Michelle Steimer

Dr. Michelle Steimer is a counselor educator and licensed mental health consultant at Waynesburg University, holding academic leadership roles in the Counseling Program. A U.S. Army veteran with 15+ years of service, her expertise spans military culture, trauma, suicide prevention, and addiction counseling. She earned a bachelor’s in applied developmental psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and advanced degrees (M.A. and Ph.D.) in counseling from Waynesburg University.

• Program Leadership: Oversee a program with 450+ graduates, focusing on clinical mental health and addiction counseling. Recent milestones include launching an online graduate program (2020), expanding doctoral offerings, and strengthening community partnerships in Western Pennsylvania.
• Research & Advocacy: Specializes in military suicide prevention and trauma recovery. Presents internationally (e.g., Belfast, Northern Ireland) on topics like rural poverty and mental health. Serves as inaugural president of the Pennsylvania Military and Government Counseling Association.

Education:

• Bachelor’s: Applied Developmental Psychology, University of Pittsburgh
• Master’s: Mental Health Counseling, Waynesburg University
• Doctorate: Counselor Education and Supervision, Waynesburg University

Professional Engagement: Collaborates with faculty on national/international presentations (e.g., North Atlantic Region Association for Counselor Education). Mentors students achieving NACCD fellowships. Integrates Christian values into service-focused education.

Personal Wellness: Advocates for self-care through physical activity, family prioritization, and mindfulness. Emphasizes maintaining personal well-being to enhance professional effectiveness.