Online Master of Arts in Counseling
Ouachita Baptist University’s online Master of Arts in counseling degree program prepares you for a meaningful career helping others overcome life’s challenges. This low-residency program equips you to become a Licensed Professional Counselor skilled in assessing, diagnosing and compassionately treating those facing mental health and emotional issues.
Grounded in a biblical worldview that sees all people as made in God's image, Ouachita's master’s in counseling trains you to serve diverse clients with professionalism, cultural sensitivity and the highest ethical standards.
Learn from expert counseling professionals through a combination of four on-campus intensives, online coursework and supervised clinical experiences focused on responding to the growing need for mental health services nationwide.
Bridge coursework and clinical experience to improve the lives of individuals as a licensed professional counselor in settings such as:
Churches and Christian Counseling Centers
Community Mental Health Centers
Hospitals
Nonprofit Organizations
Prisons
Private Counseling Agencies
Rehabilitation Centers
School Districts
Explore our online master’s in counseling highlighted courses:
Orientation to the Counseling Profession
Biblical Foundations for Counseling
Group Process and Counseling
Counseling Skills and Techniques
Relationship Dynamics and Family Systems
Crisis and Trauma Counseling
Professional Ethics and Legal Issues
Ouachita’s counseling degree program does not require any particular undergraduate degree or area of concentration for acceptance.
Housed in Ouachita’s W.H. Sutton School of Social Sciences, the low-residency, 63-hour M.A. in counseling degree program combines four 4-day, in-person intensives; synchronous and asynchronous online classes; internship experiences; and practicum placements. Ouachita’s online master’s in counseling application opens September 14, 2025, for enrollment starting in August 2026. The first round of application review will begin on October 15, 2025.
Learn more about Ouachita’s Graduate and Professional Studies.
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In their words
hear from a faculty member.
"It’s easy to look around the world right now, see all the anxious, angry people and feel like there’s nothing we can do. This program allows us to train students to walk beside people in their worst moments and help those who are truly hurting. Our goal is to train up a new generation of ethical, competent Christian counselors who can really make a difference."
Sandra Gilliland, Ph.D., LMFT
Professor and Director, Mental Health Counseling Program
Program Details
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Year 1 |
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Fall (semester 1) |
Spring (semester 2) |
Summer (semester 3) |
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Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 1 |
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COUN 6113: Orientation to the Counseling Profession |
COUN 6123: Theories of Counseling |
COUN 6213: Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology |
COUN 6223: Human Growth and Lifespan Development |
COUN 6313: Biblical Foundations for Counseling |
COUN 6323: Assessment Techniques in Counseling |
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COUN 6133: Professional Ethics and Legal Issues |
COUN 6233: Counseling Skills and Techniques |
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9 credits |
9 credits |
6 credits |
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Year 2 |
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Fall (semester 4) |
Spring (semester 5) |
Summer (semester 6) |
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Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 1 |
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COUN 6413: Case Conceptualization and Treatment Planning |
COUN 6423: Group Process and Counseling |
COUN 6523: Relationship Dynamics and Family Systems |
COUN 6723: Crisis and Trauma Counseling |
COUN 6613: Social and Cultural Diversity |
COUN 6623: Career Development |
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COUN 6433: Research and Program Evaluation |
COUN 6533: Counseling Practicum |
COUN 6542: Internship 1 (8 weeks) |
COUN 6632: Internship 2 (11 weeks) |
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9 credits |
11 credits |
8 credits |
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Year 3 |
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Fall (semester 7) |
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Term 1 |
Term 2 |
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COUN 6513: Contemporary Therapy Models and Telehealth: Special Topic |
COUN 6713: Addiction Therapies |
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COUN 6733: Counseling Capstone for CMHC |
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COUN 6742: Internship 3 (16 weeks) |
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11 credits |
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Online asynchronous | In-person intensive + synchronous online | Synchronous online | Weekly supervision meeting
Online Master’s in Counseling Admissions Requirements:
- 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA on a 4.000 scale or 3.0 in last 60 credit hours of bachelor’s degree
- Submit a statement of purpose intended to give the counseling faculty a sense of why
you want to pursue a degree in counseling. Your statement of purpose should include:
- a short description of what led you to the counseling profession.
- an explanation of why you want to get your degree at Ouachita Baptist University in a program that integrates Christian faith into your counseling education.
- information on how you plan to balance the degree requirements with any other personal or professional responsibilities in your life.
- Three recommendations with evaluation forms indicating evidence of character and capability to successfully serve as an effective mental health professional
- Admission interview with program faculty
- National Criminal Background Check and Sex Offender Registry Check
In Ouachita’s counseling degree program, all admitted students are required to meet the following program requirements:
- All admitted students must achieve a grade of B or better on all counseling coursework to satisfy Arkansas state requirements for licensure.
- All students must attend all four in-person intensives during the program.
- All students must comply with the attendance policy for synchronous class time on Thursday nights.
The master’s in counseling program at Ouachita Baptist University seeks to provide ethical, evidence-based counselor education that combines academic rigor with clinical experience. Grounded in a biblical worldview and believing all human beings are made in the image of God and consequently merit respect and compassionate care, Ouachita prepares students to serve diverse populations as they aid in God’s restorative mission of healing and reconciliation.
2025-2026 Online Counseling Program Tuition and Fees
- Tuition per graduate credit hour: $550
- Estimated total tuition and fees for full 63-hour program: $36,733
Explore Graduate and Professional Studies program costs and financial assistance.
Graduates of Ouachita’s clinical mental health counseling program will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge central to scholarly inquiry and professional practice of clinical mental health counseling.
- Apply relevant skills to assess, diagnose and treat individuals from a diverse clinical population in an ethical and effective manner.
- Demonstrate professional counselor behaviors for personal growth, self-care and wellness.
- Develop a professional counselor identity and practice consistent with personal beliefs and professional career goals.
The counseling faculty at Ouachita evaluates student learning outcomes through a variety of assessment modalities to ensure all graduates obtain the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be ethical, competent, effective counselors. Information gathered informs program planning and improves program effectiveness.
Throughout the program, all admitted students engage in continuous evaluations. This evaluation process fulfills Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) standards and professional gatekeeping responsibilities, ensuring each student has the skills and emotional maturity for a professional counseling career.
If you’re interested in applying to a Ouachita graduate program but are not a U.S. citizen, contact your graduate admissions counselor, Roxanne Easter, at [email protected] before submitting an application. Due to visa requirements, admission requests from non-U.S. citizens are addressed on a case-by-case basis and take extra time. Please inquire early in the process.
Minimum English proficiency requirements for international students are:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):
- At least a 79 on the internet-Based TOEFL (iBT)
- At least a 550 on the paper-based TOEFL
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS):
- At least a 6.5 on the IELTS exam
Learn about the international student experience and admissions requirements.
The Counseling Compact Commission provides information regarding states that provide a privilege to practice in other member states. Arkansas is a member of the Counseling Compact. Information and a map of states that have passed legislation, have legislation pending and who have not yet joined the compact can be viewed here.
The Master of Arts in Counseling program meets educational requirements for licensure in the state of Arkansas and is pursuing CACREP accreditation. Students interested in obtaining a license in another state should check with the applicable licensing authority in that state to ensure that Ouachita’s program meets the state's education requirements for eligibility for licensure. Students may visit the American Counseling Association licensure requirements by state.
For additional information, you may contact the Counseling program by emailing [email protected].
No Background? No Problem
Whether you’re beginning your career or making a career change, Ouachita’s online master’s in counseling program can prepare you for a life of meaningful work. Students of all ages are eligible, and prior psychology experience isn’t required! Our low-residency format is ideal for working professionals or busy individuals who want to make an impact through counseling.
High Standards, High Achievement
Ouachita’s master’s in counseling program is designed to achieve national standards for excellence set by CACREP. By meeting rigorous benchmarks for real-world practice, the M.A. in counseling prepares graduates to pass the National Counselor Exam for licensure in Arkansas and other CACREP-affiliated states. Students develop clinical skills through robust coursework and supervised experience while forming a professional network.
Academic Rigor, Faith Integration
At Ouachita, classroom instruction is grounded in a biblical worldview that stimulates academic and spiritual growth essential for effective Christian counseling. Curriculum focuses on complex, real-world issues while anchoring students in ethical foundations for practice. With flexible modalities accelerating completion, the program's comprehensive training and supervised clinical experiences give you tools to excel in a demanding profession.
Our Mission
makes the difference.
The demand for mental health services has drastically increased nationwide, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Ouachita’s M.A. in counseling degree program rises to meet this pressing need by equipping graduates for impactful service as licensed counseling professionals. Students acquire the knowledge and experiential training to guide individuals toward healing and addressing mental health issues through a biblical lens. Our graduates step into growing career opportunities, leveraging their counseling expertise to improve lives.
Meet our Counseling Faculty
Dr. Sandra Gilliland
Dr. Sandra Gilliland is a counselor, educator, and advocate for integrating faith and clinical excellence in the counseling profession. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Arkansas, EMDR-trained, and certified in Prepare/Enrich and Within Our Reach. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and Counseling from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where her research explored the relationship between emotional intelligence, spiritual formation, and student success.
With more than 15 years of experience in higher education and clinical practice, Dr. Gilliland has taught a wide range of psychology and counseling courses and led program initiatives focused on trauma-informed care, mental health stigma, and the ethical inclusion of faith in therapy. As Program Director, she is passionate about mentoring students, building a supportive and challenging academic environment, and preparing future counselors to serve their communities with both competence and compassion.
Outside the classroom, Dr. Gilliland enjoys presenting at conferences, writing, and developing creative tools for therapist development. In her free time, you’ll likely find her walking her dogs, planning her next trip with her husband and two boys, or rewatching Gilmore Girls (again).
Dr. Kristy Burton
Dr. Kristy Burton is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Supervisor with a rich background in counseling, teaching, and mentoring. She brings over ten years of clinical experience and seven years of teaching in CACREP-accredited programs. Her specialties include addiction counseling, trauma-informed care, and ethical clinical supervision. Students will quickly see her deep commitment to equipping future counselors with both skill and heart.
She’s also a recognized leader in the field, recently receiving the 2023 Rosenthal Award for excellence in supervision and the 2024 Champion Award from the Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Whether she’s teaching, supervising, or speaking at national conferences, Dr. Burton’s work is grounded in faith, compassion, and a genuine passion for helping others.
As Director of Clinical Training, Dr. Burton will play a key role in guiding students through practicum and internship, supporting them as they grow in confidence and competence as emerging counselors. She’s passionate about creating hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for real-world practice and licensure.
Danielle Ojeabulu
Professor Danielle Ojeabulu is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in chemistry, pharmaceutical sales, life coaching, and counseling. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry from Hampton University in 1993 and initially worked as a chemist for the City of Detroit Water Department. After four years, she transitioned to a career in pharmaceutical sales with a Johnson & Johnson company, where she excelled for a decade, ultimately serving as a Senior Institutional Hospital Sales Representative. In this role, she specialized in selling fluoroquinolones, carbapenems, wound-healing agents, and analgesics.
In 2017, Professor Ojeabulu shifted her career path by obtaining a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. She then moved to Houston, Texas, to begin her post-graduate work as an LPC Associate. Currently, she is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor in both Texas and Louisiana. As the sole owner of her private practice, Hope to Healed, established in January 2020, Professor Ojeabulu focuses on treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD in adults. She has extensive training in EMDR therapy, CBT, and DBT. Professor Ojeabulu is also a Ph.D. candidate at Townsend Institute, Concordia University Irvine. Her dissertation explores the lived experiences of pastors and church leaders dealing with mental health issues in the Black community, reflecting her commitment to addressing mental health challenges within this demographic. She is passionate about educating and supervising future counselors.
Sean Culpepper
Sean Culpepper is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Regional Supervisor with Living Well Professional Counseling, a ministry of Arkansas Baptist Children and Family Ministries. With over 20 years of professional counseling experience and more than 30 years in ministry, Sean brings a deep well of wisdom, compassion, and leadership to his work.
Sean holds dual Master’s degrees in Marriage and Family Counseling and Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry and Speech Communication from Ouachita Baptist University. He has also pursued doctoral studies in Counselor Supervision and Education at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
Throughout his career, Sean has served in a variety of roles including Assistant Director of Counseling, Clinical Supervisor, Family Ministry Director, and Cross-Cultural Church Planter. His clinical expertise includes counselor supervision, trauma recovery (individual and group), and couples counseling. He is certified in EMDR, trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and holds multiple specializations including Counseling Supervision and Technological Assisted Counseling.
Sean is also a shepherding elder at Summit Church Saline in Benton, Arkansas, where he actively supports Celebrate Recovery and the children’s ministry. His passion for mentoring, teaching, and helping others heal is evident in every aspect of his life and work.
Outside of his professional life, Sean enjoys camping, playing drums, reading, and spending quality time with his wife and family.
GRADUATE & PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
Ouachita Baptist University's Graduate and Professional Studies programs cater to individuals committed to lifelong learning or seeking career advancement. The programs employ innovative modalities in diverse fields, ensuring that students find success professionally and spiritually. Emphasizing a sense of community, Ouachita cultivates meaningful relationships among students and professors for a supportive and enriching educational experience.
GET IN TOUCH
Speak with a graduate admissions counselor to get started with Ouachita Baptist University. Answer your calling to compassionately impact lives with a Master of Arts in counseling degree.
