By TENA L. COOK and SHELBY WESTINGHOUSE, CSC
CHADRON – Chadron State College will offer an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in Mental Health and Addictions starting in Fall 2025. The online program will advance student opportunities, offering school counselors the chance to fill requirements toward becoming a Nebraska Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) or a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).
To qualify for this degree program, students must have previously earned a master’s degree in School Counseling or another related degree.
Dr. Kathleen Woods, Chair of the Department of Counselor of Education, said the degree will be valuable for both those seeking career advancement and the clients they will be able to assist.
"An Ed.S. in Mental Health and Addictions empowers school counselors to bridge the gap in Nebraska's mental health services, equipping them with the skills to support students in need and fostering healthier communities for generations to come. We are thrilled to provide this pathway for school counselors to attain clinical mental health licensure," Woods said.
According to a proposal to offer the degree approved by the Nebraska State College System, the Coordinating Commission for Post-Secondary Education, and the Higher Learning Commission, rural Nebraska needs mental health professionals, including those licensed to help people struggling with alcohol and drug use and abuse. Additionally, there is a growing need for LMHP and LADC workers with an educational background in school counseling.
More information about the program is posted at https://www.csc.edu/academics/eds/.