Melissa Ockerman

Melissa Ockerman is a Professor at DePaul University’s College of Education, specializing in School Counseling within the Department of Counseling and Special Education. She is renowned for her work on school counselor preparation and systemic anti-bullying/school safety strategies, presenting at local, state, and national conferences.

• Education: PhD and MA in Counselor Education (The Ohio State University), BA in Psychology (Ohio Wesleyan University)

Her research focuses on the effectiveness of school counseling interventions, multitiered systems of support, and trauma-informed/healing-centered practices in educational settings. She co-authored the text 101 Solutions for School Counselors and Leaders in Challenging Times, emphasizing evidence-based strategies to address opportunity gaps in schools.

• Scientific Awards: Illinois School Counselor Educator of the Year (2012, 2018)

Ockerman actively contributes to professional organizations, serving on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance and the Advisory Council for the Evidence-Based Practice in School Counseling conference. She teaches courses including Career Counseling for School Counselors, Counseling Skills, and School Counseling Practicum/Internships.