Graduate Program in Community Mental Health (PCMH)
The program offers specializations in Integrated Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, with a choice of emphasis in work with children, youth, and families or adults
PCMH has learning sites located in Alaska, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Wisconsin The program has a unique delivery format. Classes meet one weekend per month, promoting active learning and ongoing practice in the field.
The Graduate Program in Community Mental Health offers certificates and master’s degree options. Requirements vary according to specialization and site specific offerings. Individuals may also enroll in graduate course work as non-degree / continue education course credit for professional development or licensure preparation. Please use the links below for more details.
-
Non-degree / Continuing Education Coursework Individuals may enroll in graduate level course offerings as non-degree / continuing education course credit for professional development or licensure preparation. Up to nine credits may be taken, by permission of the program, without enrolling in a degree program, and in some cases more credits for individuals who already have a master’s degree.
-
Certificate in Community Mental Health (minimum 22 graduate credits). The certificates consists of courses that constitute the first year of the master’s degree program. Focus is on one of two specializations (work with children, youth and families or adults).
- Master of Science in Community Mental Health: 48 graduate credits (Certificate + 26 credits). The master of science program includes foundation courses, specialization courses, internships and advanced course work in clinical practice and management of integrated services. Students earn a certificate within the master’s degree sequence.
- Community Mental Health Counseling Track, 60 graduate credits (Masters + 12 additional credits). For students pursuing licensure as mental health counselors.
Nationally recognized competencies that are multidisciplinary and multicultural in nature are the core of PCMH. These competencies are drawn from the research literature and practice in model programs, have been developed with input from professionals, service users and family members and modified using the experience of other national groups.
“Finally, an academic setting exists where clinicians, managers, consumers and family members can learn together in an environment that is stimulating, respectful and challenging.”
Rod Copeland, former Vermont Commissioner of Developmental and Mental Health Services
PCMH is targeted to a diverse group of students:
- Mental health and substance abuse staff who wish to advance to a master's level of practice and professional licensure
- Staff updating their education and understanding of state-of-the-art practices, service management, program development, program evaluation
- Individuals working in related human service, educational, medical, or corrections fields providing support to children or adults with mental health concerns
- Mental health and substance abuse service consumers, in recovery, and family members who are interested in becoming professional service providers
- Individuals interested in a career change to the behavioral health and/ substance abuse field