Erik Messinger

Erik Messinger serves as an Assistant Professor of Psychology & Counseling at Hood College, where he functions as Core Faculty for the Master's in Counseling program (Clinical and School tracks). He directs three academic programs: the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, the Trauma, Crisis, Grief & Loss Certificate, and the Thanatology Certificate, with his office located in Tatem Arts Center, Room 312.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Counseling & Counselor Education, North Carolina State University
• M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Indiana University of Pennsylvania
• B.S. in Health Sciences, Lock Haven University

Dr. Messinger's research centers on mental health needs of first responders, informed by his active volunteer work as an EMT and firefighter. His clinical expertise spans dual diagnosis treatment and substance use counseling for adults and adolescents in community mental health settings. Program leadership in trauma, crisis, grief, and thanatology demonstrates specialized application of these research interests.

He maintains active professional service through leadership roles including Membership Chair for the Association for Specialists in Group Work and Maryland Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, plus Chair of the Professional Members Committee for Chi Sigma Iota where he also advises the Eta Chi chapter at Hood College.