As the state of Oklahoma faces an urgent mental health crisis, Mid-America Christian University (MACU) is stepping up to meet the challenge. With a critical shortage of mental health professionals, all 77 counties in Oklahoma are designated as mental health professional shortage areas. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services reports that more than 843,000 Oklahomans need behavioral health services. These staggering numbers underscore the need for skilled professionals ready to make a difference within our state.
At MACU, the Master of Science in Counseling program is not only addressing this demand but is also leading the charge. This semester, the program experienced an astounding 50% enrollment surge, making it the largest MS in Counseling program in the state. This growth is more than a milestone—it’s a mission-driven effort to prepare a new generation of counselors to transform lives in Oklahoma and beyond.
Meeting the Demand with Excellence
The program’s success can be attributed to the incredible work of MACU’s counseling faculty, who are equipping students with the skills and experience needed to address real-world mental health challenges. Dr. Kimberly Thomas, Co-Chair of MACU’s School of Behavioral Sciences and Psychology, emphasizes the program’s commitment to practical, hands-on training.
“Our program’s focus on current, practical counseling skills is ensuring that every graduate is equipped to make an immediate impact in the workforce,” said Dr. Thomas. “Several of our students choose to do their practicum and internship in community mental health, serving multicultural populations and dedicating themselves to addressing mental health disparities.”
This real-world focus means that MACU graduates are not just prepared to enter the workforce—they are prepared to make a difference from day one.
Stories of Transformation
The success of MACU’s Counseling program is best illustrated by its alumni, like Janette Maxwell, a 2023 graduate of the program. Maxwell’s journey from being a mental health patient to becoming a mental health professional exemplifies the transformative impact of the program.
“As a teacher, I saw a great need for caring, knowledgeable counselors in our school systems and in society to help youth, and the communities working to raise them, to become successful adults and leaders,” Maxwell shared.
Through hands-on training at MACU’s Scraper Counseling Center, Maxwell gained the clinical experience needed to step into her current role as a school counselor. Her work in a local public school system helps young people navigate the challenges of mental health, demonstrating the ripple effect of a counselor’s care in shaping futures.
Addressing a Growing Need
The record-breaking enrollment in MACU’s Counseling program reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health. As communities in Oklahoma and across the nation grapple with mental health challenges, the program is producing skilled professionals who are ready to step in and provide care where it’s needed most.
At MACU, we believe that education is more than a pathway to a career—it’s a calling to serve. Our Counseling program is a testament to this belief, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and compassion to change lives.
As mental health needs rise, MACU’s graduates are answering the call. They are serving in schools, clinics, and communities, bringing hope and healing to those in need. And with the dedication of our faculty and the strength of our program, we are confident that MACU will continue to be a leader in addressing the mental health crisis in Oklahoma and beyond.To learn more about MACU’s Master of Counseling program and how you can join this vital mission, visit www.macu.edu. Together, we can build a brighter, healthier future.