School of Health Professions 2024 - 2025 Catalog

Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (MSCR)

We are a CACREP Accredited program as a Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling program through March 2029.

500 Montgomery Street, Suite 350
Alexandria, VA 22314 
www.cacrep.org


Our Profession

Clinical Rehabilitation Counselors empower people with disabilities to make informed choices, build viable careers, and live more independently within the community. Through a counseling process, Clinical Rehabilitation Counselors provide and coordinate services for people with a wide range of physical and psychiatric disabilities, chronic conditions or diseases, and people who are in recovery from substance abuse disorders. Services include counseling to support clients in achieving their education and career goals through preparation activities and training for a specific occupation. Clinical Rehabilitation Counselors work with clients in a variety of settings, including schools and universities, state workforce systems, veteran's services, advocacy and non-profit agencies, employee assistance programs, private forensic practice, and hospital settings.

Program Description

This Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling curriculum is designed to involve the learner as an active participant in the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for competent practice in the field; and conforms to the stated requirements for the graduate education of Clinical Rehabilitation Counselors as set forth by accrediting and certification bodies. It is the intent of the program to graduate students who are:

  • Ready to acknowledge the importance of ensuring dignity, independence, and wellness for persons with disabilities;

  • Dedicated to adhering to the key values, standards, and codes of ethics as set forth by state and national licensing and certifying bodies;

  • Engaged in reflective, creative problem-solving;

  • Responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities;

  • Sensitive to the collaborative therapeutic relationship;

  • Involved in leadership roles to develop and enhance services;

  • Able to act as a responsible advocate for persons with disabilities.


Students who graduate from the MSCR program are prepared to work with clients in a variety of settings; including schools and universities, state workforce systems, veteran services, advocacy and non-profit agencies, employee assistance programs, private forensic practice, and hospital settings.

The Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (MSCR) degree program is a distance education, 60 semester credit hour graduate program, designed to provide a comprehensive exposure to the field of Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling.

The MSCR program was designed specifically for people who experience barriers to attending traditional types of graduate programs. The program is ideal for people who are employed, who live in rural or isolated areas; have family or personal responsibilities that prevent them from taking on-campus study; or who simply cannot take extended time off to attend school. TTUHSC uses a variety of methods and technologies to maximize the students' educational experience, including web and internet-based technologies, web conferencing teleconferencing, hard copy, and on-site practicum and internship experiences. These and other strategies are employed to ensure that all students, regardless of geographic location, are able to participate to the maximum degree possible in all aspects of their program. Students are not required to come to the TTUHSC campus.


Clinical Education

Clinical education is an integral aspect of the program. The MSCR program complies with all requirements for practicum and clinical internships as set forth by the relevant accrediting and certifying organizations. In order to meet these requirements, Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling students will be required to complete two clinical experiences during their program. First, all students will participate in a 100 hour supervised rehabilitation counseling practicum, which fosters personal growth, provides active learning experiences, enhances student insights into individual, group, and organizational behavior, and introduces students to counseling approaches and the rehabilitation issues that affect service delivery. Delivered on a distance basis, these experiences will combine applied instruction by faculty with supervised practicum experiences in approved clinical sites, either at the student’s place of employment (when appropriate) or in approved rehabilitation settings. All sites must be completed on U.S. soil.


Second, all students will be required to complete a 600-hour supervised internship in a rehabilitation setting. Students who are employed in a clinical rehabilitation counseling setting may, with program and employer approval, utilize these locales for their internship experiences.


Professional Liability Insurance

All MSCR students are required to obtain and provide proof of individual counseling liability insurance before being allowed to participate in their clinical experiences. This requirement is in effect as of Fall 2020.


Mission Statement

The mission of the Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling (MSCR) program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center forwards the mission of the University by providing a practitioner training program focused on the unique needs of diverse communities, especially in rural settings. We are committed to preparing entry-level clinical rehabilitation counselors to work competently and ethically through the mastery of evidence-based practices. Our focus centers on empowering people with disabilities to make informed choices, build viable careers, and live more independently within the community.

Program Goals

The goal of the program is to prepare students with the counseling and rehabilitation knowledge and skills to assist people with a wide range of physical and psychiatric disabilities, chronic conditions or diseases, and social disabilities in achieving their education and career goals.

The objectives of our program are linked to our mission statement. They are to provide:

  • Educational experiences that facilitate the development of knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to practice as qualified clinical rehabilitation counselors in a wide variety of contexts.

  • Learning opportunities to support the ability to implement responsive and ethically sound clinical rehabilitation counseling practices throughout their careers, and to advocate for individuals with disabilities and the profession.

  • Clinical training experiences focused on translating acquired knowledge, attitudes, and skills to evidence-based practice in a wide range of real-world opportunities.

The MSCR program strives to accomplish our mission, goals, and objectives by:

  • Recruiting, educating, and graduating students who are prepared to provide clinical rehabilitation counseling services in a variety of employment settings.

  • Providing a rigorous academic environment that provides a solid foundation to prepare entry-level Clinical Rehabilitation Counselors who meet national certification standards.

  • Working closely with the public and private rehabilitation communities to ensure well-trained graduates are considered valued employees.

  • Developing a faculty that is valued by our students and the rehabilitation community for our teaching, research, and service.

  • Achieving the highest quality program possible within the constraints of available financial, human, technological, and time resources.

  • Developing commitment within students to empower individuals with disabilities to identify and maximize their resources to meet their developmental, vocational, independent living, and educational needs.

  • Instilling within students a commitment to developing a life-long commitment to learning professionalism continuing education throughout their career.

Certification and Licensure

Upon completion of the MSCR program, students will possess the competencies and experiences necessary to take the Certified Rehabilitation Examination (CRC), National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) as a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Successful graduates can be credentialed as a Certified Rehabilitation Examination (CRC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and apply for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) in most states.

Admission to the Program

The MSCR Program enrolls students in both the Fall and Spring Semesters. Students applying for the Fall semester must submit an application by June 1 and those applying for the Spring semester must submit an application by November 1.

Individuals applying to the program should already hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, preferably in a related area such as psychology, social work, special education, sociology, nursing, and related disciplines, however, all disciplines are accepted. To be considered for admission, it is recommended that applicants meet one of the following GPA requirements:

  • An overall grade point average GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale OR 
  • A minimum cumulative GPA in the last 60 semester hours of courses of 2.7 or higher from all college credit is required. 
  • Applicants with lower GPAs may be considered based upon their work experience in a human services or related field for (3) or more years. 

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Millers Analogies Test (M.A.T.) scores are NOT required for entry into the MSCR program. Prior work or volunteer experience in human service settings is considered a valuable attribute for applicants but is not mandatory. Students may transfer up to 9 credit hours, if applicable, with program approval. Persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.


Application Process

Students will submit a completed application form, transcripts, an essay from the applicant outlining their rationale for applying to the program, 2 letters of reference, and a resume. Qualified candidates may be contacted for an interview.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to assure that all supporting documentation is received by the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. Application materials and detailed information on application procedures and admission criteria can be accessed via the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Health Professions website at http://www.ttuhsc.edu/health-professions/admissions/application.aspx. Applications for non-degree-seeking students wishing to participate in selected MSCR courses may be accepted with prior approval. Please contact the program director for more information.

MSCR Curriculum

CORE COURSEWORK
Courses
Credit Hours

HPCR 1002      Foundations for Interprofessional Collaborative Practice

0

HPCR 5301      Introduction to Counseling & Ethical Development

3

HPCR 5302      Counseling Theories

3

HPCR 5303      Human Growth & Development

3

HPCR 5304      Career Counseling

3

HPCR 5305      Psychopathology & Diagnosis

3

HPCR 5307      Multicultural Counseling

3

HPCR 5308      Research & Statistics

3

HPCR 5311      Addictions Counseling

3

HPCR 5312      Assessment

3

HPCR 5318      Abnormal Behavior: Treatment Planning and Case Management                                    

3

Total Hours = 30

SPECIALTY COURSEWORK
Courses
Credit Hours

HPCR 5330      Foundations of Rehabilitation Counseling & Ethical Development

3

HPCR 5331      Medical Aspects of Disability

3

HPCR 5332      Psychosocial Aspects of Disability

3

HPCR 6050      Comprehensive Examination                                                                                    

0



Total Hours = 9


EXPERIENTIAL COURSEWORK
CourseCredit Hours
HPCR 5340      Micro Counseling Techniques3
HPCR 5342      Group Counseling Techniques3
HPCR 5344      Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling Methods                                           3

Total Hours = 9



CLINICAL EXPERIENCES
*Requires individual professional counseling liability insurance policy 
Course
Credit Hours

HPCR 5360      Practicum

3

HPCR 6001      Internship                                                                                                                                     

9


Total Hours = 12

  • HPCR 1002 Foundations for Interprofessional Collaborative Practice (0:0:0,O)

    An introduction to broad concepts related to interprofessional core competencies for healthcare providers.

  • HPCR 5301 Introduction to Counseling and Ethical Development (3:3:0,O)

    This course introduces students to the profession of counseling, including: the history of the counseling profession, accreditation, certification and licensure requirements, laws and regulations governing counseling, and the professional associations and code of ethics. The course is designed to explore and shape the role identity of persons providing direct counseling treatment intervention. Additional topics include telehealth, consultation, supervision, and self-care strategies.

  • HPCR 5302 Counseling Theories (3:3:0,O)

    This course provides an introduction to theories and models of counseling. Students will explore individual, group, and family counseling theories and practices. This course encourages students not only to explore theories of counseling and psychotherapy, but also their personal beliefs and values in an effort to develop a personal model of counseling.

  • HPCR 5303 Human Growth and Development (3:3:0,O)

    The purpose of this class is to develop an understanding of human growth and development honoring both normative and non-normative experiences. Students will use this knowledge to develop the skills and attitudes necessary to provide ethical counseling services to diverse individuals across the lifespan.

  • HPCR 5304 Career Counseling (3:3:0,O)

    This course is designed to inform students of the theories, roles and techniques in the practice of career counseling. Topics include career counseling theories, working with special populations, job development and placement, work-site modifications, assistive technology, and work place supports.

  • HPCR 5305 Psychopathology and Diagnosis (3:3:0,O)

    The purpose of this class is the exploration of the range of personality and behavioral disorders as described in the most updated version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Focusing on process, students will explore descriptive criteria, etiology, assessment, and diagnosis. Additional topics include theories of psychopathology, common psychopharmacological treatments and medications, and equity and diversity issues.

  • HPCR 5307 Multicultural Counseling (3:3:0,O)

    This course focuses on the theories underlying multicultural counseling, identity development and social justice, and their application to practice. Topics addressed include race, ethnicity, gender, disability, and socioeconomic issues; racial and cultural identity formation; and oppression, privilege, social justice, and advocacy. Course materials and learning activities provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge of multicultural and diversity theories and issues to examine their own development as counselors to specific client populations and to their communities.

  • HPCR 5308 Research and Statistics (3:3:0,O)

    This course provides the student with an exploration of current trends in research in counseling and related fields; basic research design, methodologies, analysis, and interpretation; a discussion of the applications of research methodologies, findings, and interpretations in guiding and evaluating counseling practice (e.g.-choosing interventions, planning assessments, evaluating results, etc.); and an introduction to research statistics.

  • HPCR 5311 Addictions Counseling (3:3:0,O)

    A thorough review of addictions including models of addiction, assessment, treatment, and interactions within interprofessional treatment settings. Common topics include specific issues related to alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex and food/eating.

  • HPCR 5312 Assessment (3:3:0,O)

    This course focuses on measurement and appraisal tasks for professional counseling. Special topics related to clinical rehabilitation, addiction, and clinical mental health counseling assessment are presented. Common topics include a comprehensive study of commonly used assessment tools as well as techniques.

  • HPCR 5318 Abnormal Behavior: Treatment Planning and Case Management (3:3:0,O)

    This course focuses on treatment planning and case management practices for abnormal human behavior. Topics include the principles of understanding dysfunction in human behavior, the case management process, service coordination, client advocacy, and treatment planning strategies.

  • HPCR 5330 Foundations of Rehabilitation and Ethical Development (3:3:0,O)

    Introduction to the history and philosophy of rehabilitation and the legislative and policy background underpinning the modern delivery of rehabilitation counseling services. Exploration of the organizational structure of current rehabilitation counseling services, and the legal and ethical standards that guide them are emphasized. Discussion of societal issues, trends, and developments in rehabilitation, and their impact upon consumer review, choice, and personal responsibility.

  • HPCR 5331 Medical Aspects of Disability (3:3:0,O)

    Introduction to the medical aspects and implications of disability. Review of medical terminology, functional limitations, medical treatment and vocational implications as they apply to rehabilitation counseling. The identification of appropriate medical intervention resources is discussed.

  • HPCR 5332 Psycho-Social Aspects of Disability (3:3:0,O)

    The purpose of this class is the exploration of the psychological and social aspects of disability, with particular emphasis on the impact of the disability experience from the perspective of the person with disability. The implications of each disorder on the client's personal, social and occupational functioning will be addressed. Primary focus is centered on understanding the experience of disability, it's social and psychological implications for persons with disabilities, family, support systems, and the general population.

  • HPCR 5340 Micro Counseling Techniques (3:3:0,O)

    This course provides an in-depth focus on the exploration, development, and practice of micro-skills, the essential building blocks of counseling. Training allows for observed development and peer practice in a synchronous online setting. Advanced study of counseling-related telehealth is included. Students must have passed HPCR/HPMC/HPAC 5302 and 5307 or equivalents before enrolling.

  • HPCR 5342 Group Counseling Techniques (3:3:0,O)

    This course is designed to prepare counselors to become knowledgeable and skillful in using the theoretical constructs and technical skills of group counseling. Attention is given to theories of counseling, elements of leadership in group counseling, healthy and dysfunctional behaviors, culturally diverse perspectives, and legal and ethical issues. Training allows for observed development and peer practice in a synchronous online setting. Students must have passed HPCR/HPMC/HPAC 5340 before enrolling.

  • HPCR 5344 Couples, Marriage, and Family Counseling Methods (3:3:0,O)

    This course is designed to prepare counselors to use the theoretical constructs and technical skills used in couples, marriage and family counseling settings. Training allows for observed development and peer practice in a synchronous online setting. Students must have passed HPCR/HPMC/HPAC 5340 and 5342 before enrolling.

  • HPCR 5360 Practicum (3:3:7,O)

    This course provides for the application of theory and the development of counseling skills under supervision. Includes both synchronous online class and on-site experiences in settings that facilitate the development of basic counseling and practice skills. This course may be repeated for credit. Completion of this course is a prerequisite for the internship phase of the program. Students must have passed HPCR/HPMC/HPAC 5312 and 5342 before enrolling.

  • HPCR 6001 Internship (3-9:0:1-40,O)

    An immersion experience of supervised practice within a counseling services setting. Students will serve as a counseling professional under the supervision of a fully qualified practitioner. Mandatory group supervision by faculty in an online setting. Requires a total of 600 clock-hours of supervised clinical practice throughout the 9 required credit hours. Student will work with their advisor to determine the appropriate number of credit hours for which to register each semester. Students must have passed the Practicum course for their specialty before enrolling. Students may enroll in course multiple times.

  • HPCR 6050 Comprehensive Examination (0:0:0,O)

    The comprehensive examination is designed to assess counseling students' knowledge across the common domains, and relevant specialty area, of counselor preparation. The comprehensive exam is graded on a Pass/Fail basis.