The College of Staten Island’s M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has received approval from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to add the MHC-D (Diagnostic Privilege) designation to its registered licensure-qualifying program.

The MHC-D designation recognizes that the program’s curriculum satisfies New York State’s educational requirements for Diagnostic Privilege, preparing graduates for the expanded scope of practice available to qualified Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs). Diagnostic Privilege authorizes LMHCs who meet all New York State licensure requirements to assess, diagnose, and develop treatment plans, allowing them to provide more comprehensive mental health services.

The designation reflects the evolution of the counseling profession in New York and the College’s commitment to ensuring that its graduates are prepared for contemporary clinical practice. Effective with graduates beginning in January 2026, students completing the CSI program will graduate from a New York State registered MHC-D program.

As the only master’s degree program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling on Staten Island that leads to New York State LMHC licensure, CSI continues to prepare counselors to serve individuals, families, and communities across a wide range of mental health settings. The program combines rigorous academic preparation with supervised clinical field experiences to develop ethical, culturally responsive, and evidence-based practitioners.

“Receiving the MHC-D designation reflects our ongoing commitment to preparing highly qualified mental health counselors who are ready to meet the evolving needs of individuals and communities,” said Dr. Frances Melendez, Program Director. “Our graduates leave CSI with a rigorous clinical education that aligns with New York State’s current standards and positions them to provide comprehensive, evidence-based mental health care. We are proud to offer a program that continues to evolve alongside the counseling profession while maintaining our commitment to social justice, cultural humility, and excellence in counselor education.”

Graduates of the program often work in community mental health agencies, hospitals, integrated healthcare settings, schools, colleges and universities, private practices, substance use treatment programs, and other behavioral health settings throughout New York and beyond.

Learn More

The M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the College of Staten Island is a 60-credit, MPCAC-accredited, New York State licensure-qualifying program designed to prepare students for careers as Licensed Mental Health Counselors. Students receive extensive clinical training through supervised practicum and internship experiences while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective mental health services.

Prospective students can learn more about the program, admissions requirements, and application deadlines by visiting the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Webpage.