2026 Association for Assessment and Research in Counseling Conference: Full Schedule

We appreciate our sponsors for their contributions to AARC!
If you are interested in sponsorship, please reach out to Leigh Holman, [email protected].

8:00am CDT

Beyond total scores using item-level symptom patterns to improve college mental health assessment

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 10 @ [email protected]

This session applies latent profile analysis (LPA) to delineate distinct anxiety and depression symptom profiles among college students. Attendees will learn when LPA is most appropriate, how to select indicators, evaluate model fit, and interpret profile plots. We will also examine whether financial stress and international student status predict the profile memberships and whether stigma differs across profiles, highlighting implications for screening and targeted outreach.

Speakers

Cheolwoo Park

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 10 [email protected]

Poster, 10

8:00am CDT

Development and Preliminary Validation of a 4MAT-Based Diagnostic System for Adult Career Transition

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 7 @ [email protected]

This poster presents the development and preliminary validation of a 4MAT-based diagnostic system for adult career transitions. The framework integrates pre-diagnostic profiling (transition typology and learning readiness) with stage-based performance indicators and process metrics. Pilot data (N=80–120) provide initial reliability and construct validity evidence. Attendees will gain a structured and replicable assessment approach for formative career counseling practice.

Speakers

JoongHyun Joe

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 7 [email protected]

Poster, 7

8:00am CDT

Evaluating Intentions to Use the 988 Lifeline Among College Students at Elevated Risk of Suicide

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 9 @ [email protected]

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free, 24/7 crisis support for individuals at risk of suicide; however, little is known about college students' help-seeking intentions and behavior related to the service. We therefore sought to examine reported levels of knowledge, use, and intentions to use the Lifeline among college students at elevated risk of suicide. Findings inform counseling practice and suggest outreach and intervention strategies to increase engagement of the Lifeline.

Speakers

Hannah Martinson

Volunteer Research Assistant, University of Texas at Austin

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 9 [email protected]

Poster, 9

8:00am CDT

Explanatory Mixed-Methods Insights on Unethical Supervision, Supervisory Rupture, and Repair

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

An explanatory mixed method explores the relationships among unethical supervision, supervisory rupture, and repair in supervisory relationships. In a quantitative study, supervisees identify the types of unethical supervision and assess them using new and existing relevant scales. Among the quantitative research participants, the supervisees who experienced supervisory rupture and its ensuing repair due to unethical supervision provide a lived experience in the following qualitative study.

Speakers

Dasol Hwang

Speakers

Sarah Roundtree

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

8:00am CDT

Fostering Research Identity Through Mentorship and Modeling: A Novel Mini-Series Approach

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

This poster presents a five-session research series designed to foster meaningful change in research identity among master’s counseling students and to support doctoral students’ development as mentors and educators. Guided by the practitioner-scholar model, the series pairs faculty modeling and mentorship. Preliminary qualitative findings highlight participants’ experiences of research self-efficacy, identity, and conference readiness, as well as doctoral students’ evolving research identities.

Speakers

emma tharp

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

8:00am CDT

How Clients Choose Depression Treatments: Perceptions and Preferences

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

Why do clients with depression sometimes choose treatments that do not work while avoiding others that might help? This session examines what existing research reports about how adults with mild to moderate depression perceive effort, immediacy of symptom relief, and long-term commitment across diverse treatment options. Attendees will takeaway key themes, understand how these perceptions shape preferences, and apply empirical evidence to clinical strategies for collaborative treatment planning.

Speakers

Sydney Hutchins

Sam Houston State University

Speakers

Graesen Smith

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

8:00am CDT

Measuring What Matters: Outcome Evaluation in Child-Centered Play Therapy

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

Outcome evaluation in child-centered play therapy (CCPT) presents unique challenges due to the developmental, relational, and often nonverbal nature of children’s expression. Although CCPT is supported by a growing body of research, clinicians and counseling educators frequently lack clear, structured approaches to measuring progress in ways that are developmentally appropriate. This conceptual presentation introduces a practical framework for evaluating outcomes in CCPT across clinical settings

Speakers

Sinem Akay-Sullivan

Aziz Zorlu

Ph.D. / School Counselor, İskenderpaşa Primary School

Speakers

Jeffrey Sullivan

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

8:00am CDT

The Development and Evaluation of the Parent-Child Relationship Quality Scale

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

This poster presents the development and validation of a contemporary Parent-Child Relationship Scale for parents of children ages 4–17. Using expert review, factor analysis, item response theory, and validity testing, the authors will present a brief, psychometrically sound tool. Attendees will learn how the scale was built, what constructs it measures, the item composition, and how it can support research and counseling practice.

Speakers

Abdulkadir Haktanir

Speakers

Marina Fried

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

8:00am CDT

Understanding Partners’ Mental Health Experiences in Couples Utilizing In-Vitro Fertilization

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

Traditionally, research regarding the experiences of families who use in-vitro fertilization (IVF) focus on the childbearing perspective highlighting the stress and uncertainty that comes with wanting to become a mother and/or parent (Clifton et al., 2020; Ye et al., 2025). There are minimal studies focusing on the mental strain men and partners endure with the fertility process (Ye et al., 2025). Therefore, this study explores the lived experiences of the non-childbearing partner.

Speakers

Jessie Guest

Speakers

Palmer Gudmundson

University of South Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

8:00am CDT

When Self-Report Fails: The Impact of Gaslighting and Reality Distortion on Assessment Validity

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 11 @ [email protected]

This session examines how gaslighting and reality distortion in relationships, such as narcissistic relationships, undermine the validity of client self-report measures in counseling assessment. Participants will explore how altered self-perception, memory, and self-trust contribute to response bias and misinterpretation of data. Attendees will gain strategies to identify indicators of reality distortion and incorporate alternative approaches to improve clinical accuracy and decision-making.

Speakers

Hazel Zhang

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 11 [email protected]

Poster, 11

8:00am CDT

Where Alliance Meets Outcomes: Client Outcomes and Therapeutic Relationship in Counselor Training

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

The therapeutic alliance has a well-documented relationship to client success in counseling. Understanding and assessing this alliance can offer important insight into client experiences and provide valuable training feedback for CITs. This presentation explores relationships between therapeutic alliance and client distress outcomes in a university training clinic, considers implications for counselor training and identifies future research directions for training clinics and CIT development.

Speakers

Sebastiana Halpin

Speakers

Melissa Zeligman

Friday September 18, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

9:05am CDT

A mixed-method approach to understanding the relationship between cross-cultural body ideals and eat

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

This mixed-methods study examines how societal gender roles and objectification influence body image and eating disorder symptoms in young adult immigrants. Using surveys and open-ended questions, it explores cultural values, acculturation, and protective factors such as cultural identity, community support, and resilience. Findings are framed by acculturation theory, objectification theory, and intersectionality theory and aim to inform culturally responsive interventions.

Speakers

Carley Gimenez

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

9:05am CDT

Barriers and Facilitators to Crisis Line Use Among Undergraduate Men of Color

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 9 @ [email protected]

Suicide deaths are rising among men of color, who face unique barriers to accessing life-saving crisis services. In this consensual qualitative research study, we examined factors influencing crisis line use among 20 undergraduate men of color. Themes focused on perceived barriers to, facilitators of, and potential experiences with crisis lines. Implications will address advocacy efforts to destigmatize help-seeking, support crisis services, and improve culturally responsive training.

Speakers

Afroze Shaikh

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 9 [email protected]

Poster, 9

9:05am CDT

Breaking the Silence: How Stigma and Cultural Expectations Affect Black Men’s Mental Health

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

This study explores the barriers Black men face and the disparities in mental health access due to stigma, mistrust, trauma, and limited awareness (Bauer et al., 2022; Cloud, 2024; Cofield, 2025; Craddock et al., 2021). This integrative review examines sociocultural barriers and gaps in assessment practices. Attendees will gain evidence-based strategies to improve culturally responsive assessment, outreach, and engagement with Black men.

Speakers

Jada Broadnax

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

9:05am CDT

Can Artificial Intelligence Reliably Code Counseling Microskills? A Comparison with Human Raters

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 11 @ [email protected]

This proposal examines the accuracy of coding micro counseling skills using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Our research team will compare AI- and human-rater-coded microskills using inter-rater reliability analysis. Two human raters and AI software will independently code a counseling session transcript. The findings will provide empirical evidence on the accuracy, reliability, and utility of AI in counseling, helping counselors and counselor educators make informed decisions about adopting AI.

Speakers

Dasol Hwang

Hyunjy Kim

Chloe Kang

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 11 [email protected]

Poster, 11

9:05am CDT

Creating Conditions for Becoming: How Supervisors Navigate Intersectional Identity in Supervision

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 7 @ [email protected]

This constructivist grounded theory study examined how 11 supervisors navigate supervision with counselors holding multiple minoritized identities. Findings revealed a core category, Creating Conditions for Becoming, four universal processes, and three variations by social location. Attendees will learn supervisor practices that reduce supervisee burden and support professional development.

Speakers

Babatola Arogundade

Makbule Irem Pilgir

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 7 [email protected]

Poster, 7

9:05am CDT

Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy in Mental Health: A Comparative Study of Human Therapists and AI

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

This poster presents a comparative study examining the diagnostic accuracy of licensed mental health therapists and AI chatbots using standardized, fictional clinical case scenarios. Expert consensus diagnoses served as the reference standard. Findings highlight strengths and limitations of human and AI diagnostic reasoning across common disorders. Attendees will gain insight into the ethical and practical implications of integrating AI into mental health assessment.

Speakers

Ibrahim Bukhari

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

9:05am CDT

Exploring Youth Counseling Competency Development in Practicum and Internship-Level Trainees

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 10 @ [email protected]

One aspect of counselor competence is youth counseling competency (YCC) defined as the knowledge, skills, dispositions, and actions necessary to provide effective services to children and adolescents. Because trained counselors must be prepared to serve clients across the lifespan, YCC is a requirement of all professional counselors. Therefore, this study examined changes in trainees’ YCC throughout their practicum and internship courses and the role of direct hours with youth clients.

Speakers

Kaleb Thompson

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 10 [email protected]

Poster, 10

9:05am CDT

Mixed Methods in Counseling Research: What Counts and What Doesn't

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

Mixed methods research (MMR) is increasingly used in counseling, yet confusion persists about what qualifies as a true MMR study. Adding an open-ended question to a survey is not mixed methods—integration is the defining feature. This poster clarifies the distinction between MMR and multi-method designs, walks attendees through three core designs (explanatory sequential, exploratory sequential, and convergent), and uses side-by-side examples to illustrate what integration looks like in practice

Speakers

Clark Ausloos

Speakers

Lena Salpietro

Assistant Professor, Kent State University

Dr. Salpietro is an Assistant Professor at Kent State University. Her scholarly work focuses on gatekeeping and remediation in counselor education, the mental wellness and counseling experiences of LGBTQ+ people, and counselors who have lost a client to suicide.

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

9:05am CDT

The Lived Experience of Shared Military Identity in Therapeutic Relationships: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Veteran Therapists

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

Veterans experience high rates of PTSD, depression, substance use, and suicide, yet often underutilize mental health services. This proposed interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) explores how veteran therapists experience shared military identity with veteran clients during assessment and treatment. Guided by second-order cybernetics, the study conceptualizes assessment as a relational, co-constructed process. Findings may inform counseling assessment by highlighting therapist positionality, cultural understanding, and relational factors that influence engagement.

Speakers

Jessica Holm

Benjamin Faul

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

I am a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy student and a licensed clinician serving veterans and their families. I am a U.S. Marine Corps OIF/OEF veteran. My work is informed by systems and relational approaches to psychotherapy. My scholarly interests integrate clinical practice... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

9:05am CDT

The Role of Search Investigators in Transnational Adoption Search and Reunion: A Scoping Review

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

This study uses the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews to explore what is known about the role of investigators in birth family searches for transnational adoptees. Findings indicate that search investigation is an unregulated practice, investigators utilize traditional and digital search methods, navigate the complex sociopolitical landscape of transnational adoption, and expend significant emotional labor.

Speakers

Susan Branco

Speakers

Szu-Yu Chen

Associate Professor, Palo Alto University

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

9:05am CDT

Using reaction-times to measure depression

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

Directly measuring emotional state using latency difference of millisecond responses to depressive (D) vs. non-depressive (ND) words can overcome self-report limitations. Cross-sectional (n=682) data show two factors (D=15 items σ²≈11%; ND=12 items σ²≈11%), sensitivity .73, specificity .91, predictive and concurrent validity with PHQ-9/CES-D (p<.001). A longitudinal sample (n=97): replicates and extends validity; inversely tracks wellbeing; has good reliability (test-retest=.6; Cronbach's α≈.7).

Speakers

Oliver Boxell

Friday September 18, 2026 9:05am - 9:55am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

10:10am CDT

A Lifetime at War Within: EMDR for Complex PTSD Beyond Military-Focused Treatment

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

Veterans have high rates of ACEs that interact with military trauma, increasing risk for CPTSD, depression, and suicidality. This case report illustrates how VA assessment focused on a single military trauma led to worsening of symptoms after prolonged exposure therapy. A lifespan-informed assessment revealed complex trauma, and EMDR addressing both childhood and military trauma resulted in sustained symptom reduction highlighting the need for routine ACEs screening and CPTSD-informed treatment.

Speakers

Jessica Holm

Benjamin Faul

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

10:10am CDT

Adolescent Perspectives on Therapist Self-Disclosure

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

Therapist self-disclosure (TSD) remains widely debated in psychotherapy, with limited research examining youth perspectives. This session highlights adolescents’ views of TSD and its role in shaping the therapeutic relationship. Using Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) for data collection and Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) for analysis, findings illustrate how TSD influences trust, engagement, and rapport with youth, including implications for counselor educators and supervisors.

Speakers

Leah Eckstrom

Speakers

Taylor Baldwin

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

10:10am CDT

Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale: A Mnemonic Framework for Suicide Risk Assessment Training

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 9 @ [email protected]

This presentation presents the current psychometric properties of the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) across clinical settings and populations. Reliability and predictive validity are foregrounded, while focusing on how psychometric properties vary across settings and populations. Then, this presentation introduces a new mnemonic framework grounded in the C-SSRS to support, not replace, counselor training, recall, and intervention in suicide risk assessment utilizing the C-SSRS.

Speakers

Seth Robinson

Doctoral Student, University of Texas at San Antonio

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 9 [email protected]

Poster, 9

10:10am CDT

Effects of a Manualized Wellness Intervention on Wellness and Goal Attainment among College Students

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 11 @ [email protected]

Wellness counseling interventions can be beneficial for both prevention and intervention to improve quality of life and well-being. However, there is a significant gap in standardized protocols for wellness interventions in the field. In this session, we review the Wellness Counseling Intervention (WCI) manual and present preliminary results of a study evaluating the effects on 70 college students' wellbeing and wellness goal attainment.

Speakers

Hannah McIntyre

Jonathan Ohrt

Professor, University of South Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 11 [email protected]

Poster, 11

10:10am CDT

Exploring the Intersectional Narratives of East Asian American Youth: A Photovoice Study

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 7 @ [email protected]

This photovoice study explores the intersectional experiences of East Asian American adolescents. By visually documenting lived experiences, participants amplify marginalized voices, revealing nuanced narratives about cultural identity, stereotypes, family dynamics, and stressors. The research findings deepen the understanding of youth's diverse identities and offer insights for promoting inclusive practices in educational and community settings.

Speakers

Szu-Yu Chen

Associate Professor, Palo Alto University

Speakers

Rachel Jacoby

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 7 [email protected]

Poster, 7

10:10am CDT

Hidden Doubt: Predicting Impostor Syndrome in First-Gen Students Through Wellness and Resilience

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

First-generation graduate students face attrition rates exceeding the one-in-three loss seen across graduate education. CACREP (2024) urges counselor educators to prioritize retention in a field facing professional shortages. Impostor syndrome is linked to negative mental health outcomes and increased attrition risk in this population. Using standard multiple regression, this presentation examines wellness and resilience as predictors of impostorism and offers strategies to support students.

Speakers

Timothy Eng

Speakers

M. Ann Shillingford

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

10:10am CDT

How to Develop an Observation Tool: A Step-by-Step Guide for Practice and Research

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

This session provides a step-by-step guide for developing observation tools in counseling, education, and community settings. Participants will learn how to move from theory to observable indicators, design domains and rating systems, and establish rigor through expert review, pilot testing, and interrater reliability. An arts-based classroom observation tool is used as a practical example to illustrate each step.

Speakers

Dania Fakhro

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

10:10am CDT

Listening to the Pipeline: A Thematic Analysis of Student Experiences

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

Students engaging in internship report an increase efficacy in assessment skills and implementing crisis intervention (Fields et al., 2023). This study (a) explores emerging themes of students’ experiences one-year post-graduation following their enrollment in a trauma-informed professional pipeline, (b) identifies key challenges and opportunities experienced when working with CAYs who have experienced trauma, and (c) delineates areas for future research and implications for counselor educators.

Speakers

Jennifer Deaton

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Jennifer D. Deaton, PhD, LCMHC (she/her) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling and Educational Development at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Speakers

Morgan Kelly

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

10:10am CDT

Preparing Play Therapy Trainees to Work with Suicidal Children: Impact of a Brief Microteach

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

This session presents pilot findings on a brief microteach intervention designed to increase play therapy trainees’ self-efficacy in working with suicidal children. Results showed significant gains in confidence across key skills. Attendees will learn how to integrate short, developmentally responsive training strategies into coursework to better prepare students for working with suicidality.

Speakers

Eric Dafoe

Speakers

Rachel Wisolmerski

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

10:10am CDT

Research Advocacy: Counselor and Faith-Based Collaborations Advance Generational Wealth Equity

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

Counseling and faith-based collaborations are essential for bridging generational wealth gaps among minority communities, which influences societal health. Approximately 73% of individuals experience financial stress, while individuals from BIPOC communities have an even higher propensity to experience financial stressors. This session reviews counseling standards, Christian BIPOC resilience, culturally responsive collaboration, and a qualitative study on counselor–church partnerships.

Speakers

Neffisatu Celestine Dambo

Faith Elam

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

10:10am CDT

Understanding the Intersection of Disability, Diagnosis, and Mental Health

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 10 @ [email protected]

This presentation explores the intersection of disability and mental health, emphasizing how psychosocial, environmental, and systemic factors influence well-being and diagnosis. Attendees will gain an overview of current research, common barriers faced by individuals with disabilities, and counseling considerations that promote holistic, person-centered care within rehabilitation settings.

Speakers

Megan Thrasher

Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Masters Student, Auburn University

Friday September 18, 2026 10:10am - 11:00am CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 10 [email protected]

Poster, 10

11:15am CDT

A 10-Year Topic Modeling Analysis of Counseling Research in the Journal of Counseling & Development

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

This session applies a semantically grounded topic modeling approach, Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), to Journal of Counseling & Development (JCD) abstracts (2016–2025) to uncover distinct thematic topics and research trends. Attendees will gain insights into shifting professional priorities and learn how computational text analysis maps the field's current state and gaps. This enables the strategic positioning of future investigations toward under-examined areas in counseling research.

Speakers

Hayoung Jung

Speakers

Isak Kim

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Poster, 7

11:15am CDT

A longitudinal qualitative analysis of early counselor trainee professional identity development

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

With an evolving educational and healthcare landscape, it is becoming more critical for counselors to hold a unified, strong professional identity. This poster presentation summarizes the results of a qualitative investigation on how early counselor trainees’ (N = 48) CPI evolved over a semester in an introductory counseling course. In particular, we present a thematic analysis of how the counselor trainees’ responses developed their CPI over five data collection points.

Speakers

Sebastiana Halpin

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

11:15am CDT

Cross-cultural Validation of the 21-item Cultural Humility and Enactment Scale in South Korea

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

This study validated the 21-item Cultural Humility and Enactment Scale in the Korean context, where demographic shifts toward multiculturalism intersect with traditional values emphasizing humility. CFA supported the three-factor structure, and convergent validity was established via its associations with CQS (cultural intelligence), CHS (cultural humility), and WAI (working alliance). Configural invariance across age groups was supported, but metric and scalar invariance were not.

Speakers

Dasom Han

Speakers

Sangeun Lee

Post Doctoral Scholar, The Ohio State University

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

11:15am CDT

Development and Validation of the Counselor Neurofeedback Competency Scale

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 11 @ [email protected]

This poster outlines the provisional development and validation of the Counselor Neurofeedback Competency Scale. Building on prior empirical work, the study suggests a refined Delphi process with experts and stakeholders to reduce competency items, followed by exploratory factor analysis to examine alignment with KSAO domains and confirmatory factor analysis with a large counselor sample to validate the final scale. Attendees will gain a methodological roadmap for scale development.

Speakers

Ross Spears

Assistant Professor of Counseling, University of Texas at Tyler

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 11 [email protected]

Poster, 11

11:15am CDT

Examining the CES-D Scale Using Multidimensional Rasch Rating Scale and Partial Credit Models

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

This session examines the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) through Rasch modeling approaches. Guided by evidence from confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch dimensionality analyses, the study compares unidimensional and multidimensional rating scale and partial credit models. Attendees will learn how Rasch methods can be used to evaluate dimensionality and item functioning, thereby strengthening the interpretation of CES-D scores.

Speakers

Zhi Jie Lee

Doctoral Candidate, The Ohio State University

Speakers

Juan Chavez

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

11:15am CDT

Future Oriented Stress amongst International Emerging Adults in U.S. amidst Visa Policy Changes

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

This session explores future-oriented stress (i.e. a chronic state of anticipatory anxiety) among International Emerging Adults (students and professionals) in the U.S., examining visa instability, identity conflicts, and counselor strategies for culturally responsive support and advocacy, studied through a convergent parallel mixed-methods design of document analysis and interviews.

Speakers

Jiayi fu

Kaiyi Zhang

Doctoral Student, The Pennsylvania State University

Mona Ali Zaib

Nainika Hira

PhD Student, Penn State University

Speakers

Jiayi fu

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

11:15am CDT

Neurocounseling: A Psychoeducational Bridge Linking Brain Functioning and Mental Health

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 10 @ [email protected]

Since first coined in 2014, “neurcounseling” has been a rapidly growing, evidence-based approach that bridges concepts of neuroscience with traditional talk therapy to promote an understanding of the brain’s structure and function as it relates to thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This presentation will provide participants with a processing model showing how counselors can screen and assess a client’s neurobiological needs, which can then be addressed by the incorporation of neurocounseling.

Speakers

Kayla Turner

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 10 [email protected]

Poster, 10

11:15am CDT

Preparing School Counselors for Rural Practice: Development and Evaluation of RSCC Training

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

Rural school counselors often receive limited preparation for the contextual demands of rural practice, and little research has examined how rural-focused training can be effectively evaluated. This session presents the development and preliminary evaluation of a four-module training designed to prepare counselors-in-training to apply the Rural School Counseling Competencies (RSCC) in rural school contexts. Preliminary findings from a mixed-methods evaluation will be shared.

Speakers

Brian Welsley Harrington

Speakers

Emilu Goodman-Scott

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

11:15am CDT

Strengthening Self-Belief in Higher Education: A Systematic Review

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

This systematic review synthesizes current research on effective interventions for improving psychological beliefs among BIPOC and first-generation college students in comparison to no intervention. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the psychological and academic challenges faced by these populations, identify interventions to address these disparities, and explore how these outcomes are exacerbated within predominantly White institutions.

Speakers

Jazmine Hasty

Speakers

Rainie Gordon

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

11:15am CDT

The Impact of Marriage Equality for Thai LGBTQ+ Mental Health: A Longitudinal Study

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 9 @ [email protected]

Marriage equality is generally associated with improved mental health among sexual and gender minorities (SGM), with recent marriage equality legalization in Thailand, this presentation will elaborate on the longitudinal study examining its immediate psychosocial impacts among Thai LGBTQ+ individuals. This study emphasize the importance of structural equality on the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Speakers

Gon Ratanashevorn

Assistant Professor, Lewis and Clark College

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 9 [email protected]

Poster, 9

11:15am CDT

Virtual Reality in Counselor Education: Experiential Learning and Multicultural Competence

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

Counselor educators prepare the next generation of counselors, making their perspectives on virtual reality (VR) essential. This roundtable shares a phenomenological study using interviews with counselor educators in CACREP-accredited programs. Attendees will gain insight into VR’s potential for experiential learning, multicultural competence, innovative teaching, and barriers to implementation.

Speakers

Chukwuebuka Onyia

Speakers

Lauren Robin

Friday September 18, 2026 11:15am - 12:05pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

2:35pm CDT

Awareness and Integration: An IPA of CAST Advocacy Identity Development in Counselors in Training

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 10 @ [email protected]

This poster highlights research findings from an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of advocacy’s role in shaping the professional identity of counselors-in-training. Researchers explored the experiences of students who participated in the CAST Internship Program, which provides trauma-informed training to support clients impacted by trauma. Attendees will learn about the training program, participant narratives, and implications that highlight the multifaceted nature of advocacy.

Speakers

Christa Vento-Jones

Speakers

John Harrichand

Associate Professor, Montclair State University

John J. S. Harrichand, Ph.D., LPC (NJ), LMHC(NY), LPC-S (VA, TX), NCC, CCMHC, ACS, CCTP, is an Associate Professor, Graduate Program Co-Coordinator, and CSI Co-Chapter Faculty Advisor for Chi Sigma Mu Chapter in the Department of Counseling at Montclair State University. His research... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 10 [email protected]

Poster, 10

2:35pm CDT

College Students’ Experience Utilizing Artificial Intelligence to Develop Personal Wellness Plans

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 9 @ [email protected]

In this study, we explore 11 college students’ experiences utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop and implement personalized wellness plans. We used Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) methodology to identify domains related to the students’ experiences developing and implementing AI-generated wellness plans. These findings will inform clinicians how AI can be implemented with clients.

Speakers

Lauren Shearer

Jonathan Ohrt

Professor, University of South Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 9 [email protected]

Poster, 9

2:35pm CDT

Detecting Aberrant Response Patterns on the CES-D Scale: A Graded Response Model Approach

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 7 @ [email protected]

This study examines aberrant response patterns on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) using the graded response model, a two-parameter logistic item response theory model. A Monte Carlo simulation and applied analysis were conducted with data from 1,563 respondents. Person-fit and response pattern indices were compared to detect constant and random aberrant responses and to support response validity in CES-D research.

Speakers

Zhi Jie Lee

Doctoral Candidate, The Ohio State University

Speakers

Juan Chavez

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 7 [email protected]

Poster, 7

2:35pm CDT

Hope as a Dyadic Mediator Between Conflict and Satisfaction in Couples

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

Sustaining improvements in couple counseling is challenging, as repeated conflict can undermine satisfaction. This study examines hope as a dyadic mediator linking perceived conflict to each partner’s satisfaction. Using dyadic couple data and an Actor–Partner Interdependence Mediation Model (APIMeM), we test how conflict affects both partners’ satisfaction through hope. Findings may inform interventions that enhance hope to maintain therapeutic gains over time.

Speakers

Daewon Kim

Speakers

Nadiya Boyce

Assistant Professor, University of Central Florida

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

2:35pm CDT

Latent Class Analysis of Large-Scale Data in Counseling Research: Mental Health Disparities Example

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

This poster presents the National College Health Assessment (NCHA) as an accessible, large-scale dataset for counseling research and shows how latent class analysis (LCA) can be applied to mental health disparity study. Based on the data (analytic N = 93,274), it illustrates the LCA process and visual outputs (e.g., model comparison tables, classification plots). Attendees will gain practical insights into LCA decision-making for uncovering subgroup heterogeneity in counseling-relevant data.

Speakers

Jungeun Lee

Clinical Professor, University of Houston

Jungeun Lee, PhD, LPC-S, is a Clinical Professor in the Mental Health Counseling program at the University of Houston. An scholar-practitioner and counselor educator with a robust research agenda, Dr. Lee has served as Principal Investigator on five research grants and published 16... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

2:35pm CDT

Latent Classes of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Differences in Life Satisfaction and Development

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with negative mental health and developmental outcomes across the lifespan. This poster session presents the findings of a study using latent class analysis with a sample of emerging adult. Findings from the current study identified distinct ACE profiles and examined differences in life satisfaction, quality of life, resilience, and the features of emerging adulthood. Implications for research and practice will be highlighted.

Speakers

Matthew L. Nice

Associate Professor, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Matthew L. Nice, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, is an associate professor with the Department of Counseling and Human Development at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and chapter faculty advisor for IUP’s Chi Sigma Iota Chapter, Iota Upsilon Pi. He is a licensed professional counselor, a... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

2:35pm CDT

Loneliness and belonging among undergraduate students: A dual continuum approach

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

This session explores a paradox of college mental health: students report high levels of isolation despite socially dense campus environments. This presentation applies a dual continuum model to identify four typologies of loneliness and belonging: Fulfilled, Searching, Indifferent, and Distressed groups. Attendees will learn how internal resources, help-seeking stigma, and campus climate distinguish these groups, highlighting that internal distress is not mitigated by social engagement alone.

Speakers

Hayoung Jung

Minjoo Kang

Doctoral Student, Grant Activities Coordinator, University of Iowa

Minjoo Kang, MEd is a doctoral student in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at the University of Iowa and brings extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across school, hospital, and community settings. Her research focuses on strengthening... Read More →

Speakers

David Duys

Associate Professor, University of Iowa

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

2:35pm CDT

Measuring Mentorship: A Psychometric Meta-Analysis of the Mentoring Competency Assessment-21

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

Mentoring is the backbone of counselor education, so evaluating its effectiveness is critical for our profession. We introduce the Mentoring Competency Assessment (MCA-21), a gold standard measure of mentoring outcomes across the allied health professions. We present the findings of a psychometric meta-analysis to the degree that inferences of validity and reliability can be generalized across samples of participants in future research and practice.

Speakers

Stephen Lenz

Speakers

Eunae Han

Assistant Professor, Syracuse University

Dr. Eunae Han is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and an Assistant Professor in the Unit of Counseling and Human Services at Syracuse University. Before pursuing her doctoral studies in the United States, she worked as a professional... Read More →

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

2:35pm CDT

Preparing Counselors in Training (CIT)for Work With Marginalized Clients in SUD Treatment

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

CIT increasingly work with marginalized populations, including individuals experiencing substance use disorders, housing instability, and court-mandated treatment. Effective supervision is essential in preparing trainees to navigate complex systems, ethical dilemmas, and barriers to care. This poster highlights key supervision considerations, emerging challenges, and practical strategies for supporting counselor development when working with justice-involved and underserved populations.

Speakers

Rachel King

Speakers

Leslie Garza Mendoza

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

2:35pm CDT

Translating Advanced Assessment Technologies into Culturally Responsive Forensic Practice

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

The forensic assessment landscape is rapidly evolving, requiring forensic counselors to understand emerging evidence‑based technologies used to evaluate competence, culpability, malingering, and risk. This session reviews the most common technologies employed by forensic evaluators and emphasizes culturally responsive, neuro‑informed case conceptualization and counseling strategies. Implications for advocacy will also be discussed.

Speakers

Abraham Leal, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP, C-PD

Doctoral Student, LPC, University of Texas at San Antonio

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

2:35pm CDT

Validity of Written English Counseling Assessments for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing College Students

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 11 @ [email protected]

Using culturally appropriate assessments with d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) people is essential, and counselors must be aware of potential validity concerns in providing written English assessments instead of ASL. In this session, we present the results of Confirmatory Factor Analyses exploring the validity of written English counseling assessments (i.e., PHQ-9, GAD-7, and Flourishing Scale) with 215 DHH college students. We discuss implications for counselors who work with DHH clients.

Speakers

Hannah McIntyre

Jonathan Ohrt

Professor, University of South Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 2:35pm - 3:25pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 11 [email protected]

Poster, 11

3:40pm CDT

Collecting and Analyzing Data during Grant Projects: Strategies to Amplify Participants' Voices

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 3 @ [email protected]

This session explores practical strategies for collecting and analyzing data from two federal grant-funded projects (i.e., National Science Foundation DRK-12 and Department of Education GEAR UP) with an emphasis on elevating participant voices. Participants will gain skills to productively organize participant data while also conducting grant projects at the same time. Examples of participant data and findings will be provided.

Speakers

Dodie Limberg

Professor, University of South Carolina

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 3 [email protected]

Poster, 3

3:40pm CDT

Evaluating Intentions to Use the 988 Lifeline Among College Students at Elevated Risk of Suicide

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 5 @ [email protected]

Speakers

Hannah Martinson

Volunteer Research Assistant, University of Texas at Austin

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 5 [email protected]

Poster, 5

3:40pm CDT

From classroom to living room: Training school counselors for Play and Systemic Intervention

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 1 @ [email protected]

School counselors are well positioned to address children’s complex individual and family needs, yet many lack access to training in developmentally responsive and systemic interventions. In this session, we present findings from a Foundation funded initiative integrating play therapy and relationship education training for school counselors in a rural school district. We will review program evaluation findings and implications for cross-specialization training are discussed.

Speakers

Jessie Guest

Speakers

Rainie Gordon

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 1 [email protected]

Poster, 1

3:40pm CDT

Getting Regression Right from the Start: Assessing and Addressing Model Assumptions

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 8 @ [email protected]

Linear multiple regression (LMR) is among the most frequently used analyses in counseling research, yet scientific reports often underreport critical details to establish scientific rigor. We will review the importance of statistical power, measurement precision, and model assumptions in relation to LMR. We report the results of a 5-year content analysis of these features across ACA-family journals and provide guidance for testing, assessing, and addressing each to ensure defensible results.

Speakers

Stephen Lenz

Danelle Flores

Abdulkadir Haktanir

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 8 [email protected]

Poster, 8

3:40pm CDT

International Counseling Trainees in U.S. Programs: A Scoping Review of Supervision Research.

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 6 @ [email protected]

International counseling trainees (ICTs) are an increasingly visible presence in U.S. counseling psychology and counselor education programs, yet they encounter unique challenges related to language, acculturation, supervision dynamics, and clinical training requirements. This session presents findings from a scoping review that maps the current literature on ICTs’ supervision and training experiences, highlighting key themes, barriers, and promising supervisory practices.

Speakers

Zilin Chang

Speakers

Eunseon Gong

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 6 [email protected]

Poster, 6

3:40pm CDT

Pocket Therapy? A Meta-Analysis of Mental Health Apps for Anxiety and Stress

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 4 @ [email protected]

This meta-analysis examines whether mental health smartphone apps, delivered as the primary intervention, reduce anxiety and stress symptoms among adults. We are reviewing randomized controlled trials published from July 2006 through June 2026 across multiple databases. This poster shares the search and screening process, eligibility criteria, coding procedures, planned moderator analyses, and Cochrane Risk of Bias evaluations.

Speakers

Ye (Agnes) Luo

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 4 [email protected]

Poster, 4

3:40pm CDT

School-Based Interventions to Reduce School Absenteeism: A Meta-Analysis

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 2 @ [email protected]

This session presents a meta-analysis of 13 recent studies (2020–2025) examining school-based interventions to reduce absenteeism. Findings show a small but significant improvement (Hedges’s g = 0.091), with stronger effects in single-school settings. Attendees will gain insights into effective strategies, key contextual factors, and practical implications for implementing interventions to improve student attendance.

Speakers

Dan Li

Associate Professor, University of Oklahoma Health Campus

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT
Trinity 2 Poster 2 [email protected]

Poster, 2

3:40pm CDT

Who Benefits and Who Drops Out from University Counseling Services? （Poster Presentation）

Friday September 18, 2026 3:40pm - 4:30pm CDT

Trinity 2 Poster 7 @ [email protected]

University counseling centers serve diverse student populations, yet not all students benefit equally and premature dropout remains common. Using large-scale, multi-site data from the Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH), this poster examines who benefits from counseling services and who is at risk for early dropout. Findings highlight how demographic, clinical, and engagement factors shape outcomes, with implications for equity-focused service delivery and stepped-care planning.

Speakers