Adam Stephens

Adam Stephens serves as Associate Professor in the Counselor Education Department within the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at State University of New Paltz. Holding a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision and M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Tennessee, he was promoted from Assistant Professor (2017-2024) to his current position in 2024.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision - University of Tennessee
• M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling - University of Tennessee

Dr. Stephens' research examines critical issues in counselor sustainability through three interconnected domains: counselor burnout and wellness (applying the indivisible self model to early-career professionals), group counseling dynamics (including virtual facilitation techniques and practicum training), and multicultural advocacy (exploring chosen family structures and aromantic identities). His work bridges clinical practice with social justice imperatives, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ populations and substance use counseling.

His research trajectory shows increasing focus on digital counseling modalities and identity-affirming practices since 2021, with recent publications addressing virtual group facilitation and underrepresented relationship structures.

Notable honors include:

• College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Teacher of the Year (2023-24)
• Two Association for Specialists in Group Work President's Awards for Extraordinary Service (2021-2022, 2023-2024)

Dr. Stephens actively shapes the profession through leadership roles as President of the New York Association for Counselor Education & Supervision (2023-2024) and Co-Chair of the Association for Specialists in Group Work Special Initiatives Committee. His teaching portfolio spans Ethics & Professional Identity, Counseling Theories, Couple & Family Counseling, and Substance Use Counseling. He maintains active membership in the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, American Counseling Association, and Association for Specialists in Group Work while holding National Certified Counselor status (#275512).

His office (WH 314) hours support student engagement through weekly availability Monday 5-6PM, Wednesday 3:30-4:30PM, and Thursday 1-3PM.