58th Annual PCA Conference

Name: When Leaders Are Cut Down: Exploring Tall Poppy Syndrome in the Counseling Profession (1 CE)
Start: 2026-11-07T09:15:00-0500
End: 2026-11-07T10:15:00-0500

When Leaders Are Cut Down: Exploring Tall Poppy Syndrome in the Counseling Profession (1 CE)

Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST

Session Feedback (for CEs)

Tall poppy syndrome (TPS) - or the tendency to criticize, exclude, or undermine individuals who achieve success - has been widely documented across disciplines but remains underexplored within the counseling profession. This session presents findings from a phenomenological study examining the lived experiences of female leaders in counseling who have encountered TPS in professional contexts.

Drawing on participant narratives, the presentation highlights how TPS manifests through relational dynamics such as criticism, exclusion, and negative messaging, often leading leaders to modify their behavior, downplay achievements, or withdraw from opportunities. At the same time, participants described experiences of growth, resilience, and strengthened leadership identity, illustrating the complex, dialectical nature of success and scrutiny.

Attendees will gain insight into TPS within counseling environments, its implications for leadership development and retention, and considerations for fostering more supportive and equitable professional cultures.

Speakers

Sarah Bell, PhD, LPC

Director of the Pathways Center, Waynesburg University

Sarah Bell is the Director of the Pathways Center (student support) at Waynesburg University, where she has worked since 2015. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP). Sarah holds a PhD in Counselor... Read More →

Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST

60 Minute Roundtable

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58th Annual PCA Conference

Sarah Bell, PhD, LPC

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58th Annual PCA Conference

Sarah Bell, PhD, LPC

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