Frances McClain

Frances McClain (Dr. Mac) is an Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Training in the Counseling Psychology Department at The Chicago School. With over four decades in mental health, her work spans clinical practice, supervision, program development, and advocacy for marginalized populations.

Education:

• PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision, The Chicago School (2015)
• MA in Counseling, Governors State University (1990)
• BA in Psychology, MacMurray College (1984)

Research Interests: Social justice, anti-racism, counseling sexology, and culturally responsive approaches to human sexuality intersect with her clinical expertise in LGBTQIA+/BIPOC mental health, trauma, and serious mental illness.

Academic Contributions: Her publications focus on systemic integration of sexuality education in counseling and geographic trends in sex therapy practices, reflecting her commitment to ethical, inclusive mental health frameworks.

Leadership & Service:

• Co-founder and President (2022-2023) of the Association of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness (ACSSW)
• Editor of ACSSW newsletter and member of the Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness editorial board
• Advisory Board Member for Teach While Queer
• Coordinated webinars on sexuality and sexual wellness since 2021

Professional Context: Active in national and international presentations on cultural sensitivity, ethics, and human sexuality, with licenses as a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC).