Thriving!

Lennis G. Echterling, an award-winning counselor educator, is a professor at James Madison University. Since earning his PhD at Purdue University, he has taught graduate students, provided counseling and therapy, and authored numerous books, chapters, and articles with colleagues. He has provided outreach disaster intervention services throughout the United States and around the world.

Jack Presbury is an emeritus professor of counseling who has taught for 34 years at James Madison University. He earned his PhD at the University of Pittsburgh and is a licensed professional counselor. Presbury has been awarded national and university honors for his extensive scholarship and inspiring teaching throughout his academic career. 

Eric Cowan, who earned his doctorate at the California School of Professional Psychology, is a professor of counselor education at James Madison University. He is also the author of Ariadne’s Thread: Case Studies in the Therapeutic Relationship, along with numerous articles on counseling and therapy. 

A. Renee Staton, who earned her doctorate at the University of Virginia, is professor of counselor education and co-coordinator of school counseling at James Madison University. She is a licensed professional counselor and approved clinical supervisor. Staton has published books, chapters, and articles on counseling, multiculturalism, social justice, and women’s concerns. 

Debbie C. Sturm is an assistant professor of counseling at James Madison University. She earned her PhD at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and is a licensed professional counselor. Her clinical work has focused on victims of crime and survivors of trauma. Sturm’s research interests include connection to the natural world, sustainability and mental health, campus sexual assault, and social class.