South University, Columbia Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Achieves Full Eight-Year CACREP Reaccreditation

COLUMBIA, S.C., Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- South University (SU) is proud to announce that its Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program at the Columbia campus has received reaccreditation from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) for the maximum eight-year term granted by the Council.

The CACREP reaccreditation decision was made following a comprehensive evaluation process that assessed the program's curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and adherence to rigorous professional standards. South University, Columbia's CMHC program has consistently maintained its CACREP accreditation status since July 2013.

"With the rising demand for mental health counselors, we are proud to provide a program that combines academic excellence with comprehensive licensure preparation," said Dr. Deborah Harris-Sims, Campus Director & Dean of Academic Affairs at SU, Columbia. "Through in-person career exploration and immersive community engagement, our students acquire practical, real-world experience, equipping them to address today's mental health challenges with both confidence and compassion."

Under the leadership of Dr. Katherine DeWitt, Program Director, the CMHC program continues to shape the next generation of professionals who will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve. The program is specifically designed for working professionals who are advancing in the field of human services or pursuing a second career, offering classes at night and on the weekends to accommodate student needs.

"The CACREP confirmation of reaccreditation of South University, Columbia's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program recognizes the rigor, sophistication, and ongoing commitment to excellence," said Dr. Katherine DeWitt, LPC/S, Director of SU, Columbia's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. "This achievement highlights our dedication to preparing competent, compassionate, and highly qualified counselors who are equipped to meet the growing demand for accessible mental health services across South Carolina. By serving the state's diverse and dynamic population, our graduates play a vital role in strengthening communities and advancing the counseling profession."

The next CACREP reaccreditation review for the program will occur in 2033, contingent upon continued compliance with accreditation standards and CACREP policies.

South University currently educates over 10,000 students across 11 campuses in the Southeastern United States and through online programs. The institution offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to prepare professionals to pursue careers in areas such as healthcare, business, technology, and human services.

About South University
Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. Not all programs are available to residents of all U.S. states. Administrative office: South University, 709 Mall Boulevard, Savannah, GA 31406-4805 © 2025 South University. All rights reserved.

South University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. South University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org).

The Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling programs at South University's campuses in Columbia, SC, Richmond, VA, Savannah, GA, and West Palm Beach, FL are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 350, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703)-535-5990.

To work in the field of mental health counseling, graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license. (National certification exam names vary by program. Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information.) South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.

Media Contact:
Juliette Haas
[email protected]

SOURCE South University