Cindy Topdemir

Cindy Topdemir is a Professor in the Counselor Education Program at the University of South Florida (USF), College of Education. She serves as Program Coordinator of the Counselor Education Program and has extensive experience as a former School Counselor (14 years in Pasco County) and licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). Her work focuses on school counseling, career counseling, and student mental health.

Research Interests

Her research emphasizes:

• School counselor accountability practices
• Advocacy in educational settings
• Consultation roles for school counselors
• Integration of mental health into K-12 curricula
• Community engagement through advisory boards

Publications

Recent works address homeschool student mental health and the impact of school mascots on mental health practices. Her publications align with trends in school counseling, mental health integration, and policy advocacy.

Professional Service

• Chair of Florida School Counselor Association Governing Board (2021-2022)
• Active committee leadership in state/national associations
• Organizer of USF School Counselor Advisory Board meetings
• Presenter at annual Florida School Counselor Association conventions (2018-2023)

Teaching & Leadership

Coordinates School Counseling/Career Counseling master's and certificate programs, with a focus on curriculum alignment to Florida K-12 Guidance Competencies and Educator Accomplished Practices.