Sara K. Johnson is an Associate Professor in the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study & Human Development at Tufts University, School of Arts and Sciences. She holds the Evans Family Professorship (2020–2023) and has been affiliated with Tisch College. Her work focuses on how youth engage in equity-promoting behaviors, with a focus on identity development, social justice, and systemic inequities. She directs the Development of Identity and Community Engagement (DICE) Lab. Education: PhD in Human Development and Family Studies (2012, University of Connecticut), MA (2008), BS (2006, Michigan State University). Her research emphasizes marginalized youth’s agency in addressing societal inequalities and explores identity formation, civic engagement, and gender dynamics. She has held roles including Research Assistant Professor (2013–2015) and Adjunct roles at Tufts’ Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development. Key research areas include critical reflection on racism/sexism, youth role models, and longitudinal studies of identity development. Awards include her endowed professorship. She collaborates on initiatives like Inspire Aspire—Global Citizens in the Making. Her lab investigates mechanisms linking identity to societal contribution.
Dr. Shaji Daniel is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at the College of Adult and Graduate Studies - School of Counseling, Colorado Christian University (CCU). He is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) in Texas and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), integrating clinical expertise with spiritual formation in his teaching and practice. His work emphasizes holistic care for individuals, couples, and families, grounded in both psychological and faith-based frameworks. Educational Background: Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, University of the Cumberlands M.Ed. in Professional Counseling, University of Houston–Victoria Master of Theology and Divinity degrees, Serampore University, India Dr. Daniel's research and clinical focus lies at the intersection of multicultural counseling and spiritual integration. He explores the lived experiences of immigrant communities, particularly in the context of interracial marriage, and advocates for culturally competent, spiritually sensitive therapeutic practices. His work addresses depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and cancer-related distress, employing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and interactive counseling models. As a certified SYMBIS facilitator, he also provides premarital and marital counseling. The recent publications reflect a strong trend in qualitative, phenomenological research on intercultural and interracial relationships, spiritual dimensions of mental health, and faith-informed conflict resolution. His scholarly work bridges Christian theology with contemporary counseling practices, contributing to the development of contextually relevant, integrative models of care. Scientific Awards: Doctoral Award for Excellence in Leadership and Advocacy, University of the Cumberlands Ramaiah Award for Excellence in Scholarship, United Theological College, Bangalore While specific grant information is not mentioned, Dr. Daniel's leadership and advocacy recognition suggest involvement in initiatives promoting equity and excellence in counselor education. He mentors future counselors through a pedagogy that combines clinical rigor with spiritual depth, emphasizing journaling, reflection, and contemplative practices to foster inner formation. His teaching philosophy aligns with CCU’s mission to develop compassionate, truth-rooted leaders in the counseling profession. Though no formal lab or research team is mentioned, Dr. Daniel's collaborative publication with his spouse, Dr. Mary Daniel, indicates interdisciplinary engagement, particularly in culturally sensitive counseling. His work with organizations like the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) and Journey of Hope Cancer Care Ministries reflects broader professional affiliations and outreach.
Michael Goh serves as Professor and Campbell Leadership Chair in Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota's College of Education and Human Development, where he coordinates Graduate Programs in Higher Education. Previously (2017-2022), he held the systemwide position of Vice President for Equity and Diversity across the university's five campuses. His educational foundation includes: PhD in Counseling and Student Personnel Psychology from the University of Minnesota MS in Counseling and Counselor Education from Indiana University BA in Psychology and Sociology (double major) from Indiana University Goh's research centers on cultural intelligence (CQ) and intercultural competence development within higher education contexts, examining cross-cultural counseling practices, leadership for inclusive excellence, and culturally intelligent frameworks for mental health services. His interdisciplinary approach bridges psychology, sociology, and educational leadership to address diversity, equity, and inclusion challenges in global academic environments, with particular focus on international student development and culturally responsive administration. His 2020-2025 publications reveal consistent exploration of intercultural competence in higher education internationalization, with strong emphasis on Asian case studies (Japan, Singapore) and practical applications for DEI leadership. Recurring themes include global citizenship education frameworks, equity-driven institutional transformation, and cross-cultural therapeutic expertise development, demonstrating both theoretical depth and practical implementation strategies across diverse educational settings. Notable recognitions include: Fellow of the American Psychological Association (2024) Commissioner for Midwestern Higher Education Compact (2021-2025) Senior Fellow at Minnesota Institute for Trauma Informed Education (2021-present) Pacific Circle Consortium Honors Recognition for cross-border scholarly work (2018) Exemplary Diversity Leadership Award from American Counseling Association (2010) Multiple distinguished teaching and mentorship awards from University of Minnesota His grant leadership includes NSF-funded Louis Stokes North Star STEM Alliance targeting underrepresented students in STEM fields, and NIH Partners in Research Grant developing culturally responsive children's mental health practices. Current projects focus on linguistic access to mental health services and multinational studies of expert counselors across Asia. Goh previously directed the University of Minnesota's Institute for Diversity, Equity, and Advocacy (IDEA), fostering interdisciplinary equity research, and maintains connections with the Workforce Development and Research Lab through his focus on culturally intelligent leadership development.
Michelle Sunkel is an Associate Professor of Social Work and Director of the Master of Social Work Program at Colorado Mesa University. She holds a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) from Capella University and is a licensed clinical social worker and licensed addiction counselor in Colorado, as well as a licensed independent clinical social worker in Minnesota. Her academic and clinical work is centered in the Department of Social Work, where she leads graduate education and curriculum development. DSW, Doctor of Social Work – Capella University MSW, Master of Social Work – San Diego State University MBE, Master of Bioethics – Consortium of European Universities (KU Leuven, Radboud University, University of Padua) BS, Psychology – Lincoln University Dr. Sunkel’s research and practice focus on forensic social work, human trafficking, ethical decision-making, anti-oppressive pedagogy, and international social work. She has extensive clinical experience working with the severely and persistently mentally ill in emergency departments, psychiatric hospitals, correctional facilities, and outpatient settings. Her international work includes service in Uganda, where she provided crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and school-based support for vulnerable populations. Her recent publications reflect a strong commitment to social justice, ethics, and inclusive education. Themes across her work include trauma-informed care for marginalized populations, integration of anti-oppressive frameworks in social work training, ethical considerations in digital learning, and the intersection of law, ethics, and human rights in social work practice. Her scholarship spans peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, book reviews, and invited conference presentations. Dr. Sunkel actively contributes to the academic community as a journal reviewer for Advances in Social Work and Critical Social Work . She has presented at national and international conferences, including the Council on Social Work Education and the International Social Work Association. Her leadership in curriculum development and ethical practice underscores her role as an educator and advocate. Journal Reviewer, Advances in Social Work (2020–present) Journal Reviewer, Critical Social Work (2019–present) She mentors students through her role as MSW Program Director and integrates experiential learning, including international service-learning trips. Though no specific advisees are named, her leadership in graduate education implies significant advising responsibilities. She has not received any named scientific awards, but her sustained scholarly and clinical contributions reflect professional excellence. Dr. Sunkel is involved in interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly in forensic ethics and emergency mental health. Her work bridges clinical practice, policy advocacy, and academic training, positioning her as a key figure in advancing ethical, equitable social work practice.
Angela Byars-Winston is a tenured Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, with affiliations to the Center for Women’s Health Research, the Collaborative Center for Health Equity, and the Institute for Diversity Science. She leads the AMPLIFI program and served as Faculty Leader in the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research (CIMER). PhD in Counseling Psychology from Arizona State University MA in Counselor Education from San Diego State University Her research focuses on cultural influences in academic and career development, particularly for underrepresented groups in STEMM. She uses Social Cognitive Career Theory to analyze factors affecting research self-efficacy, science identity, and retention in STEM fields. Key areas include culturally aware mentorship, bias literacy, and institutional change strategies. Recent publications highlight interventions to enhance mentor diversity awareness, virtual mentorship frameworks, and systemic approaches to equity in science. Awards include the 2022 ACTS Distinguished Educator Award and recognition as a 2011 White House Champion of Change. She co-led NIH R01 grants and currently directs the Culturally Aware Mentorship initiative under NRMN Phase 2. 2022 ACTS Clinical and Translational Research Distinguished Educator Award 2011 White House Champion of Change Elected Fellow, American Psychological Association Her work bridges academia and institutional policy, with grants examining mentorship's role in diversifying the scientific workforce. She has contributed to national reports, including the National Academies' Science of Effective Mentorship in STEMM , and developed training programs for mentors in biomedical research.
Professor Keiko Honda is a distinguished faculty member at Waseda University's Faculty of Education and Integrated Arts and Sciences, School of Education. With a Doctorate in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, she has established herself as a leading expert in educational psychology, particularly focusing on developmental disorders, anger management, crisis intervention, and school counseling. Her educational background includes: Graduate School, Division of Psychology, Counseling Psychology at Teachers College, Columbia University (1994) Faculty of Liberal Arts, Social Study at International Christian University Professor Honda's research focuses on understanding and addressing the challenges faced by children with developmental disorders, particularly in emotional regulation and social interaction. Her work has led to the development of specialized intervention programs including anger management techniques for children with borderline intelligence and social skills training for children with special needs. She has pioneered approaches that combine clinical psychology with educational practices to create effective support systems in school environments. Her research has identified key developmental stages in children's needs and self-control, resulting in categorized intervention strategies. Her work has been particularly influential in developing practical tools for educators and counselors working with children who have difficulties in social interaction and emotional regulation, including VRICS (Violence Risk Check Sheet) and specialized anger management programs implemented in schools and correctional facilities. Professor Honda is actively involved in professional organizations including: Japan Psychological Association Japan School Psychologist Association Japanese Association of Criminal Psychology Japanese Association of Correction Education Japanese Association of Educational Psychology Japanese Association of Learning Disorder She supervises graduate students across multiple departments including the Graduate School of Education and the Graduate School of Letters, Arts and Sciences, teaching diverse courses related to school psychology, educational psychology, and brain-based learning in inclusive classrooms. Her current research projects focus on developing comprehensive systems for inclusive education and prosocial problem-solving strategies for children with developmental disabilities.
Kevin Boyd Hull is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at the School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University. He specializes in play therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), families, and young adults, integrating psychodynamic (Jungian) and Biblical wellness approaches. Dr. Hull operates Hull and Associates, P.A., a multidisciplinary counseling practice, and has authored books and chapters on play therapy, video games as therapeutic tools, and ASD treatment. Doctor of Philosophy, Professional Counseling (2010) Masters of Arts, Professional Counseling (1999) Bachelor of Arts, Psychology (1995) His research focuses on play therapy innovations , including teleplay interventions for neurodiverse teens, video game-based therapy , and play therapy in prison settings . Publications emphasize blending technology with therapeutic frameworks and spiritual integration in mental health. Dr. Hull teaches courses such as Counseling Adolescents and Their Families , Counselor Professional Identity , and Practicum/Internship programs.
Dalia Chowdhury is an Associate Professor in the Department of Rehabilitation and Health Services at the University of North Texas. Her work focuses on intersections of disability, gender, trauma, and healthcare systems. She holds certifications in counseling (Ph.D., CRC, CADC, LPC) and addresses critical issues such as disability-related violence, addiction, suicide prevention, and trauma-informed care. Her research also explores barriers faced by women with disabilities in professional sectors and healthcare access disparities. Research interests include: Mental and physical disability advocacy Gender equity in healthcare and education Trauma-informed clinical practice Psychometric tool development Disability pedagogy Suicide risk management in rehabilitation settings Her work analyzes systemic challenges in areas like opioid crisis intervention, pregnancy barriers for disabled women, and childhood disability-related abuse. Over 15 years, her articles have highlighted ethical challenges in telehealth, rural healthcare workforce development, and intersectional discrimination faced by disabled professionals. She has developed clinical assessment tools like the CAVAWD Scale to improve clinician responses to violence against women with disabilities. Her contributions bridge clinical practice and policy through explorations of vocational rehabilitation counselors' competencies in handling complex cases like non-suicidal self-injury and client suicide. Ongoing efforts focus on advancing diversity in rehabilitation education and addressing gaps in trauma training for healthcare providers.
Elizabeth Rhoades is an Associate Professor and Coordinator of the School Psychology Graduate Program at Southern Connecticut State University's Department of Mental Health Sciences. Her work focuses on LGBTQ+ youth safety in religious institutions, adolescent substance abuse prevention, multicultural education, and school violence intervention. She has led grants addressing violence prevention and curriculum modernization. Her research spans over three decades, with notable contributions in school psychology, including publications on LGBTQ+ inclusion strategies, substance abuse prevention frameworks, and culturally responsive teaching methods. She has presented nationally on topics like online education effectiveness and racial equity in classrooms. Grants: $5,000 for violence prevention partnerships (2018), $5,000 for revamping college success courses (2021) Key Projects: Developed hybrid training models for school psychologists, led curriculum reforms emphasizing social justice Dr. Rhoades has authored/co-authored books on addiction, school violence, and multicultural education. Her work bridges policy and practice, informing both academic and community-based initiatives.
Lauren B. Melamed, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Clinical Training Director in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program (Online Modality) at Adler University. She is affiliated with the Department of Counseling within the College of Education and Social Sciences, where she integrates social justice, democratic learning, and transformative education into her teaching and scholarship. Her research focuses on critical issues in counseling, including sexuality, identity development, interpersonal conflict, and the intersection of Judaism with public trauma narratives. She employs qualitative methodologies to explore how individuals navigate cultural, religious, and social identities within therapeutic contexts. Dr. Melamed's recent publications examine multicultural counseling conflicts, affirming practices for Jews-by-choice, and the integration of sexual competency in clinical training. Her work reflects a strong commitment to social justice, equity, and culturally responsive counseling practices. She is actively engaged in professional service, serving on the editorial board of the Journal of Counseling Sexology & Sexual Wellness , participating in the ACES Qualitative Interest Network, and contributing to the Counselors for Social Justice Task Force. She is also a member of Chi Sigma Iota and holds leadership roles in professional associations. Dr. Melamed earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from The Pennsylvania State University, an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University, and a B.S. in Psychology from Appalachian State University. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to counseling excellence and social responsibility.
Dr. Gary Sibcy is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Liberty University's School of Behavioral Sciences. He is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience educating, training, and supervising counselors. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (1995) from The Union Institute and University School of Clinical and Professional Psychology M.A. in Counseling Psychology (1992) from Liberty University B.S. in Clinical Psychology (1990) from Liberty University Dr. Sibcy's research and clinical interests span childhood disorders, anxiety and trauma disorders, personality disorders, and the integration of religious beliefs in clinical practice. His current focus involves developing empirically supported treatments for children and adults, with particular emphasis on attachment theory, neurobiology, and emotional intelligence. Recent publications highlight his work in attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and faith integration. Articles explore topics such as God attachment, neurobiological aspects of anxiety disorders, and integrated therapeutic approaches for mood dysregulation. His research demonstrates consistent application of developmental and neurological frameworks to clinical psychology. American Psychological Association (APA) member American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) member Dr. Sibcy has extensive clinical experience, including roles at Piedmont Psychiatric Center and Light Counseling, Inc. He has maintained active licensure in clinical psychology, marriage and family therapy, and professional counseling throughout his career.
Dr. Stephanie Dailey is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling at George Mason University's College of Education and Human Development. She holds an EdD from Argosy University, Washington DC. Her research focuses on counselor education, trauma intervention, school safety, disaster resilience, and mental health equity. She teaches courses such as Counseling Theories, Assessment in Counseling, and Ethics in Mental Health Counseling. Her work explores topics like bullying prevention, crisis management in schools, and the psychological impacts of pandemics. Recent studies include developing the Lockdown Impact Scale for Caregivers and investigating mindfulness practices for trauma survivors during the pandemic. She has also contributed to virtual reality applications for military resilience training. Dr. Dailey’s publications span 20 years, with a focus on practical frameworks for counselors (e.g., DSM-5-TR Learning Companion) and addressing systemic inequities in mental health care. Her work emphasizes evidence-based strategies for enhancing resilience in vulnerable populations.
Dr. Timothy A. Brown is Professor Emeritus in Psychological & Brain Sciences at Boston University, where he directs research at the Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders. His expertise spans anxiety/mood disorders classification, temperament-psychopathology relationships, and advanced statistical methodologies. His research focuses on dimensional models of emotional disorders, psychometric evaluation of diagnostic instruments, and structural equation modeling applications. He developed influential frameworks for understanding comorbidity patterns through latent variable modeling. Publications demonstrate consistent themes in psychometric validation, transdiagnostic approaches, and longitudinal modeling of psychopathology. Recent work emphasizes COVID-19 mental health impacts and clinical assessment optimization. Dr. Brown teaches graduate courses in multivariate statistics, including confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. He authored the authoritative textbook Confirmatory Factor Analysis for Applied Research . He serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Abnormal Psychology and collaborates internationally on classification systems for emotional disorders.
Susan Stephen is a Senior Lecturer in Counselling and Director of the Strathclyde Counselling & Psychotherapy Research Clinic at the University of Strathclyde. Her research focuses on congruent functioning in person-centred-experiential therapy, including client and counselor development. She developed the Strathclyde Inventory, a self-report tool for measuring therapeutic outcomes, and collaborates internationally to explore its intercultural relevance. Her expertise includes hermeneutic single case efficacy design methodology and routine outcome measurement in counseling practice. She serves as co-editor of the Person-Centered & Experiential Psychotherapies journal and former Chair of WAPCEPC. Active Projects: MAPPED (2024-2027), Cultural Differences in Congruent Functioning (2023-2026) Research emphasizes therapeutic process/outcome analysis with 13 publications including a 2024 handbook on contemporary person-centered approaches. Advising/Grants: Supervised 1 doctoral thesis and secured funding for mixed-methods depression therapy studies. Active in organizing international symposiums like PCE Europe 2025. Labs/Teams: Leads the Strathclyde Research Clinic and collaborates with global networks in counseling research.
Tonya J. Balch is a Professor in the Department of Applied Clinical and Educational Sciences at the Bayh College of Education, Indiana State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from the same institution and is actively engaged in teaching, research, and administrative leadership, currently serving as Interim Director since August 2024. Her work bridges counselor education, school leadership, and systemic student support. Dr. Balch earned her academic degrees from Indiana State University: Ph.D. in Educational Administration (2008), M.A. in School Counseling (2001), and B.S. in Physics (1989). Her educational background reflects a unique interdisciplinary foundation that informs her holistic approach to student development and educational leadership. Her research and professional interests center on school counseling, educational leadership, Professional Development Schools (PDS), student mental health, dropout prevention, and trauma-informed practices. She emphasizes collaboration between counselors and administrators, advocating for systemic models that support student wellness and academic success. Her work often integrates social justice, advocacy, and intercultural competence into educational frameworks. The recent publications and presentations highlight a consistent focus on team-based approaches in schools, transitions, mental health integration, and counselor preparation. The articles reflect a trajectory from foundational work on counseling skills and leadership to contemporary issues like anxiety, grief, and equity in student support systems. Provost’s Award for Excellence in Student Learning Assessment and Improvement (2023) Holmstedt Distinguished Professorship (2016) Indiana Counseling Association President's Award (2013) Exemplary Counselor Educator (2011) Trailblazer Award (2009) Distinguished Service Award (2006) Dr. Balch has been instrumental in securing major grants, including a $200,000 Lilly Endowment grant to enhance school counselor preparation and a $20,000 planning grant for comprehensive counseling initiatives. She has advised and consulted with numerous school districts and organizations, including the Indiana Youth Institute, Vigo County School Corporation, and Greencastle School Corporation. Her service extends to university committees, community boards, and national professional associations, reflecting a deep commitment to educational improvement and student well-being. She is actively involved in professional development through presentations at national conferences such as NAPDS and ATE, and she contributes to public scholarship via blog posts and technical reports. Her leadership in Counselor Day on Campus and other initiatives underscores her dedication to building strong educational communities.
