Mission

Prepare rehabilitation and mental health professionals who are skilled in advocating for and with persons who are deaf or have disabilities and who are competent counselors knowledgeable about the development and dissemination of innovative and culturally sensitive rehabilitation practices and policies.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of rehabilitation and mental health counseling theories, models, and policies.
2. Develop proficiency in social justice counseling that empowers diverse individuals with various levels of ability to attain self-determination, equity, meaningful employment, full community inclusion, and personal growth.
3. Uphold professional excellence and leadership through ethical practice and integrity.

The Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling (RMHC) program at Western Oregon University offers the Rehabilitation Counseling (RC) Master of Science degree that prepares students to provide counseling, rehabilitation, and consultative services to diverse client populations. Graduates develop the knowledge and skills to empower individuals managing disabilities, foster mental wellness, and advocate for equity and inclusion. The program curriculum grounds students in theories, policies, and ethical practices relevant to social justice. Graduates are eligible for Oregon licensure as professional counselors in mental health settings. The modality combines online and hybrid courses, requiring 1-2 meetings per month in Salem. This flexible format makes the program ideal for working professionals and students at a distance. Full-time students can complete the program in as little as 2 years, while the hybrid structure also enables completion in 2.5-3 years for those needing additional flexibility.

The program emphasizes five major academic components:

• Individual and group counseling theory and technique;
• The influence of career acquisition and personal independence on the daily lives of people with disabilities;
• The social and psychological impact of disability on an individual and family;
• The federal, state, and private service delivery systems for persons with disabilities; and
• Self-awareness on the part of the counselors-in-training.