chattanooga | 570 | $32,920 | $38,220 | $50,220 | $63,990 | $79,620 |
| Clarksville | 420 | $32,380 | $35,930 | $47,600 | $58,750 | $82,260 |
| Cleveland | 50 | $40,900 | $47,100 | $56,990 | $59,030 | $63,830 |
| Jackson | 380 | $31,060 | $34,820 | $45,400 | $51,260 | $64,810 |
| Johnson City | 200 | $30,750 | $35,430 | $44,250 | $54,010 | $60,140 |
| Kingsport | 280 | $34,090 | $42,480 | $49,610 | $60,610 | $77,020 |
| Knoxville | 880 | $29,390 | $36,250 | $45,400 | $57,760 | $70,800 |
| Memphis | 1,400 | $30,980 | $37,810 | $48,940 | $61,480 | $75,270 |
| Nashville | 2,550 | $32,610 | $38,760 | $49,820 | $63,080 | $79,630 |
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 insights from practicing clinical mental health counselors.
- Counseling School Accreditation Information: Learn about accreditation at both the institutional and program levels.
- Mental Health Counselor Career Guide: An overview of the counseling profession, including duties, skills, and employment settings.
- Tennessee Counseling Association (TCA): A statewide professional organization affiliated with the American Counseling Association (ACA), offering advocacy, conferences, and professional development for counselors.
- Tennessee Counseling Schools: Find accredited counseling programs in Tennessee, including on-campus, online, and hybrid options.
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS): Oversees statewide mental health and substance use programs, community services, and behavioral health policy.
- Tennessee Licensed Professional Counselors Association (TLPCA): A not-for-profit professional organization dedicated to supporting and advancing mental health counselors in Tennessee through advocacy, education, training, and networking.
- Tennessee LPC/MHSP Licensing Process: Step-by-step information on how to become an LPC/MHSP in Tennessee.
- Tennessee State Board of Licensed Professional Counselors, Marital and Family Therapists, and Clinical Pastoral Therapists: The official state licensing board responsible for LPC/MHSP credential requirements, supervised experience, examinations, and renewals.
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 2025 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