Palm Beach Atlantic University’s (PBA) Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling was named by Counseling Psychology’s 2027 state rankings as one of the top five counseling programs in Florida.
Created with a Mission
The clinical mental health counseling program started in 1994. More than three decades later, it has grown to more than 200 students and 11 full-time faculty members with a variety of counseling and academic experience. In 2026, a fully online version of the program was launched with the commitment to providing the opportunity to pursue education in counseling and mental health to as many people as possible.
“This growth reflects both the increasing demand for qualified mental health professionals and PBA’s continued commitment to educating the next generation of counselors,” said Dr. Jeremy Bonta, program director and assistant professor of Counseling School of Education & Behavioral Studies.
The program was created with a unique focus on developing Christian counselors, who also exhibit clinical excellence. Bonta notes this is perfectly captured by the program’s motto, “Distinctly Christian; Clinically Professional.”
Rigorous academic and practical preparation for the field is a hallmark of this curriculum, paired with a Christian emphasis on the meaning of human connection. Students gain not only a purely clinical understanding of those they will serve but also develop insight into other dimensions of a person—including cultural background and spiritual life. This versatile approach prepares graduates to enter a variety of fields upon completion of the program.
“Whether serving in schools, community agencies, private practice, or ministry settings, our graduates are prepared to provide exceptional care to people of all faiths and backgrounds,” said Dr. Marcia Bedasse, the dean of the School of Behavioral Science and Education.
Education in Practice
Students enrolled in the counseling program learn practical proficiency in client care. This toolbox of clinical skills includes assessing clients, developing case conceptualizations, diagnosing mental health conditions, creating treatment plans, providing evidence-based interventions, evaluating treatment progress, and responding appropriately to clinical and ethical concerns.
Through internship and practicum opportunities, students can apply what they’ve learned and practice in professional settings with supervision. The program allows students access to over a hundred internship opportunities in Florida, including community mental health agencies, hospitals, substance-use treatment centers, private practices, schools, and other behavioral health organizations.
These experiences are intended to give students opportunities to interact with diverse populations with a range of conditions. The program’s internship opportunities comply with the educational and clinical requirements of the Florida Professional Counselor Licensure, to give students a clear path from graduation to a counseling professional.
“For students considering this career, a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling offers the opportunity to develop a profession centered on meaningful human connection while facilitating healing in people’s lives,” said Bonta.
To learn more about PBA’s master’s in clinical mental health counseling, visit PBA’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.
