A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services
Graduate Certificate in Counseling
Expand your understanding of the mental health challenges faced by today’s students and explore the role of school counselors. Capella’s Graduate Certificate in Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services examines the characteristics and risk factors of mental health issues and behavioral disorders as well as effective assessment and intervention strategies. The credits earned in these five master’s-level courses could potentially be applied toward a master’s degree at Capella, saving you time and money.
This certificate program is not designed or intended to prepare students for professional licensure in the fields of counseling or education in any U.S. jurisdiction.
At a glance
- 100% Online
- 5 Core courses
Explore counseling courses
- This certificate requires a total of 20 program credits
- You’ll need to complete five courses
Show all descriptions
COUN5002
Lifespan Development for the Counseling Professions
4 quarter credits
Learners examine theories and principles of lifespan development to include biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral frameworks. Learners analyze a variety of contexts that support typical and adaptive development in all stages of life and are exposed to current research and knowledge in the field. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
4 quarter credits
COUN5238
Crisis Assessment and Intervention
4 quarter credits
Learners assess crisis intervention and emergency management models and strategies used in the counseling field and develop the crisis intervention skills needed to provide counseling services in mental health settings in a timely, effective, and ethical manner. Learners also investigate related topics, including working with situational crises, assessing suicide and other risks, and supporting the implementation of emergency management plans. Prerequisite(s): MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and MS in School Counseling learners must have completed COUN-R5861 or COUN-R5831. Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services graduate certificate learners must have completed COUN5002.
4 quarter credits
COUN5239
Theories of the Counseling Profession
4 quarter credits
Learners investigate various theories of psychotherapy and their respective philosophical principles and assumptions. Learners evaluate the theoretical concepts and evidence-based practices of psychotherapy and examine appropriate application of theories and interventions to different client populations.
4 quarter credits
COUN5280
Introduction to School Counseling
4 quarter credits
Learners gain an understanding of the profession of school counseling. Learners examine the history and development of school counseling; investigate ethical and legal requirements for school counselors; explore the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model and service delivery systems, including specific programs and interventions; and analyze the multiple roles and functions of school counselors with various stakeholders.
4 quarter credits
COUN5420
Child and Adolescent Psychopathology
4 quarter credits
Learners examine common characteristics, risk factors, and warning signs of mental health and behavioral disorders affecting children and adolescents. Learners also critically evaluate diagnostic models, methods, and approaches and explore current DSM classifications and diagnostic issues related to children and adolescents. In addition, learners investigate the impact of common medications on learning, behavior, and mood in children and adolescents.
4 quarter credits
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
How much does a graduate certificate in counseling cost?
The total cost of your certificate will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, tuition discounts and other factors. See cost information below.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
- $512 per credit
- $175 resource kit
- 20 total quarter credits
- 0 max transfer credits
$10,240*
NO TRANSFER CREDITS 12 months
*This is only an estimate, effective July 7, 2025, and is subject to change.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include your resource kit, travel expenses and practicum costs.
Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses are not included. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer.
New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs. Review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Get the details
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education.
Connect with an enrollment specialist to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for certificates?
Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all our accreditations and recognitions.
What are the graduate certificate in counseling admission requirements?
Admission requirements
Applicants to the Graduate Certificate in Counseling, Contemporary Theory in School-Based Services program must provide the following information for admission:
- Bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution
- Your official transcripts, minimum grade point average of 2.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Admission application – no application fee required
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.
Collaborative Efforts in Counseling, Clinical Psychology and Social Work
Take a closer look at the career paths and licensure requirements associated with these related fields
The Difference Between School Counselors and School Psychologists
Both professions deliver services directly to students and work with parents or educators – but there are some important differences.
8 Reasons to Choose Online Education
Changes to the way people live and work have made online education more practical than ever.