Karyna Shea Strickland, Ph.D., LPC, CSC (she/her/hers) has joined Adler University as an assistant professor and the program director of the on-ground Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program in Chicago.
In her role at Adler University, Dr. Strickland aims to build upon CMHC’s strong foundation through innovative curriculum development that reflects current research and best practices. She envisions a program that emphasizes advocacy and health equity, and equips students with the essential skills for their careers.
Dedicated to fostering experiential learning, Dr. Strickland seeks to collaborate with community partners to provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Her focus on building strong partnerships with local organizations will prepare students to effectively address the diverse needs of the communities they serve.
“As a clinician and counselor educator, I deeply honor the meaningful connections fostered through the therapeutic alliance between clinicians and the individuals they serve. From my first interview with Adler, it was clear that the University shares this vision,” said Dr. Strickland. “I am thrilled to join this remarkable group of educators and leaders and look forward to contributing to Adler, nurturing practitioners, fostering community engagement, and promoting the optimal development of individuals and communities.”
With extensive expertise in counselor education and mental health, Dr. Strickland brings valuable insights to her new role. Previously, she served as an assistant professor of Professional Counseling at the University of Houston-Victoria. Established as a thought leader, she has published research in peer-reviewed journals on critical topics such as multicultural competence, resilience in counseling, and the integration of creative approaches in therapy. Her contributions to national and international conferences have significantly advanced discussions on culturally responsive care.
She is passionate about mentoring students and fostering their professional growth. She aims to establish a supportive network within the program that encourages collaboration, sharing of experiences, and personal development among future mental health professionals. Her commitment to inclusivity and empowerment will ensure that every student feels valued and prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field.
Dr. Strickland holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision, a Master of Science in Counseling with a focus on school counseling, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music, all from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. In addition to her academic credentials, Dr. Strickland is a Licensed Professional Counselor across multiple states. Her interdisciplinary background enriches her teaching and enhances her approach to mental health education.