I am glad you stopped by to explore the School Counseling Program at James Madison University. Students in our program are immersed in learning about themselves, their peers, and how to most effectively work with children and adolescents. Entering into the school counseling program provides opportunities for personal growth, making new connections with friends and colleagues, and learning how to best serve the youth in our schools through the profession of School Counseling.

By immersing themselves in our program, students become outstanding counselors, well-prepared Professional School Counselors, and future leaders for the profession and their school communities. Throughout our program, students learn about national trends in school counseling, practice effective methods for facilitating positive change in students and school communities, and determine how to stay well-informed and personally balanced throughout their careers.

Here in the JMU School Counseling program, you will encounter professors, colleagues, and peers who will work together with you, challenge and support you, and inspire (as well as be inspired by) you. I hope you have a chance to look over our website and welcome you to apply to our program if it seems a good fit for you. Our graduates are vital contributors to the wellness of youth in the role of Professional School Counselor.

Having served as a faculty member at JMU since 2001, am happy to share that in our program here at JMU, as a community we appreciate a positive quality of life, talented and dedicated students, and experiences that help us learn to serve K-12 students in effective, innovative, and integrative ways.

Feel free to contact me with questions after you explore our website. You can reach me via email at kieltyml@jmu.edu.

Michele Kielty, Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor (VA)
Licensed School Counselor (VA)

What our alumni are saying:

• "Harrisonburg is a growing, diverse, and relatively inclusive community so I was happy to be in graduate school in this area. The faculty at JMU were helpful, compassionate, and incredibly dedicated to the cohort. "

Kelsey Smith, Alumni, Class of 2019

• "I chose JMU Because the interviews actually found out who I was instead of having me recite my resumé. "

Will Esswein, Alumni, Class of 2019

• "I also had a really good feeling after the interview here. It really seemed like the faculty cared about their students and everyone was so friendly. "

Jenny Moore, Alumni, Class of 2019

• "I was an out-of-state student, and the financial aid opportunities (GA and other funding) were a huge pull towards JMU. "

Rebecca Seymour, Alumni, Class of 2019

• "I feel more equipped to advocate for my students and for my role as a school counselor because of JMU’s school counseling program."

Sarah Kennedy, Alumni, Class of 2017

• "Even as a new counselor, I felt prepared to work with students and families in crisis and/or with significant trauma backgrounds."

Kristin Turner, Alumni, Class of 2015