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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the DBH FAQ Page. We know choosing the right doctoral program is a big decision, and you likely have questions along the way. This page is designed to answer some of the most common questions about the Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program, admissions process, and what to expect as a student.

For additional information and resources that may help guide your decision-making process, we invite you to explore our Resources Page, where you’ll find helpful information, articles, and insights for prospective students.

About the DBH Degree

What are the benefits of the DBH degree?

The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree is an innovative, applied clinical doctorate that focuses exclusively on integrated health care. The DBH degree was originally designed by Dr. Nicholas A. Cummings to address the unmet educational need to prepare behavioral health providers to practice in primary care and other medical settings as part of an interdisciplinary team. This degree is also relevant for allied health care providers interested in whole-person health care. The DBH Program will prepare students to deliver patient-centered care, work in interdisciplinary teams, employ evidence-based practice and quality improvement approaches, and utilize informatics.

View sample career pathways for DBH graduates.

What is the difference between a PsyD and a DBH?

The Cummings Institute offers a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree. The DBH is an applied, clinically focused degree program that culminates in an applied project completed in a medical setting, as compared to traditional PhD programs focusing on research culminating in a written dissertation. To learn more about what sets the DBH apart from a PsyD, review this infographic.

How does the DBH compare to other doctoral degrees?

The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree focuses on integrated healthcare, preparing graduates to work in medical settings and improve patient outcomes by addressing both physical and behavioral health needs.

This page provides a side-by-side comparison of the Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program at CGI and other doctoral-level degrees, helping you explore key differences in focus, training, and career outcomes. Compare the DBH to other doctoral degrees.

What is a PhD in Behavioral Health?

CGI offers a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) degree. The DBH is an applied, clinically focused degree program that culminates in an applied project completed in a medical setting, as compared to traditional PhD programs focusing on research culminating in a written dissertation.

Can I call myself a doctor with a DBH?

The use of the “Doctor” title may be prohibited in certain areas. Every country, state, and employer is different when it comes to the use of the “Doctor” title. Students should research local legislation and employer practices related to the use of the “Doctor” title. Our goal is no surprises – but legislation is evolving quickly. Making an informed decision means knowing the landscape of healthcare in your local area.

Does the DBH Program offer licensure or a pathway to licensure?

The DBH degree is not a certification nor licensure program. Practicing as a DBH does not require a professional license, and there is no licensure for a DBH in any state or nation at this time. This applies to not only CGI but all schools offering the DBH degree program.

CGI cannot confirm whether the DBH Program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in any state at this time. Students are advised to contact state licensing boards to determine whether the DBH Program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state where the student resides. Students understand that they are responsible for researching their state laws and workplace/site policies related to use of the Doctor title as a Doctor of Behavioral Health.

  • Prospective students are advised to contact state licensing boards to determine whether the DBH degree program meets the educational requirements for licensure in the state where the student resides. Students understand that they are responsible for researching their state laws and workplace/site policies.
  • Billing for reimbursement as a clinician typically requires a professional license as a behavioral health professional license and those eligible for licensure should clarify their scope of practice with the appropriate state health professional licensure office in their state. Making an informed decision means knowing the landscape of healthcare in a student’s local area.

Related news: CGI Alumna, Dr. Lori Crowson, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH), won a victory for Doctors of Behavioral Health with the Oklahoma State Board of Behavioral Health on March 25, 2016 when she successfully petitioned the Oklahoma Board of Behavioral Health to accept her doctoral degree, the DBH, for licensure approval. Read more about Dr. Crowson’s story.

What have graduates of the DBH program accomplished?

Learn more our alumni by exploring their profiles including overviews of their culminating project research and post graduation plans on our DBH Alumni page.

What courses are offered in the DBH program?

At the heart of our Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program lies a dynamic curriculum meticulously crafted to shape visionary innovators in the field of integrated behavioral health. To explore the DBH program course list, visit the DBH Curriculum Overview page.

About DBH Program Admission

When can I start the DBH program? Are admissions deadlines rolling?

The DBH has two (2) entry points, Fall and Spring I. The deadlines for admissions are not rolling. Upcoming deadlines are provided on the Admissions page.

Are any competency exams or test scores required for admission?

No competency examinations are required for admission.

Is licensure required for admission?

No, the DBH program does not require licensure to be admitted. While prior licensure is not an admissions eligibility requirement for our DBH program, the majority of our students enter the DBH program with both a master’s level credential and license that enables them to bill for Medicaid and/or insurance reimbursement, should they wish to pursue that career path post graduation.

Billing for reimbursement as a clinician typically requires a professional license as a behavioral health professional license and those eligible for licensure should clarify their scope of practice with the appropriate state health professional licensure office in their state.

Can I enroll in the DBH program if I have a master's degree in School Counseling?

An applicant with a master’s degree in School Counseling from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B average) or better will be considered for admission under the Exception of Admission Policy, requiring a transcript evaluation to determine if previous coursework meets the standard curriculum requirements.

Do the credits from my Master's degree count toward the DBH program?

In order to be eligible for admissions into CGI’s DBH program, evidence of Master’s Degree or higher from a accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B average) or better in the field of Behavioral Health or similar (Counseling, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy) is required. Learn more about transfer credits for the DBH program.

Credits earned in a Master’s program are not transferable to the DBH.

To learn more about admissions requirements and the transfer admissions process visit the general Admissions page and DBH Admissions page.

Can I enroll in the DBH and a non-degree certificate program at the same time?

Yes. CGI refers to this concurrent enrollment. Concurrent programs are defined as two or more academic programs that may be pursued at the Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI) by a student resulting in completion of the requirements for two or more degree-seeking and or non-degree seeking programs. Enrollment in concurrent programs is regulated by CGI. Overlap of credits allowed (i.e., where credit hours can count towards more than one program) is governed by the Concurrent Program Enrollment Policy.

Review the Concurrent Program Enrollment Policy to verify the requirements and steps for pursuing concurrent program enrollment at CGI as a prospective student, currently enrolled student, alumni, or withdrawn student. Concurrent enrollment questions can be directed to the Admissions office at admissions@cgi.edu.

About DBH Program Expectations and Requirements

How long does it take to complete the DBH program on average?

The DBH degree requires completion of sixty (60) credits. Students have a maximum of five (5) years to complete the program. Courses are offered in 4 terms throughout the academic year, Fall, Spring I, Spring II, and Summer. One of our program’s strengths is its flexibility. Students may enroll in one (1) to three (3) classes per term. The degree completion timeline is contingent upon how many courses a student takes per term. Most of our students take two (2) to three (3) classes a semester, and at that rate they obtain their degree in an average of three (3) years.

Explore degree completion timeframe examples.

How many hours per week are spent in class?

Our students estimate that one (1) three (3) credit course requires an average of twelve (12) hours of reading, studying, and writing per week. If you work full-time (as the majority of our students do) it is advised that you take a maximum of 2 courses per term.

Example:
A student with a goal of completing their DBH degree in three (3) years will average two (2) courses per term. A student enrolled in two (2) three (3) credit courses equals a total of six (6) credit hours, which averages a total of 24 hours of reading, studying, and writing per week.

Is the DBH program coursework offered asynchronously or synchronously?

Coursework in the DBH program is offered synchronously. Synchronous learning means that the instructor and the students in the course engage with the course content and each other at the same time, but from different locations.

Is an internship required for the DBH?

The DBH at CGI does not require an internship.

Is a dissertation required for the DBH?

The DBH Culminating Project fulfills the doctoral degree requirement in lieu of a traditional dissertation. Completion of a culminating project includes: An applied research paper, demonstrating design, implementation, and evaluation of a project to address a problem identified in the healthcare setting; a well-supported proposal to solve that problem with an innovative integrated care solution; and a live Culminating Project Defense and/or IRB review (if required for human subjects research).

What is the faculty and student ratio?

The current faculty to student ratio at CGI is 1:15 in core courses, 1:15 in elective courses, and 1:5 in culminating project courses. The favorable ratios ensure that faculty are available to give each student the support they need to succeed within each course.

What is the minimum number of courses students are required to take per term?

Full-Time Enrollment (FTE) is 1 semester credit hour or more per term. Additional information regarding DBH credit hour requirements can be found on the DBH page.

What is the minimum number of courses students are required to take per term?

Full-Time Enrollment (FTE) is 1 semester credit hour or more per term. Additional information regarding DBH credit hour requirements can be found on the DBH page.

About DBH Program Tuition

How much does it cost to take one (1) course?

Tuition for one credit in the DBH program and non-degree study is $400. Military discounts are available. A three (3) credit course would be $1,200 at the standard rate.

Learn more about the total cost of the DBH program. For full details on tuition and fees, visit the Tuition page.

Do I have to pay the full program tuition at the start of the DBH program?

No, full program tuition is not due at the start of program enrollment. Cummings Graduate Institute works hard to make tuition affordable and accessible for our students. Cummings Graduate Institute has developed several payment programs to accommodate all budget types. CGI Tuition Payment Programs offer zero-interest payment plans.

Are scholarship offered for the DBH program?

CGI is proud to offer scholarship opportunities for both incoming and continuing DBH students. Application is required to be considered. To explore scholarship opportunities, including eligibility requirements, deadlines, and the application process, visit our Scholarships page.

Can I use federal student loans for DBH program tuition at CGI?

Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies is not qualified for Title IV funds at this time and does not have a IFAP School Code, which means CGI is not eligible to accept federal student loans for student tuition payment. To learn more about payment options, visit our tuition page.

Can I defer prior student loans while enrolled in the DBH program at CGI?

CGI is not qualified to accept Title IV funds, which means students enrolled at CGI are not eligible to defer prior loans from other degrees or education.

Can I use private education loans or private loans for DBH program tuition at CGI?

CGI accepts payment from a private education loan. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure payment from their Private Educational Lender is applied towards the tuition in full or by each term. All CGI students who choose to participate in outside Private Educational Loans are responsible to pay back all monies to the student’s Private Education Loan lender for the agreement amount. CGI will not communicate directly with the Private Lender in any matter regarding student finances. It is the students full responsibility to ensure payment is received by CGI in accordance with its payment deadlines policies. To learn more about payment options, visit our tuition page.

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Testimonials

As a member of the AAPI community, I’m very familiar with the barriers to mental health services and the need to break through the glass wall of cultural stigma that prevents many from receiving potentially life–saving treatment. I was the only Asian American person in my master’s cohort, the only Asian American person in many of my clinical work settings, the only Asian American person to walk into many of the professional settings that I pushed myself to show up to. In my current practice, I’m constantly reminded by my patients of how difficult it is to find an Asian American mental health provider, though this reminder constantly informs me that more needs to be done for my community. Day after day, I read stories of Asian American people who die by suicide as a consequence of our culture’s avoidance of mental health topics. As a DBH, my biggest goal is to use my expertise in whole–person care to amplify the conversation around mental health and help my community understand that mental healthcare is not a privilege that we are not entitled to, it is a crucial part of our healthcare that will manifest differently in us than what many Western psychology or psychiatry textbooks will describe, and that our unique experience of mental health issues are valid, important, and is time to be part of the larger conversation.

Willam Chum, LMHCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 16, 2022

The DBH represents something that I've always embraced in my professional career. And that's collaboration and working across a lot of different disciplines to make sure you’re delivering the best care for the patient. Everything is about being patient centered about finding innovative ways and creative ways to collaborate with other professionals.

CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCDDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 10, 2023

This program will change how you present to the world, not just as a professional but as an individual. Understand this is work but the work is worth it and the journey is undeniably transformative. If you are seeking a doctorate for the title, this is not the program for you. If you are seeking a doctorate to interrupt and disrupt the course of healthcare, then this is the program for you. You won’t find a more supportive program with professors who are dedicated to your success and your education. This program is not about the regurgitation of information. It is about the appropriate applied application of knowledge and information to push forward and become an advocate for equitable and quality care for all.

Brandy K. Biglow LMHC, CCTP, QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 5, 2024

The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program has definitely transformed my understanding of behavioral health. Understanding the links between physical and mental health has taught how to make better treatment decisions. The DBH program has also given me insights that otherwise would not be possible and allows me to view individuals through a lens that I was previously ignorant of. This program has helped me grow into a more confident individual, provider, and parent.

Cory H. Cannady, BCBA, LBADBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 13, 2024

The DBH program has been a pivotal turning point in my understanding and application of behavioral health principles. Recently, the concept of ‘whole person health’ has gained widespread attention in healthcare circles, becoming somewhat of a buzzword. Like many others, I embraced this term, believing in my capacity to deliver comprehensive care.

Prior to my engagement with the program, my approach, albeit well-intentioned, lacked an appreciation for the intricate interplay between physical and mental health. More importantly, the role of unmet social needs as a catalyst for health disparities was a dimension I had not fully integrated into my practice. The DBH program illuminated these connections, offering me a robust framework to understand and address the multifaceted needs of individuals, especially within marginalized communities.

Additionally, the confidence I have gained through the DBH program extends beyond theoretical knowledge. My role as a connector and advocate for these individuals has become more pronounced, driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering accessibility, equity, and comprehensiveness in care.

Michelle Stroebel MA, NCC, LCMHC, NADD-CCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - June 12, 2024

I have worked in behavioral health for the entirety of my professional career starting with college internships up to my current role as Deputy Executive Commissioner of Behavioral Health for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. While I have years of experience in the field, the DBH program at Cummings has framed my perspective as leveraging therapy as a first line of intervention. As a public servant, much of the work I do is usually in the aftermath of crises or when the system is being forced to respond to a service gap. However, the DBH program takes a much more proactive and integrative approach to health. This perspective/approach has the potential to positively shape policy in Texas in my role as a public servant charged with addressing the safety net needs of the most vulnerable constituents in Texas.

Trina K. Ita, MA, LPCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - July 10, 2024

CGI feels like a community of long-lost cousins that finally met as adults and we realized that we share the same goals. The support from the faculty and classmates have been nothing short of amazing. I can reach out to my advisor at any given time to discuss course work, career endeavors, or to just vent about life. There is a feeling of closeness and belongingness at CGI that is just unmatched. I am very happy to be a member of the family and will continue to spread the word of how great this DBH program is.

Michelle Francis, LCSW/LICSW-QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 10, 2024

The DBH program’s mission, purpose, and objective say it all: We strive for intentional care outcome improvement practices that exemplify whole person-centered integrated healthcare advanced competency. The program of study drives insights and awareness of the ever-changing patient population and multidisciplinary practice environments to change how the world experiences healthcare. This is further reinforced by the pillars of medical literacy, integrated behavioral health intervention, and entrepreneurship skills and expertise. Development growth is needed to prepare the aspiring DBH for the future of the shifting healthcare marketplace through international networking in a growing community of disruptive innovators and an evolving movement toward systemic healthcare change. I feel that I will be positioned alongside a fellowship of like-minded professionals trying to improve the quality of healthcare service delivery value and outcome sustainability.

Jose Mathew, LCSW, LAC, ACS, EMDR-T, CCTP-IIDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 8, 2024

The DBH program has reinforced my vision of viewing behavioral health (BH) as an integrated component of the healthcare system rather than a siloed service. As a practitioner in the focused BH realm of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, I observe on a regular basis how identifying and serving SUD patients is often missed, ignored and stigmatized in primary healthcare, despite the fact that early intervention at these check-points often has the potential to intervene earlier and lessen the negative SUD outcomes frequently seen by the time a patient reaches specialty SUD services. Reinforcement received in my DBH program has motivated me to promote integration as a leader in my workplace and is a primary factor in considering the long-term trajectory of my individual career path.

Kenneth L. Roberts, MPS, LPCC, LADCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 5, 2024

By becoming a DBH, I have found that I am able to have different conversations with different people. Before having my doctorate degree, I was able to speak to certain items in behavioral health, but was only seen as a licensed therapist where as a doctor, I am able to speak to the changemakers and policy makers in a more collaborative manner which then allows us as a group to enhance the services we are providing. I also found that as a DBH, my confidence in the treatment room has improved immensely and cases that may have been more difficult for me before are no longer as difficult due to the training I have received in the program.

Dr. Allison Earl, DBH, LPC-SDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 13, 2024

I think the DBH is quite groundbreaking, it allows you to study from anywhere in the world. The support is fantastic, and you can make out of the DBH what you want. Unlike standard professional doctorates, the DBH was trying to break new ground, not trying to go over just old ground. It greatly encourages its students to be those people who break new ground.

As a person who actually has a disability, I found CGI staff to be very supportive, very accommodating. If I need extensions, they are always there. In fact the staff will reach out and check on you, if they haven’t heard from you in a very short period of time. Which I have never had from any other university.

I find the community of fellow DBH students absolutely wonderful, we reach out across numerous social media platforms, we email each other. Doesn’t matter where I am in the world or where they are in the world, everyone is supportive. Its support, support and encouragement with the DBH.

Jason P. Sargent, B Policing, GDip Psych, MSW, JPDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 10, 2024

Graduating from the DBH program has influenced and enhanced my approach to addressing behavioral health challenges and making a difference in the field by preparing me to become a serious business owner. Through the DBH program, I understand now that becoming a business owner not only assists me in reaping the financial benefits of working for myself, but the program also offers me a sense of freedom to make a difference in an individual’s life.

Dr. Rebecca K. Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA, QBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 18, 2024

I have always wanted to pursue a higher degree but never found a program that met my needs. When I investigated the DBH program, I can honestly say I was excited. It was a program that would expand my knowledge in behavioral health but also how it relates to physical health. The philosophy of treating the whole person was exactly what I was looking for.

Elizabeth Nekoloff, M.Ed., LPCC-S, NCCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 16, 2025

Prior to obtaining my DBH, I practiced behavioral health within the boundaries of behavior analysis. The DBH degree has given me the ability to broaden my scope of competence allowing me to provide a higher quality of care to my clients through a person-centered approach, while still staying within my scope of practice. I was in the beginning stages of opening my business when I enrolled in the DBH program which set my trajectory towards being a stronger leader. The program equipped me with essential healthcare leadership and entrepreneurial skills, allowing me to ensure high-quality services for my clients and foster a supportive work environment for our staff. It has also given me the confidence to expand my business and pursue other healthcare ventures, reaching a broader range of patients in need.

Dr. Pauline Tolentino Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 21, 2025

Although I have worked with many patients who have mental health diagnoses, or behaviors which make managing their medical diagnoses and day to day life difficult, the DBH program at CGI is broadening that knowledge and providing a deeper understanding of behavioral health and how best to help these individuals manage their health and improve their quality of life. This will allow me to provide and advocate for more meaningful and seamless integrated care, providing new tools for my intervention toolbox, and the confidence and skills to collaborate within and lead whole person focused interdisciplinary teams. I also anticipate building upon my knowledge as a nurse case manager and long time caregiver, as well as my personal passions and professional vision, learning about processes and operations, to be in position to start up and lead my own company one day, offering the services and care I know every person should have access to.

Hollie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCMDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 11, 2025

The Doctor in Behavioral Health (DBH) program has changed my understanding of the subject and career path. Before this academic journey, my knowledge of behavioral health was primarily theoretical, including essential ideas and methods. However, the DBH curriculum combined intense academic research with practical application, helping me understand behavioral health from multiple angles. Recognizing mental health as part of total health changed my perspective. The biopsychosocial model, which showed how biological, psychological, and social variables affect mental health, was stressed in the DBH curriculum. This comprehensive approach made me realize how complex human behavior is and how important it is to address mental health issues. Effective interventions must target the individual’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences, not just symptoms. The curriculum also gave me enhanced evidence-based practice training to execute successful solutions. Studies methods and data analysis classes improved my critical thinking and allowed me to evaluate and apply behavioral health studies. This gave me the confidence to contribute to the field’s knowledge base through practice and research.

Dr. Rhea Hill, DBH, LPCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 17, 2025

The DBH program will open opportunities for me to contribute to healthcare system innovation, particularly through trauma-informed care and integrated behavioral health settings. I will be better positioned to advocate for and implement holistic care models that improve health outcomes for underserved populations. Ultimately, this program will help me transition into higher-level roles, such as a director or consultant in behavioral health, where I can influence broader system changes and contribute to the future of healthcare delivery.

DeKyn Rashad Peters, MPH-CHES,BSW/BA,APCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 4, 2025

The DBH program has been integral in preparing me for leadership roles by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of leadership within the behavioral health sector. Through coursework, case studies, and hands-on experiences, I have learned to lead with empathy, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning. The program has also honed my skills in organizational development, communication, and policy advocacy, equipping me to effectively lead teams, drive impactful change, and foster environments that promote positive behavioral health outcomes. With this training, I am confident in my ability to lead initiatives that address systemic barriers and improve care delivery.

Dr. Jerrika Henderson, DBH, CMHCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 18, 2025

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