Biography
Dr. Joellen Stender is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with diagnostic privilege who received her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2009 and her Ph.D. in Counselor Education in 2014 from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Dr. Stender has worked in community mental health clinics for 15 years, providing outpatient counseling services and integrated care focused on person-centered and strength-based approaches.
She has experience as a program director, supervising clinical staff, and providing consultation services regarding employee retention and staff wellness. Since April 2023, she has worked in group private practice and continues to provide clinical services while teaching full-time as an Assistant Professor. She is EMDR certified, trained in comprehensive DBT and trauma-informed care practices, with additional expertise in working with military veterans and postpartum clients.
Dr. Stender is also passionate about advocacy within the profession and has been involved with the New York Mental Health Counseling Association. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, EMDRIA International Association, and the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision. Her research interests include counselor perceptions of self-care and wellness, as well as burnout prevention.