Radford University Department of Counselor Education

08/31/2026

Welcome, New Counselor Education Students!

Radford University’s Counselor Education program welcomed its newest cohort during orientation on Wednesday, August 26!

We are excited to welcome these future Clinical Mental Health Counselors and School Counselors to the Highlander family.

We look forward to supporting you throughout your journey as you learn, grow, and prepare to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Welcome to Radford University Counselor Education!

08/24/2026

08/19/2026

Radford University’s College of Education and Human Development has received approval from SCHEV for a new graduate certificate in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling.

08/04/2026

Radford University Counselor Education Launches New Graduate Certificate in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling

The Radford University Department of Counselor Education is pleased to announce that it has received approval from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) to offer a Graduate Certificate in Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling, beginning Fall 2026.

This fully online graduate certificate is designed to prepare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and evidence-based practices needed to support individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use disorders. Whether expanding an existing counseling career or seeking specialized training in addiction counseling, students will gain the expertise necessary to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
The flexible online format allows students to complete coursework from anywhere while learning from experienced counselor educators dedicated to preparing compassionate, competent, and ethical professionals.

Join us in advancing the future of addiction counseling and helping meet the growing need for qualified substance abuse and addictions counselors.

Applications will open soon for Spring 2027.

07/16/2026

In Dr. Nadine Hartig's COED 688: Crisis Intervention and Trauma Counseling, students are exploring how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shape attachment patterns and influence brain development well into adulthood.

One of the most impactful lessons in this course is learning to reframe how we approach those who are struggling. Rather than asking, "What's wrong with you?", students are encouraged to ask, "What happened to you?"

By adopting a trauma-informed perspective that recognizes behavior as an adaptation to adversity, future counselors gain a deeper understanding of the neurobiology of early trauma and begin to see the story behind the behavior. This compassionate approach equips them to provide more empathetic, effective care to those they will serve.

07/07/2026

Congratulations to Radford University Counselor Education students Sylvie Couture-Nowak and Richele Henry on their outstanding achievement!

Sylvie and Richele jointly submitted a proposal to the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) that was selected for presentation at the organization's annual conference, held June 23–26, 2026, in Portland, Oregon.

Their presentation was titled "Trauma-Informed Care Practice for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy". This presentation examines how trauma-informed principles can guide the ethical development of psilocybin-assisted therapy programs for clients with complex trauma. Drawing from emerging research on client experiences, considerations for program structure and safety, responsiveness to participant needs emphasizing relational trust, individualized preparation, and meaningful integration work are explored.

Congratulations to Sylvie and Richele on this significant accomplishment and for representing Radford University Counselor Education at the national level!

06/11/2026

Dr. Nadine Hartig’s COED 685: Foundations of Play Therapy summer class had the honor of hosting guest speakers Shameka Bolden, Sarah Clark, and Carrie Young-Guard. Their engaging presentations provided students with valuable insights into the joys, challenges, and effective strategies of play therapy practice.
Thank you to these dedicated professionals for sharing their experiences and inspiring the next generation of counselors and play therapists!

06/01/2026

Congratulations to RU Counselor Education alum Antonio Bolden and his wife, Shameka Bolden, on being selected as honorees for the 2026 Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce Forty Under 40!

This year's honorees exemplify the talent, leadership, service, creativity, and community-minded spirit that are helping shape the future of Montgomery County and the New River Valley.

We are proud to celebrate Antonio and Shameka's accomplishments and the positive impact they continue to make in our communities. Join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved recognition! 👏✨

05/04/2026

Congratulations to Sylvie Couture-Nowak, recipient of the Outstanding Clinical Mental Health Counseling Student Award!

05/04/2026

🎓 Congratulations to Our 2026 Counselor Education Graduates! 🎉

Celebrating the incredible students graduating with concentrations in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling!

Your dedication, compassion, and commitment to helping others will make a lasting impact in schools, communities, and beyond.

We are proud of all you have accomplished and can’t wait to see the difference you make in the world.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!