Adler University's Counselling Psychology Program Secures Spot in Canada's Top 10 Once Again

Adler University's Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MACP) and Master of Counselling Psychology (MCP) programs at the Vancouver campus have earned a prestigious #8 ranking on CourseCompare's list of the Best Master's in Counselling Psychology in Canada for 2026. This marks the second consecutive year the programs have been recognized in the top 10, following a #6 position in 2025. The achievement underscores the program's commitment to rigorous training amid Canada's escalating mental health needs.

CourseCompare, a leading Canadian education comparison platform, evaluated programs based on key factors like practicum hours, accreditation status, graduation and employment rates, delivery formats, and reputation among students, alumni, and employers. Adler's standout 700 hours of supervised practicum—the highest minimum among top programs—played a pivotal role in this ranking. These hands-on experiences prepare graduates for immediate impact in diverse settings, from community clinics to private practices.

Asa-Sophia Maglio, Ph.D., program director, highlighted the significance: “The mental health landscape in Canada continues to evolve, and our graduates are stepping into critical roles across the province and country. This second consecutive top-10 ranking speaks to the quality and relevance of our training.” The programs now stand alongside elite institutions like the University of Alberta (#1), University of Toronto (#2), and University of Victoria (#3).

Understanding the Master of Counselling Psychology Programs at Adler University

The MACP and MCP are two-year, full-time graduate programs (with part-time options) designed under a practitioner-scholar model, blending Adlerian psychology principles with contemporary counselling practices. The MACP includes a thesis component for those pursuing research or doctoral paths, while the MCP focuses purely on clinical skills. Both equip students to register as Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) or Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).

Specializations in School and Youth counselling are available, addressing needs in educational settings. Core courses cover counselling theories, intervention skills, ethics, trauma-informed care, group psychotherapy, and sociocultural bases of mental health. The curriculum emphasizes social justice, teaching students to navigate systemic inequities affecting clients from diverse backgrounds. Tuition is approximately $42,385 CAD per year for MACP, plus fees, making it competitive for high-quality training.

Why Adler Stands Out: Extensive Practicum and Clinical Training

What elevates Adler's programs is the mandatory 700 hours of supervised practicum, surpassing competitors like UBC (510 hours) and University of Victoria (500 hours). This includes a unique 200-hour Social Justice Practicum in non-profits, fostering community advocacy and outreach. Students secure placements through Adler's vast Vancouver network, gaining real-world exposure in mental health clinics, schools, hospitals, and family services.

The process unfolds step-by-step: Year one introduces foundational skills via seminars and initial placements; year two ramps up with advanced internships and supervision. This structure ensures graduates are practice-ready, with 90% securing counselling roles within 12 months. For those eyeing higher education jobs or clinical positions, this training provides a competitive edge in Canada's job market.

• 700 supervised clinical hours minimum
• 200-hour social justice practicum
• Access to 50+ partner sites in Vancouver
• Individual and group supervision models

Faculty Expertise Driving Program Excellence

Adler's faculty blend academic credentials with frontline experience. Program Director Asa-Sophia Maglio, Ph.D., oversees curriculum evolution, while professors like Benjamin Aiken, Ph.D. (Director of Training), and Jenna Hepp, Ph.D., offer mentorship rooted in current research on trauma and intercultural counselling. Their practitioner backgrounds ensure classes reflect real client challenges, from addiction recovery to family dynamics.

This team fosters small cohorts for personalized feedback, preparing students not just as counsellors but as reflexive, ethical professionals. Alumni praise the supportive environment, which builds confidence for independent practice. Explore faculty insights via Adler's program page.

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Curriculum Breakdown: From Theory to Transformative Practice

The curriculum integrates Adlerian principles—emphasizing encouragement and community—with evidence-based therapies. Key courses include:

• Introduction to Adlerian Psychology and Psychotherapy
• Counselling Skills and Intervention
• Research in Counselling Psychology (for MACP)
• Structural and Sociocultural Bases of Health and Dysfunction
• Masters Practicum Seminars I & II
• Group Psychotherapy and Trauma Interventions

Students learn step-by-step: assess client needs, apply theories like CBT or family systems, evaluate outcomes, and advocate for equity. Cultural context is woven throughout, vital in multicultural Vancouver.

For school/youth tracks, added focus on child development equips graduates for K-12 roles. Check Rate My Professor for student feedback on courses.

Addressing Canada's Mental Health Crisis: The Growing Demand

Canada faces a psychologist shortage amid rising demand—half of those with mood/anxiety disorders receive counselling, yet waitlists grow. Post-pandemic, youth mental health has surged, with university centres reporting longer waits. Economic costs exceed $51 billion yearly, fueling need for skilled counsellors.

Adler graduates fill gaps as mental health clinicians, addictions counsellors, and family therapists. With 90% employment rates, they thrive in public agencies, hospitals, and higher ed career paths like university counselling centres.

Alumni Success: Real-World Impact Stories

Graduates like Esther Jaang (MA '25) transitioned into clinical roles, crediting Adler's rigorous prep. Shawna Dash, MCP, RCC, serves rural communities, addressing access gaps. Alison McCleary, Psy.D., returned home post-2014 graduation to bridge care deserts. These stories highlight 88.5% graduation rates and versatile careers: private practice, supervision, even doctoral pursuits.

Many leverage Adler's network for university jobs or community roles, embodying the program's social justice ethos.

Vancouver Campus: A Hub for Social Justice Training

Located at 520 Seymour Street, Adler Vancouver taps into a vibrant, diverse city—home to immigrants and Indigenous communities. The campus offers flexible scheduling (days, evenings, weekends), peer support, and proximity to practicum sites. This urban context enriches training in equity-focused care, preparing students for Canada's multicultural fabric.

Read more on Adler accreditations.

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How to Apply: Admission Essentials and Tips

Prospective students need a bachelor's (GPA 3.0+), 12 psychology credits (B+ average), counselling experience, and references. International applicants require TOEFL/IELTS. The process: online app, statement of intent, interview, writing sample. Deadlines align with September intake; apply early due to competition.

• GPA: 3.0 (MCP), 3.25 (MACP)
• Experience: Volunteer/work in helping roles
• Interviews: Faculty assess fit

Financial aid and scholarships available. For career advice, visit higher ed career advice.

Future Outlook: Program Evolution and Industry Trends

As telehealth rises and shortages persist, Adler plans enhanced online hybrids and trauma specializations. With CCPA alignment, graduates lead in policy and innovation. This ranking affirms Adler's role in building Canada's counselling workforce. Interested in opportunities? Explore higher-ed jobs, rate my professor, university jobs, or career advice on AcademicJobs.com.

View the full CourseCompare 2026 ranking.