Dana Laughlin

Dr. Dana Laughlin serves as Department Chair at The Chicago School’s College of Graduate and Professional Studies, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With over 15 years of experience as a licensed counselor (LCPC) and a teaching career spanning since 2016, she emphasizes an authentic, client-centered approach rooted in the belief that “each client should be cared for, listened to, supported, and feel important.”

• Education: Ed.D. from Illinois School of Professional Psychology (2016)

Dana’s research and teaching focus on ethical practice, group counseling dynamics, and community mental health. Having taught courses like Professional Counseling and Ethics and Community Mental Health, her philosophy prioritizes creating active learning environments where students synthesize theoretical knowledge into practical, accountable applications. While her departmental role centers on leadership, her clinical expertise and dedication to student transformation remain central to her work.