Department of Counseling & Social Work
The Department of Counseling & Social Work is designed to encourage students to understand, evaluate, and practice counseling and social work theory and methods from a biblical perspective.
Department Mission
The mission of the Department of Counseling & Social Work is to educate the whole person from a biblical worldview in knowledge of theory and practice-synthesizing learning into direct practice.
Department Objectives
Students will:
1. Synthesize scientific research and literature that applies and relates to future professional work.
2. Integrate academic learning and interpersonal therapeutic skills through engagement in practical field settings.
3. Critically evaluate standard theories and methods from a biblical perspective.
4. Appropriately apply ethical principles to direct service.
5. Assess personal assets and liabilities for professional work to maximize effectiveness.
6. Acquire knowledge and ability to assess clients to establish appropriate treatment goals and methodology.
Department Chair
Ryan M. Kuehner, PhD
Holding a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Dr. Kuehner considers himself fortunate to serve students as Associate Professor, Director of the M.A. Professional Counseling Program, and Chair of the Counseling & Social Work Department. Whether through ongoing research projects, student instruction and advisement, clinical practice, curriculum development, admissions management, or accreditation endeavors, Dr. Kuehner brings a wealth of scholarly and practical knowledge toward the goal of maintaining and growing premier undergraduate and graduate programs. Surrounded by extremely gifted colleagues, Dr. Kuehner is enthused to collectively forge ahead in training students in both the art and the science of professional psychotherapy undergirded by Integrationist Theory. Areas of instruction for Dr. Kuehner encompass psychopharmacology, abnormal psychology, biopsychology, professional ethics, applied counseling techniques, theories of personality, specialized therapies, and advanced applied research practicum. Dr. Kuehner has been married for 17 years; he and his wife have three children.