# MPCAC vs. CACREP: Key Differences and Similarities
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[Three adults sitting together, smiling, and taking notes in a cozy, warmly lit library or study space.] (https://psychdegreestarter.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2025/10/archereduas_professional_psych-group_a86.jpg)
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**Author:** Psych Degree Starter Editorial Team
**Published:** October 17, 2025
**Updated:** October 17, 2025
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Choosing a graduate program in mental health or counseling often means navigating a maze of accreditation terms—and two that frequently come up are **MPCAC** and **CACREP** . Accreditation is more than a formality; it signals that a program meets specific standards for academic quality, ethical practice, and professional preparation.
Both the **Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)** and the **Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)** accredit graduate programs that prepare students for mental health careers. However, they emerge from **different professional traditions** —MPCAC from psychology and CACREP from counselor education—and therefore serve different educational and licensing pathways.
Although MPCAC and CACREP are sometimes compared as though they’re competing accreditors, the reality is more nuanced. Each supports distinct professional identities and goals. This guide breaks down their similarities, differences, and implications to help you choose the program that best aligns with your career vision—whether that means becoming a licensed counselor, pursuing doctoral study, or advancing research in the behavioral sciences.
## **Understanding Accreditation in Counseling and Psychology Education**
Accreditation ensures that a degree program meets established standards of academic and professional quality. For students pursuing graduate study in mental health, it’s important to understand the difference between **institutional accreditation** , which applies to an entire college or university, and **programmatic accreditation** , which evaluates specific academic programs.
In psychology and counseling, several accrediting bodies oversee different branches of the field:
- [**APA** ] (https://www.apa.org/) ** (American Psychological Association):** Accredits doctoral programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology, as well as internships and postdoctoral residencies. APA accreditation is required for psychologist licensure in most states.
- [**PCSAS** ] (https://pcsas.org/) ** (Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System):** Accredits research-intensive doctoral programs in **clinical science** , emphasizing empirical, evidence-based methods. PCSAS is accepted for psychologist licensure in several states and represents the scientific end of the psychology training spectrum.
- [**CACREP** ] (https://www.cacrep.org/) ** (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs):** Accredits master’s and doctoral programs in **counselor education** , such as clinical mental health counseling, school counseling, and marriage and family counseling. It is widely recognized for counseling licensure.
- [**MPCAC** ] (https://mpcacaccreditation.org/) ** (Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council):** Accredits master’s-level programs in **counseling psychology** and **clinical mental health psychology** , focusing on evidence-based and multicultural training.
- [**COAMFTE** ] (https://www.coamfte.org/) ** (Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education):** Accredits marriage and family therapy programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels.
Each accreditor represents a different professional identity within the broader field of mental health. **APA** and **PCSAS** oversee psychology’s research and clinical science doctorates, **CACREP** and **MPCAC** focus on counseling-based master’s programs, and **COAMFTE** governs family therapy education.
Understanding where **MPCAC and CACREP** fit within this landscape helps students recognize that these two accreditors aren’t in competition—they simply reflect different traditions and career outcomes within the mental health professions.
## **What Is MPCAC?**
The **Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)** is a programmatic accreditor focused on graduate programs that blend psychology and counseling. It was founded to recognize programs rooted in the **scientific and humanistic traditions of psychology** —particularly those emphasizing evidence-based, multicultural, and ethically grounded clinical training.
### **What MPCAC Accredits**
MPCAC accredits **master’s-level programs** in areas such as:
- **Counseling Psychology** **
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- **Clinical Mental Health Psychology** **
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- **Combined Psychology and Counseling programs** **
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These degrees often prepare students for **applied mental health work** , **doctoral study** , or **specialized counseling roles** , depending on state regulations.
### **Training Philosophy**
MPCAC-accredited programs emphasize:
- Integration of **psychological science** and counseling practice
- **Evidence-based methods** grounded in research
- Commitment to **cultural competence** , **social justice** , and **ethical practice** **
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- A balance of **theoretical knowledge** and **supervised fieldwork** **
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In essence, MPCAC programs approach counseling as both a **psychological discipline and a helping profession** , preparing graduates to think critically about research and its application to client care.
### **Recognition and Reach**
While MPCAC programs are **fewer in number** than CACREP-accredited programs, they are growing—particularly at universities with strong psychology departments. Recognition of MPCAC varies by state: some states accept it for counseling licensure, while others require CACREP. However, MPCAC credentials are often respected in **academic, research, and hybrid psychology-counseling settings** , making them an appealing option for students who want flexibility between clinical and academic pathways.
## **What Is CACREP?**
The **Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)** is the primary accrediting body for graduate programs in **counselor education** . Established in 1981, CACREP grew out of the counseling profession’s effort to create consistent national standards for training and licensure.
### **What CACREP Accredits**
CACREP accredits **master’s and doctoral programs** in counseling and related specialties, including:
- **Clinical Mental Health Counseling** **
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- **School Counseling** **
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- **Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling** **
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- **Addiction Counseling** **
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- **Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling** **
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- **Counselor Education and Supervision (doctoral)** **
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These programs focus on developing **competent, ethical, and culturally responsive professional counselors** who meet state and national licensure requirements.
### **Training Philosophy**
CACREP programs emphasize:
- **Professional counselor identity** and alignment with national counseling standards
- **Evidence-based counseling methods** grounded in theory and practice
- **Multicultural awareness and advocacy** for diverse client populations
- **Supervised clinical experience** through practicum and internship placements
CACREP’s model is designed to ensure graduates are ready for **direct entry into licensed practice** , particularly as **Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)** or **Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs)** .
### **Recognition and Portability**
CACREP is the **most widely recognized accreditor** for counseling programs in the U.S. Many states now **require or prefer CACREP-accredited degrees** for licensure, and federal agencies such as the **Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)** and **TRICARE** recognize CACREP credentials for hiring and reimbursement purposes.
For students planning to practice across multiple states or pursue federal employment, a **CACREP-accredited program** offers the broadest **licensure portability** and professional mobility.
## **Why Students Compare MPCAC and CACREP**
When researching graduate programs in mental health, students often encounter both **MPCAC** and **CACREP** and wonder how the two accreditors differ. In most cases, the comparison isn’t about which is “better,” but about understanding how each aligns with different professional and educational goals.
### **Overlapping Roles, Different Emphases**
Both MPCAC and CACREP are **programmatic accreditors** committed to high standards in clinical training, ethics, and multicultural competence. They share the goal of preparing students to provide effective, ethical mental health care—but they differ in **academic orientation** . MPCAC grew from the discipline of psychology, while CACREP emerged from counselor education.
Students exploring graduate options may encounter both accreditation types across different formats, including[ CACREP-accredited online counseling programs] (https://psychdegreestarter.com/accreditation/cacrep-accredited-online-counseling-masters-programs/) and[ online master’s in counseling psychology] (https://psychdegreestarter.com/degrees/masters/online-counseling-psychology-programs/) programs aligned with MPCAC’s approach. This overlap can make it challenging to distinguish which is the better fit for specific goals.
### **When the Comparison Arises**
Students typically begin comparing MPCAC and CACREP when:
- They’re seeking a degree that leads to **state licensure** as a counselor or therapist.
- They’re considering whether to pursue a **doctoral degree** in psychology later.
- They want to understand which accreditation provides greater **career flexibility or recognition** across states.
### **A Matter of Fit, Not Superiority**
Ultimately, the MPCAC vs. CACREP question comes down to alignment—not competition. Both accreditors uphold strong academic and ethical standards, but their programs serve slightly different professional identities. Choosing between them depends on your vision for your future career—whether you see yourself as a counselor, a psychologist, or a professional working at the intersection of both fields.
## **Similarities Between MPCAC and CACREP**
Despite their different histories and professional orientations, **MPCAC** and **CACREP** share several important similarities that reflect their shared mission: preparing ethical, competent, and culturally responsive mental health professionals.
### **Shared Purpose**
Both accreditors were established to **ensure quality in graduate education** for helping professions. Whether the program is rooted in psychology or counseling, accreditation signals that it meets rigorous standards in curriculum design, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes.
### **Core Competencies**
MPCAC- and CACREP-accredited programs both emphasize:
- **Clinical skill development** through practicum and internship experiences
- **Ethical and professional behavior** consistent with national standards
- **Cultural humility and responsiveness** in working with diverse populations
- **Evidence-based practice** , integrating theory, research, and applied skills
These shared values mean that graduates from both types of programs are trained to provide competent and compassionate care in various clinical and community settings.
### **Focus on Supervised Experience**
Both MPCAC and CACREP require **supervised fieldwork** that allows students to apply classroom learning in real-world contexts. This focus on experiential learning ensures that students enter the workforce with practical clinical experience—one of the most critical factors in licensure preparation and career readiness.
### **The Bottom Line**
While MPCAC and CACREP differ in structure and scope, they ultimately share the same vision: to promote **high-quality mental health education** that produces well-prepared professionals capable of meeting the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
## **Key Differences Between MPCAC and CACREP**
While **MPCAC** and **CACREP** share common goals in promoting high-quality training for mental health professionals, their distinctions become clear in the areas of academic alignment, licensure recognition, and career portability. Understanding these differences can help you choose the pathway that best matches your professional goals.
### **1. Disciplinary Alignment**
MPCAC programs are generally **psychology-oriented** , often housed within psychology departments and rooted in counseling psychology or clinical mental health psychology traditions.
CACREP programs, on the other hand, are **counseling-oriented** , emerging from counselor education departments and emphasizing the development of professional counselor identity.
### **2. Types of Programs**
- **MPCAC accredits** programs such as Counseling Psychology or Clinical Mental Health Psychology.
- **CACREP accredits** a broader range of counseling programs, including Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, and Addictions Counseling.
### **3. Licensure Recognition**
This is one of the most significant distinctions.
- **CACREP accreditation** is preferred or required in many states for counselor licensure (LPC, LPCC, LMHC).
- **MPCAC accreditation** is accepted in some states but does not yet have consistent national recognition. Students pursuing licensure should always verify with their state’s licensing board to confirm eligibility.
### **4. Portability and Federal Recognition**
CACREP-accredited programs have greater **portability across states** and are recognized by federal employers such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and TRICARE.
MPCAC programs, while academically rigorous, currently lack equivalent federal recognition, which can affect opportunities for employment in certain government or military settings.
### **5. Philosophical Emphasis**
MPCAC emphasizes **science-informed, multicultural, and evidence-based training** , with an approach that bridges psychological science and clinical practice.
CACREP highlights **counselor identity, professional standards, and applied skills** in mental health counseling, preparing graduates for immediate entry into licensed practice.
### **Summary: MPCAC vs. CACREP**
| **Feature** | **MPCAC** | **CACREP** |
| **Disciplinary Focus** | Psychology-based (Counseling/Clinical Psychology) | Counseling-based (Clinical, School, or Addictions Counseling) |
| **Program Types** | Counseling Psychology, Clinical Mental Health Psychology | Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, etc. |
| **Licensure Portability** | Limited; varies by state | Widely accepted across most states |
| **Federal Recognition** | Limited | Recognized by VA, TRICARE, and other agencies |
| **Philosophical Emphasis** | Evidence-based and science-informed | Counselor identity and applied clinical training |
In short, CACREP’s reach and recognition make it the standard for many licensure-focused counseling programs, while MPCAC offers a strong psychology-based alternative for those pursuing research-integrated or academic clinical training.
## **Which One Should You Choose? It Depends on Your Goals**
Choosing between an **MPCAC** - or **CACREP** -accredited program isn’t about which is “better”—it’s about which aligns most closely with your professional goals, licensure plans, and educational preferences. Each pathway offers distinct strengths and potential career outcomes.
### **If Your Goal Is State Licensure and Career Portability**
Students planning to become **Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)** or **Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHCs)** in multiple states often find **CACREP-accredited programs** the most direct and widely accepted route.
- CACREP accreditation is recognized by nearly every state counseling board.
- It supports licensure portability, allowing graduates to move between states more easily.
- It’s also the standard for federal employment in agencies such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
### **If You’re Drawn to Psychology-Based or Academic Practice**
If you’re interested in **counseling psychology** , academic research, or plan to **pursue a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD)** , an **MPCAC-accredited program** may be a strong fit.
- MPCAC programs emphasize research literacy, evidence-based practice, and multicultural competence.
- They are often housed in psychology departments, giving students exposure to research and theoretical depth that can support doctoral preparation.
### **If You’re Focused on Applied Counseling Practice**
For students primarily focused on **clinical practice** and working directly with clients, **CACREP programs** may provide a clearer path to licensure and employment. Their training model centers on developing professional counseling identity, ethics, and hands-on clinical experience.
### **The Bottom Line**
The MPCAC vs. CACREP decision should be grounded in your long-term goals. If your priority is **state licensure and flexibility** , CACREP offers the most recognized pathway. If your focus is on **academic, research-based, or psychology-integrated training** , MPCAC provides a rigorous foundation within a broader psychological context.
Regardless of which you choose, both accreditations represent high-quality graduate education and a commitment to ethical, effective mental health practice.
## **FAQ: MPCAC vs. CACREP**
### **Can I become licensed with an MPCAC-accredited degree?**
Yes—**in some states** . MPCAC-accredited programs meet licensure requirements for counseling in several jurisdictions, but **recognition varies** . Before enrolling, check your state’s counseling board to confirm whether MPCAC accreditation qualifies for LPC, LMHC, or similar credentials where you plan to practice.
### **Will my degree be portable across states?**
If your goal is **licensure portability** , **CACREP-accredited programs** are more widely recognized. Many states list CACREP as the preferred—or even required—standard for counselor licensure. MPCAC programs can still lead to licensure, but transferring your credential between states may require additional coursework or documentation.
### **Which is better for future doctoral study?**
Both can serve as strong preparation, but **MPCAC-accredited programs** are often housed within psychology departments, offering stronger research training and theoretical grounding. This can make them especially well-suited for students planning to pursue **PhD or PsyD programs** in psychology or counseling psychology.
### **What if my program isn’t accredited by either?**
A program without CACREP or MPCAC accreditation can still be legitimate—many reputable universities maintain **institutional accreditation** and provide high-quality clinical training. However, students should verify that the curriculum meets **state licensure standards** and that graduates are eligible to sit for the required exams in their state.
### **Do employers care which accreditation my program has?**
Employers typically care more about whether you’re **licensed** and whether your degree came from a **regionally accredited institution** . However, CACREP’s federal recognition can make it advantageous for government or military roles, while MPCAC’s psychology focus may appeal more to academic or research-oriented settings.
### **Bottom Line**
Your choice between MPCAC vs. CACREP should reflect your intended **career path, licensure plans, and professional identity** . Both accreditations signal strong academic quality—just within different educational traditions.
## **Making an Informed Program Choice**
When comparing MPCAC vs. CACREP, remember that both accreditors uphold rigorous standards for training future mental health professionals—they simply reflect different academic lineages.
If your primary goal is state licensure and broad career portability, a CACREP-accredited program is often the most direct route. If you’re drawn to psychology-based counseling, academic research, or doctoral preparation, an MPCAC-accredited program may offer a richer fit.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your career vision, licensure goals, and learning preferences—not just the accreditation label.