Counselor Education at Siena Heights University

I’m proud that I earned my master’s degree in Counselor Education at Siena Heights University in Michigan (class of 1983).  I’m equally proud that I joined SHU’s Graduate Faculty this fall as Director of Counselor Education and Assistant Professor of Counselor Education.

When I was accepted into the doctoral program in counseling psychology at West Virginia University in 1987, I wondered, “Will I be competitive with students coming from larger schools with bigger presences in the public spotlight?”  I was.

Siena Heights gave me an edge in two ways.

Siena’s graduate faculty were both teachers and working professionals with solid field experience; they shared a practical sense of the real world of helping.  Second, I was taught to focus on what was right with people rather than what was wrong with them.  What a gift to know that all human beings can access well-being, no matter what they have been through or are currently facing.

People who are struggling need HOPE.  Helpers who KNOW and SEE the indomitable spirit inside every human being stand a much better chance of awakening others to their true, healthy nature.  Watching people reconnect with the love and understanding inside of them is a wonderful protection against burn-out!

The mission of Siena Heights University is to educate “competent, purposeful, ethical” human beings.  The mission of the Adrian Dominican religious women who sponsor the University is to “seek truth, make peace, reverence life.”  I’m grateful for the opportunity to uphold both charters.

Siena’s master’s degree in counselor education is experiential, practical, health-oriented and emphasizes the health of the helper.  If you want to know more about the program, feel free to call me (304.692.4868), email me (lpettit@sienaheights.edu),  or visit the Siena Heights University website to learn about either the community or school counseling tracks.  The program is offered on campuses in Adrian, Lansing and Southfield, MI.