We serve a relational God. He desires relationship with each one of us. He also encourages fellowship with one another. When those relationships break down, counseling can help. Christian counselors can be salt and light in the world. I consider it a privilege to train Christian counselors to use the gifts and abilities God has given them to reach hurting people.
My journey to being a counselor educator has taken a circuitous route. Being good in math and science in high school, I was advised to pursue engineering as a viable career. After completing a materials engineering bachelor’s degree, I did some ministry with youth and even spent some time in Mexico helping plant a church. Then I began teaching high school Spanish and mathematics in New Jersey. I LOVED teaching! I decided to learn more about instruction by obtaining a masters degree in teaching mathematics. This led me to a high school math position at a boarding school in New Hampshire. Living in a dormitory with 40 adolescent girls opened my eyes to my need to get training in counseling. Being involved in their daily lives, I found myself being asked to listen and advise on teen issues. Feeling inadequate to help, I felt called to pursue more training, this time in counseling. I had the privilege to study counseling from a Christian worldview at Denver Seminary. I LOVED counseling! After completing my MA and working at a Christian clinic as a therapist, I returned to Denver Seminary to teach MA students. I was asked to pursue a doctorate in counselor education. Imagine my surprise to learn of a degree that included my two (academic) loves!! I received my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Northern Colorado with a minor in applied statistics and research methods.
After teaching masters students for 9 years, I am excited to have the opportunity to work with doctoral students in my field of counselor education here at Regent University. The online format allows me to train students from all around the world and the Christian perspective fits my belief system. I enjoy mentoring students, whether it’s through dissertations or teaching assistants. The PhD program allows me to work with a diverse body of students with varied needs and visions for their future.
