University of Montana, Department of Counseling

03/11/2026

The Counselor Training Center is welcoming new clients. Our center offers free counseling sessions each semester for University of Montana students and adult members of the Missoula community, following a brief screening to ensure the center is an appropriate fit.
Sessions are available in person or via telehealth. Clients meet with a counselor-in-training who is closely supervised by licensed faculty, and sessions are recorded to support high-quality training and client care.
If you’re interested, please complete the brief survey at the link below, and someone will reach out to get you scheduled.

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05/28/2025

YES, Leah! Great work! 👏👏👏

CE&S Article of the Week! 'Introducing the Discrimination Model for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Supervision'

Meet the Authors:
Leah Finch, LCPC, Counselor Education and Supervision Ph.D. Student, The University of Montana

Daniel Gutierrez, Ph.D., LPC, CSAC, Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University

Stephanie Dorais, PhD, LPC, NCC, Clinical Assistant Professor, William & Mary

Abstract:
The Discrimination Model for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Supervision represents a combined model that integrates six core processes of acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) with the multi-dimensional structure of the Discrimination Model (DM). Based on empirical evidence of ACT and DM, respectively, we present guidelines and case vignettes to demonstrate the implementation of DMACTS in counselor supervision.

Read more here:https://www.multibriefs.com/briefs/ACES/CES14.pdf

05/14/2025

Great PD opportunities coming up!

Disability and S*x Therapy
Date/Time: Sunday May 18, 2025 2pm-3pm MST
Cost: Free to Attend
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_8J4PlX5_SKOy4CvfzGxGLA #/registration
Description: Disability and s*xuality are often misunderstood or overlooked in therapeutic settings, yet they are essential aspects of holistic well-being. This webinar will explore the intersections of disability, s*xuality, and s*x therapy, addressing common misconceptions and best practices for affirming, inclusive care. Join our panel of experts as we discuss how to navigate these conversations with sensitivity, knowledge, and a commitment to disability justice.

Best Practices for Interpreter Mediated Counseling (rescheduled)
Date/Time: Saturday June 14, 2025, 1pm-2pm MST
Cost: Free to Attend
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_d0-D0W-XQyKp2Y-kvZK_2w #/registration
Description: Join us for a discussion of best practices for interpreter-mediated counseling, covering both spoken and ASL language interpretation. This session will feature a panel of experienced counselors and interpretation professionals specializing in medical and mental health interpretation. Learn how to foster effective communication, build trust, and navigate the unique dynamics of working with interpreters in therapy.

Join us for a discussion of best practices for interpreter-mediated counseling, covering both spoken and ASL language interpretation. This session will feature a panel of experienced counselors and interpretation professionals specializing in medical and mental health interpretation. Learn how to fo...

05/12/2025

Today is the last day to register for our upcoming virtual workshop!
Use this link to register your spot today!
https://www.campusce.net/umextended/course/course.aspx?C=740&pc=13&mc&sc&fbclid=IwY2xjawKPL09leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFFUmpRRER2ZWwzamF1VnVLAR7vhqGAc47p1GD2it5LyPFdSEWy-EC1ETm1XHPiCx7ZojhukhRSrJpETAeMiQ_aem_xYykt8IdE7KMNXRuxMTv7g

05/10/2025

Congratulations to all our amazing graduates 🎓 👏 🎉✨️

05/10/2025

Congratulations to our amazing doctoral student Kanbi!!!

05/01/2025

Join us on May 14th for our virtual workshop on Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) behaviors in youth and teens! Please see the link below to register for this great opportunity, registration ends May 12, so reserve your spot today!

https://www.campusce.net/umextended/course/course.aspx?C=740&pc=13&mc=&sc=

04/21/2025

Join us for an engaging and informative evening with Dr. Shannon Lollar as she introduces the fundamentals of play therapy - a powerful therapeutic approach that helps children process emotions, develop coping skills, and overcome challenges through their natural language of play.
What You'll Learn:

Core principles and theoretical foundations of play therapy
Essential play therapy techniques and interventions
How to create a therapeutic environment that promotes healing
Practical applications for various childhood challenges

Perfect for: Mental health professionals, counselors, social workers, educators, psychology students, and anyone interested in supporting children's emotional well-being through play-based approaches.
Registration includes: Workshop materials, certificate of attendance, and light refreshments.
Space is limited. Register today to secure your spot!

04/09/2025

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Our Dean, Dr. Dan Lee, has been named the 2025 Montana School Counseling Association (MSCA) Advocate of the Year!

This prestigious annual award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of school counseling programs, positively impacting counselors and students at the local, state, and national levels. Read more here: https://www.umt.edu/education/coe-news/msca-award.php

04/04/2025

UM is well represented at the Montana School Counselor Association conference!

02/12/2025

Great opportunity!

Excited to be hosting a free, in-person, educator event on Feb. 26th from 6:00 - 7:30 PM in Minneapolis, MN w/ Families MN. Follow the QR code or the link in the comments to register. Reach out to info@genderinclusiveschools.org with questions!

02/09/2025

Graduate student volunteer applications are due Friday, February 14th! Those selected will volunteer on April 3rd & 4th and receive FREE conference registration, in exchange for assistance with stamping passports, documenting attendance, taking meal tickets, and more. Plus, enjoy breakfast and lunch both days!
This is a fantastic chance to gain experience, network with professionals, and participate in a high-quality learning event—all while giving back to the school counseling community!

Apply now and be part of this incredible opportunity!

Visit the MSCA registration page: https://mtschoolcounselor.org/2025_Spring_Conference_Registration for more info and to apply.