This fall, VCU's nationally recognized Department of Rehabilitation Counseling will launch a pilot expansion to Northern Virginia, bringing its master's-level rehabilitation and mental health counseling training to one of the state’s fastest-growing regions.

"We've built a strong reputation for preparing highly qualified rehabilitation and mental health counselors," said Jared Schultz, Ph.D., chair of Rehabilitation Counseling. "This initiative allows us to extend that expertise to a region where demand for behavioral health professionals continues to grow, while making our program more accessible for students who live and work in Northern Virginia."

Students will take advantage of both distance-learning with faculty in Richmond while participating in in-person instruction, clinical experiences and professional networking opportunities in Northern Virginia. Courtney Holmes, Ph.D., associate professor of rehabilitation counseling, will be the on-site faculty member.

The expansion also positions the department to deepen partnerships with community organizations and clinical training sites throughout the region. Looking ahead, Schultz envisions establishing an on-site counseling clinic that would both enhance student training and expand access to mental health services for local residents.

By combining flexible distance education with place-based clinical experiences, the Northern Virginia pilot reflects the department's commitment to preparing the next generation of counselors where they are needed most.

The program will be based at VCU's Alexandria location, where the College of Health Professions has operated a distance learning site for Nurse Anesthesia since 2012.