South University hosts open house for mental health counseling degree program

South University in Northwest Austin is hosting an open house to provide information about its master's degree program in clinical mental health counseling June 12 from 6–7:30 p.m.

The degree program takes 2.5 years to complete, is open to all graduate students and includes broad training in theories, principles, dynamic application, competency in understanding ethical, legal and professional issues and application applying mental health research.

Part of the program includes experimental instruction in various clinics and other institutions that accept practicum students in Austin, said Manuel Zamarripa, program director and associate professor of Master of Arts Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

South University in Austin began offering the master's degree in 2013 in order to address local shortages in mental health professionals, he said.

"There are a few things that distinguish us [from other university programs]," Zamarripa said. "One is that we use a cohort system, which meanswhen you enter with a group, you stay with that group. You take all of your classes with the same group. We think that helps with a support network and helps facilitate some positive interactions as students learn. They get to really develop as a group."

He said he wants to keep classes to 15 students or less. To be accepted into the program, students must have a G.P.A. of at least 3.0.

RSVP is not necessary to to attend the open house at South University, located at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Bldg. A, Ste. A100. More information about the degree program can be found on the website.