University of Bridgeport's Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Expands Online Program, Announces New Director, Secures $2.4M Grant to Support Students

BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Aug. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Bridgeport's (UB) master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is entering a new era of growth and impact, marked by three significant developments: a $2.4M grant from the Health and Human Services Administration (HRSA), the addition of an asynchronous online learning option, and the appointment of Frederick Dombrowski, Ph.D. as program director. 

The four-year HRSA grant will fund the UB Multicultural Alliance (UBMA), a project designed to strengthen Connecticut's counseling workforce by preparing graduate students to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based mental healthcare. The grant will provide stipends for students during their clinical internships and support advanced training in therapies such as motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy skills, and circle of security parenting.

"This grant allows us to expand both the reach and the quality of mental health services in high-need communities," said Dr. Dombrowski. "By equipping students with proven treatment approaches and supporting their financial needs during internships, we're helping address the post-pandemic mental health crisis while also improving the well being of our future counselors."

A key priority for the program is to expand access to evidence-based therapies and increase the number of professional counselors who are bilingual and from underrepresented backgrounds. The funding period for the grant began July 1, 2025, and extends through 2029.

Expanded learning options

To meet growing demand and increase accessibility for students, UB's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is now available in three formats: on-campus, synchronous online, and asynchronous online. This expansion allows students to pursue the degree while balancing professional and personal commitments. "Whether students prefer the flexibility of asynchronous learning or the connection of in-person and live online classes, they'll receive the same rigorous training and personalized support that define UB's approach," added Dr. Dombrowski.

About the program

UB's 60-credit Clinical Mental Health Counseling master's program prepares graduates to become licensed professional counselors, ready to serve in diverse clinical settings. Students gain hands-on experience through internships in local mental health and substance use clinics, where they apply advanced therapeutic skills to real-world challenges.

To learn more about the program and application process, visit bridgeport.edu/counseling.

About University of Bridgeport

University of Bridgeport offers career-oriented undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees and programs for people seeking personal and professional growth. The University promotes academic excellence, personal responsibility, and commitment to service. Distinctive curricula in an international, culturally diverse, and supportive learning environment prepare graduates for life and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. The University is independent and non-sectarian. www.bridgeport.edu.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Abby Levandoski
Communications Manager
University of Bridgeport
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 203-576-4151

SOURCE University of Bridgeport