As a counselor educator, my overarching teaching philosophy reflects a humanistic and collaborative approach. I strive to exemplify what it is to be a counselor and create such an environment so that students can learn, grow, and develop their own niche in their professional development. It is important to get to know the students in classes I am instructing, to understand their professional goals and reasons for entering counseling. With this information, I can help shape the content to meet the needs of the class and guide them in gaining an understanding through their own framework. I incorporate key aspects of the humanistic counseling philosophy, Vygotsky’s social constructivist learning perspectives, and Prilleltensky’s (1997) Emancipatory Communitarian perspective when instructing students. 

I consider each class a community and believe that the diversity of student experiences enhances and deepens the learning experience. I strive to promote an inclusive and supportive environment for students to take ownership of their own learning by thinking critically and engaging in self-reflection as part of their educational experience. It is my goal to foster confidence in their ability to authentically connect with others as helping professionals and provide an inclusive, safe space for students to explore their own biases, strengths, and areas for growth.  I am a collaborator, someone who is willing to encourage students, empower them, and challenge them to meet their potential.
I implement varied instructional methods to help students feel empowered in their learning. Collaborative student-centered teacher facilitated discussions as well as creative forms of educational media and technological tools are frequently integrated into my teaching methodology. Students are urged to become active participants, take ownership of their own learning process, and to apply their newly formed knowledge to activities and scholarship outside of the classroom. I believe that learning happens by challenging ourselves, questioning what we think we know to understand what we don’t know. Learning is a social and intellectual endeavor, where we spark ideas and creativity in each of us. One must show up for themselves internally to help those externally. We are always learning and growing.