Beginning in Spring 2026, Adler University will expand its CACREP-accredited Doctor of Philosophy in Counsellor Education and Supervision (DCES) to include an online virtually synchronous option and three new emphases:
Integrative Counselling for Change and Liberation: Explore the intersection of social determinants and multifaceted identities and needs of client groups to empower changes and liberation. Signatures courses include: Special Topics for Counselling Diverse Populations, and Counselling Clients with Different abilities and Neurodiversity.
Trauma-Informed Counselling and Advocacy: Develop treatment and advocacy strategies with reference to clients’ traumatic experience and its impact on their well-being and skills in a range of interventions through a lifespan perspective. Signature courses include: Childhood Trauma, Neurobiology of Trauma
and Trauma-focused Psychosocial Intervention.
Advanced Clinical Theories and Practices: Deepens understanding of advanced approaches to Counselling and psychotherapy. Signature courses include: Psychopharmacology and Integrative Treatments and AI and Technology in Counselling.
“The DCES program is dedicated to shaping the next generation of leaders in Counsellor education and supervision,” said Program Director Tsui-Yee (Dorothy) Chow, Ed.D. “By introducing a virtual synchronous online modality and new areas of emphasis, we are broadening access to doctoral education while deepening opportunities for intellectual and professional Specialisation.
This 60-credit doctoral degree, prepares master’s-level counselors for leadership in clinical, academic, and research settings. Students can choose full-time or part-time study with an emphasis that aligns with their professional goals.
To offer flexibility and increased access, the online synchronous program modality holds scheduled virtual synchronous classes, online classes with synchronous meetings, and on-ground in-person meetings during residency weeks.
“These enhancements will allow students to pursue advanced competencies that align with their aspirations as scholars and practitioners. We also aim at maximizing faculty and student interactions through the online synchronous platform and creating a learning and embracing community,” said Dr. Chow.
The DCES curriculum offers students expertise in evidenced-based Practise, research and scholarship, supervision, teaching, leadership and advocacy. Recent dissertation topics include neurodiversity and Counselling training models, burnout of substance abuse counselors, martial issues among middle eastern women, and identity and self-efficacy among African American and Latinx males.
Graduates can attain positions with their training as faculty, clinical supervisors and advanced clinicians, academic researchers, and academic and community leaders to develop programs, influence policy, and transform how the Counselling profession meets community needs.
Applications are now open for both the Spring 2026, Summer 2026, and Fall 2026 cohorts. For full details on admissions criteria, deadlines visit adler.edu.