By: Mark Ng
Amberton University has long been recognized for its commitment to working adults, delivering education that is practical, affordable, and transformative. Among its many standout offerings, the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has emerged as one of the prominent and respected in the state of Texas.
Guided by experienced faculty and visionary leadership, the program continues to expand its impact under the current President, Dr. Carol A. Palmer.
A Legacy of Excellence in Counseling
For over 35 years, Amberton’s counseling program has been a cornerstone of the university. Dr. Ken Johnson, professor and chair of the Master of Arts in Counseling Degree Program, has been a key figure since 1989.
“Amberton has been a great fit for me,” Dr. Johnson explains. “We specialize in the adult learner, and I’ve always been intrigued by people who are passionate enough to return to school while managing careers and families.”
Dr. Johnson also believes that the program’s success lies in its practitioner-focused model.
“All Amberton faculty members are practitioners. We don’t have assistants to grade or teach for us. So we’re responsible for connecting with our students. We have to engage with them and personally ensure they leave this campus prepared to succeed.”
Meeting the Needs of Texas Communities
The demand for qualified mental health professionals has never been higher in Texas. And Amberton’s program addresses this need by producing graduates who are both practically trained and academically prepared.
Amberton’s faculty recognizes the importance of accessibility as well. The average age of their students is between 36 and 40, and they’re already working full-time jobs.
“They come here for a career change,” Dr. Johnson says. “Or to pursue state licensure. It’s our job to make sure they’re able to establish themselves as competent professionals once they leave.”
This responsiveness to student needs aligns with Amberton’s broader mission. As outlined in the university’s Six Pillars of Service Excellence, professionalism, initiative, and communication guide every interaction with students and colleagues.
A Vision of Innovation and Adaptability
Under Dr. Carol Palmer’s leadership, Amberton has fully updated its curriculum. Its courses teach real-world skills through innovative approaches. This has led faculty members to recognize her openness to change as a driving force.
“What’s most exciting now is that we’re changing the way we’ve done business for the past 50 years,” shares Dr. Deborah Hill, professor of Business and Human Behavior. “Dr. Palmer is open to necessary change, but still employs a vigilant approach. We need to make sure we’re actually meeting students’ needs and not just following trends.”
Dr. Hill further praises the program’s adaptability, stating that they have the opportunity to innovate and offer ideas that enhance the student experience. She believes that this level of creativity is critical in preparing students for rapidly evolving professional environments.
Technology’s Role in Counseling Education
Amberton is also embracing the future of education by integrating artificial intelligence into its curriculum. While counseling remains a deeply human profession, technological literacy is becoming essential.
Dr. J. Alexander Sinclair, the program coordinator for Amberton’s new Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence degree, highlights this forward-thinking approach. “Dr. Palmer is committed to making Amberton an AI-literate campus,” he states. “Even in fields like counseling, understanding how AI can ethically and strategically support professionals is becoming increasingly important.”
He also emphasizes that Amberton’s unique approach ensures students graduate with both traditional skills and modern competencies.
“Equipping students with theory is expected,” he says. “But we’re also equipping them with the ability to apply technology responsibly in their professional roles.”
Expanding Healthcare Connections
Amberton’s commitment to healthcare education extends beyond counseling.
The recent launch of the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program, led by Dr. Ron Norris, illustrates how the university is broadening its impact.
Dr. Norris notes the synergy between healthcare and counseling education: “Amberton’s emphasis on hiring practicing professionals ensures our students are learning from experts actively engaged in the field. This model applies to counseling as much as it does to healthcare administration.”
Dr. Norris praises the alignment of Amberton’s programs with regional workforce needs. Currently, Healthcare in Dallas-Fort Worth is a $50 billion industry. Amberton’s ability to prepare graduates who can contribute immediately is a testament to its vision and leadership.
Student-Centered Philosophy
Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program is distinguished not only by its academic rigor but also by its student-centered approach. Faculty members make accessibility and responsiveness a priority, reflecting Amberton’s mission of providing meaningful education to working adults.
Dr. Johnson describes this commitment: “Students say I sometimes answer their emails before they’ve even finished writing them. That accessibility matters because our students juggle work, families, and school. We make sure they never feel left behind.”
Dr. Hill echoes this sentiment, pointing to the value of direct student engagement. “Our students aren’t 18- or 19-year-olds,” she says. “They’re much older. So they bring life experience and workplace challenges to the classroom. It’s our job to meet them where they are with practical, applicable solutions.”
Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders
Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program continues to attract students because it delivers what today’s workforce demands: practical knowledge, professional accountability, and affordable education.
According to Amberton’s data, 97% of graduates believe their tuition costs were affordable and their degrees provided exceptional value. This outcome reinforces the university’s mission to make education work for working adults.
Dr. Sinclair points out that Amberton’s integration of AI and technology into the curriculum adds further value. Their students graduate with a polished portfolio of applied AI skills that they can present to potential employers immediately.
Amberton: Leading with Purpose
Amberton University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is more than a degree. It’s a pathway to meaningful careers that strengthen Texas communities.
With dedicated faculty like Drs. Johnson, Hill, Sinclair, and Norris, supported by the forward-looking leadership of Dr. Carol Palmer, Amberton University is redefining counseling education through accountability, innovation, and student-centered service.
Amberton’s faculty doesn’t just deliver education. It connects with students, meets their needs, and prepares them to lead. And they believe that this is why Amberton’s Clinical Mental Health program continues to stand out in Texas education excellence.
Disclaimer: The views and experiences shared in this article reflect the perspectives of Amberton University faculty and staff. Amberton University does not guarantee specific outcomes, such as career placement or licensure success. Results may vary based on individual efforts and circumstances. For more information, refer to the university’s official resources and consult academic advisors
