Loading…
58th Annual PCA Conference
Thursday, November 5
 

12:00pm EST

Registration Desk Open
Thursday November 5, 2026 12:00pm - 9:00pm EST

Thursday November 5, 2026 12:00pm - 9:00pm EST

1:00pm EST

PCA Emerging Leaders Program Opening Workshop (Closed Session for EL Program Only, 3 CE)
Thursday November 5, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST

Thursday November 5, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm EST

4:30pm EST

PCA Board Meeting
Thursday November 5, 2026 4:30pm - 7:00pm EST

Thursday November 5, 2026 4:30pm - 7:00pm EST
 
Friday, November 6
 

8:00am EST

Registration Desk Open
Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 8:00am - 9:00pm EST

9:00am EST

Pre-Conference Institutes (Separate Registration)
Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 9:00am - 12:00pm EST

1:00pm EST

1PM Education Sessions and Roundtables
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST

1:00pm EST

At the Edges of Our Field: What Interdisciplinary Collaboration Teaches Us About Training Counselors and Art Therapists (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session invites participants to explore what can be learned through interdisciplinary collaboration across counseling and art therapy. Drawing on collaborative work between counselor educators and an art therapy educator, we will examine how assumptions about supervision, professional identity, and ways of knowing become more visible in shared interdisciplinary spaces.Through guided...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Devon Bowser

Devon Bowser

Dean of Assessment, Program Director for the Master of Arts in Counseling, Program Director for the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Education, and Professor, Waynesburg University
Dr. Devon Bowser earned a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University, Ph.D., a Master of Arts from Franciscan University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne University. Dr. Bowser serves as the Dean of Assessment, program director for the Master of Arts... Read More →
avatar for Kelley McNichols

Kelley McNichols

Assistant Director of Graduate Counseling Programs, Clinical Coordinator, and Associate Professor, Waynesburg University
Dr. Kelley McNichols earned an undergraduate degree in Criminology and Pre-Law from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Community Counseling from Duquesne University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne... Read More →
avatar for Danielle Moss, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, NCC

Danielle Moss, ATR-BC, LPC, ATCS, NCC

Associate Professor; Program Director, Seton Hill University
Dani Moss, DAT, ATR-BC, LPC, NCC, ATCS (she/her), is a board-certified art therapist and art therapy supervisor, and licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. An associate professor of art therapy and program director at Seton Hill University, she teaches and supervises graduate... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Beyond Culture: Reframing Substance Use Treatment through Structural Competency (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Black communities continue to experience disparities in substance use treatment engagement and access. These inequities may be partly rooted in the enduring impacts on the War on Drugs. This session explores the relevance of structural competency as a guiding framework for mental health counselors to better conceptualize and address the systemic factors contributing to substance use treatment...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Stewart LAPC, MT-BC

Ashley Stewart LAPC, MT-BC

School-Based Clinician
Ashley Stewart is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and Board Certified Music Therapist working in the Greater Philadelphia area. She has experience counseling children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in school-based and outpatient settings. Stewart has address... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

From Self-Care to Systemic Advocacy: A 4-Step Framework for Counselor Sustainability (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Moving beyond traditional "self-care," this session redefines professional self-advocacy as a core clinical competency and ethical mandate (ACA, 2024, C.2.g). Participants will analyze the shift from individual coping to systemic advocacy, exploring how current literature addresses "tele-pressure" and the "always-on" culture of modern mental health. Attendees will explore a practical, 4-step...
See More →
Speakers
KF

Kellie Forziat-Pytel, Ph.D., LPC-PA, NCC, ACS

Assistant Professor/Practicum and Internship Coordinator, Commonwealth University of PA (Lock Haven)
Presenter is an Assistant Professor and Practicum and Internship Coordinator. She holds a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision and is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). Her specialty areas... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session

1:00pm EST

Lessons from the Field: Graduates’ Perspectives on Effective Supervision for School Counselors (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session presents findings from a qualitative study exploring school counseling graduates’ perspectives on their supervision experiences. Participants reflected on what supervisors understood well and what they wish supervisors had known about the realities of school counseling. Key themes include role ambiguity, stakeholder demands, and gaps between training and practice. Implications for...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Grafton Eliason, LPC

Dr. Grafton Eliason, LPC

Professor and Assistant Chair, PennWest University
Grafton Eliason is currently a Professor, PennWest University of Pennsylvania. He is also an ordained Presbyterian minister. Grafton has a special interest in Regret Theory, pastoral care, counseling, cross cultural studies, spirituality, existentialism, grief and loss. In addition... Read More →
avatar for Michael Sickels, Ph.D., LPC, NCC

Michael Sickels, Ph.D., LPC, NCC

Clinical Assistant Professor of Counselor Education, Duquesne University
Dr. Michael Sickels is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, PA. Michael teaches a variety of coursework to master’s- and doctoral-level counselor education students. Michael also currently serves as the program’s... Read More →
avatar for Nico Massucci, MS, LPC, NCC

Nico Massucci, MS, LPC, NCC

Nico Massucci, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor and doctoral candidate (ABD) at Duquesne University with experience in both clinical mental health and school counseling settings. His work focuses on anxiety, emotional regulation, and identity development. He has a strong... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Medicalized Mental Health Stigma: How to Navigate Persisting Stigma in the World of Insurance-Driven Care (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This 60-minute session explores the ongoing presence of stigma and bias within medicalized mental health settings and how these dynamics impact both clinicians and clients. Through discussion, reflection, and firsthand perspectives, participants will examine how stigmatizing language, assumptions, and systemic practices continue to shape inpatient care despite increased awareness and advocacy. The...
See More →
Speakers
CE

Cullen Elton, LAPC, M.A

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Cullen Elton is a master’s-level clinician with professional experience spanning inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. He previously worked as an inpatient therapist within a medicalized mental health facility and currently serve as a substance use and alcohol therapist... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Navigating Burnout in Times of Transition: A Polyvagal-Informed Approach (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This workshop introduces participants to the polyvagal framework as a practical approach for understanding how the nervous system responds to stress, uncertainty, and shifting environments. Grounded in neuroscience and applicable to the counseling profession, the polyvagal perspective offers tools to support emotional regulation, resilience, and connection. Participants will explore how...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Anne Rankin, MAT, TR-Cert, CCIEDC

Anne Rankin, MAT, TR-Cert, CCIEDC

MAT, Lebanon Valley College

Anne Rankin (MAT, TR-Cert, CCIEDC) is a trauma- and polyvagal-informed graduate student counselor intern in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Lebanon Valley College (Annville, PA). As a member of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association and its SERVIC division, she has
... Read More →
avatar for Catherine Breneman, Ph.D., LCSW

Catherine Breneman, Ph.D., LCSW

Assistant Professor/Program Director, Hood College
Catherine Breneman has over 30 years of clinical social work experience in a variety of health and mental health settings. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor of Social Work and Social Work Program Director at Hood College in Frederick, Maryland and social work consultant at... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Vejar, Ph.D., LPC, LSC/PPS, NCC

Cynthia Vejar, Ph.D., LPC, LSC/PPS, NCC

Associate Professor/Program Director, Lebanon Valley College
Cynthia M. Vejar, Ph.D., LPC, LSC/PPS, NCC, is an Associate Professor and Founding Director of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Trauma-Informed Counseling programs at Lebanon Valley College. With 30 years of experience in the field, including higher education and clinical... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Racialized Traumatization: A Generational, Complex Trauma (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
A PowerPoint presentation on the after effects of systematic racism; how these continuous, negative encounters traumatize African Americans, People of Color physically, mentally, emotionally, and psychologically.  Also, further discussion of how these experiences can be internalized as complex trauma, as well as the connection to the generational trauma encountered by African Americans,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shanda R. Jefferson, Ed.D, NCC. LPC

Dr. Shanda R. Jefferson, Ed.D, NCC. LPC

Counselor, Phoenix Counseling Services
Dr. Shanda R. Jefferson was born and raised in McConnellsburg, Pa. Dr. Jefferson received her BA in communications from Shippensburg University in 2002, her Master's degree in organizational communications from Bowiestate University in 2004, and her Master's degree from Argosy University... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Sociocultural Dissonance and Its Impact on the Counseling Relationship (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
In today’s increasingly diverse and complex sociopolitical landscape, counselors frequently encounter differences in identity, worldview, and lived experiences, which can create tension within therapeutic relationships. This session explores the concept of sociocultural dissonance and its impact on rapport, trust, and clinical effectiveness. Participants will examine how unaddressed cultural...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for R. Samantha Williams, LPC, ACS, CCTP II, BC-TMH

R. Samantha Williams, LPC, ACS, CCTP II, BC-TMH

Therapist/Instructor/Trainer
R. Samantha Williams, LPC, ACS, BC-NCC (she/her) is a Counselor/Instructor in the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services at East Stroudsburg University. She brings over 14 years of clinical experience working with diverse populations across the lifespan, with a professional background spanning community mental health... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Stories That Heal: Using Bibliotherapy to Support Emotional Regulation in Children and Adolescents (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session introduces bibliotherapy as a practical and engaging intervention for children and adolescents in counseling. Drawing from early clinical experience, the presenter will explore how storytelling, familiar characters, and narrative-based techniques can help clients explore emotions, build insight, and develop coping skills in a way that feels safe and accessible. Attendees will gain...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Johnson, MS, MA

Anthony Johnson, MS, MA

Mental Health Therapist, Unleashed Counseling
Anthony Johnson, MS, MA, is a pre-licensed counselor at Unleashed Counseling with a background in both psychology and creative writing. He specializes in working with children and adolescents, with a focus on emotional regulation, anxiety, and engagement through developmentally appropriate... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

The Neuroscience of Trauma: Broadening our Knowledge to Better Serve Clients (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The topic of trauma and trauma-informed care is slowly being integrated into society and our work as counselors; however, trauma has always existed. Trauma affects numerous areas of an individual’s life, including but not limited to, their mental health, physical health, and brain chemistry. It is imperative that counselors and emerging professionals understand the neuroscience behind trauma and...
See More →
Speakers
JH

Jordyn Hartsock, B.S.

Graduate Student, Shippensburg University
Jordyn Hartsock has a B.S. in neuroscience and psychology from Lebanon Valley College and is a second year Master of Education in School Counseling candidate from Shippensburg University. Jordyn is currently conducting her field experience at Biglerville High School and has experience... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Faculty, Shippensburg University
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed mental health counselor, Dr. Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC has dedicated her career to supporting individuals through compassionate, evidence-based trauma informed care. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Beyond the Field: Integrating Peer Support and Social Community for Holistic Student-Athlete Development (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This interactive roundtable explores the mental health challenges and developmental transitions faced by college student-athletes. Grounded in evidence-based frameworks, participants will learn how to implement peer support strategies, reduce stigma, and foster a “One Team” culture that promotes resilience, connection, and holistic well-being. Attendees will leave with practical tools to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Thomas Crissman

Thomas Crissman

Counselor, Slippery Rock University
Thomas Crissman is a Licensed Professional Counselor currently employed at Slippery Rock University of PA and attending Indiana University of PA for his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. His background in mental health includes more than 13 years in various counseling... Read More →
avatar for Dr. John Mathe

Dr. John Mathe

Associate Professor, Slippery Rock University
Dr. Mathe is an associate professor at Slippery Rock University, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, and a nationally certified counselor (NCC). Dr. Mathe has worked with various populations, including children/adolescents, adults, older adults, and... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

From Agency to Autonomy: Navigating the Clinical Shift to Outpatient Practice (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session provides a clinically grounded exploration of the transition from agency work (community mental health, residential, school-based services) to outpatient therapy. Emphasis will be placed on the shift from crisis stabilization to long-term therapeutic work, as well as the increased responsibility clinicians hold in managing caseloads, documentation, and clinical decision-making...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brittany Stallworth, PhD.

Brittany Stallworth, PhD.

Adjunct Professor, Carlow University
Dr. Brittany Stallworth (she/her/hers) is an Adjunct Professor for the Professional Counseling program at Carlow University. She holds a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, where she also earned her master’s in Clinical... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Laughter as Leadership: Guiding Clients Through Change with Playful Resilience (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This experiential session explores how Laughter Yoga can serve as a powerful leadership tool for counselors supporting clients through change and transition. Participants will learn how intentional laughter, breathwork, and light‑hearted play can reduce stress, increase emotional flexibility, and foster resilience during uncertain or challenging times. Through simple, accessible exercises,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Natalie Fein, MSeD, NCC, CMCS, BC-TMH

Natalie Fein, MSeD, NCC, CMCS, BC-TMH

Assistant Professor, Counseling, Community College of Philadelphia
Natalie Fein, M.Ed., NCC, CMCS, BC‑TMH is an educator, career specialist, and wellness practitioner with more than 20 years of experience supporting college students in achieving their academic, career, and personal goals. She has worked extensively in college planning, career... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Research does not have to be scary: Embracing quantitative single subject research for counselors (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
It is important for counseling to be represented in clinical research. Counseling professional identity is unique in its focus on development, wellness, and the talk therapy process. Though counselors often hesitate to engage in research, quantitative, single subject, repeated acquisition design could be a less intimidating research methodology.  This presentation will educate participants on...
See More →
Speakers
AC

Angie Conrad, Ph.D., LPC

Editor of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association, Pennsylvania Counseling Association/Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Angie Conrad is a Licensed Professional Counselor counseling individual and families of all ages. She recently completed her Pd.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she has also been adjunct teaching in the Clinical Mental Health... Read More →
avatar for Holly Branthoover, Ed.D., LPC

Holly Branthoover, Ed.D., LPC

Professor and Doctoral Coordinator, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
Dr. Holly Branthoover (she/her) is a Professor and Doctoral Coordinator in the Department of Counseling and Human Development at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and a private counseling practice owner. She completed her Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Duquesne... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

The Disappearing Client: Restoring Voice and Agency in Older Adulthood (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Older adults may present with a subtle yet profound clinical experience: a growing sense of “disappearing.” This can manifest itself as feeling unheard, dismissed, or disconnected from one’s identity, often shaped by sociocultural factors, life experiences, personality factors, and family dynamics. This session will explore how these experiences impact mental health and therapeutic...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Bethany Goshorn, LPC

Bethany Goshorn, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor, Pathways Counseling Services, LLC
Bethany Goshorn graduated from Shippensburg University with her Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in May of 2020. Prior to this, she received her Bachelor's degree from Shippensburg University in 2009 in Psychology with a minor in Gerontology. Bethany is a national... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

1:00pm EST

Trauma in Transition: Displacement and Healing Among Refugees (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Our presentation aims to recognize the experiences of refugee families and children, along with developing awareness of resources and finding ways to minimize and support communities being impacted. This presentation highlights the importance of these social justice issues for emerging counselors and counselors in the field through awareness of experiences of these communities, providing...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Visalakshi Jayaraman

Visalakshi Jayaraman

Master's Level Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
The presenter is currently in her second year of the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Singapore University of Social Sciences, with a specialization in organizational psychology... Read More →
avatar for Chinar Mehta, MSc

Chinar Mehta, MSc

Psychotherapist, Doctoral Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
The presenter is a second-year Ph.D. student in Counselor Education and Supervision at Indiana University of Pennsylvania . She has over three years of experience as a mental health therapist, working with first responders diagnosed with PTSD, as well as with elderly and general populations... Read More →
avatar for Aarati Poudel

Aarati Poudel

Master's Level Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Presenter is in her second year of the M.Ed. in Counselor Education - School Counseling program track at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She holds a BA in Psychology from Pennsylvania State University. Aarati has dedicated years to working with children as both a mentor and peer... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

2:15PM Education Sessions and Roundtables
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST

2:15pm EST

Creativity Doesn't Log Off: Designing a Creative Approaches to Counseling Course for the Virtual Classroom (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Creativity doesn’t disappear in the virtual classroom—but it does require intentional redesign. This session presents a practical model for designing and adapting a Creative Approaches to Counseling course for online delivery, grounded in Maker Therapy, MBSR, and expressive arts frameworks. Participants will explore three organizing principles for virtual creative course design and engage with...
See More →
Speakers
DL

Deborah L. Duenyas, PhD, LPC (PA), LPCC (OH), ACS

Professor, St. Bonaventure University
Dr. Deborah Duenyas is a Professor in the Counselor Education Department at St. Bonaventure University. She is licensed in Pennsylvania as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and in Ohio as a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Deborah has held a variety of leadership positions in... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Establishing and Growing a Qualitative Research Team for Counselor Educators Using the Conceptual Mapping Task (CMT) (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The Conceptual Mapping Task (CMT) is a qualitative counseling research tool. In this session, the presenter will discuss the CMT and describe how he recruited and chaired a group of dissertation students using this research methodology.  This presentation is for counselor educators looking to expand their vitae through mentoring doctoral researchers.
Speakers
avatar for John A. King, Ph.D., M.Div., M.A., LPC, NCC

John A. King, Ph.D., M.Div., M.A., LPC, NCC

Associate Professor of Counseling, Liberty University
Dr. John A. King, PhD, MDiv, MA, LPC (PA), NCC, is an Assistant Professor of Counseling and Core Faculty member in Liberty University’s CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Dr. King earned his PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Regent University, his MDiv from Missio Seminary (formerly Bibl... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

From Checking to Choosing: ACT for Health Anxiety and OCD (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Health Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) often present with entrenched reassurance seeking, catastrophic misinterpretation of bodily sensations, and rigid avoidance patterns that can overwhelm both clients and clinicians. Traditional CBT approaches remain valuable, yet many clients continue to struggle with experiential avoidance, identity fusion with anxiety, and difficulty engaging...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Molly Myers, MA, LPC, NCC

Molly Myers, MA, LPC, NCC

Assistant Professor, Evangel University
Molly Myers is a doctoral candidate in Counselor Education & Supervision, an adjunct instructor across multiple colleges in Pennsylvania and Virginia, and a practicing clinician with a small private telehealth practice. Her work centers on trauma‑informed, experiential, and culturally... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Music and Narrative Therapy in Counseling: How to Create Songs Worth Singing Using an Artificial Intelligence Music Generator (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
How can counselors help clients find harmony amidst the discord of life’s major transitions? This innovative "how-to" session explores the intersection of Music Therapy and Narrative Therapy, supercharged by modern Artificial Intelligence (AI). Participants will learn how to guide clients in "re-authoring" their life stories into powerful, professional-sounding song lyrics and music.Through a...
See More →
Speakers
KW

Kevin Wilkerson, Ph.D., NCC, ACS

Professor, University of Scranton
Kevin is a Counselor Educator, Professor, and School Counseling Program Director in the University of Scranton's Department of Counseling and Human Services. His current interests in music, music therapy, generative artificial intelligence, and Large Language Models (LLMs) have landed... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Neurodiversity-Affirming Care: Practical Strategies for Regulation, Autonomy, and Clinical Impact (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Explore neurodiversity-affirming approaches to support individuals, including those with Autism, in achieving meaningful treatment goals. Learn practical strategies to reduce demand-related stress, minimize power struggles, and promote autonomy and overall well-being.Participants will gain evidence-informed tools to confidently implement neurodiversity-affirming principles in clinical settings....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Patricia J. Gonzalez, LPC, MT-BC, NADD-CC

Patricia J. Gonzalez, LPC, MT-BC, NADD-CC

CEO/ Psychotherapist/ Music Therapist, Spectra Support Services LLC/ Moringa Institute
Patricia is the Co-Founder, Co-Owner of two businesses: She is the Chief Executive Officer of Spectra Support Services, LLC and the CE Program Administrator for the Moringa Institute.. In these roles,  she leads professional training and continuing education for behavioral health... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Redefining Leadership: Transforming Burnout into Organizational Change (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Counselor burnout is usually talked about as if it’s just an individual problem, with advice like “practice self-care” or “set boundaries.” That misses the bigger picture; the systems we work in and the way supervisors respond can have a huge impact. In this session, I’ll share how my own experiences with burnout, and the responses I received from supervisors, shaped the way I...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tori Mackley, MS, NCC, LPC

Tori Mackley, MS, NCC, LPC

Owner/Licensed Professional Counselor, Heart 2 Soul Counseling
Tori Mackley is a licensed professional counselor, supervisor, and owner of a small group practice in York, PA since 2021. She opened her group practice with the goal of building an environment that acknowledges client care is only as good as therapist well-being. Currently pursuing... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Smarter Practice Growth with AI: Clarity, Compliance & Clinical Impact (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This practical, beginner-friendly training is designed to help mental health professionals integrate artificial intelligence into their daily workflows. This program focuses on real-world applications of AI to streamline documentation, enhance marketing efforts, improve client communication, and increase overall efficiency without compromising ethics or clinical judgment. Participants will leave...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Carol A. Corbett, Ph.D., LPC

Carol A. Corbett, Ph.D., LPC

Program Director / Assistant Professor, Chestnut Hill College
Carol A. Corbett, Ph.D., LPCDr. Corbett is a Program Director of the Masters in School Counseling program at Chestnut Hill College where she is also an Assistant Professor in the Clinical & Counseling Psychology program. Additionally, Dr. Corbett is a psychotherapist and owner of an outpatient mental health... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

The Importance of Wellness Strategies for Counselors-in-Training as they Transition into Residency and their Careers (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Counselors-in-training (CITs) face challenges as they complete their counseling program, which can lead to increased stress, anxiety, lower quality of life, and burnout. CITs quickly transition from counseling education programs into their residency and/or career. It is important for counselor education programs to equip CIT with wellness strategies to help reduce these stressors and equip them...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Derek J. Parker, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Derek J. Parker, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Assistant Professor, Liberty University
Dr. Derek Parker is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania.  He spent about a decade working with children, adolescents, and their families before transitioning to the field of addiction. He received his master’s degree (MA) in Professional Counseling... Read More →
avatar for Alysha Blagg, Ph.D., LPCC-S, NCC

Alysha Blagg, Ph.D., LPCC-S, NCC

Assistant Professor, Liberty University
Dr. Alysha Blagg has worked in a variety of clinical settings including community mental health and private group practice. She is trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), tele-behavioral health services, and The Gottman Method couples therapy. Dr. Blagg has... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

What can we expect from the 2026 ACA Code of Ethics? An overview of changes and implications for the counseling profession (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session is designed for professionals and students in the counseling field. This session will be delivered through lecture and break out discussion, examining the changes between the 2014 ACA Code of Ethics and the proposed 2026 ACA Code of Ethics. The content will highlight important changes the between the Codes and the discussion will encourage each participant to personalize the new...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Holly Branthoover, Ed.D., LPC

Holly Branthoover, Ed.D., LPC

Professor and Doctoral Coordinator, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
Dr. Holly Branthoover (she/her) is a Professor and Doctoral Coordinator in the Department of Counseling and Human Development at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) and a private counseling practice owner. She completed her Ed.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Duquesne... Read More →
avatar for Rebecca Williams, MS, NCC, LPC

Rebecca Williams, MS, NCC, LPC

Rebecca Williams (she/her) is a licensed professional counselor with over 10 years of experience in settings such as reentry, substance use disorder, community mental health, and private practice. She completed her bachelor's in Catholic Theology at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

What We Carry Forward: Family and Historical Narratives in Counseling Practice (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session explores how counselors can help clients draw on family and historical narratives as meaningful resources in their lives. Grounded in narrative practices, the presentation highlights ways of listening for and engaging these stories to help clients make meaning, strengthen preferred identities, and carry forward what matters most during times of change and transition.
Speakers
avatar for David Loeffler, LPC, NCC

David Loeffler, LPC, NCC

David Loeffler is a counselor educator and Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he owns and operates a counseling practice. He earned an MA in American Studies from the University of Wyoming and an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from California... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Embracing the Ghosts in the Counseling Room: Self-Reflection for Counselors and Supervisor to Lead Change from Understanding the Past
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
We all enter the counseling room with our internal working model and presuppositions of systems based on our experiences and history. These inherent biases can be brought into awareness by examining the “ghosts” of our past. Using frameworks from the Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies and Spiritual and Religious Competencies, counselors can work through...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Erica Rhoads, PhD, LPC, NCC

Erica Rhoads, PhD, LPC, NCC

Owner, Rhythms of Grace Christian Counseling LLC
Dr. Erica Rhoads is an assistant professor, adoptive mother, and licensed professional counselor who focuses on the impact of trauma within a systems perspective. Dr. Rhoads teaches students in graduate mental health counseling and is passionate about educating people on the impact... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Evaluating the Impact of a Multimodal Mindfulness Program on Stress Anxiety and Resilience in Undergraduate Students
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
College is a time of self-growth and personal exploration. This period of increased independence is also accompanied by stress and uncertainty that can become a source of mental strain, heightened vulnerability, and dematriculation. College counseling centers provide crucial support for students seeking assistance for stress and stress related psychological issues but can become overcome by sheer...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Katherine J. Stefanelli, PhD, LPC, NCC

Katherine J. Stefanelli, PhD, LPC, NCC

Assistant Professor of Counseling and Human Services, University of Scranton
About:Katherine J. Stefanelli, PHD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department at the University of Scranton, Scranton, PA. Her work over the last 25 years includes clinical service in both the private sector and educational settings. Dr... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Exploring Professional Identity Language in CACREP Standards and Its Impact on the Counseling Profession (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This roundtable invites participants to explore how professional identity is defined,implied, and communicated within CACREP standards. Through collaborative dialogue,attendees will examine patterns, gaps, and implications of identity language whilereflecting what it means to cultivate a distinct and unified professional identity in anevolving landscape. Participants will explore how the...
See More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

2:15pm EST

Invisible Chains: Mental Health Obstacles to Successful Reentry (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The transition from incarceration back into society is a critical and often destabilizing period, particularly for individuals with mental health needs. Despite high rates of diagnosed and undiagnosed mental health conditions among incarcerated populations, access to consistent care during reentry remains severely limited. This presentation examines the barriers that contribute to gaps in mental...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Matthew S. Mutchler

Matthew S. Mutchler

Chair & Professor, Delaware Valley University
Dr. Mutchler is the Chair of the Psychology Department at Delaware Valley University and has been a practicing clinician for over 20 years. He teaches in the undergraduate and graduate (MA) programs at DelVal and maintains a practice in individual, couple, and family therapy. In recent... Read More →
AD

Amanda Drew

Amanda Drew is a current graduate student at Delaware Valley University specializing in the Social Justice track. She is currently completing her internship where she is working with individuals experience a range of mental health challenges. Outside of the educational setting, Amanda... Read More →
BM

Brianna Morgis, Ph.D., LMFT

Dr. Morgis is an Associate Professor at Delaware Valley University in the Counseling Psychology department. Clinically, as a Marriage & Family Therapist, she works with individuals, couples, and families to negative patterns of interaction and strengthen relationships.
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Navigating the Complex Journey of Gatekeeping: A Systemic Approach to Supporting Counselor Educators and Clinical Supervisors (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Gatekeeping is a complex and essential responsibility for counselor educators and clinical supervisors. While ethical codes and accreditation standards emphasize the importance of ongoing student evaluation, remediation, and, when necessary, dismissal, practical guidance for implementation remains limited. Using Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems framework, this session conceptualizes...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Emily Spencer, MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH

Emily Spencer, MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH

Lily of the Valley Wellness
Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maryland. She holds specialized certifications as a Perinatal Mental Health Provider (PMH-C), EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH... Read More →
avatar for Ford Brooks, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, CADC

Ford Brooks, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, CADC

Professor, Shippensburg University
Ford has been a faculty member in the Department of Counselor Education at Shippensburg University since 1997. Prior to his tenure at Shippensburg University, he was an addiction counselor in Richmond, Virginia for thirteen years and taught adjunct for seven years in the Department... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Faculty, Shippensburg University
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed mental health counselor, Dr. Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC has dedicated her career to supporting individuals through compassionate, evidence-based trauma informed care. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:15pm EST

Using movement to make therapy less awkward for young men and boys of color
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
In this discussion I will talk about how I use movement and the Solution Focused Brief Therapy Diamond model to connect with my clients, especially boys of color. I will give examples and demonstrations of how I use movement in session as well as go over some of the finer points of SFBT to help therapist use SFBT more effectively. 
Speakers
avatar for David J Barnes II. M.Ed. LAPC

David J Barnes II. M.Ed. LAPC

Owner/Therapist, Counseling in Motion
David Barnes is Level 3 Diamond Certified SFBT practitioner, holds a master's degree in School Counseling and holds an LAPC. David works as an in-school therapist with Devereux Behavioral health and also runs a private practice in Berwyn Pennsylvania where he incorporates movement... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

3:30PM Roundtables
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST

3:30pm EST

Holding Space or Causing Harm? Microaggressions in Counselor Training Programs and Sites (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This roundtable presents qualitative findings on the experiences of racial microaggressions among BIPOC counseling students during their trainings in counselor education programs. Drawing on participant narratives, the session explores how microaggressions influence students’ wellness, professional identity development, and perceptions of institutional support. Attendees will engage in dialogue...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ellen Gong, MS, NCC

Ellen Gong, MS, NCC

Ellen Gong is a doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision whose research centers on multicultural competence, equity in counselor training, and the lived experiences of BIPOC counseling students. Her scholarship explores how racial microaggressions manifest within counselor... Read More →
avatar for Matthew L. Nice

Matthew L. Nice

Associate Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Matthew L. Nice, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, is an associate professor with the Department of Counseling and Human Development at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and chapter faculty advisor for IUP’s Chi Sigma Iota Chapter, Iota Upsilon Pi. He is a licensed professional counselor, a... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

3:30pm EST

Rural recovery: Considerations for the Prevalence of Process and Behavioral Addictions in Isolated Communities (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This roundtable discussion centers upon the prevalence of process and behavioral addictions in rural communities. We will discuss perpetuants, systemic barriers, and cultural factors in regard to substance use, disordered patterns of eating, gambling, and social media/gaming engagement. A rich discussion will provide insight for counselors to advocate for recognition of generational and cultural...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ella Durst

Ella Durst

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Counselor Education and Supervision PhD Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Ella Durst is a graduate student in Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s (IUP) Counselor Education and Supervision PhD Program. She graduated with their master’s in clinical mental health counseling from IUP and formerly served as the president for their local CSI chapter, Iota... Read More →
avatar for Hadyn Phillippi

Hadyn Phillippi

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Doctoral Student in Counselor Education and Supervision PhD
Hadyn is a doctoral student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Counselor Education and Supervision and holds an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) currently practicing under... Read More →
avatar for Delaney F. Sullivan

Delaney F. Sullivan

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Doctoral Student in Counselor Education and Supervision (PhD), Good Thoughts Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Delaney Sullivan is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. She comes from a rural town in southwestern Pennsylvania. She is currently enrolled in a Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Scaffolding Theoretical Identity: A Roundtable on Supervision, Development, and Orientation Alignment (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This roundtable explores how supervision can scaffold the development of theoretical identity from practicum through licensure. Participants will discuss developmental supervision, orientation alignment, and training gaps.
Speakers
avatar for William Tyler Johnson Doctoral Candidate MS LPC

William Tyler Johnson Doctoral Candidate MS LPC

Doctoral Candidate, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
William Tyler Johnson is a counselor and doctoral candidate in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). They teach in counseling programs at Marshall University and Robert Morris University (RMU). Their clinical and research interests... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

3:30pm EST

Self-Care in Counselor Education: A Foundation for Professional Identity and Wellness (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session provides counselor educators with practical strategies for integrating self-care into teaching and supervision. Self-care will be explored as a core component of counselor professional identity. Participants will examine strategies for supporting students in self-assessing their wellness and building sustainable, culturally-competent, personalized self-care practices. Participants...
See More →
Speakers
JR

Jenna Romano, MA, LAC

Jenna Romano, LAC, is a first-year doctoral student in Immaculata University's Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision program. She works in private practice at A Brighter Tomorrow Wellness Center and works at the CASTLE program’s partial hospitalization program. Jenna works... Read More →
avatar for Katherine Patterson, M.A.

Katherine Patterson, M.A.

Katherine Patterson, M.A., is a first-year doctoral student in Immaculata University’s Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D. program. She serves as an adjunct professor of undergraduate psychology at Immaculata University and Southern New Hampshire University. She works clinically... Read More →
avatar for Sara Elliott, MS

Sara Elliott, MS

Practicum & Internship Coordinator at Villanova University; First-year doctoral student in Immaculata University's Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision program
Sara Elliott, M.S.Sara Elliott is a first-year doctoral student in Immaculata University’s Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision program. She has a M.S. in Counseling from Villanova University and a PK-12 School Counseling Certification in Pennsylvania. Over the past ten... Read More →
avatar for Rachel Rubright, MA, LAPC, NCC

Rachel Rubright, MA, LAPC, NCC

Rachel Rubright is a doctoral student at Immaculata University, pursuing a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. She works in private practice at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling, and Psychological Associates. Rachel works with all ages, often conducting play based therapy... Read More →
avatar for Maria Crossan, MS, LPC, NCC

Maria Crossan, MS, LPC, NCC

Professor Maria Crossan, MS, LPC, NCC, is an Assistant Clinical Professor and Curriculum Coordinator in the Creative Arts Therapy Department at Drexel University. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor, she brings an interdisciplinary background to her... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

3:30pm EST

The Threshold: Navigating the "In-Between" of Burnout and Becoming (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
In the clinical world, we are trained to be masters of the "before" and the "after"—the diagnosis and the discharge. We are asked to track treatment progress, always seeking forward progress. Yet, both clinicians and clients spend the majority of their transformative lives in the liminal space: the uncomfortable, often anxiety-inducing "in-between" where what worked no longer does and the ground...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Erica Cavill, LPC CST & certified level II Usui Reiki practitioner

Erica Cavill, LPC CST & certified level II Usui Reiki practitioner

LPC and CST, Calm Pittsburgh
Erica Cavill, MS, LPC, CST, is the Sex Therapy Program Director for Calm Pittsburgh and a certified level 2 Usui Reiki practitioner. Her work specializes in the intersection of clinical psychotherapy and somatic regulation, particularly in navigating the "in-between" spaces of our modern social climate.Cer... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Working Slow with Meaningful Purpose and Mindful Fulfillment for Ultimate Depth and Joy in the Journey of Becoming a Counselor Educator (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
How do you balance service, scholarship, teaching, and advocacy as a counselor educator? In the culture of higher education, productivity, tenure, competition engender significant stress and may lead to work dissatisfaction and burnout. Whether you are a counselor-in-training, doctoral candidate, new faculty, or full professor, come discuss ways to slow down and engage in the counseling journey...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer S. Park, PhD, LPC

Jennifer S. Park, PhD, LPC

Associate Professor, Colorado Christian University
Dr. Jennifer S. Park is an Associate Professor of Counseling at Colorado Christian University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Approved Clinical Supervisor having practiced in various settings. Dr. Park is a professional member of ACA, ASERVIC, ACES, NARACES, PCA, and... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

3:30pm EST

3:30PM 90-Minute Education Sessions
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST

3:30pm EST

Embracing the bot: Demystifying AI tools in counselor supervision (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The session will explain AI and its functions as well as provide insights and education on integrating Ai tools to enhance counselor supervision. This session will be part lecture and part demonstration of these tools. Participants will have the opportunity to interact and learn from a solutions engineer with experience developing machine learning platforms, as well as interact with AI software...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Williams, MS, NCC, LPC

Rebecca Williams, MS, NCC, LPC

Rebecca is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has worked in settings like reentry, substance use disorder, community mental health, and private practice. Rebecca received her bachelor's degree in Catholic Theology from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA and her master's degree... Read More →
avatar for Christopher M. Luciano

Christopher M. Luciano

Lead Solutions Engineer, Isovalent at Cisco
Christopher is a Lead Solutions Engineer at Isovalent at Cisco developing cloud security software and working closely with clients in global financial institutions and AI platforms. Prior to his experience with Cisco, he has worked developing software in the healthcare space and spent... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Emerging Leaders Program Workshop (Closed Session for EL Program Only, 1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)

Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session

3:30pm EST

Ethical Integration of Faith in Clinical Practice (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation equips clinicians to ethically and effectively integrate faith and spirituality into clinical counseling practice while maintaining alignment with professional ethical standards. Grounded in integrative, Christian psychology, and transformational frameworks, participants will explore how theological perspectives and evidence-based practices can be thoughtfully aligned in...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Marcella Rolle PhD, LPC, NCC

Dr. Marcella Rolle PhD, LPC, NCC

Executive Director, Cornerstone Counseling Ministries
Dr. Marcella Rolle is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Executive Director of Cornerstone Counseling Ministries in Easton, PA, where she leads clinical services, supervision, and faith-integrated programming. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and has extensive... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

From IEPs to Accommodations: Serving Clients with Learning Disabilities Across the Lifespan (1 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Students with documented learning disabilities (LDs) navigate a lifetime of transitions — from the (sometimes) structured support of the K–12 education system into the self-advocacy demands of higher education. For counselors working with these clients, understanding the legal frameworks, institutional processes, and direct intervention strategies that shape their experiences is essential....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tom Palmieri, EdD, NCC, ACS, LPC, LBS

Tom Palmieri, EdD, NCC, ACS, LPC, LBS

I have been a counselor for 12 years in PA prior to relocating from Brooklyn, NY where I worked in wellness coaching. I take an integrated clinical approach at how the mind and body are impacted by our environments and relationships. My mission is to help create systems where everyone... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Government Relations Committee Featured Session (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)

Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session

3:30pm EST

Leading with Love: Applying the AEDP Therapeutic Stance in Culturally Attuned, Trauma-Informed Counseling with BIPOC Clients (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Heloise (Lois) Ridley

Dr. Heloise (Lois) Ridley

Counselor, Wilkes University / NEW HOPE Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Heloise (Lois) is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania. She specializes in helping caregivers and providers navigate parenting and learning challenges by supporting individuals and families in their journey toward healing relational attachment trauma and racialized... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session

3:30pm EST

PACES Panel - From Learner to Leader: The Developmental Journey of Counselors, Supervisors, and Educators (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session traces the professional evolution from counseling student to practitioner, supervisor, and educator, highlighting the developmental milestones and identity shifts that occur along the way. Drawing from developmental models, reflective practice, and lived experience, this panel presentation illustrates how each role builds upon the last, shaping competence, confidence, and leadership...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Associate Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Cerrito is an Associate Professor and School Counseling Graduate Program Coordinator at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania - Bloomsburg. She brings 25 years of experience to the field in her work as a counselor, educator, supervisor, and leader. 
Having served as a professional school counselor in Pennsylvania public schools for 12 years and as a counselor educator for 13 years, Dr. Cerrito has built collegial connections with counselors across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and around the nation. She has taught numerous... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session, PACES TRACK
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Sexual Wellness & Sex Therapy: Navigating Intimacy, Trauma, and the Self (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
In this session, Dana Kirkpatrick, LPC, and Brenda Walker explore the vital intersection of mental health, physical wellness, and sexual satisfaction. This talk demystifies the field of sex therapy, distinguishing it from general counseling by focusing on "sexual wellness"—defined as a deep connection to one’s own body, likes, and dislikes. Drawing on over two decades of clinical...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dana Kirkpatrick

Dana Kirkpatrick

Owner, LPC, CST-S, Calm Pittsburgh
Dana is a licensed mental health professional and a Certified Sex Therapist with a deeply personal connection to her work. As a breast cancer survivor and carrier of the BRCA2 gene, she brings a unique perspective to the intersection of oncology and intimacy. Her personal jo... Read More →
avatar for Brenda Walker

Brenda Walker

Operations Coordinator & Spiritual Advisor, MS, DiV, Calm Pittsburgh
Brenda Walker serves as the Operations Coordinator and community outreach lead for Calm Pittsburgh, where she also manages the practice’s Couples Program. An ordained pastor in the United Methodist Church with 17 years of experience in pastoral care, Brenda brings a unique and compassionate lens to relationship coaching and pre-marital counseling. She specializes in helping i... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:30pm EST

Yes, We (All) Have to Talk About Menopause: What Mental Health Professionals Keep Missing, Avoiding and Getting Wrong (1.5 CE)
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This 90-minute session focuses on the impacts of perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause on mental health, barriers to recognizing and addressing these impacts in counseling, and how counselors can enhance their treatment approaches to better serve members of this population. 
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Ahn Hock, Ed.D., LPC, CAADC

Tammy Ahn Hock, Ed.D., LPC, CAADC

Instructor/Counselor, Immaculata University/Tammy Hock Counseling LLC
Tammy Ahn Hock, Ed.D., LPC, CAADC is a full-time instructor at Immaculata University and private practice owner. She divides her professional time between teaching graduate courses and providing clinical mental health counseling. Her specialties include trauma, addiction, codependency... Read More →
DM

Dana Mariano, LPC

Private Practice Owner, LPC, Authentic Self Counseling
Dana Mariano, LPC, is a doctoral candidate and private practice owner with 17 years of professional experience, including 15 years of school counseling. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, women's issues, and teens experiencing school-related issues. 
Friday November 6, 2026 3:30pm - 5:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

5:30PM Poster Sessions
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST

5:30pm EST

“You’re Doing Better… Now What?”: Identity and Belonging After Mental Health Remission
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
This poster presentation introduces a proposed study examining life after therapy, specifically focusing on identity and belonging during mental health remission. While remission is often viewed as the goal of treatment, many individuals continue to face challenges after therapy ends. This proposal highlights the need to better understand the post-therapy phase and its role in long-term recovery...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Gretchen Pucklavage, BA

Gretchen Pucklavage, BA

Graduate Student, Kutztown University
Gretchen Pucklavage is a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Kutztown University and works as a Graduate Assistant for Health Promotion on campus. She is passionate about supporting people from all backgrounds and making mental health feel more approachable... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Neurodiverse Adults
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodiversity like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder come with their own issues and comorbidities. Unfortunately, treatment for these issues like applied behavioral analysis for autistic youth have shown to have harmful lasting effects. To combat this, using therapeutic techniques that are neurodiverse-affirming rather...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Margaret Fox

Margaret Fox

Graduate Student, Penn State Harrisburg
Margaret Fox is currently a first-year student in the Masters of Arts in Applied Clinical Psychology Program at Penn State Harrisburg. She received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Penn State University Park. After her undergraduate program, she worked as a case manager... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Adapting Narrative Therapy for Men Experiencing Infertility-Related Identity Disruption
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
This session explores how narrative therapy can be applied in counseling practice to support men experiencing infertility-related identity disruption. It examines the psychological and relational impacts of male infertility, the role of masculine norms in shaping emotional expression and help-seeking, and the ways infertility can challenge men’s sense of identity, purpose, and future life...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for PAAPA ASANTE

PAAPA ASANTE

Lecturer of Psychology, University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana
Paapa Yaw Asante is a Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana. His academic background is in social psychology, and his research focuses on men’s mental health, well-being, and help-seeking behaviors in diverse cultural contexts. He is currently... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Alleviating Anxiety in Children through Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and can significantly interfere with social, interpersonal, and academic functioning among children and adolescents. While cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is seen as the gold standard therapeutic technique, animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional ‘talk’ therapy. Equine-assisted...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tess McNulty

Tess McNulty

Graduate Student, Penn State Harrisburg
Tess McNulty is a first-year master’s student in Applied Clinical Psychology at Penn State Harrisburg. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Denison University, where she conducted studies in personality disorders and positive and negative affect. As an equestrian... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Dementia Family Caregivers
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias are known as progressive brain diseases that affect millions of people from all over. Subsequently, this creates mental and physical strains for their family caregivers. According to the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association report, more than 11 million Americans provide unpaid support to relatives with dementia, which goes beyond regular or standard...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kaylin Foss

Kaylin Foss

Kaylin Foss is in the process of completing her master’s in clinical psychology at Penn State Harrisburg, with future interests in neuropsychology. At the University of Texas, Dallas, she worked as a dementia researcher, working with patients and their family caregivers. At the... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Communication, Connection, and Collaboration: Uniting ABA and Counseling Practices for Children with Autism
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
This poster explores the integration of applied behavior analysis and mental health counseling to provide holistic care for children with Autism while professionals remain in their appropriate scope of practice. Attendees will learn the effectiveness of combining behavioralinterventions with emotional support strategies to promote regulation, resilience, and adaptive functioning....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Stefanie Rene Salyer, Ed.S., LBS

Stefanie Rene Salyer, Ed.S., LBS

Doctoral Candidate, Pennsylvania State University
René Salyer, Ed.S., LBS is a Ph.D. candidate in Special Education: ABA and a master’s student in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling at Pennsylvania State University. She is a licensed behavioral specialist and former K–12 special education teacher with extensive... Read More →
avatar for Shelley Roderick, M.Ed., LBS

Shelley Roderick, M.Ed., LBS

M.Ed. Student CMHC; Behavioral Consultant, Pennsylvania State University
Shelley Roderick, M.Ed., LBS, is a seasoned behavior consultant and educator with over twenty years of experience supporting students with disabilities across a range of settings. Her professional background includes roles as a behavioral specialist, special education teacher, school... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Culturally Adapted Logotherapy for Emerging Adult Christians Struggling with Generalized Anxiety
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Due to existing literature that highlights the beneficial outcomes of positive spirituality, Christian experiences with generalized anxiety disorder may at times be overlooked in therapy. Within this population, generalized anxiety walks hand-in-hand with shame and guilt based on the belief that uncertainty is a personal failure to trust God and that “real faith” would diminish anxiety...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Avery Volz

Avery Volz

Avery E. Volz is a clinical psychology master’s student at Penn State Harrisburg. In her experience working as a group facilitator and behavioral health technician, she has met with and treated clients under the age of fourteen diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and oppositional defiant... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Effects of Mindfulness on Memory Recall in College Students
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Memory is a key component of learning and essential for success in college. Through remembering, a student can recall or recognize ideas, information, and principles that were learned. Samples of remembering are recall, defining, identifying, listing, labeling, matching, and stating (Bloom, 1956). Remembering is a basic educational goal which informs overall academic performance. Academic...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Katherine J. Stefanelli, PhD, LPC, NCC

Katherine J. Stefanelli, PhD, LPC, NCC

Assistant Professor of Counseling and Human Services, University of Scranton
About:Katherine J. Stefanelli, PHD, LPC, NCC is an Assistant Professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department at the University of Scranton, Scranton, PA. Her work over the last 25 years includes clinical service in both the private sector and educational settings. Dr... Read More →
JT

John Thomas, B.S.

Student, University of Scranton
John is a recent graduate from the University of Scranton. He majored in Neuroscience and will attend medical school with aspirations toward Psychiatry. His research interests include memory, recall, and the effects of CO2 on cognitive functioning. 
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Effects of Transracial Adoption on Racial and Ethnic Identity Development: A Review of the Existing Literature and Implications for Counseling Interventions
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
This presentation examines current literature on the racial and ethnic identity development of transracially adopted children, the socialization practices of their families, and the adverse consequences of inadequate identity development across the lifespan for the adoptees. Through a comprehensive literature review, this presentation aims to bring awareness to how the counselors and counselor...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Marrisa Moore

Marrisa Moore

Graduate Student, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Marrisa Moore is a second-year graduate assistant at Kutztown University studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling with special interests in addictions counseling and racial identity research. During her undergraduate career, Marrisa conducted research on the mental health of Kutztown... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Embracing the Journey: Leading Clients Through Change and Healing via Pilgrimage-Based Adventure Therapy on the Camino de Santiago
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
This poster presentation introduces a research-informed protocol for therapist-led pilgrimage as an innovative approach to supporting clients through trauma, change, and life transition. Drawing on a three-pronged intervention model—journaling, walking-based therapy, and group processing—this study explores how the Camino de Santiago can serve as a structured therapeutic journey for...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for John O'Keefe

John O'Keefe

Graduate Counseling Student, Franciscan University of Steubenville
John O’Keefe is a master’s student at Franciscan University of Steubenville with a developing clinical interest in trauma, spirituality, and experiential therapies. As a former pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago, he witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of pilgrimage on... Read More →
avatar for Heather Uphold, Ph.D.

Heather Uphold, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor/Practicum & Internship Coordinator, Franciscan University of Steubenville
Dr. Heather Uphold is currently an Assistant Professor at Franciscan University of Steubenville in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate program. She also serves as the Practicum and Internship Coordinator.  Dr. Uphold has worked in the human services and mental health profession... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Equal Representation for Licensed Professional Counselors: A Professional Advocacy Campaign Targeting the Pennsylvania State Board Website
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
The Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors is the authoritative source for LPC and LAPC licensure information in the state, yet the Board website consistently omits, misroutes, and marginalizes professional counseling content. This poster presents an advocacy campaign initiated by a Pennsylvania counselor educator to address equal...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Elizabeth Brokamp

Dr. Elizabeth Brokamp

Assistant Professor, Gwynedd Mercy University
Dr. Elizabeth Brokamp, PHD, BC-TMH, ACS, NCC is an Assistant Professor at Gwynedd Mercy University and a licensed professional counselor (VA, TX, CA, and PA). Her clinical and research interests include midlife transitions and older adult mental health, trauma treatments, counselor... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration in Counselor Education (CE) Programs: Counselor Educators' Perceptions & Experiences
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are continually reshaping the landscape of counselor education (CE), from teaching and supervision to research, leadership, and clinical practice. Yet, ethical integration remains underexplored within CACREP-aligned frameworks. This poster presentation introduces a constructivist grounded theory study exploring counselor educators’ lived...
See More →
Speakers
VH

Victoria Huston

PhD Candidate, Duquesne University
Victoria Huston holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, government, and science in society from Wesleyan University, as well as a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, she is pursuing her Ph.D. in counselor education... Read More →
avatar for Matthew Joseph

Matthew Joseph

Associate Professor, Duquesne University
Matthew Joseph, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Counselor Education and School Psychology at Duquesne University. He teaches graduate-level coursework in lifespan development, career development, and research design. He has also taught undergraduate and graduate... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Family-Based Approach for Children with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a relatively new disorder characterized by a persistent eating and food intake disturbance due to fear of adverse consequences of eating and/or aversions to sensory characteristics about food, resulting in nutritional deficiencies, failure to achieve appropriate weight gain, and interference in social functioning.  With the growing...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Maheen Kiran Mukhtar

Maheen Kiran Mukhtar

M.A. Student, Pennsylvania State University - Harrisburg
Maheen Kiran Mukhtar is a first-year Master’s student in the Applied Clinical Psychology program at Penn State Harrisburg.  She previously earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Syracuse University.  She has experience working as a senior psychiatric technician in the... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Play Therapy with Children Diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a trauma disorder that stems from severe neglect in childhood. Children with RAD struggle with trusting adults due to past neglect/abuse, and therefore tend to develop difficulties with attachment styles, as well as emotional regulation and psychosocial issues. Research has suggested that play therapy may be a developmentally appropriate treatment modality for...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Tatum K. Young

Tatum K. Young

Ms. Tatum K. Young is a first-year master’s student in the Applied Clinical Psychology program at Penn State Harrisburg. She earned her Bachelor of Art in Psychology with a minor in Biology at Bucknell University. She has experience working with children in childcare settings, which... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Prolonged Exposure Therapy as Treatment for PTSD in Male First Responders
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
First responders are continuously exposed to traumatic events throughout their careers due to the situations they are put in and events they encounter. Continuous exposure to these high-risk, potentially life-threatening events, means this population is at an increased risk for developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Male first responders may face heightened barriers to seeking treatment...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sally Musselman

Sally Musselman

Ms. Sally Musselman is a master’s student in Penn State Harrisburg’s Applied Clinical Psychology program. Ms. Musselman obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Development/Family Studies from Iowa State University. Ms. Musselman’s areas of interest for research... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Promoting Secure Relational Patterns: Emotionally Focused Therapy for Insecure Attachment
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Attachment theory supports the idea that the way a child bonds with their primary caregiver shapes the relational schemas and attachment style they carry into adult relationships. The four attachment styles – secure, avoidant, anxious and fearful-avoidant – are associated with different senses of self, perceptions of worthiness of love and trust, coping strategies and emotion regulation....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Fay Giannakou

Fay Giannakou

First year Master's student in clinical psychology, Penn State University, Harrisburg
Fay Giannakou is a first-year master’s student in Applied Clinical Psychology at Penn State Harrisburg and a licensed psychologist in Greece. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology and expanded her clinical training with a psychodynamic focus on clinical assessment, intakes... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Roots of ASD Treatment and Addressing the Spirit of Caregivers with Energy Psychology techniques
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Meridian tapping shows promise for caregivers, but its effectiveness for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is under-researched. This workshop will delve into the clinical challenges and potential mechanisms that make meridian tapping difficult to implement, even when anxiety is highly observable. It will also discuss possible uses for individuals with ASD based on individuals’...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Freger, DCEP, LBS, LPC

Amanda Freger, DCEP, LBS, LPC

Owner, Amanda Freger, LPC
Throughout her career, Mandi has served in multiple roles within many service lines of behavioral health treatment, including acting as a supervisor in both outpatient and residential settings. In providing decades of psychotherapeutic treatment to various populations, she has gained... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Therapeutic Applications of BDSM: Exploring Healing Pathways for Survivors of Sexual Violence
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Sexual violence affects millions worldwide and leaves survivors grappling with profound psychological consequences, including posttraumatic stress, dissociation, and suicidal ideation. Traditional therapeutic frameworks often focus on cognitive and emotional recovery, yet few address the somatic and relational dimensions of sexual trauma. One underexplored avenue is consensual BDSM or kink-...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ishita Agarwal, BA

Ishita Agarwal, BA

Ishita Agarwal is a first-year master’s student in the Applied Clinical Psychology program at Penn State Harrisburg. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Her research focuses on substance... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

Working With Your Body, Not Against It: A Gestalt Approach to Depression
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Treatments for physical illness are well known, but subsequent psychological care is not – even despite significant impacts on mental health. For instance, higher levels of depression are prevalent in populations suffering from chronic illness and/or traumatic diagnoses. Foreseeable factors like fear/worry can be accompanied by less anticipated repercussions like treatment plan decision...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Alexandra L. Keen, M.A. Candidate (Clinical Psychology), B.S (Neuroscience/Cognitive Science & Religious Studies)

Alexandra L. Keen, M.A. Candidate (Clinical Psychology), B.S (Neuroscience/Cognitive Science & Religious Studies)

Graduate Student, Pennsylvania State Harrisburg University
Alexandra L. Keen is a M.A candidate of applied clinical psychology at Penn State Harrisburg. After completing a bachelor’s degree in religious studies for health professionals (RSHP) and neuroscience/cognitive science (NSCS) with a thematic emphasis in neuro-spirituality at the... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

5:30pm EST

You’re Not a Monster: A Therapeutic Approach for Pedophilic Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) impacts roughly 1 in 40 adults in the United States, and approximately 15-25% of these individuals will report an unwanted sexual obsession in their lifetime. As such, it is important that these people aren’t neglected and clinicians are able to make a proper diagnosis and utilize the most effective treatment methods. This workshop will cover the efficacy of...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Gabrielle R. Baker, B.S.

Gabrielle R. Baker, B.S.

Applied Clinical Psychology Master's Student, Penn State Harrisburg
Gabrielle Baker is a first-year Master’s student in the Applied Clinical Psychology program at Penn State Harrisburg. She previously got her Bachelor of Science at Oklahoma State University majoring in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. She was previously involved in a psychobiology... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 5:30pm - 6:00pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

6:00pm EST

Friday Networking Reception
Friday November 6, 2026 6:00pm - 8:30pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 6:00pm - 8:30pm EST

8:30pm EST

Friday Evening Yoga
Friday November 6, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm EST

Friday November 6, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm EST
 
Saturday, November 7
 

7:00am EST

Registration Desk Open
Saturday November 7, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 7:00am - 6:00pm EST

7:30am EST

Breakfast is Served!
Saturday November 7, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am EST
Please join us for the keynote breakfast. Breakfast service will begin at 7:30AM and the Keynote presentation will begin at 8AM. 
Saturday November 7, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am EST

8:00am EST

Keynote Presentation
Saturday November 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am EST

9:15am EST

9:15AM Education Sessions and Roundtables
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST

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

9:15am EST

From the Counseling Chair to the Executive Seat: Ethical and Practical Challenges in Leadership Transition (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
As counselors increasingly move into leadership roles, many find themselves navigating executive responsibilities without formal training in business or organizational leadership. This session examines the ethical, practical, and cultural challenges of this transition, highlighting the risks of practicing beyond scope in leadership contexts. Participants will explore key leadership competencies,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Marcella Rolle PhD, LPC, NCC

Dr. Marcella Rolle PhD, LPC, NCC

Executive Director, Cornerstone Counseling Ministries
Dr. Marcella Rolle is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Executive Director of Cornerstone Counseling Ministries in Easton, PA, where she leads clinical services, supervision, and faith-integrated programming. She holds a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision and has extensive... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Revamping PCA Member Services: Strengthening Member Engagement (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Member retention is an essential aspect of the longevity of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association. Maintaining our member community involves fostering a sense of belonging and commitment to PCA, its mission, and critical initiatives. This session overviews the efforts of a PCA Emerging Leader capstone project that assessed current  member communications and engagement to inform the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Patrice A. Bryan, MS

Patrice A. Bryan, MS

Doctoral Candidate, Duquesne University
Patrice A. Bryan (she/they) is a child/family counselor and doctoral candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Duquesne University. Their work as a clinician and future counselor educator is informed by systemic frameworks, seeking to amplify marginalized narratives to inform... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session

9:15am EST

Sexuality and Cancer: Addressing the Young Adult’s Experience With and Around Cancer (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation offers a deeply personal and clinical exploration of intimacy following a cancer diagnosis. As a breast cancer survivor, BRCA2 gene carrier, and Certified Sex Therapist, Dana Kirkpatrick bridges the gap between the patient experience and professional recovery.Participants will move beyond the clinical "end of treatment" to explore the "New Normal"—a phase...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dana Kirkpatrick

Dana Kirkpatrick

Owner, LPC, CST-S, Calm Pittsburgh
Dana is a licensed mental health professional and a Certified Sex Therapist with a deeply personal connection to her work. As a breast cancer survivor and carrier of the BRCA2 gene, she brings a unique perspective to the intersection of oncology and intimacy. Her personal jo... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

The 4th Wave of Healing with Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques for Emotional Regulation. Taking Cognitive Behavior Therapy to the Next Level (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Psychotherapy does not have to be boring. If you are tired of listening to the same story over and over again, then use clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques to help your client have cognitive shifts in one session.Emotional Freedom Techniques is considered to be the 4th wave of healing meaning nothing like it has existed until 1993 when created by Gary Craig. The approach involves manual...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Joan Kaylor, MSEd, LPC, LMHC, DCEP

Joan Kaylor, MSEd, LPC, LMHC, DCEP

Licensed Professional Counseling - Owner/CEO, JoanKaylor, MSEd, LPC, LMHC Counseling and Consulting
Joan Kaylor, MSEd, LPC, LMHC is a licensed mental health counselor and holistic psychotherapist serving clients in Pennsylvania and Florida. She is the founder of Joan Kaylor, MSEd, LPC, LMHC Counseling, where she integrates evidence-based psychotherapy with mind-body and energy-based... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

The Shame We Carry Alone: How to Reclaim Fulfillment for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in America (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation explores the impact of intergenerational trauma and unspoken shame within AANHPI communities, shaped by colonization, war, immigration, and cultural expectations. Attendees will gain insight into how these experiences manifest as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and perfectionism, and learn to recognize common trauma responses. The session will also...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Maria Reyes, LPC

Maria Reyes, LPC

Founder/Trauma Therapist/Clinical Director, Resilient Mind Works Counseling
Maria Majet Reyes, MS, LPC is an immigrant, former paramedic, and trauma therapist who merges her passion for humanitarian service with her expertise in mindfulness-based trauma therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and guided imagery. She helps high achievers break free from perfectionism... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

The Unexpected Journey: When Pregnancy and Birth Becomes Trauma (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The perinatal period is a time of profound transition and vulnerability, making it a high-risk period for the onset or exacerbation of mental health concerns, especially when unexpected events happen during pregnancy or childbirth. Individuals at increased risk of developing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder are those who have experienced fertility challenges, perinatal loss, pregnancy and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Emily Spencer, MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH

Emily Spencer, MS, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, BC-TMH

Lily of the Valley Wellness
Emily is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Maryland. She holds specialized certifications as a Perinatal Mental Health Provider (PMH-C), EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Title - The World of Human-AI Counseling: The Impact of AI on Counselors (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation will focus on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on counselors. The benefits and risks of AI usage in clinical and personal settings will be discussed. Participants will engage in a discussion to come up with strategies to engage in cognitive activities that can help mitigate dependency on AI. The attendees will complete a fillable prompt with preferred strategies to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Arsh

Arsh

IUP
Arsh is a doctoral candidate at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She is the current graduate student representative for the North Atlantic Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (NARACES). Arsh also serves on the NARACES wellness committee, and the Pennsylvania Counseling... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Utilizing Creative Supervision Techniques to Reduce Anxiety and Increase Self-Efficacy in Emerging Counselors (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Emerging counselors and counselors-in-training often experience high levels of anxiety which, in turn, impact self-efficacy and the development of counseling skills. This session will focus on providing counselor educators and supervisors with a variety of evidence-based creative supervision frameworks and strategies to help mitigate anxiety in new counselors. Participants will learn how to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brenda Cappy Gruhn, PhD, LPC, NCC

Brenda Cappy Gruhn, PhD, LPC, NCC

Owner/Therapist, Cappy Counseling & Wellness
Brenda Cappy Gruhn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a certified Pennsylvania Professional School Counselor. She is also a Certified Mindfulness Instructor with the Mindfulness Institute for Emerging Adults. Brenda holds a master's... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Welcome to the Journal of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The editors of the Journal of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association (JPCA) welcome PCA members to attend an education session focusing on scholarly writing. Attendees will learn how to apply to be journal reviewers, how to submit an article for possible publication, and some pro writing tips. PCA members will also be introduced to the new journal editorial team. New projects will be discussed.
Speakers
DK

Dr. Katharine Byrd

Katharine Byrd serves as an Associate Editor of the Journal of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association. She is a recent Ph.D. graduate in Counselor Education and Supervision whose work centers on counselor development, professional dispositions, and clinical training. She also Kate... Read More →
AC

Angie Conrad, Ph.D., LPC

Editor of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association, Pennsylvania Counseling Association/Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Angie Conrad is a Licensed Professional Counselor counseling individual and families of all ages. She recently completed her Pd.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she has also been adjunct teaching in the Clinical Mental Health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Administration of EMDR in Group IOP to OP Continuums of Care (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session explores the adaptation of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for use in group settings within Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and step-down Outpatient (OP) specialty groups. Participants will learn how to implement group EMDR protocols while maintaining clinical safety, conducting appropriate assessment, and managing risk in higher-acuity populations. The...
See More →
Speakers
AV

Anthony Vajda, PhD, LPC

Core Faculty, Antioch University
Dr. Anthony Vajda is part of the core faculty team of the CES program at AU-Seattle with expertise in multicultural counseling, social justice advocacy, and trauma-focused work. His research focuses on racial and ethnic disparities in mental health care, social determinants of health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Between Neutrality and Attunement: Navigating Political Conversations in Therapy (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
With an increasingly complex social climate, clients often bring political and systemic stressors into therapy and may directly ask about a therapist’s beliefs or values. Counselor training has traditionally emphasized neutrality to protect the therapeutic alliance; however, clinicians frequently encounter moments in which avoiding these topics feels distancing, while disclosure risks shifting...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Gerrity, MA LAPC NCC

Rachel Gerrity, MA LAPC NCC

Outpatient Therapist, Counseling Collective
Rachel Gerrity is a trauma-informed outpatient therapist at The Counseling Collective in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Alvernia University and is currently working towards full licensure. Rachel is also a National Certified... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Beyond the Binary: Supporting Transgender Clients through the Gender Constellation (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
You've heard of the genderbread person, the gender unicorn now get ready for the gender constellation! The gender constellation offers a more nuanced and intersectional approach to gender exploration than traditional gender models. In this roundtable, you will learn about the gender constellation and have the opportunity to complete your own gender constellation in this interactive roundtable...
See More →
Speakers
DT

Dr. Tish Weikel, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

CEO & Licensed Professional Counselor, Phoenix Counseling Services, LLC
Dr. Tish Weikel (she/her) is a licensed professional counselor, educator, and advocate with over 15 years of experience serving diverse client populations across Pennsylvania. She is the founder and CEO of Phoenix Counseling Services, a holistic, LGBTQIAP+ affirming care practice... Read More →
avatar for goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

Mental Health Counselor, Alexandra R. Darion LLC
Goose (they/them) is a queer & trans, neurodivergent mental health therapist and yoga teacher. They are interested in the intersecting considerations of queer & trans and neurodivergent clients. Goose is inspired by their own mental health experiences and the experiences of their... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable

9:15am EST

Culturally Responsive Supervision: Theory and Application in a Changing World
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This interactive session will explore the competencies and practices that define culturally responsive supervision in today’s evolving professional and clinical contexts. Grounded in Anci and Ladany’s (2010) Multicultural Framework for Counselor Supervision, we will examine key theoretical principles and consider their application through a practical vignette designed to foster discussion and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Scarlett Iglesias Hoyos

Scarlett Iglesias Hoyos

Doctoral Candidate, The Pennsylvania State University
Scarlett Iglesias Hoyos, MS, LCPC (NV), CADC-I, CPGC-I, NCC is a doctoral candidate specializing in immigration, mental health, and trauma, focusing on supporting Spanish-speaking counselors in training and Latino immigrants. Her clinical practice and advocacy address the cultural... Read More →
avatar for Cassandra Y. Kam

Cassandra Y. Kam

Doctoral Candidate, The Pennsylvania State University
Cassandra Y. Kam, MEd, MS, CRC, LMHC, NCC, is a doctoral candidate in the Counselor Education program at PSU.  Cassandra previously worked as a state and federal vocational rehabilitation counselor, an ADA/504 disability coordinator, and as a services supervisor for community-based services for individuals with intellec... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Embracing Inquiry: Transforming Counselor Development Through Socratic Dialogue (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation aims to bring Socratic questioning to the forefront of clinical mental health counseling and position its use as a multidisciplinary tool to explore and expand competencies related to counseling practice, social and cultural diversity, and diagnostic processes. Participants will learn about Socratic questioning as it’s defined, the many ways it’s already implemented in...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sheba Antony

Sheba Antony

Doctoral Student and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Pennsylvania State University
Sheba is a South Asian American licensed mental health counselor, specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and co-occurring concerns. With five years of clinical experience and a current doctoral student in counselor education and supervision, Sheba advocates for fat-positive... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Prosek PhD, LPC, NCC

Elizabeth Prosek PhD, LPC, NCC

Professor, Pennsylvania State University
Elizabeth A. Prosek (she/her/hers), PhD, LPC, NCC, is a Professor of Education and Professor-in-Charge of Counselor Education at Penn State University. Her research interests include counseling military populations; community engagement and program evaluation; co-occurring presenting... Read More →
avatar for Sloan Ferron MA, LAPC, NCC

Sloan Ferron MA, LAPC, NCC

Doctoral Student & Liscensed Associate Professional Counselor, Pennsylvania State University
Sloan Ferron, MS, LAPC, NCC, is a doctoral student at Pennsylvania State University and a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor at Nickischer and Associates. With training in trauma-focused clinical mental health counseling, she blends Black feminist, liberatory, and community-driven... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

9:15am EST

Outside the Box: Using Board Games in the Counseling Space (and the ones I tried so you don't have to!) (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Ever look at a board game and think, "I wonder how I can make this therapeutic"? Me too! This session is about what I've learned as a school counselor and clinical mental health counselor who uses games in session regularly. We'll review research on games in counseling and discuss practical ways to integrate them into counseling sessions. I'll also share some of my favorite (and lesser-known)...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Powers, MS, NCC, LPC

Sarah Powers, MS, NCC, LPC

Doctoral Student; Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Sarah Powers, MS, LPC, NCC is a 4th year doctoral student at Adams State University in the Counselor Education and Supervision PhD program. A lifelong Pennsylvania resident, she resides near Philadelphia and earned her master’s degree in School Counseling from the University of... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 9:15am - 10:15am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

9:15am EST

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...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Bell, PhD, LPC

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
  • global Y

10:30am EST

10:30AM Roundtables
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST

10:30am EST

Enhancing Self-Efficacy Among Substance Use Disorder Counselors in Times of Change (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session addresses urgent behavioral health workforce challenges with specific emphasis on substance use disorder (SUD) counselor self-efficacy in bolstering a resilient and competent workforce. By strengthening SUD counselor self-efficacy, Pennsylvania will be well positioned to retain skilled clinicians, improve service delivery, and navigate ongoing transitions in behavioral health care....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Devon Bowser

Devon Bowser

Dean of Assessment, Program Director for the Master of Arts in Counseling, Program Director for the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Education, and Professor, Waynesburg University
Dr. Devon Bowser earned a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University, Ph.D., a Master of Arts from Franciscan University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne University. Dr. Bowser serves as the Dean of Assessment, program director for the Master of Arts... Read More →
avatar for Kelley McNichols

Kelley McNichols

Assistant Director of Graduate Counseling Programs, Clinical Coordinator, and Associate Professor, Waynesburg University
Dr. Kelley McNichols earned an undergraduate degree in Criminology and Pre-Law from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Science in Education with a concentration in Community Counseling from Duquesne University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

10:30am EST

From Trainee to Clinician to Educator: A Shared Reflection on Navigating War, Grief, and Growth in Times of Crisis (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This co-facilitated roundtable explores how clinicians and educators are shaped by personal, community, and global crises. Through reflections on war, suicide loss, pandemic-era training, and workplace grief, participants will engage in dialogue about professional identity, meaning-making, and growth in the helping professions. We will share lived experiences across multiple levels of crisis:...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Phuong Bach, Psy.D, M.Phil.Ed., M.S.Ed.

Phuong Bach, Psy.D, M.Phil.Ed., M.S.Ed.

Postdoctoral Fellow, Princeton University Counseling and Psychological Services
I received my Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from the George Washington University’s Clinical Psychology and my Master’s level training in Counseling Psychology and Education from the University of Pennsylvania. I currently serve as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Princeton University’s... Read More →
avatar for Miranda (Xiaofeng) Wang, M.Phil.Ed, LPC, NCC

Miranda (Xiaofeng) Wang, M.Phil.Ed, LPC, NCC

Private Practice Mental Health Counselor, Adjunct Faculty at University of Pennsylvania
Miranda Wang is a private practice mental health counselor, clinical supervisor, and educator whose work spans therapy, supervision, training and higher education. She serves as adjunct faculty at the Graduate School of Education, University of Pennsylvania, and worked as the Assistant... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Reframing Resilience: An Ecological Approach to Treatment Planning with Military Spouses (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Military families play a vital role in sustaining force readiness, with spouses providing key stability for children and overall family functioning. Spouse mental health strongly influences child wellbeing and satisfaction with military life, yet resilience messaging often focuses on individuals rather than systems. This session introduces counselors to an ecological approach to treatment planning...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Prosek PhD, LPC, NCC

Elizabeth Prosek PhD, LPC, NCC

Professor, Pennsylvania State University
Elizabeth A. Prosek (she/her/hers), PhD, LPC, NCC, is a Professor of Education and Professor-in-Charge of Counselor Education at Penn State University. Her research interests include counseling military populations; community engagement and program evaluation; co-occurring presenting... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Unmasking the Catfish: Key Considerations and Practices when Working with Online Deception in Counseling (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Catfishing, or online deception, is an increasingly prevalent presenting problem for individuals in counseling. Online deception is the practice of creating a fabricated personality or exaggerating aspects of one's identity to attract individuals online. Online deception can be used for both romantic and financial gain. This presentation will explore key background information on online deception....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Derek J. Parker, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Derek J. Parker, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Assistant Professor, Liberty University
Dr. Derek Parker is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania.  He spent about a decade working with children, adolescents, and their families before transitioning to the field of addiction. He received his master’s degree (MA) in Professional Counseling... Read More →
avatar for Eric J. Camden, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Eric J. Camden, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Associate Professor, Liberty University
Dr. Camden is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and approved clinical supervisor (ACS) in Virginia and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). He holds a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision and is an associate professor in Liberty University’s Clinical Mental Health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

10:30am EST

What We Needed, What We Know: A Conversation on Supporting Graduate Student-Parents in Counselor Education (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Graduate student-parents in counselor education navigate the dual demands of academic training and caregiving, often with limited support. This 60-minute roundtable, is facilitated by PhD student-mothers and invites participants to share lived experiences, reflect on key challenges and transitions, and discuss strategies for fostering more supportive learning environments. Through collaborative...
See More →
Speakers
XZ

Xin Zou, LPC (PA), LMHC (IA)

Penn State University
Xin Zou (she/her/hers) is a mental health counselor and a doctoral student in the Counselor Education program at Penn State and serves as a clinic supervisor at the Dr. Edwin L. Herr Clinic. She holds master's degrees in Professional Counseling from the University of Pennsylvania... Read More →
avatar for Courtney Dixon, LPC (PA), LCPC (MD)

Courtney Dixon, LPC (PA), LCPC (MD)

Doctoral Student, Lead Clinic Supervisor, The Pennsylvania State University
Courtney Dixon (she/her/hers) is a doctoral student at Penn State’s Counselor Education program as well as the lead clinic supervisor at the Dr. Edwin L. Herr Clinic. Courtney earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University in 2021... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

10:30am EST

10:30AM 90-Minute Education Sessions
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST

10:30am EST

Beyond Talk Therapy: Bringing the Body Into the Healing Process (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Did you ever have a client who could beautifully explain their trauma, has all the insight in the world, and is still completely dysregulated? That’s not resistance. That’s their nervous system. When trauma lives in the body, healing must involve the body.This experiential session introduces counselors to the integration of somatic therapy and Polyvagal Theory as powerful tools for...
See More →
Speakers
DT

Dr. Tish Weikel, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

CEO & Licensed Professional Counselor, Phoenix Counseling Services, LLC
Dr. Tish Weikel (she/her) is a licensed professional counselor, educator, and advocate with over 15 years of experience serving diverse client populations across Pennsylvania. She is the founder and CEO of Phoenix Counseling Services, a holistic, LGBTQIAP+ affirming care practice... Read More →
AM

Alli Monn, NCC, LAPC

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor, Phoenix Counseling Services
Alli Monn, NCC, LAPC, is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor at Phoenix Counseling Services. She earned her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University in December 2025. Alli works primarily with children and adolescents, while also... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Defining Professional Counselor Identity: Voices from the Field (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
What it means to be a counselor is often difficult to grasp, and previously primarily been an academic endeavor. Adding their voices, Licensed Professional Counselors articulated what they believed defines being a counselor.  In addition to discussing the study’s findings, the session will engage in a critical discussion about how these findings might compare to participants’ experiences,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Nicola A. Meade, PhD., NCC, LCPC

Nicola A. Meade, PhD., NCC, LCPC

Assistant Professor, Rosemont College
After working as a Domestic Violence Advocate in Oregon, Nicola Meade, PhD, LCPC (MD), NCC, studied at Loyola University Maryland.  She then achieved her PhD from Old Dominion University, where she was an instructor, and began researching counselor identity formation.  She has two... Read More →
avatar for Zahide Sunal, PhD, NCC

Zahide Sunal, PhD, NCC

Assistant Professor, University of Texas at Tyler
Zahide Sunal, PhD, NCC has a 10 years' experience in the field of counseling.  In this time frame, she has developed her own counselor identity, have been practicing as a counselor, and working as supervisor, counselor educator, and researcher. Her research agenda primarily focuses... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Food for Thought: Where Mental Health and Nutrition Care Connect (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Mental health and nutrition are deeply connected. In this session, a counselor and a dietitian explore how collaboration across fields has the potential to benefit all clients. We will explore various modes of collaboration, including bringing a dietitian on board in private practice or community mental health settings to participate as a provider and consultant. In addition to this, we will...
See More →
Speakers
TL

Taralee Loveridge, MS, RDN, LDN

Outpatient Registered Dietitian, Independence Health
Taralee Loveridge works as an outpatient registered dietitian for the Independent Health System at the Well Being Center. She began her career as a registered dietitian in 2022, working at UPMC McKeesport in their Behavioral Health and Rehab Detox unit. She has always been passionate... Read More →
JB

Justin Buehrle, MA

Justin Buehrle (he/him) holds a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Prior to this, Justin earned his Bachelor of Science in psychology, with a minor in sociology, from Pennsylvania Western University. His clinical and research... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

From Awareness to Action: Counseling at the Intersection of Immigration Enforcement Policy and Practice (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session examines the impact of expanding immigration policies and enforcement on migrant individual and community wellbeing. Participants will learn about the role counselors can play as advocates in this shifting sociopolitical landscape. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on their beliefs and advocacy competencies while gaining insight into the history of U.S. immigration law and...
See More →
Speakers
AE

Amanda Eilers

Amanda (LAPC, NCC) is passionate about serving the community and currently works as a counselor in an Inpatient psychiatric hospital.  She also works in a private practice where she specializes in trauma, attachment issues, and the particular needs of foster parents. She has years... Read More →
LH

Lan Huynh

Master's student, Arcadia University
Lan Huynh (she/they) is a graduate student in the Master of Arts in Counseling program at Arcadia University, specializing in trauma. Lan received their B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Cognitive Neuroscience from Temple University. Lan is currently completing their clinical internship... Read More →
avatar for Patricia Brenner, Ph.D.

Patricia Brenner, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Kutztown University
Patricia Brenner (Ph.D.) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counselor Education and Student Affairs at Kutztown University and the Coordinator of the School Counseling Program.  She is a former IU trainer and specialist in conflict resolution and response to intervention... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Honoring Voice and Choice: Ethical Counseling with Neurodivergent Clients (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
How do counselors balance supporting clients’ authentic selves while helping them navigate a neurotypical world? This interactive session explores that tension through the lens of the ACA Code of Ethics, offering practical strategies for real-world dilemmas involving autonomy, consent, and advocacy. Participants will also gain insight into PA Act 61 of 2023 and its impact on guardianship and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Maleita Olson, LCSW, NADD-CC

Maleita Olson, LCSW, NADD-CC

Chief Operating Officer/ Psychotherapist, Spectra Support Services LLC/ Moringa Institute
Maleita Olson, LCSW, is a co-founder and current Chief Operating Officer at Spectra Support Services, LLC, a community agency offering various mental health services with a specialty in serving those with neurodivergence and/or intellectual disability. She is also the Compliance Officer... Read More →
avatar for Patricia J. Gonzalez, LPC, MT-BC, NADD-CC

Patricia J. Gonzalez, LPC, MT-BC, NADD-CC

CEO/ Psychotherapist/ Music Therapist, Spectra Support Services LLC/ Moringa Institute
Patricia is the Co-Founder, Co-Owner of two businesses: She is the Chief Executive Officer of Spectra Support Services, LLC and the CE Program Administrator for the Moringa Institute.. In these roles,  she leads professional training and continuing education for behavioral health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Navigating the Complexities of Counselor Education in the 21st Century: Shaping Tomorrow’s Counselors Through Innovation and Insight (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Counselor education is experiencing rapid transformation as programs adapt to technological innovation, evolving student needs, and shifting professional expectations. Consistent with the theme “Embracing the Journey: Leading Through Change and Transition,” this session explores how counselor educators can thoughtfully navigate emerging changes in the training landscape. Key topics include the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Todd Whitman, Ph.D., LPC-(PA), LCPC-(MD), NCC, ACS, BC-TMH

Todd Whitman, Ph.D., LPC-(PA), LCPC-(MD), NCC, ACS, BC-TMH

Professor and Chair, Shippensburg University
Dr. Whitman received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology and French Literature from Colgate University in 1990. After stints in the corporate business world in San Francisco, CA and Syracuse, NY, Todd decided that he wanted to consider other vocations. He took some time off to ride... Read More →
avatar for Ford Brooks, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, CADC

Ford Brooks, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, CADC

Professor, Shippensburg University
Ford has been a faculty member in the Department of Counselor Education at Shippensburg University since 1997. Prior to his tenure at Shippensburg University, he was an addiction counselor in Richmond, Virginia for thirteen years and taught adjunct for seven years in the Department... Read More →
avatar for Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC, CIS-R, CMNCS

Faculty, Shippensburg University
With over 20 years of experience as a licensed mental health counselor, Dr. Kelly Dryzal, Ed.D, LPC has dedicated her career to supporting individuals through compassionate, evidence-based trauma informed care. She is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania... Read More →
avatar for Matthew R. Shupp, Ed.D., NCC, BC-TMH, ACS, LPC-(PA), LCPC-(MD)

Matthew R. Shupp, Ed.D., NCC, BC-TMH, ACS, LPC-(PA), LCPC-(MD)

Professor, Shippensburg University
Dr. Matthew R. Shupp (re-)joined Shippensburg University in 2013 after serving as a student affairs professional for 12 years in a variety of institutional settings. His previous professional experience includes the community college, for-profit, private, and public higher education... Read More →
avatar for Shannon Shoemaker, Ph.D., LCPC, (MD), MD Board Approved Supervisor, LPC, (VA) LMHC (MA), NCC NCC

Shannon Shoemaker, Ph.D., LCPC, (MD), MD Board Approved Supervisor, LPC, (VA) LMHC (MA), NCC NCC

Assistant Professor, Shippensburg University
Dr. Shannon M. Shoemaker joined Shippensburg University in 2025 after serving in faculty roles across a range of educational and clinical settings, including CACREP-accredited counseling programs, K-12 school systems, and private clinical practice. Her academic career reflects a sustained... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Promoting Healing and Resilience among Boys and Men Who Have Been Sexually Assaulted (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session will address the widespread yet under-recognized problem of the sexual abuse of boys and sexual assault of men. Data will be summarized, showing that nearly 11% of boys and 25% of men in the U.S. experience sexual victimization, often leading to significant psychological, behavioral, and somatic issues. The presenter will explain how constricted norms of masculinity contribute to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Mark S. Kiselica, Ph.D., HSPP, NCC, LPC

Mark S. Kiselica, Ph.D., HSPP, NCC, LPC

Professor of Psychology, Penn State Harrisburg
Dr. Mark S. Kiselica is a Professor of Psychology at Penn State Harrisburg. Prior to his current position, he served as the Director of CACREP-accredited programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling at Ball State University and The College of New Jersey.  Dr... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

Safety, Connection, and Growth: Cultivating Supervisory Alliance and Trust through Trauma-Informed Supervision (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
There is a need for a supervision model that enables a deeper supervision process, builds supervisory alliance, and trust for counselors experiencing trauma or a crisis. A trauma-informed supervision model will be presented to discuss the use of TIS principles to enhance the supervisory alliance and trust. There will be a focus on how to utilize respect, dignity, trust-building, emotional support,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Leslie Cogorno, Ph.D., LPC

Dr. Leslie Cogorno, Ph.D., LPC

Associate Professor, Johnson University
Dr. Leslie Cogorno, Ph.D., LPC, is an Associate Professor in the MA Counseling Program at Johnson University, where she also serves as CACREP Coordinator. A bilingual clinician fluent in English and Spanish, Dr. Cogorno immigrated from Chile and brings a rich multicultural perspective... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Shawna Smithbauer, Ph.D., LPC

Dr. Shawna Smithbauer, Ph.D., LPC

Assistant Professor, Anderson University
Shawna Smithbauer, Ph.D., LPC, is an Assistant Professor at Anderson University in their Clinical Mental Health program and serves as their clinical coordinator. Dr. Smithbauer has a private practice through Living Water Counseling, specializing in trauma-informed care, wellness... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

The ACA Code of Ethics 2026: What Has Changed? (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The Counseling Profession uses a code of ethics to help ensure client safety and wellbeing as well as the wellbeing of professional counselors, counselor educators, counseling students, and counseling researchers (ACA, 2014, 2026; Mabe & Rollins, 1986). The ACA Code of Ethics helps to guide ACA members in the ethical decision-making process, defining professional counseling, and outlining what is...
See More →
Speakers
NS

Nellie Scanlon, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS

Assistant Professor, Carlow University
Dr. Scanlon has a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. She has over 23 years of experience in the counseling field both as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and as a Certified School Counselor. She has worked in high schools, community counseling agencies, college counseling... Read More →
LL

Lynn Linde, EdD

Chief of Professional Practice, American Counseling Association
Dr. Lynn Linde is the Chief of Professional Practice for the American Counseling Association. She oversees professional issues related to counseling and ethics and is the project lead for the Counseling Compact. She holds a bachelors in Psychology from Clark University and a master’s... Read More →
MG

Marcelle Giovannetti, Ed.D., NCC, CADC, LPC, ACS, CCTP-II EMDR

Associate Professor, Messiah University
Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti is an Associate Professor at Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program in Pennsylvania. She also works part-time as a clinician in private practice. She has presented on numerous occasions at national, regional, state and local conferences. Dr. Giovannetti... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

10:30am EST

When Lived Experience Enters the Counseling Classroom: Integrating Structural Trauma and Experiential Knowledge into Counselor Education (1.5 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Counselor education programs increasingly enroll students whose lives have been shaped by structural trauma, incarceration, early parenthood, domestic violence, adverse childhood experiences, loss, and systemic inequities. These students enter the classroom not as blank slates but as practitioners-in-formation who carry experiential knowledge with profound clinical relevance. Yet the professional...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC

Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC

Graduate Assistant, Penn State University
Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC, is a doctoral candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Penn State University and a licensed mental health therapist serving rural Central Pennsylvania. A TEDx speaker, published researcher, and the first Black and first formerly incarcerated... Read More →
avatar for Teree Lipscomb

Teree Lipscomb

Graduate Assistant, Penn State
Teree Lipscomb is a graduate student in the Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Schools and Communities program at Pennsylvania State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Rehabilitation and Human... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm EST
  90 Minute Education Session

12:15pm EST

PCA Awards Lunch
Saturday November 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:45pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 12:15pm - 1:45pm EST

2:00pm EST

2PM Poster Sessions
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST

2:00pm EST

A Framework for Counseling Emerging Adults: Results and Implications from a Grounded Theory Study
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Emerging adulthood (ages 18–29) represents a critical developmental period with specific mental health  and developmental needs. Counselors often receive limited training on developmentally responsive approaches for working with emerging adult clients. This session presents the  findings from a grounded theory study which developed a framework for working...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Arsh

Arsh

Doctoral Candidate, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During that time, I worked as a graduate assistant in the Department of Counseling and in an Autism Spectrum Support Lab. My role for the graduate assistantship at the Department... Read More →
avatar for Katie Bucher

Katie Bucher

Masters Student In Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Katelyn Bucher, BA, MA is recent graduate of the CACREP-accredited counseling program at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania. During her time at IUP, she served as the President of the Iota Upsilon Pi Chapter of the Chi Sigma Honor Society. Her research interests include emerging... Read More →
avatar for Ella Durst

Ella Durst

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Counselor Education and Supervision PhD Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Ella Durst is a graduate student in Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s (IUP) Counselor Education and Supervision PhD Program. She graduated with their master’s in clinical mental health counseling from IUP and formerly served as the president for their local CSI chapter, Iota... Read More →
avatar for Matthew L. Nice

Matthew L. Nice

Associate Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Matthew L. Nice, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, is an associate professor with the Department of Counseling and Human Development at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and chapter faculty advisor for IUP’s Chi Sigma Iota Chapter, Iota Upsilon Pi. He is a licensed professional counselor, a... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

ADHD Into Adulthood: Past The Typical Years
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This learning module examines ADHD across the lifespan, emphasizing its persistence into adulthood and associated functional impacts. It explores factors contributing to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis—particularly among women and marginalized populations—and highlights the importance of distinguishing ADHD from commonly co-occurring conditions. The module also reviews evidence-based...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Les Jones, NCC, LAPC

Les Jones, NCC, LAPC

Les Jones, NCC, LAPC, is a mental health counselor at Connect Counseling in Gettysburg, PA, and a group facilitator for the online IOP Charlie Health. He specializes in men’s mental health and complex trauma. He is completing his EdD in Counselor Supervision & Education at Shippensburg... Read More →
avatar for Alicia Duhon, MA, MA, LPC, NCC

Alicia Duhon, MA, MA, LPC, NCC

Alicia Duhon, MA, MA, LPC, NCC, is a doctoral student at Shippensburg University, where she is advancing her training in counselor education and supervision. She holds two master’s degrees and is both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC... Read More →
avatar for Rosie Owoc Hromanik, LAPC, NCC

Rosie Owoc Hromanik, LAPC, NCC

Rosie Owoc Hromanik, LAPC, NCC is a trauma informed, psychodynamic therapist at LifeStance Health in Warrington, Pennsylvania, providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals and families creating a supportive space where clients can navigate challenges and develop... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Am I a Therapist or a Counselor? Defining Professional Identity for Advocacy and Action in Clinical and Public Settings.
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
The counseling field has long struggled with inconsistent professional language and identity which has led to a misunderstanding of who counselors are and how we are the same and different from other helping professions. This session will focus on two studies spanning eight years reporting the differences in counselor language that is used throughout the field. The studies show an inconsistency...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Ryan Bowers, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CAADC, CSOTP

Ryan Bowers, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CAADC, CSOTP

Assistant Professor and Program Director (IU) / Clinical Director (HFP), Immaculata University / Hearthfire Psychology, PLLC
Ryan Bowers is an Assistant Professor and Program Director of the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision program at Immaculata University, as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania, a National Board-Certified Counselor, a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Yoder

Nicole Yoder

Ph.D. Student (IU) / Clinical Counselor (MC), Immaculata University / Magnolia Counseling
Nicole Yoder is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a second-year student in Immaculata Univeristy’s Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision program. Nicole graduated from Kutztown University’s CACREP-Accredited Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling program. Nicole... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Cultivating Cultural Competence: A Master’s Level Intervention
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Students’ ability to apply the MSJCCs could be aided by practice. The current study investigates the alterations within students that participate in a process group designed to assist them in increasing their multicultural competency. Presenters will describe how a group designed like the one under study could aid counselor educators in meeting CACREP standards and preparing their students to...
See More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Finding the Words: Mental Health Clinicians’ Experiences with Disclosing Cancer Diagnoses
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This presentation will discuss the findings of a phenomenological study that examined how mental health professionals navigate receiving cancer diagnoses while working clinically with clients. Specifically, this presentation will focus on themes related to the lived experience of these individuals and their experiences of broaching self-disclosure during this challenging time. The themes will...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Em Boring

Em Boring

Counselor in training, Lebanon Valley College
Em is a recent graduate of Lebanon Valley College who is beginning her career as a counselor. 
DS

Dr. Shannon Strohl

Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Lebanon Valley College
Dr. Shannon Strohl is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) with a clinical focus in EMDR, CPT, trauma, and attachment. Dr. Strohl is also an Assistant Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lebanon Valley College... Read More →
AT

Amya Tuckey

Amya is a recent graduate of Lebanon Valley College who is beginning her career as a counselor. 
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

From Canvas to Counseling: Cultivating Competent Counselors Through Creative and Experiential Methods.
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This session explores the integration of creative, experiential, and art-based techniques to support counselors in training to have reflective experiences in the classroom. The need for this learning supports the CACREP standard 3.A. 11. “self-care, self-awareness, and self-evaluation strategies for ethical and effective practice” (CACREP,...
See More →
Speakers
MW

Miranda Weaver M.S. LPC

Duquesne University
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than a decade of specialized experience in inpatient behavioral health. I currently serve as the Manager of Clinical Care Services at UPMC Northwest, where I oversee the Extended Acute Care program and provide consultation on clinically... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

From Self‑Efficacy to Employment: Practical Social Cognitive Career Theory Strategies for Disability-Inclusive Counseling
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This presentation will explore the career-related needs of individuals with disabilities from a systemic perspective, paying special attention to multifaceted organizational, personal, and systemic barriers. Presenters will highlight with relevant case examples how to apply Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT; Lent et al., 1994) in career counseling with this population and practical strategies...
See More →
Speakers
AR

Aaron Redis

Graduate Student, University of Scranton
Aaron has a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration on mental health at Southern New Hampshire University and a master’s in organizational leadership from the University of Maine at Presque Isle. He currently works full-time as a Crisis Specialist in the greater Scranton... Read More →
avatar for Megan Whitbeck

Megan Whitbeck

Assistant Professor, University of Scranton
Dr. Megan A. Whitbeck is an Assistant Professor in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Program at the University of Scranton in the Department of Counseling and Human Services. Dr. Whitbeck has a PhD in Counseling and Counselor Education from the University of North Carolina... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session

2:00pm EST

Generative Conversational Artificial Intelligence (GC-AI) and Attachment
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This session addresses the unique aspects of generative conversational artificial intelligence (GC-AI) systems in relation to users’ personal consultation and/or emotional connection, unique viewpoints of GC-AI systems users regarding acceptable uses for GC-AI, and how individual attachment patterns of GC-AI systems users may influence types of use and individual mental health outcomes....
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Robin S. Archer, PhD., LPC

Robin S. Archer, PhD., LPC

Assistant Professor, Gannon University
Robin S. Archer is an assistant professor of clinical mental Health counseling at Gannon University, where she serves as the Clinical Experiences Coordinator. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly two decades of clinical experience. Robin is an EMDRIA Certified Therapist... Read More →
avatar for Mei Miyatake

Mei Miyatake

CMHC Graduate Student, Gannon University
Mei Miyatake is a master’s student at Gannon University and an international student from Japan, studying clinical mental health counseling with a strong passion for mental health advocacy. Her academic interests include parenting styles, attachment patterns, and trauma, with a... Read More →
avatar for Micki Webster

Micki Webster

Gannon University
Micki Webster is a master’s student at Gannon University from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, studying clinical mental health counseling, with a strong passion for supporting mental health and wellness across diverse populations. Her academic interests include child and adolescent grief... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

I’m so Bored with the PCA! How Boredom Can Help Us Be Better Counselors?
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
“Mom I’m bored!” “This is sooo boring!” Who has not said or heard these phrases? This 60-minute roundtable discussion will explore the history of boredom as a construct in the psychology and counseling literature and how reframing boredom might actually be generative of stronger therapeutic alliance, provide increased safety for our clients, and yield immense clinical value. 
Speakers
avatar for Joseph Van Hannak, MA, LPC, NCC

Joseph Van Hannak, MA, LPC, NCC

Counselor/Faculty, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Joseph Van Hannak, MA, LPC, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience in diverse positions. Joe brings a wide array of work history and clinical training. Joe currently works as a tenure-track... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Integrating Mindfulness into Student Support: Practical Strategies for Higher Education Professionals
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
College students face growing amounts of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm, especially at times when they are transitioning. In this session, you will learn accessible, applicable mindfulness skills that higher education professionals can use while working directly with their students. The presenter has worked with first-year college students teaching mindfulness practices and will share with...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Amy Patton

Amy Patton

Associate Director of Admissions, Wilkes University and Graduate student seeking a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Scranton, University of Scranton
Amy works in admissions at Wilkes University, where they support prospective students through the college search and transition process. They are currently a graduate student at the University of Scranton pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Their professional... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

It Takes a Campus: Building a Collaborative Model to Support Students with Disabilities
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
College students with disabilities often face greater academic distress, lower campus engagement, and limited social support compared to their peers. This roundtable will highlight the Student Disability Support Collaborative (SDSC), an initiative that trains counseling students to connect peers with psychosocial, academic, and career resources. Participants will explore strategies for building...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sheba Antony

Sheba Antony

Doctoral Student and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Pennsylvania State University
Sheba is a South Asian American licensed mental health counselor, specialized in the treatment of eating disorders and co-occurring concerns. With five years of clinical experience and a current doctoral student in counselor education and supervision, Sheba advocates for fat-positive... Read More →
avatar for Thor Larson

Thor Larson

Graduate Student, Herr Clinic/Student Disability Collaborative Intern, Graduate Assistant - Student Disability Resource Center, Pennsylvania State University
Thor is a Counseling Education student and graduate assistant with the Student Disability Resource Center at Pennsylvania State University. He holds an MA in Urban Planning from the University of British Columbia and has a background in community art engagement, special education... Read More →
avatar for Maria Elfrida, M.Ed

Maria Elfrida, M.Ed

Doctoral Student in Counselor Education Program, Graduate Research Assistant, Doctoral Supervisor for Counseling Practicum, Pennsylvania State University
Maria is a doctoral student in the Counselor Education program at Pennsylvania State University. She earned her master's degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Penn State in 2023. Her research focuses on global mental health, including mental health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Leading Through Change and Transition: Creating Psychological Safety for LGBTQ+ Counseling Students
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
How can counselor educators lead through change and transition while supporting LGBTQ+ counseling students? This session highlights the role of psychological safety in the classroom and introduces the AUIP framework, offering practical, actionable strategies to reduce harm, increase inclusion, and create affirming learning environments that support student growth and engagement. 
Speakers
avatar for Bridget D Van Cook

Bridget D Van Cook

Bridget Van Cook is a counselor and clinical director with a focus on trauma-informed care and inclusive practice. Her work emphasizes psychological safety, cultural responsiveness, and supporting marginalized populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals. She is passionate about counselor training and fos... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Master-Level Students’ Journeys Through Change and Transitions
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This topic applies to first-year and currently enrolled master-level counseling students in a graduate school program - facilitating conversations about their expectations for personal and professional development and their responsibilities as counselors-in-training (CITs), along with implications for counselor educators.
Speakers
avatar for Amber Conner, M.A.

Amber Conner, M.A.

Psychotherapist, Doctoral Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
My name is Amber Conner, and I was born and raised in New Jersey. In order to fully pursue my dreams, as a counselor and counselor educator-in-training, I decided to move out of state, and attend one of the best universities. With that said, I am a first-year doctoral student studying... Read More →
avatar for Chinar Mehta, MSc

Chinar Mehta, MSc

Psychotherapist, Doctoral Student, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
The presenter is a second-year Ph.D. student in Counselor Education and Supervision at Indiana University of Pennsylvania . She has over three years of experience as a mental health therapist, working with first responders diagnosed with PTSD, as well as with elderly and general populations... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Memory Distortions and Cognitive Bias in Couple Conflict: A CBT Approach
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This session explores how memory distortions and cognitive biases shape conflict in romantic relationships. Drawing on cognitive psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), it highlights how partners reconstruct past interactions in ways that intensify negative beliefs and communication patterns. Participants will be introduced to practical CBT-based strategies to identify and restructure...
See More →
Speakers
SS

Sera Sezgin

Clinical Psycholoogy Master's Student, Penn State University Harrisburg
Ms. Sera Sezgin is a Penn State Harrisburg master's student studying clinical psychology. She is currently conducting research at the Personality and Stigma Labs, where she focuses on psychological and cognitive processes associated with mental health and memory. Her areas of interest... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Migration as Meaning: An Existential Approach to Counseling Latin American Immigrants
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Latine immigrants experience significant psychological stressors relating to migration like acculturative stress, identity conflicts, and discrimination. Because of these, approaches in mental health services need to be crafted in a way that both honors Latine cultural values and supports the individuals themselves. This session posits existential therapy as a culturally responsive approach for...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Vanity Hernandez

Vanity Hernandez

Ms. Vanity Hernandez is a current graduate student in the MA Clinical Psychology program at Penn State Harrisburg. A graduate of Hollins University, Ms. Hernandez earned her B.S. in psychology and focused much of her undergraduate research on Latin American children and families... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Reentry, Equity, and Healing: Supporting Justice-Involved Youth Through Counseling Practice
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Justice-involved youth experience high rates of mental health needs, trauma exposure, and systemic barriers that can complicate successful community reentry. This session examines reentry as a critical transition point and highlights the evolving role of counselors in supporting youth across systems. Grounded in current research, participants will explore how structural inequities shape outcomes...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC

Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC

Graduate Assistant, Penn State University
Divine Lipscomb, M.Ed., NCC, LAPC, is a doctoral candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Penn State University and a licensed mental health therapist serving rural Central Pennsylvania. A TEDx speaker, published researcher, and the first Black and first formerly incarcerated... Read More →
avatar for Stefanie Rene Salyer, Ed.S., LBS

Stefanie Rene Salyer, Ed.S., LBS

Doctoral Candidate, Pennsylvania State University
René Salyer, Ed.S., LBS is a Ph.D. candidate in Special Education: ABA and a master’s student in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling at Pennsylvania State University. She is a licensed behavioral specialist and former K–12 special education teacher with extensive... Read More →
avatar for Teree Lipscomb

Teree Lipscomb

Graduate Assistant, Penn State
Teree Lipscomb is a graduate student in the Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Schools and Communities program at Pennsylvania State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Rehabilitation and Human... Read More →
avatar for Joy Gray, PhD, LPC

Joy Gray, PhD, LPC

Adjust Professor, Pennsylvania State University
Joy Gray is a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania who received her doctorate degree in Counselor Education from the Pennsylvania State University in 2024. She currently works as an outpatient clinician in community mental health and as an adjunct professor teaching practicum... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Reframing Religious/Spiritual Abuse: A Structural Family Therapy Approach
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
Religious and spiritual (R/S) abuse is increasingly recognized as a significant source of psychological, relational, and spiritual harm; however, clinical approaches to treatment remain underdeveloped and largely focused on the individual. This presentation conceptualizes R/S abuse as an inherently relational and systemic phenomenon enacted through patterns of...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kaylee Van Gent, MA, LAPC, NCC

Kaylee Van Gent, MA, LAPC, NCC

Graduate Research Assistant, Penn State University
Kaylee Van Gent is a second-year doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision at The Pennsylvania State University. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Slippery Rock University (2022) and brings 4 years of clinical experience from both private... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Shrewsbury-Braxton, PhD

Sarah Shrewsbury-Braxton, PhD

Assistant Professor, Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Sarah Shrewsbury-Braxton (Dr. SB) is an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at Penn State. She earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University, her M.S. in School Counseling, Pre-K – 12, from Tennessee State University, and her B.S. in Psychology... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

The Resilient Mind: Holistic Strategies for Socialization and Healing in Later Life
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
In the United States, about a quarter of adults 65 and older experience social isolation, meaning they have few or no social relationships. This is different from loneliness, which is the feeling of lacking meaningful connections, and the two do not always occur together.According to the United Health Foundation (2025), Pennsylvania has a social isolation risk score of 57 among adults 65 and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Harsha Erumbassery

Harsha Erumbassery

Graduate Assisstant, Graduate student, Shippensburg University
Current Master's student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a background in Bachelor's of Homeopathic Medicine from Rajive Gandhi University of Health Sciences, India. Passionate about Geriatric Counseling, Couples and Family Counseling using an Assimilative Integrated Theory... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder as an Outcome of Child Sexual Abuse
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This presentation examines how a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) can be linked to the manifestation of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in adulthood. It explores how trauma-related themes, such as control, responsibility, contamination, and safety, can shape and cause obsessions and compulsions. Emphasis is placed on understanding OCD symptoms as responses to earlier experiences linked to...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Romina Gamarra

Romina Gamarra

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Student, University of Scranton
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Student at the University of Scranton
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:00pm EST

Unraveling Mysteries of Adolescent Substance Use: Reviewing the ABCD Study Findings
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
This presentation will explore some of the findings that have emerged from Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (ABCD). This National Institute of Health (NIH) study has been designed to do a deep dive into the cognitive development of the adolescent brain with some focus involving substance use. This study offers some ground breaking outcomes on the trajectory of developmental change...
See More →
Speakers
EY
TR
AK

Abigail Kassalen

Student, Geneva College
Ms. Kassalen is a student in the Master of Arts in Counseling program at Geneva College. She earned a bachelor's degree from Duquesne University in 2023. 
avatar for Kerry Gragg, M.A., NCC, LPC

Kerry Gragg, M.A., NCC, LPC

Substance Abuse Counselor, Gateway Rehabilitation Center
Kerry Gragg is a full time substance abuse counselor for Gateway Rehabilitation Center. She has been in this role for the past few years, and has extensive experience in providing group counseling. Ms. Gragg is currently enrolled in Liberty University's Counselor Educator Education... Read More →
JK

James K. Matta, Ed. D., NCC, LPC

Professor, Geneva College
The primary presenter is currently the track coordinator of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, and program director, in the Master of Arts in Counseling at Geneva College. He formerly served as the Senior Research Principal at the Pittsburgh Adolescent Alcohol Research... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
  Poster Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

2:30PM Education Sessions and Roundtables
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST

2:30pm EST

“Who Is My Safe Haven?" Attachment Needs in the Era of AI and Influencer Culture (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The digital age has transformed how individuals form and experience attachment bonds with others. Increasingly, clients report significant connections with podcasters, online creators, influencers, and even AI-based chatbots. While these parasocial relationships may provide a sense of belonging, they can also reinforce attachment avoidance and displace opportunities for reciprocal...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Nick Summa, PhD LMFT LPC

Nick Summa, PhD LMFT LPC

Clinical Director, Congruent Relationships Counseling & Wellness
Nick Summa is the Clinical Director of Congruent Relationships, a group practice specializing in relational healing. He is dually licensed as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. His clinical work centers on s... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Adapting Mental Health Therapy Approaches for Autistic Clients (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Many autistic adults struggle to find therapists who understand their needs. This training shows clinicians how simple, evidence‑aligned adjustments can prevent harm, improve engagement, and strengthen care for autistic clients—and for everyone they serve.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Conroy, LCSW

Heather Conroy, LCSW

Co-Founder and Executive Director, Evolve Coaching
Heather (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who, since 2006, has worked with Autistic and other neurodiverse children, adolescents, and adults on their paths towards self-defined success. She is proud of the work Evolve is doing to support not only individuals, but also... Read More →
AL

Alicia Logue, MA, BCBA, NCC, LPC

Consultant, ASERT, Western Region
Alicia is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 20 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and families. She is a consultant and trainer with the ASERT Collaborative in the Western Region, and also a therapist in private practice... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Affirmation Without Harm: Gender Euphoria, Disordered Eating, and Ethical Treatment with Trans and Gender-Diverse Clients (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Transgender and gender-diverse individuals experience disproportionately high rates of disordered eating and eating disorders (Watson & Arcelus, 2024). This is often shaped by intersecting experiences of gender dysphoria, minority stress, body surveillance, and limited access to affirming care (Yesildemir and Akbulut, 2023). While much of the clinical literature has centered on alleviating...
See More →
Speakers
DT

Dr. Tish Weikel, Ed.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

CEO & Licensed Professional Counselor, Phoenix Counseling Services, LLC
Dr. Tish Weikel (she/her) is a licensed professional counselor, educator, and advocate with over 15 years of experience serving diverse client populations across Pennsylvania. She is the founder and CEO of Phoenix Counseling Services, a holistic, LGBTQIAP+ affirming care practice... Read More →
avatar for goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

Mental Health Counselor, Alexandra R. Darion LLC
Goose (they/them) is a queer & trans, neurodivergent mental health therapist and yoga teacher. They are interested in the intersecting considerations of queer & trans and neurodivergent clients. Goose is inspired by their own mental health experiences and the experiences of their... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Brief Therapy for Emotional Dysregulation (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session is dedicated to providing a foundational model for clients who suffer from emotional dysregulation issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, and low self-esteem. The goal is to present a working model that enhances clients understanding of the core issues that cause dysregulation symptoms in a way the expedites their ability to help themselves.  Participants will...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jonathan Getz LPC, NCC

Jonathan Getz LPC, NCC

Psychotherapist II, LPC, St. Luke's Health Network
Jonathan Getz has been a licensed Professional Counselor for 20 years.  Prior to that he was an educator and coach.  Jonathan was the clinician in charge of created the working clinical model for the School Justice Program that runs in the Lehigh County.  He has had his own private... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Embracing Innovation: Using AI Simulation to Lead Counselor Training Through Change and Transition (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session explores the integration of AI simulation within counselor education as a means of leading through change and transition in training practices. Grounded in experiential learning theory and counselor competency development, the presentation will examine how AI simulation can support skill acquisition, reduce student anxiety, and increase accessibility in both online and in-person...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brittany Hoover PhD, LPC, CCTP

Brittany Hoover PhD, LPC, CCTP

Students, Miss
Brittany N. Hoover, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCTP is a counselor educator, licensed professional counselor, and clinical supervisor with expertise in trauma-informed care, counselor training, and college mental health. She currently serves as a Mental Health Therapist at Penn State University- New Kensington and Program Coordinator... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Polyvagal PLAY™: Regulating the Room Before the Work Begins (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This experiential session introduces Polyvagal Theory through Polyvagal PLAY™ (Pause, Listen, Activate, Yield), a framework that uses breath, rhythm, sound, movement, and intentional play to support nervous system regulation in helping relationships. Participants don't just learn about co-regulation, they experience it. Through laughter yoga, rhythmic group practices, and guided reflection, this...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Buffie, MSW, LSW

Sarah Buffie, MSW, LSW

Founder/Lead Trainer, Soul Bird Consulting
Sarah Buffie, MSW, LSW, Soul Bird ConsultingSarah is a licensed social worker, trainer, and consultant with more than a decade of frontline experience in child welfare, trauma-responsive systems, and relational practice. She creates spaces where learning happens not just intellectually... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Sex Positive Clinical Intake for Beginners (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Though sexuality applies to everyone is some capacity, it is often not covered well enough throughout graduate training. Most master’s level clinicians operate with one elective in Human Sexuality and all additional training is up to the individual to engage with on their own time. Therefore, counselors may feel uncomfortable or unqualified to discuss sex and sexuality with their clients. This...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Dalton

Sarah Dalton

Full Professor, The Chicago School
Sarah E. Dalton earned her doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. She also earned her master's degree in community counseling from the same university. Dr. Dalton has worked in a number of community counseling settings including... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Supervision Reimagined: Leading Through Change in the Age of AI (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The counseling profession is in the midst of rapid transformation as artificial intelligence reshapes how we conceptualize, document, and reflect on clinical work. This session invites supervisors, educators, and clinicians to embrace this journey of change by exploring how AI can be integrated into supervision in ethical, intentional, and developmentally appropriate ways. Through applied examples...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Shoemaker, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, LPC, NCC

Shannon Shoemaker, PhD, LCPC, LMHC, LPC, NCC

Assistant Professor, Shippensburg University
Dr. Shannon Shoemaker is an assistant professor at Shippensburg University. She earned her BS in Psychology and M.Ed. in Counselor Education at Bridgewater State College and a doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from The Pennsylvania State University. She has over fifteen... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

We Don't Talk About Trauma Training: What Counselor Educators and Supervisors Need to Know About Preparing Counselors to Treat Trauma (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Despite the widespread prevalence of trauma—with up to 70% of the global population experiencing at least one traumatic event—counselors-in-training (CITs) consistently report feeling underprepared to provide trauma counseling services (Benjet et al., 2016; Foster, 2017). Research indicates that only 18% of CITs feel competent to utilize evidence-based trauma interventions, and only 28% feel...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Dixon, LPC (PA), LCPC (MD)

Courtney Dixon, LPC (PA), LCPC (MD)

Doctoral Student, Lead Clinic Supervisor, The Pennsylvania State University
Courtney Dixon (she/her/hers) is a doctoral student at Penn State’s Counselor Education program as well as the lead clinic supervisor at the Dr. Edwin L. Herr Clinic. Courtney earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University in 2021... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

“Just wait until they find out I have no idea what I am doing”: An open discussion about imposter phenomenon among counselors and emerging leaders
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Imposter phenomenon (IP), which is described as a feeling of professional fraudulence, is a common experience of novice and experienced counselors, supervisors, counselor educators, and leaders within the counseling profession. This has a profound impact on an individual’s professional identity development, career satisfaction, and sense of belonging. Despite this commonplace experience within...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Steigerwalt, BS

Amanda Steigerwalt, BS

Amanda is a second-year Masters student at Immaculata University studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a special interest in working with children, adolescents, and families. She uses her decade of experience working in creative direction, design, and visual literacy to... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Herman, BS

Lauren Herman, BS

Lauren is a Masters student at Immaculata University pursuing a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She also works as a graduate assistant for the university’s newly established Counselor Education and Supervision PhD program. With former education in biochemistry and molecular... Read More →
avatar for Noah Schoch, Ph.D., LPC

Noah Schoch, Ph.D., LPC

Assistant Professor, Immaculata University
Noah Schoch, Ph.D., LPC, is a core faculty member at Immaculata University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and the Counselor Education and supervision Ph.D. program. He serves as an assistant professor and clinical facilitator of fieldwork within both programs. His clinical... Read More →
avatar for Paige Lilly-Ivens, MA, LPC

Paige Lilly-Ivens, MA, LPC

Paige is a current PhD student at Immaculata University pursuing Counselor Education and Supervision. She is also the Bethlehem Facility Director, Quality Assurance Director, and Clinical Supervisor at Mid-Atlantic Rehabilitation Services, an outpatient substance use treatment facility... Read More →
CH

Cicely Holston, MA, LPC, NCC

Cicely is a current PhD student at Immaculata University pursuing Counselor Education and Supervision. Cicely is the owner of her private practice, Phoenix Wellness LLC dba Cicely Holston Counseling in Berks County, PA. Cicely’s practice specializes in working with individuals who... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Beyond Performing Wellness: Counselor Impairment, Professional Identity, and Sustainable Practice in Times of Change (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Counselors are trained to promote wellness, yet many practice within systems that quietly undermine their own sustainability. This session examines counselor impairment not simply as individual burnout, but as a disruption in professional identity integration shaped by systemic pressures. Drawing from research on impairment, professional identity development, and trauma-informed systems,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Curtis Lee Taylor, PhD, LPC (PA), LPCC (OH), NCC

Dr. Curtis Lee Taylor, PhD, LPC (PA), LPCC (OH), NCC

Founder & Executive Director, Authentic Wellness & Empowerment
Dr. Curtis Lee Taylor, PhD, LPC (PA), LPCC (OH), NCC, is a licensed professional counselor, educator, and founder of Authentic Wellness & Empowerment in Erie, Pennsylvania. His work focuses on counselor wellness, workforce sustainability, and reforming structural barriers that contribute... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Embracing the Journey of Counselor Supervision: Leading Ethical Practitioners Through Change and Transition (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation will take a deeper dive into Section F of the ACA Code of Ethics. Specifically, counselor supervisors, trainers, and educators will be introduced or reintroduced to the ethical implications relating to supervision, training, and teaching. In addition, special attention will be given to the ethical responsibilities of counselor educators and supervisors to recognize personal and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Associate Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Cerrito is an Associate Professor and School Counseling Graduate Program Coordinator at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania - Bloomsburg. She brings 25 years of experience to the field in her work as a counselor, educator, supervisor, and leader. 
Having served as a professional school counselor in Pennsylvania public schools for 12 years and as a counselor educator for 13 years, Dr. Cerrito has built collegial connections with counselors across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and around the nation. She has taught numerous... Read More →
avatar for Richard Joseph Behun, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

Richard Joseph Behun, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

Associate Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Behun has a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision as well as two master’s degrees in School Counseling and School Administration from Duquesne University. He also holds a third master’s in law from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Dr. Behun is licensed as... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Multicultural Competence for Clinical Counselors (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This workshop introduces clinical counselors to the principles and practices of multicultural competence, emphasizing culturally responsive care across diverse client populations. Participants will explore how cultural identities—including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and socioeconomic status—shape client experiences and the counseling relationship. The workshop...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jeremy Nesmith

Jeremy Nesmith

Jeremy Nesmith, M.Ed., LAPC, Cpl USMC (Ret.), is a dynamic professional counselor, ordained Christian prophet, and fitness educator with a passion for personal transformation, spiritual growth, and holistic well-being. With a Master of Education and licensure as an Associate Professional... Read More →
KR

Kimberly Romero

Kimberly Romero is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) who holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and has served as a secondary school counselor for over 24 years. She primarily works with students ages 16–18 from diverse backgrounds, providing comprehensive support... Read More →
DL

Dr. Latinia Shell

Assistant Professor of Counseling, Grand Canyon University
Bio- Dr. Latinia M. ShellDr. Latinia M. Shell is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in teaching and counseling across school, college, and community/mental health settings. With a strong academic background, Dr. Shell holds a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Neurodivergence, Disability, and Sexuality: Using Intimacy and Kink As Emotional and Physical Regulation Skills
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
In this presentation, participants will learn to understand the unique intimacy needs of clients who are chronically ill, disabled, and/or neurodivergent. This presentation will cover practical clinical skills and conversations to assist clients in learning how to use intimacy, sex, and kink for emotional and physical regulation. 
Speakers
AT

Ann Turoczy, Ph.D, LAPC

Courageous Conversations
Ann Turoczy, Ph.D, LAPC is a Pre-Licensed Counselor. She earned a Ph.D. in General Psychology and an M.Ed. in Counseling Psychology. My career in behavioral health and education has spanned over two decades. Ann utilizes an integrative, trauma-informed approach that includes Narrative... Read More →
avatar for Amber Lynn Connell, MA, LPC

Amber Lynn Connell, MA, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor and Owner, ALC Counseling and Therapy
Amber Lynn Connell, MA, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in PA with 18 years of experience providing individual, family and group counseling to teens, young adults, and families. She specializes in working with clients who are members of the LGBTQ+, ENM, and kink communities... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

Understanding CPTSD in a Gender-Informed Lens: Understanding Divergent Trauma Responses for Clinical Practice (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Explore how gender socialization shapes CPTSD presentations. This session highlights key differences in trauma responses and offers clinical strategies for more accurate case conceptualization and effective application in mental health care.
Speakers
avatar for Alex Dang

Alex Dang

MS, LAPC, NCC
Alex Dang is a graduate of Duquesne University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s program and is currently pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at the same university. He works extensively with clients struggling with suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression... Read More →
avatar for Gabriella Myers-Gilbert

Gabriella Myers-Gilbert

MS, NCC, LPC
Gabriella Myers-Gilbert, MS, NCC, LPC, is a doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision at Duquesne University. She works as an outpatient therapist, providing services to individuals and couples across a range of clinical concerns. Her clinical focus includes personality... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

2:30pm EST

We Don't Shame, We Question: Practical Applications for Treatment of Queer, Kink, and ENM Populations (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This presentation explores strategies to strengthen the therapeutic alliance with clients who identify as queer, kinky, or engage in ethical non-monogamous relationships. Attendees will gain practical skills, including evidence-based treatment interventions and other actionable techniques, to provide competent, affirming, and effective support for these populations.This presentation explores...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Laura

Laura "Veronica" Temons

Clinician, Ellie Mental Health
Veronica earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology in 2013 from Eastern University and is a regular guest speaker in the program’s psychopathology class. She went on to Immaculata University, where she earned her Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling in 2018 and was... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

3:45PM Education Sessions and Roundtables
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST

3:45pm EST

“Why Clinicians Feel Unprepared: Moving Beyond Training Gaps to a Model of Preparedness, Confidence, and Persistence” (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Mental health clinicians frequently report feeling underprepared to work with complex and emotionally demanding issues such as grief, trauma, suicide, and high-risk relational systems. This presentation introduces a conceptual model of clinician preparedness that moves beyond knowledge and skill acquisition to include confidence, emotional readiness, and sustained engagement. Drawing on...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Zack Elisio, PhD, LMFT-S

Zack Elisio, PhD, LMFT-S

Faculty Member; Clinican; Clinical Supervisor, A Nurturing Mind; Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center
Zack Elisio, Ph.D., LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, educator, and AAMFT Approved Supervisor with extensive experience in clinical practice, supervision, and training. He currently serves as a faculty member and clinician/supervisor, providing clinical education... Read More →
avatar for Kristy Gual, MFT, JD, MBA

Kristy Gual, MFT, JD, MBA

Clinican, A Nurturing Mind
Kristy Gaul, MFT, works with individuals, couples, and families in private practice at A Nurturing Mind in West Chester, PA. Prior to becoming a therapist, Kristy served as a corporate attorney for over a decade in both private practice and in-house, and before becoming an attorney... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Counseling Immigrants during Turbulent Transitions: Best Practices for Fostering Support, Safety, and Healing (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Our country has become a hostile place for immigrants.  The purpose of this session is to raise awareness about the strain and trauma experienced by immigrants and the legal rights of immigrants, and to suggest ethically sound and culturally sensitive advocacy counseling with immigrant populations. The presenters will also discuss self-care strategies counselors can use to keep themselves...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for PAAPA ASANTE

PAAPA ASANTE

Lecturer of Psychology, University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana
Paapa Yaw Asante is a Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Health and Allied Sciences in Ghana. His academic background is in social psychology, and his research focuses on men’s mental health, well-being, and help-seeking behaviors in diverse cultural contexts. He is currently... Read More →
avatar for Mark S. Kiselica, Ph.D., HSPP, NCC, LPC

Mark S. Kiselica, Ph.D., HSPP, NCC, LPC

Professor of Psychology, Penn State Harrisburg
Dr. Mark S. Kiselica is a Professor of Psychology at Penn State Harrisburg. Prior to his current position, he served as the Director of CACREP-accredited programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling at Ball State University and The College of New Jersey.  Dr... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Embracing the Journey Within: Epigenetics, Trauma, and Leading Clients Through Change and Transition (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This educational session explores the intersection of epigenetics, trauma, and counseling practice, highlighting how lived experiences—including adversity, stress, and resilience—can influence gene expression and shape client outcomes across the lifespan. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of epigenetic mechanisms and their relevance to trauma-informed care, including...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Brittany Hoover PhD, LPC, CCTP

Brittany Hoover PhD, LPC, CCTP

Students, Miss
Brittany N. Hoover, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCTP is a counselor educator, licensed professional counselor, and clinical supervisor with expertise in trauma-informed care, counselor training, and college mental health. She currently serves as a Mental Health Therapist at Penn State University- New Kensington and Program Coordinator... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling: Identity Development and Ethical Practice (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Understanding LGBTQIA+ mental health and identity development requires a foundation in human development from conception to the end of life—including brain mapping and gender affectional patterns—which offer insight into behavior and inform therapeutic interventions. Ethical treatment planning involves recognizing the complexities of the coming out/disclosure process for youth and adults,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Sarah Gerloff

Dr. Sarah Gerloff

Adjunct Professor of Psychology and Licensed Professional Counselor, Alvernia College
Dr. Sarah Gerloff, PhD, LPC, NCCLicensed Professional CounselorDr. Sarah Gerloff is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision and a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.She is a doctoral-level clinician with specialized training in... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Resilient Care: Burnout in Clinical Practice (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Burnout is not a personal failure — it is an occupational hazard, and for counselors it is a matter of when, not if. This session offers a frank, evidence-based look at burnout, compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and moral injury as they uniquely affect mental health clinicians. Drawing on current (≤5-year) research, participants will learn to differentiate these overlapping...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Jodie Hnatkovich, LPC, PMH-C, ASDCS

Jodie Hnatkovich, LPC, PMH-C, ASDCS

Executive Director + Clinical Therapist, Forward Wellness Counseling and Consulting Services, LLC
Jodie Hnatkovich, LPC, PMH-C, ASDCS, is a therapist, educator, and founder of Forward Wellness Counseling and Consulting Services. She specializes in perinatal mental health, trauma, grief, and supporting neurodivergent individuals, with particular focus on pregnancy and infant loss... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session

3:45pm EST

Resourcing Through Connection: Integrating Relational Cultural Theory and EMDR for Socially Just Trauma Treatment (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session explores the integration of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with Relational Cultural Theory to reimagine resourcing as a culturally responsive, socially just clinical practice. Participants will examine how traditional EMDR resourcing strategies can be expanded to account for power, positionality, and systemic oppression. The session will highlight ways to...
See More →
Speakers
AV

Anthony Vajda, PhD, LPC

Core Faculty, Antioch University
Dr. Anthony Vajda is part of the core faculty team of the CES program at AU-Seattle with expertise in multicultural counseling, social justice advocacy, and trauma-focused work. His research focuses on racial and ethnic disparities in mental health care, social determinants of health... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Sonic Voice: Music, Identity, and Meaning-Making in Counselor Education During Times of Change (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session introduces Sonic Voice, a framework that positions music as a tool for reflection, emotional regulation, and identity development in counselor education. Grounded in Paideia philosophy and critical Black studies, this presentation explores how music supports Black counselor-educators as they navigate academic spaces marked by change and transition. Participants will engage in a brief...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Vincent Sears, PhD, LMHC

Dr. Vincent Sears, PhD, LMHC

Assistant Professor of Counselor Education, Henderson State University
Dr. Vincent Sears is a counselor educator, mental health therapist, and scholar whose work explores the intersection of music, identity, and counselor education. His research introduces the concept of Sonic Voice, a framework that examines how music functions as a reflective, regulatory, and meaning-making practice for Black counselor-educators navigating academic and professional spaces.Drawing from humanistic, culturally responsive, and experiential approaches, Dr. Sears integrates musi... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

The Pelvic Floor Keeps the Score: Mental Health Considerations of Pelvic Floor/Sexual Dysfunction (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Clients with a history of sexual trauma are at an increased risk of developing pelvic floor dysfunction and/or functional somatic disorders. This interdisciplinary session will increase clinicians' awareness of the somatic effects of sexual trauma. Clinicians will learn how to screen for pelvic floor dysfunction, mental health tools to support pelvic floor recovery, and when to refer out to pelvic...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Acacia Urian, PT, DPT

Dr. Acacia Urian, PT, DPT

Dr. Acacia Urian, PT, DPT (she/they) is a physical therapist, educator, and yoga teacher based in West Philly. She specializes in treating pelvic floor dysfunction, chronic pain, and bodies with complex medical histories and mental health co-morbidities. She is passionate about making... Read More →
avatar for goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

goose Linneman, MA, LAPC

Mental Health Counselor, Alexandra R. Darion LLC
Goose (they/them) is a queer & trans, neurodivergent mental health therapist and yoga teacher. They are interested in the intersecting considerations of queer & trans and neurodivergent clients. Goose is inspired by their own mental health experiences and the experiences of their... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Education Session

3:45pm EST

Career Development Across the Lifespan: Helping Students Find Joy in the Journey
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
Students don’t just choose a career — they grow into one. This session explores how career development unfolds from early childhood through adolescence, highlighting the developmental stages that shape interests, identity, and future pathways. Join us as we connect these stages to today’s rapidly changing career landscape, showing how educators and counselors can help young people build the...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Julie A. Cerrito, Ph.D., NCC, NCSC, ACS

Associate Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Cerrito is an Associate Professor and School Counseling Graduate Program Coordinator at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania - Bloomsburg. She brings 25 years of experience to the field in her work as a counselor, educator, supervisor, and leader. 
Having served as a professional school counselor in Pennsylvania public schools for 12 years and as a counselor educator for 13 years, Dr. Cerrito has built collegial connections with counselors across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and around the nation. She has taught numerous... Read More →
avatar for Richard Joseph Behun, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

Richard Joseph Behun, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, ACS

Associate Professor and School Counseling Program Coordinator, Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Behun has a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision as well as two master’s degrees in School Counseling and School Administration from Duquesne University. He also holds a third master’s in law from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Dr. Behun is licensed as... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Challenging Masculinity Norms: A Feminist Counseling Approach to Engaging Men in Therapy (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session explores how masculinity norms influence men’s mental health engagement and presents feminist-informed counseling strategies for reducing stigma and supporting male clients in therapy.
Speakers
avatar for William Tyler Johnson Doctoral Candidate MS LPC

William Tyler Johnson Doctoral Candidate MS LPC

Doctoral Candidate, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
William Tyler Johnson is a counselor and doctoral candidate in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). They teach in counseling programs at Marshall University and Robert Morris University (RMU). Their clinical and research interests... Read More →
avatar for Delaney F. Sullivan

Delaney F. Sullivan

Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Doctoral Student in Counselor Education and Supervision (PhD), Good Thoughts Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Delaney Sullivan is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. She comes from a rural town in southwestern Pennsylvania. She is currently enrolled in a Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Culturally Competent Counseling with Asian American Clients (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This 60-minute roundtable session invites participants into an open, thoughtful discussion on providing culturally relevant counseling for Asian American and Asian adoptee clients. Together, we will explore challenging and often unspoken questions around culture, identity, stigma, family dynamics, and the therapeutic relationship. Attendees will be encouraged to reflect on their own assumptions,...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Grace Kim

Grace Kim

Associate Professional Counselor
As a Korean American U.S. Army veteran and therapist, I take a human-centered, integrative approach to counseling that emphasizes the connection between mind and body. My work is shaped by both lived experience and clinical training, guiding the work I do with clients facing anxiety... Read More →
avatar for Andrea Kirsch, LPC

Andrea Kirsch, LPC

Owner/Therapist, Andrea Kirsch, LPC
Hello! My name is Andrea. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Pennsylvania and also licensed to serve clients who reside in New Jersey. I received my bachelor's degree in psychology from Penn State University, and my master's degree in counseling psychology from Delaware... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Evolving Trauma Treatment: Integrating EMDR into Modern Counseling Practice (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This interactive roundtable session brings together three Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)-trained counselors to engage participants in a dynamic discussion about the evolving role of trauma-informed care in counseling. The presenters will share insights from their clinical work across diverse populations, addressing how EMDR can be adapted to meet the needs of clients from...
See More →
Speakers
ET

Elise Tate MS LAPC

Professional Counselor, Mindful Therapy Solutions
Elise Tate, MS, LAPC, is a professional counselor who provides psychotherapy to adolescents and adults. Her clinical work is grounded in psychodynamic theory and integrates attachment-based, relational, and systemic perspectives to support a deeper understanding of intrapersonal and... Read More →
avatar for Meg Loceff MS LPC NCC

Meg Loceff MS LPC NCC

Doctoral Student, Duquesne University
Meg Loceff is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) in Pennsylvania and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Meg graduated from the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then went on to graduate school at Carlow University... Read More →
avatar for Rachael Dittmar MS, NCC, LPC

Rachael Dittmar MS, NCC, LPC

Professional Counselor
Rachael Dittmar, MS, NCC, LPC, is a professional counselor specializing in attachment and relational-based work with both individuals and couples. She is trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), allowing her to effectively... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Limiting and Liberatory Language: Our Word Choice Matters (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
The preliminary information regarding this in-process mixed-methods study will offer attendees foundational information about why limiting and liberatory language is important when discussing the identities and experiences of counseling participants. The goals of the presentation are for attendees to analyze conscious language that liberates, to articulate the value of developing conscious...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Emily Johnson

Emily Johnson

Graduate School Counseling Alumni, Rosemont College
Emily Johnson is a community based mental health counselor in Philadelphia serving families and young children experiencing housing insecurity. She has an MA in Counseling from Rosemont College and a Pennsylvania School Counseling Certification. She has seven years of teaching experience... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

Navigating Current Challenges in Clinical Supervision: Ethics, Technology, and Evolving Practice (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session examines current challenges in clinical supervision, including telehealth, artificial intelligence, workforce pressures, and ethical complexities. Participants will engage in case-based learning and gain practical, research-informed strategies to enhance supervision effectiveness in an evolving counseling landscape.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Stephen Kiuri Gitonga

Dr. Stephen Kiuri Gitonga

Associate Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania at Lock Haven University Campus, Lock Haven, PA
I am a counselor educator with over 15 years of experience as a faculty in CACREP-accredited clinical mental health counseling programs. I hold the Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) credential, and I am licensed to practice as a counselor in ID, UT, and PA. I play the faculty advisor... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

3:45pm EST

We Didn't Learn This in Collage: Promoting Self-Care (1 CE)
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
Session Feedback (for CEs)
This session aims to use collage as a form of psychoeducation to promote intentional, restorative, self-care for both counselors and their clients. Our session will stimulate the neurotransmission of dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins re-enforcing the benefits of creativity on intentional self-care. 
Speakers
AC

Angie Conrad, Ph.D., LPC

Editor of the Pennsylvania Counseling Association, Pennsylvania Counseling Association/Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Angie Conrad is a Licensed Professional Counselor counseling individual and families of all ages. She recently completed her Pd.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she has also been adjunct teaching in the Clinical Mental Health... Read More →
RP

Rachael Pursell, LPC, MA, NCC

Rachael Pursell (she/her) is a counselor at a practice near Pittsburgh, PA and doctoral candidate at IUP in their Counselor Education and Supervision program. She has clinical experience with adults and trauma, being trained in EMDR. Rachael has taught both master’s and bachelor’s... Read More →
Saturday November 7, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm EST
  60 Minute Roundtable
  • global Y

5:00pm EST

Division and Committee Meetings
Saturday November 7, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm EST

6:00pm EST

CARIA Reception
Saturday November 7, 2026 6:00pm - 7:30pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 6:00pm - 7:30pm EST

7:30pm EST

Grad Student Social
Saturday November 7, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm EST

Saturday November 7, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm EST
 
Sunday, November 8
 

7:00am EST

Registration Desk Open
Sunday November 8, 2026 7:00am - 1:00pm EST

Sunday November 8, 2026 7:00am - 1:00pm EST

8:00am EST

Continental Breakfast is Served
Sunday November 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:30am EST

Sunday November 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:30am EST

8:30am EST

Ethics Session (Licensure Requirement)
Sunday November 8, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am EST

Sunday November 8, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am EST

11:30am EST

Suicide Prevention & Awareness Session (Licensure Requirement)
Sunday November 8, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EST

Sunday November 8, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EST
 
58th Annual PCA Conference
From $15.00

Get help with the event

Contact event planner Event login
View support guides Find upcoming events
Create an event you'd love to attend!
Explore why organizers choose Sched • Success stories
Event App • Event scheduling • Event registration • Event ticketing • Sched forms • Call for papers • Badges • Conferences
© 2026. SCHED LLC - All rights reserved - Helping events since 2008
Conference Scheduling Software • Privacy • Terms
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Thursday, November 5
Friday, November 6
Saturday, November 7
Sunday, November 8
  • 60 Minute Education Session
  • 60 Minute Roundtable
  • 90 Minute Education Session
  • Poster Session
  • Popular