Master of Arts in Psychology
Multicultural Counseling (MCC)
Navigate a rapidly changing world.
For those passionate about mental health and counseling, from various academic or professional backgrounds.
Multicultural Counseling (MCC)
The Multicultural Counseling (MCC) program is designed for individuals seeking a graduate degree in mental health without pursuing licensure.
This program welcomes:
- Students with a bachelor’s degree from a related field, including those who graduated years ago
- Professionals already working in human services who want additional training
- International students looking for an introduction to mental health care
It offers a flexible pathway for those passionate about mental health and counseling, regardless of their academic or professional background.
Note: The 33-unit MCC does not meet the requirements to sit for a license in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in any state. However, upon Chair’s approval in the form of an official interview, MCC graduates can apply for the UWest MFT program and transfer up to 33 units of this program (for courses passed with a grade of B or better) to the newly designed degree program.
More Details
- Location: Greater Los Angeles
- Length: 1.5 to 2 years / 33 units
- Flexible Enrollment: Fall & Spring start dates
- Small Class Sizes: 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio
Application Deadlines
- Spring: March 15th
- Fall: October 15th
More information
Program Highlights
-
- Holistic Approach: Integrates Western psychological theories with Eastern philosophies, offering a comprehensive understanding of mental health.
- Diverse Student Body: Welcomes students from various academic and cultural backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment—an essential asset for those preparing to counsel individuals from diverse communities.
- Professional Development: Tailored for human services professionals looking to deepen their expertise in multicultural counseling, enhance their ability to work with diverse populations, and integrate culturally responsive mental health practices into their work.
Highlighted Courses
-
- PSYCH 505: Buddhist/Community Mental Health
An orientation course that offers introduction to the program and to Buddhism wisdom. Focuses on values exploration and professional identity, with an emphasis upon selfhood, professionalism, best practices, and self-compassion. - PSYCH 530: Psychopathology
Explore the nature and treatment of psychological disorders, focusing on diagnosis and intervention strategies. - PSYCH 533: Multicultural Counseling
Examine how cultural backgrounds influence mental processes and behavior, enhancing culturally competent counseling skills. - PSYCH 540: Counseling Across the Lifespan
Investigate human development stages and the corresponding counseling approaches suitable for each life phase. - PSYCH 600: Group Psychotherapy
Provides students with knowledge of the theoretical bases on group psychotherapy and the experience to formulate goals, objectives and plans for a psychotherapy group.
- PSYCH 505: Buddhist/Community Mental Health
Who Should Apply?
UWest’s MCC program is ideal for:
✔ Aspiring counselors counselors looking to lead or facilitate groups
✔ Career changers from a different academic background
✔ Scholars seeking doctoral pursuit with an MA degree
✔ Students passionate about diverse, holistic therapy approaches
Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: From an accredited institution, in a related field of study
- Transcripts: Official records from all post-secondary institutions
- Letters of Recommendation: Three academic or professional references
- Personal Statement: Why you want to join the MCC program
- English Proficiency: Required for non-native speakers
Why Choose UWest’s MCC Program?
Holistic Approach
Integrates Western psychological theories with Eastern philosophies, offering a comprehensive understanding of mental health.
Diverse Student Body
Welcomes students from various academic and cultural backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment—an essential asset for those preparing to counsel individuals from diverse communities.
Personalized Guidance
Benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty who mentor you toward your career goals.
Professional Development
Learn from experienced professionals who bring academic excellence and practical wisdom into the classroom.
Scholarship Advancement
Prepares students for their next educational endeavor such as pursuing a doctorate in the field of behavioral science.
Holistic Approach
Integrates Western psychological theories with Eastern philosophies, offering a comprehensive understanding of mental health.
Diverse Student Body
Welcomes students from various academic and cultural backgrounds, creating a rich learning environment—an essential asset for those preparing to counsel individuals from diverse communities.
Personalized Guidance
Benefit from small class sizes and dedicated faculty who mentor you toward your career goals.
Professional Development
Learn from experienced professionals who bring academic excellence and practical wisdom into the classroom.
Trauma-Informed Counseling Approaches
Mental Health & Behavioral Interventions
Couples & Family Therapy Techniques
Ethical & Culturally Competent Practice
Couples & Family Therapy Techniques
Ethical & Culturally Competent Practice
Mental Health & Behavioral Interventions
Trauma-Informed Counseling Approaches
Individualized Guidance
You will meet with a program advisor to discuss your what sparks your passions and how your interests fit into your larger career goals. Together, you will develop your individualized program—a course of study that is truly you.
Career Pathways
Graduates of UWest’s MCC program are prepared for roles such as:
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) – Work in private practice, clinics, and hospitals.
- School Counselor – Support students’ mental well-being.
- Substance Abuse Counselor – Help individuals overcome substance abuse disorders.
- Community Mental Health Counselor – Provide therapy in diverse communities.
- Clinical Supervisor – Mentor and oversee new therapists.
The demand for marriage and family therapists is projected to grow 16% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average.
FACULTY
Chair
Joanne Kwoh-Maysami, PhD
Adjunct Faculty
John Creet, PsyD, AMFT
Alexis Davis, PhD
Venerable De Hong, PhD
Donte Green, MA
Wenli Jen, EdD
Timothy Leslie, PsyD, LMFT
Ivan Medina, MA, AMFT
John Reid, PhD
Jason Stringer, MA, LMFT
Jonathan Wicks, MA, LCSW
Start Your Journey
Embark on a transformative educational journey with UWest’s Master of Arts in Psychology.
Start Your Journey
Embark on a transformative educational journey with UWest’s Master of Arts in Psychology.