California Institute of Integral Studies
Program Overview
CIIS offers a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Integral Counseling Psychology (ICP), available in both on-campus and hybrid formats. Rooted in a holistic approach, the program integrates Western psychological methods with Eastern spiritual traditions, emphasizing personal growth and social justice. Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure as Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and/or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) in California.
Key Features
- Accreditation: CIIS is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
- Delivery Formats:
- On-Campus: Traditional classroom setting in San Francisco.
- Hybrid: Primarily online MFT coursework with one on-campus intensive per semester.
- Program Length: Approximately 3 years.
- Units Required: 66 units.
- Specializations: Integral Counseling Psychology, with options to focus on areas like Community Mental Health.
Curriculum
The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, covering:
- Theories of psychotherapy and counseling
- Human development across the lifespan
- Multicultural counseling and social justice
- Research methods and program evaluation
- Ethical and legal considerations in therapy
Courses are designed to meet the educational requirements for LMFT and LPCC licensure in California.
Clinical Training
Students engage in supervised clinical training through partnerships with various mental health agencies. The program includes practicum experiences where students accumulate the necessary hours for licensure. CIIS provides support in securing appropriate clinical placements.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (preferred)
- Personal statement reflecting commitment to the field
- Two letters of recommendation
- Interview (may be conducted virtually for hybrid applicants)
Specific prerequisites may vary; applicants should consult the program’s admissions page for detailed information.
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: Approximately $1,200 per unit (subject to change).
- Financial Aid:
- Federal financial aid available for eligible students.
- Scholarships and grants offered through CIIS.
- Flexible payment plans to accommodate various financial situations.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the financial aid office for personalized assistance.
Career Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for licensure as LMFTs and/or LPCCs in California, leading to careers in:
- Private practice
- Community mental health agencies
- Hospitals and healthcare settings
- Educational institutions
- Non-profit organizations
The program’s emphasis on holistic and multicultural approaches equips graduates to serve diverse populations effectively.
Why Choose CIIS?
- Holistic Approach: Integration of mind, body, and spirit in therapeutic practices.
- Flexible Learning Options: Choice between traditional on-campus experience and hybrid format to suit different lifestyles.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from practitioners actively engaged in the field.
- Strong Clinical Partnerships: Access to a wide network of clinical training sites across California
How to Apply
- Complete the online application form on CIIS’s official website.
- Submit required documents, including transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- Schedule and complete an admissions interview (if applicable).
- Await admission decision and, if accepted, begin the enrollment process.
For more information and to start your application, visit the CIIS website.