Graduate students in Southern’s Professional Counseling program provide free Christian counseling sessions to community members through the University’s Southern Center for Counseling and Emotional Wellness. Each session is strictly supervised by licensed professionals.
“The things I love most about counseling are the connections I make and seeing people grow emotionally and mentally,” said Katie Cramer, a master’s student completing a dual specialty in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling programs. “Counseling is an art to learn, and not every session will go the same way. It helps people realize different perspectives in their life and start the healing process.”
During the school year, approximately 15 counselors are available to help clients with issues such as mental health, relationship conflicts, and more. Housed in the School of Education and Psychology, the program is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
“In addition to helping the community, these services benefit our counselors-in-training,” said Ileanna Freeman, Ph.D., professor and director of Graduate Studies in Professional Counseling. “The counseling practicum prepares students to practice counseling after graduation and teaches them to be responsible professionals, including how to follow the code of ethics and the normal procedures of counseling centers.”
Anyone may sign up for a free in-person or virtual counseling session by calling 423-236-2492.
Southern Adventist University | October 2021
