Biography

Dr. Christmas Thomas joined Concordia University ten years ago where she is an Associate Dean and was a leader in starting the Townsend Institute and has been instrumental in program design and launching of the PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision.

Prior to Concordia she led National Counseling/Academic services for the world’s largest human services provider and consulted internationally in the areas of counseling, education and special education services. She has helped host several national conferences for counselors and educators, provided coaching consulting and presented on these topics across the United States and the United Kingdom.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Education and Leadership, Barry University
• M.A., Counselor Education, University of Central Florida
• B.A., Psychology, University of North Florida

Biography

Aubrey Redinger is the Assistant Director of the Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine. Aubrey has spent 14 years working in higher education in the realms of student leadership development, event planning, teaching, human resources, admissions and advising. As an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Aubrey is also involved in the world of mental health and especially enjoys helping students understand the process of becoming licensed in their state. Aubrey is a member of CALPCC, CAMFT, and NACADA. Aubrey’s work history started with Starbucks Coffee Co., and, in addition to her customer service standards, she also credits Starbucks with her love of coffee shops.

Raised in Auburn, CA, Aubrey from Auburn enjoys hiking with her german shepherd, Haley, running some trails, snowboarding, wakeboarding, and just being in nature. Aubrey loves to travel, seeks out new experiences and likes to share what she’s learned. On the weekends Aubrey can usually be found enjoying a local coffee date with her husband, Jeff, and daughter, Rylee.

Degrees Earned

• M.S., Counseling Psychology, California Baptist University
• B.A., Psychology, California Baptist University

Biography

Dr. Washburn is a 1998 graduate of Evangel University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. She went on to receive her master’s degree in Social Work from Missouri State University in 1999 and her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University in 2015. Her professional experience includes working with the adolescent population in areas such as school social work and as a therapist for teens in residential treatment, providing clinical supervision and consultation for social workers and counselors. Her areas of interest and past research include issues of abuse and neglect with children, negative behavioral functioning of adolescents, clinical supervision and social advocacy in the mental health field. Dr. Washburn has worked in Christian Higher Education for 20 years and has enjoyed many roles including teaching, administration, research and supervision. She is passionate about leading the CUI Townsend Institute Counseling Program and assisting the next generation of counselors in reaching the hurting world with excellence in clinical practice.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision: Regent University
• M.S.W. - Master's of Social Work: Missouri State University
• B.S.W. - Bachelor's of Social Work: Evangel University
• LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker- Missouri

Biography

Dr. Andrew earned her Bachelors and Masters Degrees from California State University, Long Beach and her PhD from Regent University in Virginia. Her research interests include family communication, organizational communication and crisis management. She has taught at both private and public colleges and universities. Some of her past courses include Public Speaking, Workplace Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Small Group Communication, Organizational Communication, Journalism, and Interviewing. Dr. Andrew enjoys working at Concordia University because it allows her to combine her love of teaching and leadership with her Christian beliefs. Dr. Andrew resides in Northern California with her husband Brian and their daughter Brilie Kate.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Communication, Regent University
• M.A., Communication Studies, California State University of Long Beach
• B.A., Communication Studies, California State University of Long Beach

Biography

With more than 20 years of experience in higher education and ministry leadership experience, Gilbert has honed a sense of working with organizations to build health and high-performance. Gilbert has tremendous experience working with individuals and teams to create a strategic plan that will give measurable results and help you achieve success.

Prior to working with the Townsend Institute, Gilbert was the Associate Vice President and Dean of Students at Concordia University Irvine. While serving in that role, he gained extensive experience leading teams in working through stressful situations and building a healthy culture.

Gilbert brings a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine University that has given him a unique perspective to help clients find what motivates them to do their best work. He has worked with many individuals to create a plan for them to explore their unique path to see and overcome the barriers that are limiting their growth. He utilizes his experience in StrengthsFinder and Emotional Intelligence in working with individuals and teams.

As a faculty member and leadership and executive consultant, Gilbert works consistently with leaders and organizations to make significant changes that have a long-term impact. Gilbert’s goal is to create a culture of trust where people feel the freedom to achieve at the highest level.

Degrees Earned

• Ed.D., Organizational Leadership, Pepperdine University
• M.A., Psychology, Pepperdine University
• B.A., Theology, Concordia University, Seward, NE

Biography

Dr. Kaitlyn Stafford has various clinical experiences spanning from working with service members and veterans in inpatient treatment to providing counseling to those suffering from addiction in an outpatient setting. She has also managed intensive outpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs for adolescents, women, adults, and clients with co-occurring mental health and addiction disorders. Since 2017, Dr. Stafford has owned and operated a private practice in Hawaii and remotely, where she specializes in treating complex trauma in adults. Additionally, she enjoys counseling service members, veterans, and their families and conducting group therapy.

Dr. Stafford is an EMDR certified clinician and provides EMDR and trauma therapy consulting. She is passionate about mentoring future and current clinicians to offer competent, trauma-informed care. Dr. Stafford is also committed to helping educate clinicians on the military culture and how to successfully and ethically navigate a telehealth practice. She also serves as a supervisor, consultant, and faculty member for a counselor training program in Ukraine. Her current research interests and endeavors include: the career and life satisfaction of military spouses who have advanced degrees, military culture, and trauma.

Dr. Stafford is proud of her South Louisiana roots and the art of cooking and eating that comes with them (gumbo, jambalaya, and shrimp and grits are regular favorites in the Stafford house). She enjoys yoga, hiking trails with her husband, son, and pup, and drinking a good cup of coffee on the lanai.

Biography

Michelle Thompson is the Director of the Executive Coaching and Consulting program in the Townsend Institute at Concordia University.  

As a Leadership and Growth Coach, credentialed as a Professional Certified Coach by the International Coaching Federation, she brings a breadth of executive leadership experience in the non-profit and for-profit sector combined with almost two decades of involvement with the Townsend Growth Model.  

Degrees and Certifications

• M.S., Organizational Development, Abilene Christian University
• M.A., Children's and Family Ministry, Bethel Seminary
• B.A., Elementary Education, Concordia University Chicago
• Professional Certified Coach (PCC), International Coaching Federation 
• Certificate, Conflict Resolution and Mediation, Abilene Christian University

Biography

Dr. Shelley Coleman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia and holds specialty certifications in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Somatic Experiencing. She is an assistant professor for the Townsend Institute at Concordia University in Irvine, California. Dr. Coleman has been teaching at the Townsend Institute since 2017. She has taught most of the course in the program and is the SME for Foundations in Marriage and Family Counseling and Human Growth and Development. Dr. Coleman was introduced to Dr. Townsend’s model in 2011 during a yearlong training for counselors with Dr. Townsend in Indiana. She continues to integrate the Townsend Model into her work clinically as well as in the classroom.

As an Emotionally Focused Therapist and Supervisor, Dr. Coleman provides couples and family counseling using Dr. Sue Johnson’s model of EFT and EFFT. This is widely considered the gold standard for couple and family counseling. As a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, she uses the work of Dr. Peter Levine for trauma healing work. Again, Dr. Levine’s work is considered a gold standard modality and works with the central nervous system to help the body renegotiate trauma and provide long lasting healing.

Dr. Coleman owns her own private practice, Valley Counseling and Consulting in Teays Valley, WV. Here she offers counseling and coaching with a variety of populations, both in- person and via telehealth. Her specialties include couple and family counseling, trauma healing, as well as depression, anxiety, and intimate partner violence recovery. Dr. Coleman also offers supervision in Emotionally Focused Therapy as a certified EFT Supervisor and consultation in Somatic Experiencing.

Degrees, Licenses, and Certifications Earned:

• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision
• National Certified Counselor
• Licensed Professional Counselor and Supervisor (West Virginia)
• Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist and Supervisor
• Somatic Experiencing Practitioner

Biography

Dr. Lorraine Gordon earned her degree in Counselor Education and Supervision from Capella University. Dr. Gordon is a National Certified Counselor and is a mentor for the National Board for Certified Counselors Foundation, Mentor Program. She is a Disaster Mental Health Responder for the American Red Cross. Dr. Gordon’s professional experience spans Mental Health, Teaching, Counseling, and Healthcare. She has extensive experience working in community mental health, private practice, and within a teaching hospital in a variety of capacities. Dr. Gordon is an On-Demand Military & Family Life Counselor (MFLC) at Fort Dix. Her areas of interest include trauma, crisis management, online counseling learners transitioning into internship fieldwork, family, and Multicultural Counseling. Dr. Gordon served as Adjunct Faculty at Middlesex County College. Dr. Gordon’s ministry involves Family Life, Youth and Young Adults. She operates a Community Counseling office within her church. She serves on her church school Board and especially enjoys helping learners achieve their educational aspirations. Dr. Gordon resides in Central New Jersey with her husband, a retired Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, they are the parents of five adult children. For relaxation she enjoys hiking, speed walking, camping, traveling, and gardening. Dr. Gordon is committed to higher education and is a life-long learner, she is enthusiastic about integrating her counseling experience with academics.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. Counselor Education and Supervision, Capella University
• M.S. Human Services - Mental Health, Capella University

Biography

Dr. Angela Jackson is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor experienced working in clinical settings (youth and families) and as faculty with diverse populations. A graduate of Virginia Tech, she holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education with a concentration in Race and Social Policy. She specializes in building rapport with clients and clarifying the basis for their presenting issues. For example, what’s beneath the surface of client’s symptoms for anxiety, depression, faith conflict, or family of origin trauma? Dr. Jackson has gained a unique cultural awareness of the family dynamics and relationships particularly with the African American population. Therefore, she welcomes broader roles beyond therapist (educator, faith advocate, resource person) by providing culturally responsive treatment that includes tailoring her skill set with the clients’ unique needs. She makes herself available to clients including being present when collective societal issues such as systemic racism or marginalization are the presenting issues.

As core faculty of the Masters in Counseling Program in the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling, Dr. Jackson considers empowering students in the classroom and clarifying their “professional counseling identity” as no small task. With the high rewards of becoming a licensed professional counselor coupled with the awesome training of the Townsend character/competence model, students are set up for success.

Lastly, Dr. Jackson's passion for mental health and cultural competency is also evident as the owner of Culturally Competent Therapy as she has specialized in culturally responsive treatment with clients for over ten years.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. Counselor Education, Virginia Tech
• M.Ed. Community Counseling, Kent State
• B.S. Industrial Management, University of Akron

Biography

Brenda Keck, Ph.D., LMFT has been practicing as a therapist since 2008 and teaching since 2014. She grew up overseas (East Africa) and much of her work has been in the missionary community in the U.S., Asia, Africa and Europe. She is passionate about promoting resilience, health and healing in the emotional and spiritual lives of ministry leaders. Her specializations include: issues of cross-cultural living, Third Culture Kids, Trauma recovery, compassion fatigue/secondary traumatic stress, resilience and wellness. She also finds great joy in mentoring and teaching a new generation of counselors!

Brenda has been married to her husband (a pastor) since 1981 and enjoys time with her grown twin daughters, a son-in-law, and one crazy dog. She lives in the Pacific NW and spends part of the summers in Alaska with her husband where he runs a fishing lodge. Some things she enjoys outside of work include horseback riding, hiking, hot yoga, salmon fishing with her husband, and sharing a pot of English tea with good conversation.

Degrees Earned

• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision, Regent University
• MA Marriage and Family Therapy, Richmont Graduate University
• Bachelor’s in Education, Guidance & Counseling, University of North Texas

Biography

Dr. Rachael McCormick is a 2007 graduate of Hardin-Simmons University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. She went on to receive her master’s degree in Family Psychology from Hardin-Simmons University in 2010 and her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University in 2019. Her professional experience includes working with children and adolescents in the schools, child protective services, and private practice. She has an extensive work history with those struggling with addictions including prevention, inpatient, and outpatient counseling. Dr. McCormick was formerly the COO of the Serenity Foundation, a non-profit substance use treatment foundation including multiple programs in prevention, detox, inpatient, outpatient, recovery support services and sober living. She has received additional trainings and certifications in multiple trauma approaches and play therapy. Her areas of interest and past research include integrating creativity, play therapy, and neurobiology in counseling with all clients of all ages. Dr. McCormick has presented at multiple national conferences on her work using sandtray therapy with adults. She specializes in supervising and training other counselors in this modality. Although she has transitioned into higher education, Dr. McCormick will always consider herself a clinician at heart which is why she still maintains a small private practice in Abilene, TX. She is passionate about supervising the next generation of counselors to foster their creativity and competence in clinical skills.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision: Regent University
• M.A.- Master of Arts in Family Psychology: Hardin-Simmons University
• B.B.S.- Bachelor of Behavioral Science in Psychology: Hardin-Simmons University
• LPC- Licensed Professional Counselor: Texas
• LCDC- Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor: Texas
• NCC- National Certified Counselor
• RPT- Registered Play Therapist

Biography

Christi Myers, Ph.D., LPC, LCDC, has worked in community mental health and education for over twenty years in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, Japan, Mexico, and the United States. Prior to Concordia, Dr. Myers directed multiple community mental health care initiatives dedicated to providing accessible bilingual counseling services to people of all ages and backgrounds. Dr. Myers also specializes in providing co-occurring psychological and substance use disorder (COPSD) treatment to individuals, couples, and families. Her research interests include cross-cultural counseling, resiliency, and post traumatic growth.

Dr. Myers and her husband, a Sergeant Major in the US Army, reside in Texas. She has a passion for trail ultrarunning and rescue dogs.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision, St. Mary's University
• M.A., International Counseling Psychology, Alliant International University

Biography

Dr. Newmeyer is a licensed professional clinical counselor and supervisor in Ohio and Virginia with over twenty years of clinical and consulting experience in mental health services, addictions, and trauma. He is a professional member of the American Counseling Association, which recognized his achievements by honoring him in 2004 as an Emerging Leader. Dr. Newmeyer is an active member of ASGW and also serves on the Editorial Board for Measurement and Evaluation in Counseling and Development. He enjoys running, including several marathons and recently a 50K.

Biography

I am a native of Southern California, specifically Orange County California. I am the daughter of two Vietnamese immigrants, my father arriving here after the fall of Saigon in 1975, while my mother is a Vietnamese boat person. I consider myself bicultural, being fluent in both English and Vietnamese and balancing my Vietnamese heritage with growing up in the United States. As an example of the bicultural influence, I grew up eating my spaghetti with chopsticks.

I graduated from CSU Fullerton with a B.S. in Human Services and a minor in Criminal Justice with Magna Cum Laude honors. I followed my undergraduate studies with an M.S. in Counseling at CSU Fullerton and earned my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at Pennsylvania State University.

My clinical experiences ranged from working with children and their families in school and community mental health clinics to a variety of individual needs of college students and adults, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance abuse/dependence. I completed clinical work in different settings, including the Orange County (OC) HeadStart preschool program, Western Youth Services community mental health clinic, CEDAR clinic at Penn State University, OC HealthCare Agency Adult Mental Health services, and ChildNet Youth and family services. All included individual, family, and group counseling.

The aforementioned experiences have built on my training in evidenced-based practices, which encompass Functional Family Therapy (FFT), Integrative Complex Trauma Treatment, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). As a practitioner, I specialize in working with the Vietnamese American population and have a passion for practitioner-based research and counseling services within this underserved population. I have also pioneered culturally responsive modifications to Parent-Child Interaction Therapy with Vietnamese American families while training other clinicians. In addition, I created a supervision group for a Vietnamese American group of interns, psychologists, and clinicians to provide ethnic specific services, program development, and peer mentoring.

While at Penn State, I was also part of an international collaboration called “Counseling without Borders” with Boğaziçi University in Istanbul, Turkey to provide a cultural exchange on counselor education. I was honored to come back to CSU Fullerton to teach courses in the Human Services and Counseling programs from which I graduated in 2012.

Using my experience, I built my practice from the ground-up in Orange County. My practice, which started in 2015, focuses on providing culturally responsive therapy to Asian Americans.

My future research includes a focus on children’s mental health, diversifying counselor education, and international aspects of counselor education. My passion is to focus research on improving access and outreach to underserved populations in counseling and underrepresented populations in counselor education, along with fostering curiosity and passion in my students on their research interests. This research includes my dissertation on Vietnamese American family’s perceptions of children’s mental health, how culture impacts utilization of mental health services using a case study approach with phenomenological aspects that incorporated participant narratives.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision - (CACREP- Accredited) - The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. 
• M.S. in Counseling - (CACREP- Accredited) - California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, CA. 
• B.S. in Human Services, Minor in Criminal Justice -  California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, CA. 
• LMFT- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, California

   

Biography

Matthew John Paylo, Ph.D./LPCC-S (OH), LPC (GA), is a professor of counseling at Concordia University Irvine. He has over 12 years of experience in counselor education and 20 years of clinical experience in various settings including community mental health centers, prisons, hospitals, adolescent residential treatment facilities, and college counseling centers. Matthew is passionate about implementing evidence-based interventions within therapeutic relationships that highlight empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness. He has presented and published extensively in the areas of diagnosing and treating mental and emotional disorders. Matthew co-authored two books on assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders. In addition, he has published numerous journal articles and book chapters on trauma, evidence-based treatments, offender treatments, adolescent counseling, social justice counseling, and the implementation of the DSM. Matthew has received a number of teaching and research awards including the Distinguished Professor of Teaching at Youngstown State University and the Research and Writing Award from the Ohio Counseling Association (OCA). In addition, Matthew completed two terms as a governor-appointed member of the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision - (CACREP- Accredited) - University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
• M.A. in Community Counseling - (CACREP- Accredited) - Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, PA
• B.S. in Business - Grove City College, Grove City, PA

Biography

Dr. Joy Kelly Phifer holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling and Counselor Education from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). Her previous degrees include a Master of Science and Specialist in Education dual degree in Couple and Family Counseling, a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies all from UNCG. Currently, she serves as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina, treating individuals, couples and families in an outpatient, private agency setting. Clinically, she maintains special training in Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) through the Carolina Center for EFT and trauma-specific training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) through the International Association of Trauma Professionals. In her clinical practice, she promotes the power of the counseling relationship, in that it has the unique potential to serve as a catalyst for individual insight, progressive change, and overall mental health wellness.

As a counselor educator, Dr. Phifer maintains a special passion for the classroom in providing experiential and transformative experiences for her students, where she enjoys teaching classes in counseling skills, career counseling, sexuality counseling, family violence, and more. Additionally, Dr. Phifer holds a strong passion for the clinical supervision process in helping developing counselors hone their clinical skills with a focus on providing high quality therapeutic services for clients. Her areas of research interest primarily relate to the prevention, treatment, and recovery experiences of victims and survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV), alongside research implications in couple and family counseling practice - all of which reflect her spiritual calling to the field.

Dr. Phifer is passionate about the performing arts where she enjoys social dancing with her husband and attending live concerts. In her free time, Dr. Phifer enjoys traveling, watching movies full of suspense and drama, and spending time with close friends and family.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counseling and Counselor Education, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• M.S./Ed.S., Couple & Family Counseling, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• B.S., B.A., Business Administration, Dance Studies, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Biography

A guiding theme for my life is that of relationship and two statements inform this interest. The first is from Irvin Yalom, who instructs, "It is the relationship that heals." I have experienced the positive aspects of being healed in my own relationships and seen the immense power of how relationship heals others through therapy and counseling. The second is by the educator Jon Kabat-Zinn, in his definition of mindfulness: "Paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally." Being in relationship with oneself and others requires a focused mind and focused awareness in both the realm of the self and the other. The challenge is to be nonjudgmental and authentic in those interactions.

I have worked in the field of counseling and therapy for the past 25 years, working in a myriad of settings. Since 2003, I have been in private practice in Virginia Beach, working as a psychotherapist with adolescents, adults, families, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety and additional clinical symptomology.

The challenge of being authentic in treatment is no better represented than treating teenagers and families. In this work, I found my calling. I have been looking for ways patients can find peace, utilizing multiple types of treatment, including individual therapy, groups, and specific work with adolescents and families. My search for effective treatment led to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to treat teenagers, families, and adults. This approach has integrated well in how I understand relationships and how to develop peace by utilizing mindfulness-based approaches. I continue to utilize DBT, Prolonged Exposure (PE), and evidence-based treatment in my clinical work.

In my own life creating meaning is done through relationships with others and with my relationship with God. The conflict of being on a journey to understand, married with the frustration of the unknown future is captured all too well in Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. There is tension between the demand to "know" in those difficult moments and the humility of accepting what we cannot understand. This acceptance and humility is necessary to experience peace.

My involvement in teaching has expanded my worldview and my role in helping others. I have expanded interests in how therapy works from both the clinical and research domains. I have developed significant interest in how the counselor develops personally and professionally and have a strong interest in the supervision process. Students need good clinical training! I am passionate in helping them find their way to become competent counselors.

My position at the CUI Townsend Institute Counseling Program allows me to seek and expand on the many passions I have with clinical work and counselor supervision. In addition, it affords the chance to pursue research in finding answers to the myriad of questions that my clinical and supervisory work has generated.

Areas of Interest

• Addiction in Adolescents and Families
• Qualitative Research Methodology
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Evidence-based treatments
• Mindfulness in Teaching and Supervision
• Counselor Education and Counselor Development
• Use of Technology in Teaching

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision: Regent University
• M.A., Community/Clinical Psychology: Norfolk State University
• B.A., Psychology & Sociology: Virginia Wesleyan College
• LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
• LMFT – Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
• LSATP – Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner
• CSAC – Certified Substance Abuse Counselor
• ACS – Approved Clinical Supervisor

Biography

Dr. Deena Shelton is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas and has a variety of experiences in clinical, educational, and nonprofit settings. Like many counselors, she feels a strong connection to her calling of helping others and feels equally passionate about training new counselors. She focused her counseling expertise in couples and families, career counseling, and supervising new counselors as they seek licensure.

Previously, Dr. Shelton has worked in university career services, administration and advising for online graduate counseling programs, and in coordination and executive management of nonprofit organizations. She has worked community services such as advocacy for children in foster care, federally funded education programs, and community-based crime prevention initiatives. Her research focuses include adoptive families, parenting, supervision in counselor education, and research methods. She is passionate about volunteering for her community and serves in volunteer groups and on local boards to help promote change in her community.

Dr. Shelton is passionate about teaching new counselors in practical and connective ways. In addition to helping educate students about the process of counseling, she strives to mentor them in their personal development and professional identity. As most counselor educators, she loves helping students understand how they can connect with clients to promote change. She also loves teaching students how topics like research, assessment, evaluation, and documentation fit into the role of a counselor and how they enhance a counselor’s ability to serve clients well. In addition to serving as a faculty member, Dr. Shelton is the Field Experience Coordinator, overseeing practicum and internship experiences for students.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision, Walden University
• M.A., Community Counseling, Stephen F. Austin State University
• B.S., Psychology, LeTourneau University

Biography

Dr. Sinardi holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from St. Cloud State University and a Master's degree in Counseling from California State University, Long Beach. She became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2006. In 2011, Dr. Sinardi completed her Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership at the University of La Verne.

Professional Experience

Dr. Catherine Sinardi is Director of Healthcare Management, overseeing the following degree programs: Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management (traditional and online) and Master of Healthcare Administration. She teaches a variety of courses in aforementioned programs, and is an instructor in the Townsend Institute’s Master of Arts in Counseling curriculum. Previously, she was Regional Director of Clinical Services at Children’s Institute and Director of Quality Assurance and Program Evaluation at Counseling4Kids, both in the greater Los Angeles area. She also worked in private practice as a licensed counselor and held various administrative positions at ChildNet Youth and Family Services in Long Beach.

Biography

World traveling, adventure seeking adrenaline junky, motorcyclist, husband, and father Michael Anderson. After a brief hitch in the US Army National Guard, Michael joined the staff of Cru and continues to work in vocational ministry with Cru's Athletes in Action. He teaches and consults in leadership development, team building, and communication all over the world. Among his resources are degrees in Electrical Engineering (AS), Communication Science (BA UConn), a master's degree in Communication and Leadership from Gonzaga University, and decades of experience in executive leadership. Michael is also a certified executive coach, CoreClarity Facilitator, and Action Learning Facilitator. It is his great joy to work as an adjunct at Indiana Wesleyan University and Concordia University, Irvine as he leads people and teams around the world to wild success.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Communication and Leadership, Gonzaga University
• B.A. Communication Science, University of Connecticut

Biography

Wendy supports leaders in navigating the sometimes awkward, challenging and exciting opportunities that surround organizational leadership. Her belief that each individual has a unique contribution to bring that is vital to organizational success is the driving force behind her work. Creating a thriving organizational culture that results in high energy, productivity and high trust relationships is her vision of success.

Wendy holds the Professional Certified Coach credential with the International Coach Federation. She uses several assessments as tools to provide greater awareness and touchstones for growth and learning for individuals, teams and throughout an organization. Her favorite starting point is an exploration with her clients on their strengths and where they are brilliant. This provides a positive foundation for addressing what may not be working for them. Wendy works as a Leadership Performance Coach at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and is owner and lead coach for Creative Coaching Solutions, a leadership and organizational coaching company.

Degrees Earned

• M.A., Organizational Systems Renewal, Seattle University
• B.A., Organizational Management, Concordia University Chicago

Biography

Carolyn Bazan is a trainer at the Mental Health Association in NJ and a Licensed Associate Counselor. She is currently pursuing a PhD degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Rutgers University. Her past work includes serving as a clinician and project manager on “Treating hidden barriers to employment: Integrated treatment for PTSD in supported employment”, a research study funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research under the mentorship of Dr. Weili Lu. Her work during this time has allowed her to gain an understanding of the barriers clinicians face when serving individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder as well as the symptoms that interfere with this population’s ability to seek and maintain employment. Her research interests includes examining the intersection of trauma, addiction, and spirituality.

Biography

Megan Bearden is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri. She earned her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University. Currently, she is enrolled in Regent University's PhD program for Counselor Education and Supervision. Megan works at her local community mental health center as a school-based clinician with elementary age students and their families. Throughout her years of experience, Megan has worked with youth, adolescents, and young adults in detention centers, community mental health centers, and schools to help kids improve their futures. She enjoys sharing her experience and love of the counseling profession through education as she partners with the next generation of counselors.

Degrees Earned

• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Evangel University
• Currently pursuing PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University

Biography

Jill has a Ph.D. from Capella University in Organizational Management with an emphasis in Leadership. She has a M.S.M. from Notre Dame de Namur University with an emphasis in Project Management. Jill’s experience spans from 12 years in the collegiate classroom to working in the board room as a business executive for more than 20 years. A dynamic and seasoned entrepreneur with a track record in developing and implementing effective business processes, Jill has experience in managing and leading internal teams, creating win-win relationships with vendors and suppliers to improve cost-efficiency across the supply chain, and tracking adherence to organizational strategy, strategic objectives and action plans. Currently she is the chairman and CEO at NSI (Nutritional Services, Inc.) in San Carlos, CA.

Biography

Rolla Bradley is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) in Texas. He has an earned Master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Texas San Antonio. He also has an earned Master’s degree in Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Has last degree (according to his wife) is a PhD in Education with an emphasis in Organizational Leadership.

Dr. Bradley has been counseling since he was licensed in 1998, he has advanced training in the Gottman Method and EMDR, as well as several others. Dr. Bradley has extensive experience with adolescents including working in schools, residential settings and with adjudicated adolescents. Dr. Bradley works with adolescents, couple and marriage, and men’s issues. His greatest joy is spending time with his 3 adult children and currently his two granddaughters, with two grandsons on the way both to arrive late December and early January of 2022-2023. Counseling and teaching are his greatest career passions.

Degrees Earned

• Master of Arts, Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
• Master of Arts, Guidance and Counseling from University of Texas, San Antonio
• Ph. D., Education – Organizational Leadership, University of the Incarnate Word

Biography

Joel Cagwin, PhD, LCPC obtained a master’s in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College in 2003 and began practicing in the Chicago area in community-based practices, private practices, and day hospital treatment. In 2013 he moved to Kandern, Germany, the home of Black Forest Academy, an international school that primarily serves families in international ministries. He has served as the Head Counselor at Black Forest Academy, where he provides counseling for students and families and supervises the team of counselors at the school. While having dreamed of serving overseas since the late '90s, he is grateful for the clinical experience he accumulated prior to moving across the ocean. In the ex-pat community, he found that people quickly looked to him for expertise and the variety of work settings gave him a broad and solid perspective from which to draw. He also found that counselors overseas tend to be isolated and isolation in practice can increase our professional risk, so he sought to grow his skills in leading and supporting other professional counselors through a PhD program in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University (Virginia), completing that program in 2020. Dr. Cagwin began in 2018 to serve as a member care professional for his sending organization, the Christian and Missionary Alliance. In 2021 he completed training and certification in Spiritual Direction through Sustainable Faith. Living with his wife and four teenage and pre-teen children in Chiang Mai, Thailand for the '22/'23 school year, he is providing supervision and program evaluation services in counseling centers in the city of Chiang Mai. The life overseas provides options for enjoyable interactions with a variety of cultures, sights, and sensations as well as challenging opportunities for personal growth.

Degrees Earned

• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision, Regent University
• MA Clinical Psychology, Wheaton College
• BA Psychology, Wheaton College
• LCPC – Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor: Illinois

Biography

Eileen Callahan completed her graduate and post-graduate education in clinical social work and psychotherapy at New York University. Currently, she is pursuing a Certificate in Spiritual Formation through Soul Shepherding, a non-profit ministry aimed at helping pastors and ministry leaders foster a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. Eileen Callahan is a licensed psychotherapist and executive coach who helps clients experience real transformation in their personal and professional life. As founder of RESTORE Executive Coaching Experience, Eileen leads clients through an exclusive program designed to overcome depletion, stress and disconnection. As a personal growth and leadership facilitator for Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend’s Ultimate Leadership, Empower Now, and One Week Intensive for Therapists workshops, Eileen has helped hundreds of participants identify goals, overcome obstacles and grow as leaders.

Biography

Sarah E. Campbell, Ph.D., has been practicing as a counselor since 2007 and teaching since 2012. She grew up in Vermont, but has lived in New Jersey since the early 2000’s. She is passionate about promoting resilience and healthiness in children, youth, adults and couples/families. She places a strong emphasis on helping her clients gain access to their voices and become empowered to experience and live out the changes needed to experience a healthier way to living. She also greatly enjoys serving in the roles of advocate, mentor and counselor educator.

Sarah has two daughters and enjoys spending her time with them. She lives on the coast of New Jersey. Some things she enjoys outside of work include hiking, watching her girls play basketball and football, photography and living a simple life.

Degrees Earned

• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision, Capella University
• MS Mental Health Counseling, Capella University
• Bachelor’s in Human Services, Thomas Edison State University
• Associates in Paralegal Studies, Ocean County College

Biography

Becca is a licensed professional counselor in Michigan and licensed mental health counselor associate in Indiana.She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling from Huntington University and is currently participating in a Townsend Leadership Group in southern Indiana. Becca has attended workshops with Dennis Del Valle in Effective Group Process and Experiential Group Training as well as completing the One Week Intensive for Counselors hosted by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. Her clinical experience includes individual, couples, and group psychotherapy in a private practice setting. Becca is passionate about helping her clients flourish personally and professionally through leveraging the healing power of relationship to unlock increased capacities to navigate the challenges of life.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Counseling, Huntington University

Biography

Barry Davis is a Career and Executive Coach with Gift of Self Career Services. LLC. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Millersville University and a Pastoral Degree from Lancaster Bible College and Graduate School, he is designated as a Certified Master of Career Services by the National Career Development Association and is a licensed minister of the Gospel. An adjunct professor at Concordia and Huntington Universities and an active blogger (on both career and faith), he has written for the Social Media Examiner, NCDA and the Middle Atlantic Career Counseling Association’s newsletters. Davis’ presentation experience includes keynoting for MACCA, presenting to the Eastern Association of Colleges and Employers, Maryland Career Development Association, Human Resource associations, Business Executives Networking Group, Lancaster Young Professionals, and various organizations, colleges and universities on diverse topics including The Blessings of Failure, Creating Luck, and Leading through Conflict. A certified AVA Analyst and Certified Talent Consultant for advanced assessment training with the Institute of Personality and Ability Testing, he also holds certification in Critical Incident Stress Debriefing from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation. Over his 25+ year career, Barry has worked with thousands of people in diverse industries in dealing with the age-old question "What do I want to be when I grow up?", whether they are taking their first career steps or transitioning into a new field entirely. He has extensive experience in working with companies and individuals in the throes of employment and life transitions and continues to learn what all he wants to do! Barry is passionate about integrating Biblical truth in all he does, often noting that "all truth belongs to God." On a personal side, he is an inveterate reader, pushing books on anyone who comes within earshot (he has over 190 book reviews on Goodreads), and has completed over 30 full marathons.

Degrees Earned

• M.S., Clinical Psychology, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
• B.S., Bible/Pastoral Studies, Lancaster Bible College

Biography

Godfrey Ddungu is a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCPC) and board approved clinical supervisor (ACS) in the state of Maryland. His currently doing his doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision at Walden University. He is expected to graduate in Spring 2023. Godfrey’s work experiences include working with adolescent juvenile offenders and their families, providing inpatient treatment to individuals and families struggling with addiction and substance abuse, and coordinating with social services and legal entities.

Godfrey joined the Townsend Institute as an adjunct instructor in March 2021 to contribute to the development and training of effective counselor helpers. Godfrey has specific in interest in treating those afflicted with addiction, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and childhood disorders of ADHD and OCD and is also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).

Godfrey’s areas of research interest are HIV/AIDS and disparities affecting the minority communities in United States and other parts of the world. Godfrey is committed to a life of teaching and research within the field of counselor education and firmly believes that education is a lifelong journey. Godfrey uses the classroom to create an environment in which he empowers students to have opinions and critically examine issues that are conducive to everyone’s growth and development. He also uses his classroom to take students’ perspectives to understand their world view and experience and this allows him to engage students into developing new skills to become multiculturally sensitive and competent counselors.

When Godfrey is not in the teacher or counselor seat, he spends a great deal of his time in play with my three children, playing soccer and board games, reading, learning new languages (Japanese and Spanish), and giving creative attention to pursuits with his wife. Godfrey is looking forward to working with his students and learning from them to gain mastery of the counseling skills as developing counselors.

Degrees Earned

• M.A., Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling, Cleveland State University
• B.A., Education, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda

Biography

Dr. Michele Fleming is an executive coach, therapist, speaker, and writer. Michele earned her Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the Rosemead School of Psychology after enjoying a successful career in international sales and marketing. Prior to entering graduate school, Michele worked as a Director for the Diocese of San Diego, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges of both business and ministry leadership. She first starting working with Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend as a facilitator for Ultimate Leadership, Empower Now, and One Week Intensive workshops, where she helped hundreds of participants improve their performance, enhance their relationships, and launch their dreams. Dr. Fleming maintains a private practice as an executive coach, and she is a Director for the Townsend Leadership Program in Atlanta, GA. She has presented at universities, business groups, churches, youth groups, and ministry events. She also blogs for several websites and has been featured on EWTN satellite radio.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, Biola University

Biography

Pamela has received her Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary and was part of the Inaugural class of the Townsend Institute at Huntington University where she received the Advanced Executive Coaching Credential. She is a Leadership Coach and Organizational consultant with the Townsend Leadership Group. She is now an active TLP Director, co-leading a group in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area. Pamela is certified in the 16 PF and also offers the Myers Briggs, Strong Interest Survey, and Emotional Intelligence Assessments. Pamela has received training from Dennis Del Valle in Process Group Dynamics and Experiential Training as well as several psychodramas trainings under the Bridging Harts Institute and Psychotherapy. Pamela has also completed both the Ultimate Leadership Workshop and One Week Intensive for Counselors in Newport Beach, California hosted by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. She coaches individuals and teams to build self-awareness, improve communication skills and deal with conflict in a way that solves problems and helps people grow.

Biography

Dr. Acha Goris is married to Rachel and they have two adult sons Ike and Ingam. Dr. Goris holds a bachelor’s degree from West Africa Theological Seminary in theology, two master’s degrees from the Theological College of Northern Nigeria in Missiology, and Cincinnati Christian University in counseling, as well as a doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Cincinnati in 2008. Dr. Goris has been training counselors since 2009, first at Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, Kentucky and at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. He stepped away from teaching full time in August 2022 to work full time with the US military as a military family life counselor. Dr. Goris has been a licensed counseling supervisor in Ohio, Kentucky and currently in Missouri and Kansas. Dr. Goris was the facultysupervisor for the honor society Chi Sigma Iota at MNU until August 2022. Dr. Goris is a master ,trainer with the NBCC in their efforts to facilitate and destigmatize global mental health. Dr. Goris’ counseling interests are to integrate psychological and theological concepts in order to provide holistic help to clients, mentor counselors in-training, strengthen the marriages of the African Diaspora, and help to demystify/destigmatize mental health in Africa. One of his long term goals is to create a concise manual for Counselor Education in Africa. Dr. Goris enjoys sports, travel, history and working on cars.

Degrees Earned

• B.A. Theology, West Africa Theological Seminary
• M.A. Missiology, Theological College of Northern Nigeria
• M.A. Counseling, Cincinnati Christian University
• Ed.D. Counselor Education and Supervision, University of Cincinnati

Biography

Mike Haarer is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Indiana. He has worked in the field of adolescent residential treatment since 2004 when he began at Josiah White’s, an organization with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1850, serving court-ordered adolescents in residential treatment through Indiana’s Department of Child Services. Initially, he specialized in the area of sexually maladaptive behaviors and was a Credentialed Sexually Abusive Youth Clinician. In 2012, he and a team launched Compass Rose Academy as a new private division of Josiah White’s. Mike studied under Dr. Townsend, completing three years of his Counselor Training Program concentrated on emotion-focused, character-based Psychodynamic psychotherapy. He is working on his Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision at Regent University in Virginia Beach and has previously served as an adjunct professor at Huntington University’s Graduate Counseling program. Mike presents on a variety of topics at local, regional, and national conferences and trains residential staff on Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. He has served as the Executive Director of Compass Rose Academy since its founding in 2012 and lives on the Wabash, Ind. campus along with his wife, Emily, and two daughters, Corabelle and Olivia.

Biography

Matthew’s personal and professional pursuit of holistic growth are at the center of his life and work with others. He holds degrees in Communication from Biola University (1994) and Christian Ministry and Leadership from Talbot School of Theology (2001). Spiritual Development and Pastoral Counseling were the specialized emphases of his graduate work. Matthew also received a certificate in spiritual direction from the Archdiocesan Spirituality Center in Los Angeles. Currently, he is studying to complete a doctoral program in Higher Education Leadership at Azusa Pacific University. Over the past 17 years, Matthew has cultivated his vocation toward influencing the holistic development of emerging adults, leaders and professionals. Currently, he serves as the Associate Dean of Students at Biola University. In recent years, Matthew launched a professional consulting business (TRACK 3 Leadership Development) integrating Christian spirituality, psychological insight, and intentional community for the purpose of holistic leadership development. He finds unique inspiration for his work in creation, spiritual friendship and the daily pursuit of humility as the highest virtue for human growth. Matthew, his wife, Sheela, and their three children, Annie, Breeana and Jarren, live, work and play in northern California.

Degrees Earned

• Ed.D. Higher Education Leadership, Azusa Pacific University (in progress)
• M.A. Spiritual Development, Biola University
• B.A. Communications, Biola University

Biography

Dr. Steve Hotchkiss is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives of Thrive Healthcare, one of the world’s largest veterinary operating groups. Thrive Pet Healthcare includes a network of over 400 acute, primary, and specialty care providers across the nation. Additionally, the company operates Veterinary Growth Partners, a value-added management services organization, and Vetspire, a cloud-native platform that offers the veterinary industry a pioneering hospital management software-as-a-service.

Biography

Nancy has a Master’s in Counseling and is a speaker, teacher, counselor and coach. She is a Director for the Townsend Leadership program in New York City and the Dallas Fort Worth area. She is in private practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in individual, marital and sexual issues. She is also a Certified Sex Therapist. She was on staff at Gateway Church for over five years, serving in the Marriage and Family department and Intimate Life. She loves to help people grow into their full potential, empowering them to be truly alive. Nancy teaches on topics ranging from relational health to sexual and spiritual growth and development.

Biography

Dr. Impellizzeri also known as “Dr. J.” is the first Certified Gottman Therapist (CGT) in Western Pennsylvania. In 2017, he launched the Center for Marriage and Family at Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) in Pittsburgh which focuses on providing high-quality relationship-oriented therapies that are research-informed and client directed. Dr. J also conducts marathon couples therapy (2-day intensive) to help repair damaged relationship bonds. As a Clinical Director of CBI, he provides clinical supervision, training, and consultation for a staff of more than 70 mental health professionals. He has extensive counseling experience in community based, outpatient, and group private practice settings. Outside of his clinical office, Dr. J is a full-time professor and Director of the Marriage and Family Counseling Program at Geneva College. He teaches a variety of graduate-level courses including Faith-Based Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, Professional Ethics, and Psychopathology.

Biography

Jon Kidwell is a leadership development trainer and coach who works with executives, teams, and organizations so they are healthy and effective. He is the Founder/Leader of The Kidwell Team, a leadership development company on a mission to equip and empower leaders through training and coaching so they can lead at their best and get the results their people and the mission deserve.

For over 20 years, Jon served in leadership roles as an employee or Board member in private companies and nonprofits, large and small, ranging from a local focus to global impact. During that time, Jon was VP of Innovation and Operations for a large, multi-million dollar global nonprofit in Houston, TX working with companies such as Apple, Nike, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Pfizer, the University of Houston, and the YMCA of the USA.

In addition to Jon's leadership development business and professional background, he holds a teaching degree from Grand Valley State University and a Master's in Educational Leadership and Administration from Concordia University Texas. Jon has been married to Meghan for 12+ years, they have three wonderful children, and call Houston, Texas home.

Degrees Earned

• B.A., Education, Grand Valley State University
• M.A., Educational Leadership and Administration, Concordia University Texas

Biography

Dust Kunkel is the Director of Ministry Leadership for the Northwest District, LCMS. For the last twelve years he has served on an executive team that helps over 800 ministry professionals and their teams do their best work in the four states of the Pacific Northwest. As a Professional Certified Coach (PCC-International Coach Federation) and certified debriefer for Harrison Assessments, he coaches executive and non-profit leaders to rise to the challenge, learn joyfully, do what they love, and pass it on. Previously, he directed campus ministry at Concordia University, Portland; managed outdoor programs and retreats at Lutherhaven Ministries in Idaho; and -- as a commissioned minister -- directed youth and family ministry across the Pacific Northwest. With this background, he loves to teach integrated leadership and coaching culture. His great joy is coaching leaders to develop sustainable lifestyles and healthy teams. When he's not coaching, he's writing fiction, poetry, and songs, and following Ghanian soccer (he grew up in Ghana) and PNW sports. He's often found outdoors fly-fishing and exploring with Janette -- his best friend and wife of 26 years -- and their two college-age daughters, Lily and Zoe.

Degrees Earned

• PCC, International Coaching Federation
• MSc. Experiential and Outdoor Education, University of Edinburgh, Scotland
• DCE, Commissioned Minister (Director, Christian Education), Concordia University, Oregon
• BA, Language Arts-Secondary Ed., Concordia University, Oregon

Biography

Frances Leonor is grateful to be on the adjunct teaching team at the Townsend Institute. She was born in the Philippines and moved to America 38 years ago. Frances is married with three adult daughters and nine children. Her desire is to live for and please God.

Her professional experience includes Bible, Math and Science at the Middle and High School levels as well as being a School Administrator/Principal at Highlands Christian Schools. Currently, she is an adjunct professor at Concordia University Irvine. Leonor also was the 2018 Concordia Graduate Commencement Speaker.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D. Educational Leadership, Columbia International University
• M.S. Public Health, University of the Philippines
• M.A. Education, Simpson University

Biography

Scott has a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University and an MBA from the University of Illinois at Springfield. His undergraduate degree is in Pharmacy from Drake University. He has been working in the leadership development and executive coaching field for over twenty years. Scott is passionate about developing leaders and publishes a weekly blog giving insights on current research in the field. Scott holds a PCC certification from the International Coach Federation and also is a Master Certifier for the Bar-On Emotional Intelligence Assessment published by Multi-Health Systems. In addition Scott is adjunct faculty in the doctor of organizational leadership program at Indiana Wesleyan teaching both Critical Inquiry and Organizational Learning.

Degrees Earned

• EdD, Organizational Leadership, Indiana Wesleyan University
• MBA, University of Illinois Springfield
• Pharmacy, Drake University

Biography

Melanie Lowman, MA, LMHC completed both her Bachelor of Science in Youth Ministry (2000) and her Master’s of Arts in Counseling at Huntington University (2012). After the completion of her Master’s in Counseling she served as a therapist in both community mental health and private practice. Her area of specialty includes working with trauma, PTSD, physical and sexual abuse, anxiety and depression. In addition, she has group, child, adolescent, couples, premarital and geriatric clinical experience. She also provides mental health services for military veterans, active duty men and women and their families. She is a member of the Star Behavioral Health Providers registry that assists military veterans, active duty men and women and their families in seeking mental health treatment. In addition, to her clinical work she conducts locally workshop on such topics as relationships and trauma.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Counseling, Huntington University
• B.S. Youth Ministry, Huntington College

Biography

Mariah Lucas is the Director of Career Development and Vocation at Concordia University Irvine. Mariah oversees the Career Center and the College Corps Fellowship for undergraduate students. She is a certified Life Design Studio University Education, Certified Enneagram Coach and SYMBIS Facilitator. Mariah is an alum of Concordia University Irvine, having earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2015. She has a Masters of Science in Psychology from Grand Canyon University. Mariah takes a holistic approach when working with students to evaluate all aspects of life: work, play, health and love.

Degrees Earned

• M.S. Psychology, Grand Canyon University
• B.A. Concordia University Irvine

Biography

Gregg has been the Group Life Pastor at Living Faith Christian Church on Long Island, NY, joining the staff in 1983. He primarily invested his time in training and developing church leaders. He is now transitioning to be a Leadership Coach at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in VA.

He loves to bike, run, and play tennis, racquetball and disc golf. He's been married to Joyce for 38 years and together enjoys hiking, kayaking, and hitting the beach. He is dad to four adult children and Eleanor, his granddaughter. Growing up in central PA, he began his personal relationship with Jesus Christ as a teen. And during those years, became an avid Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins fan!

Degrees Earned:

• PhD in Organizational Leadership, Regent University Virginia Beach, Virginia 2005
• Masters of Science in Education, Hofstra University Hempstead, New York 1992
• Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Houghton College Houghton, New York 1982

Biography

Chad M. Minor lives with his wife, Jamie, and two boys, William, and Jackson, in Canton, Ohio. Chad was selected as the 2019 Graduate School Alumnus of the Year at Malone University and was recognized in 2018 as a City of Canton Difference Maker by The Canton Repository. He was a Division 1 Student-Athlete at The University of Akron, majoring in Business Communication while playing basketball for the Zips. Chad serves on the Board of Directors at Urban Ark Canton, a food and clothing pantry that distributes to those in need in the downtown area. He is part of The One Center for Leadership which strives to multiply kingdom leaders through catalytic conferences, collaborative workspaces, and customized coaching. Chad is currently studying for a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Biography

Dan Morehouse is the Director of the Arizona National Guard’s Soldier and Family Support Team. His work and passions include growing leaders and nurturing talent; helping Soldiers and their families build resilience and connectedness; and finding ways to improve organizational culture. He has designed and implemented holistic systems to respond to collective and individual traumas in ways that promote growth, healing, and team-building across his current organization. Dan also serves as a Major in the Arizona Army National Guard, currently in command of the 996th Medical Company in Tempe, AZ. His professional experience includes implementing disability care systems for Soldiers, suicide prevention, substance abuse prevention, and various leadership positions as an Army officer since 2007. He holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Concordia University Irvine, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Concordia University Irvine, and current SPHR certification from the Human Resources Certification Institute.

Degrees Earned

• B.A., History, Arizona State University (2007)
• MAED, Curriculum & Instruction, Concordia University Irvine (2014)
• Ed. D., Educational Leadership, Concordia University Irvine (2017)

Biography

Leah Nelson is an experienced leader with over 23 years of leadership experience in the military and business sectors. As a coach, she has helped individuals and businesses achieve next level outcomes. She carries a unique leadership perspective combining relationships with the need for results in both the personal and professional realms. She specializes in helping both men and women achieve their vision and achieve significant growth in both their professional and personal lives.

Leah completed her undergraduate studies at the United States Naval Academy. She served for 13 years in the military, where she was a Helicopter Pilot and a Leadership Instructor/Facilitator. Following military service, she has spent the last 20 years as a small business owner working in coaching, recruiting, leadership training and development, sales and marketing, and small business development. She received her Masters of Organizational Leadership through the Townsend Institute at Huntington University.

Helping others achieve their goals and design their lives with excellence and balance is one of Leah’s greatest joys. An avid athlete, Leah recently completed the Boston Marathon.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Counseling Psychology, Trinity International University
• United States Naval Academy

Biography

Like most counselors and those in the business of people helping, Dr. Heather Paessler-Chesterton (“Dr. C”) has a heart for the hurting. A Regent University graduate, Dr. C earned a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and has spent the past decade as a counselor educator and faculty member at Walden University. Her background is also rich in clinical work, specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents, with an emphasis on trauma and attachment. Dr. Chesterton’s work has spanned the country as a consultant, researcher, mentor, and supervisor. She speaks at local and national levels on working in diverse settings and meeting the needs of challenging youth. Dr. C is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, and she also holds certifications in school counseling. Dr. Chesterton is also a Disaster Mental Health Volunteer for the American Red Cross.

While Dr. C has been blessed to have experienced a wide range of professional opportunities, she feels particularly called to the role of “people helper,” as well as being of service to other people helpers. She and her husband have been active in urban youth ministry and reside in Western New York with their three young children. As faculty and Director of the Masters in Counseling Program, she is dedicated to partnering with both students and faculty in order to empower them toward remarkable goals and to help prepare them as their own professional calling unfolds.

Degrees Earned

• Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision, Regent University
• M.A., Community and School Counseling, Regent University
• B.A., Sociology, University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire

Biography

Kellie earned her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees from California State University, Long Beach, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Regent University. She has served on several nonprofit boards in her community, including the Junior Chamber of Commerce and the Ronald McDonald House Charities. She has been teaching college courses since 2008, teaching at California State University Long Beach, and Long Beach City College before finding her home at Concordia, where she can combine her love of teaching with her Christian beliefs. She has taught classes in leadership, communication studies, and business, but tends to focus on leadership, organizational behavior & communication, professional writing, and internship/professional development skills.

Biography

My consulting journey began at Deloitte in 2003. My entrepreneurial journey began in 2009. Today, I am the founder of e2s Strategies, a Leadership Development and Organization Consulting Firm and the founder of e2s Coaching which is the coaching division of e2s Strategies. Founded in 2016. We create measurable differences in organizations by combining emotional intelligence and behavioral science to bring optimal human performance at the executive, leadership and team levels. "e2s" mean Equipped to Succeed. As the Chief Transformation Officer, I work with organizations in the public and private sector including municipalities, universities, C-Suite Executives, Learning and Development professionals, HR Executives, Small Business Owners, and Entrepreneurs. My consulting work includes customizing strategic interventions and transformation programs for organizations including organization development, culture development, as well as providing executive and leadership coaching, team development, advising and designing professional development programs.

An expert-level Organizational, Leadership & Business Consultant and professionally trained Executive Coach & Certified Emotional Intelligence Expert. This gives me the depth and breadth of experience to source the root of organizational and leadership challenges and create the appropriate strategic interventions. I received my Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University, Irvine, is certified to administer the EQi 2.0 Suite of Emotional Intelligence assessments, and is a Certified Executive Coach through The Townsend Institute for Leadership & Counseling at Concordia University, Irvine accredited by the International Coaching Federation. (ICF).

I serve as an adjunct professor at Concordia University, Irvine teaching students at the undergraduate and graduate level Organization Psychology, Organizational Leadership, Character Development, and Leadership Theory.

I have 3 adult children and a sweet little granddaughter. I enjoy being with my family, nature walks and trails, swimming, beaches, writing, reading, working out, watching business documentaries, eating pizza with my granddaughter and listening to her sing songs and tell stories. Her imagination is entertaining! I am originally from Arkansas and have resided in the Dallas-Ft. Worth, TX area for about 25 years.

I am a fervent believer of Mark 9:23, "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth."

Biography

Jeff Scott is a business owner and Lay Pastor. He is an entrepreneurial leader in both the business world and the church. He has 45 years of management and leadership experience. He has been responsible for starting new divisions for companies he worked for. Mr. Scott also was a Business Manager responsible for a $100 million dollar profit center for a Fortune 500 company.

In the church Mr. Scott has been responsible for starting The Discipleship Walk which is a 3 day discipleship retreat leading people into a deeper relationship with Christ. Over 10,000 people throughout the US have been involved with this movement since its inception in 1989. Mr. Scott was also responsible for starting and developing the Alpha Course at his church into one of the largest courses in the US. He has served on the National Board of Advisors for Alpha USA. In addition to his involvement with Alpha in the US he has also trained over 500 churches in Nicaragua and India on how to develop and run their own Alpha Courses. He has taught the spiritual gifts class at his church for the past 15 years where over 1500 people have learned about the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit has gifted each of them personally.

Mr. Scott’s teaching experience includes 45 years teaching the roofing industry as well as in the church environments. He loves teaching and helping his students understand how biblical principles work in both the church and business worlds.

Biography

Madeline received her Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from Huntington University. Madeline has several years of experience working with teenage girls and their families in a residential treatment facility that is built upon the Townsend’s model. Madeline also provides therapy for individuals, children and couples using the affect-focused, Competence and Character Model in her work at Wabash Friends Counseling Center. She’s passionate about psychodynamic group therapy and leads support/process groups for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren, as well as a Leadership Development Program for leaders in the Friends’ church which includes both didactic teaching and psychodynamic group work.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Mental Health Counseling, Huntington University
• B.A. Psychology, Malone University

Biography

Dr. Vanessa Snyder is a Georgia Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Sex Therapist, Master Traumatologist, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate, and a Green Cross Certified Trainer.

Dr. Snyder is the Chief Clinical Officer for Uncaged, an international anti-trafficking organization. Her clinical research focus is on complex trauma, including the treatment of children and adults in the commercial sex trafficking trade, both nationally and internationally. She also researches and trains organizations in secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue and burnout, specifically those who serve traumatized populations.

She founded Resilience Source, LLC, in Roswell, Georgia. Resilience Source exists to counsel, consult and train in the areas of acute and complex trauma, marriage and families in crisis, trauma-informed care, compassion fatigue and organizational trauma. She is also adjunct professor at Richmont Graduate University in Atlanta.

Dr. Snyder earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University. She holds her Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy with a specialization in Christian Sex Therapy from Richmont Graduate University. She is clinically trained and certified in EMDR (Level 2), Trauma-Informed Hypnosis, IFS (Level 2), CSAT (Mod 1 & 2), Gottman and Prepare-Enrich.

Snyder says of her work, "Whether it's in the classroom, in a counseling session, or conducting research, this work has the capacity to be life-giving and life-changing. Ultimately, my desire is to see people set free and walk in the wholeness they were created to enjoy."

Snyder frequently presents and guest lectures at universities, non-profit and commercial organizations, and churches around the globe. She serves as a credible source of information for news media covering sex trafficking, gender identity issues, sexuality, trauma and abuse, PTSD, "compassion fatigue," and marriage and family issues. Snyder was recently featured on "The Trauma Therapist Project" podcast, available here.

Snyder resides in Roswell, Ga. with her husband and children.

Biography

As a licensed psychotherapist, I provide psychotherapeutic interventions to help clients manage cognitive, mental, and emotional issues, empowering them to negotiate the difficult transitions of life, including the workplace. An ordained minister for nearly 30 years, I have extensive experience coaching clergy and others who struggle to navigate the dynamics of vocation, work-life balance, relational conflict, anxiety and/or depression.

A tenured professor in Vanguard University's Organizational Psychology program, I teach Behavior and Psychology in Organizations, Psychology of Leadership and Motivation, Organizational Systems, Development and Change. Prior to returning to Vanguard, I founded and directed the Organizational Psychology program for Concordia University Irvine, where I occasionally teach in the graduate counseling program. I also teach Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and Career Development at Pepperdine University when time allows.

Degrees Earned

• E.d.D., Institutional Management, Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology
• M.S. Clinical Psychology, Vanguard University
• M.A. Leadership Studies, Vanguard University
• B.A. Cross Cultural Studies, Vanguard University

Biography

Ginny is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Consultant, Speaker, Executive Coach, Adjunct Professor and Townsend Leadership Director who brings 23 years of experience to her industry. She received a Master of Science in Counseling from Indiana University Southeast, a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University Bloomington and her Marriage and Family Certification at Indiana Wesleyan University in Indianapolis, IN. Additionally, Ginny leads two Townsend Leadership groups, working with multi-level leadership from various industries nationwide. With 15 years in the field of education, Ms. Tackett is passionate about helping leaders overcome and eliminate the obstacles that may be preventing them from reaching their full potential. She challenges leaders to access deeper emotional and relational connections, which will profoundly affect their personal and professional lives. A dynamic and inspiring speaker, Ginny has lectured on workplace relationships, leadership, culture and organizations.

Degrees Earned

• M.S. Counseling, Indiana University Southeast
• B.S. Education, Indiana University Bloomington

Biography

Karen was first introduced to Dr. Townsend in 2008 when she attended the Ultimate Leadership Intensive. She attended the inaugural One Week Intensive for Counselors in 2010 and the year long Counselor Training Program with Dr. Townsend and Scott Makin in 2012-2013. Karen has a BA in Psychology and an MS in Counseling. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado where she has been in private practice since 2007. Her primary focus with clients is guiding them toward understanding the roots of their issues, compassionately accepting them where they are, and encouraging them as they move through the growth process. She uses Emotionally Focused Therapy and EMDR in addition to the Townsend Character Structure model. Karen is a Marriage Coach with the Smalley Institute through which she conducts one to three day marriage intensives for couples in crisis. She has served as a volunteer counselor with Azmera, an organization dedicated to restoring and refreshing Kingdom-minded women who serve overseas. Karen is a blogger and author of Surviving the Scarlet Letter: Freedom from Shame and Journey Forward Workbook: Daily Steps to Achieve Emotional Balance & Healthier Relationships.

Degrees Earned

• M.S. Counseling, University of Phoenix
• B.A. Psychology, Bucknell University

Biography

Dr. Marianne Weaver lives in La Grande, Oregon with her two kids, Bethani and Aaron. Dr. Weaver is a licensed psychologist in Oregon, and was licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist when she lived in California. While in California, she had a private practice for several years where she had the fortunate opportunity of working with many families, kids (doing play therapy), couples , as well as individuals. She enjoys working with those who have experienced trauma (she is a a Level 2 EMDR provider), and those who are struggling with various addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems.

She is currently the director of, and a practicing psychologist, in the Counseling Center at Eastern Oregon University (EOU) and really loves working with the college student population. Along with doing tons of fun therapy with students, she also teaches a 400 level Family Systems Theory and Therapy class in the Psychology Department, and a Clinical Interventions in the Classroom course in the Master of Arts in Teaching program. Living in a more geographically isolated area has enabled Dr. Weaver to practice rural psychology. She can rarely go to the store, or even for a walk, without seeing either a current or past client. This has challenged her to become very authentic and integrated in her everyday life. Dr. Weaver also maintains a small private clinical and coaching practice with a home office in La Grande, and shares that one of her favorite memories is when a client drove to his appointment in his tractor.

Dr. Weaver has been teaching counseling classes in the Townsend Institute since Spring, 2017. Her greatest passion is helping students heal and grow in their relationship with self, God, and others; equipping them to become a phenomenal therapist and/or coach. She marvels at how God has brought her back to her alma mater, allowing her to participate in the Great Commission by developing healers within the body of Christ.

Degrees Earned

• Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology (emphasis in Family Psychology) from Azusa Pacific University (2002)
• M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University (1993)
• B.A. in Behavioral Science (minors in Psych and Soc) from Concordia University Irvine (1991)

Biography

Juliana Wilhelm, MA LCPC is the founder and director of Cardia Counseling Center, Carol Stream, Illinois, where she has been providing effective counseling therapy to individuals and families for more than 19 years. As director, she has trained and supervised clinical therapists and has partnered with leaders to strengthen both their personal and professional lives.

Through the thousands of face-to-face hours of therapy and coaching with high capacity leaders in both the public and private sector, she has first-hand knowledge of the type of impact created when leaders are equipped with skills such as emotional intelligence and are strengthened in their personal character competencies. Benefits range from employee productivity, positivity, and retention, to less burn out at high-level positions and satisfying personal lives.

Through her personal experience as a participant in the Townsend Leadership Program and as an instructor in the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling at Huntington University, she is well-equipped to facilitate change for leaders from all walks of life.

In addition to teaching at Huntington University and her private practice, Juliana is an adjunct instructor in the graduate program at Wheaton College and has taught at Indiana Wesleyan University. She has led ministry groups at Willow Creek Community Church and has been the featured speaker/instructor at conferences for lay and professional audiences both nationally and internationally.

Ms. Wilhelm holds a Bachelor’s degree from University of Wisconsin, Madison, and a Master’s degree from Wheaton College, Illinois. She is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois.

Degrees Earned

• M.A. Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Wheaton College

Biography

Karen joined the Townsend team at Concordia in 2018 and is thrilled to be a part of a community contributing to students learning and growth experience in their educational and professional development. Karen is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist. She received her Doctorate and Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Pepperdine University and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. Karen is an EMDR Level I & II trained clinician and a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. In addition to maintaining a full-time private practice in Laguna Hills, Karen co-facilitates an outreach grief recovery program in her community twice a year. Karen has taught graduate psychology and undergraduate child development classes as an Adjunct Professor at Hope International University in Fullerton, CA. Karen's training background includes: working with adolescent juvenile offenders, their families, and coordinating treatment with police and probation in an Orange County Juvenile Diversion Program; counseling college students at a University Counseling Center; working with military service men, women, and their families at a former Marine Air Corps Station in El Toro; and providing inpatient treatment in a hospital setting. Karen specializes in treating those afflicted with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and childhood disorders of ADHD and OCD. She sees individuals, teenagers, children, and families in her practice. Karen is a member of Mount of Olives Lutheran Church (MOO) in Mission Viejo. When not working, Karen enjoys spending time with family on Kauai and friends hitting the links on the golf course or relaxing at the beach.

Degrees Earned

• Psy.D. Clinical Psychology Pepperdine University
• M.A., Counseling Psychology Pepperdine University
• B.A. Psychology University of California, Irvine

Biography

Tyreeka Williams is a licensed K-12 school counselor with a variety of work experience ranging from higher education, teaching, admissions counseling, all the while assisting students with career, socio-emotional, and behavioral needs. Currently, she serves as a school counselor working with a 100% ESL population at Doris Newcomers School in North Carolina. Her research interests include school counseling supervision and behavioral health/counseling career pathways exposure for undergraduates. Additionally, she is an active member of American Counseling Association (ACA), North Carolina School Counseling Association (NCSCA), and serves on the executive board team of the Alpha Omega Lambda Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota. Tyreeka is a tenured U.S. Army soldier as well as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. In her spare time, she enjoys reading for leisure, spending time with her nephews, and doing hot yoga for relaxation.

Biography

Leah grew up as a Missionary Kid in Jamaica. She holds degrees from Central Bible College and Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, both in counseling. She spent almost 9 years counseling students at Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas, as well as teaching. She has taught adjunct at Evangel since 2018, and is now the Director of Counseling Services at Evangel University. She currently has her own private counseling practice and also teaches indoor cycling. She lives in Springfield with her husband, Joel, and their three daughters.