Why study Psychology Counseling at MC?
The College’s major in Psychology-Counseling is for students interested in pursuing postgraduate work in clinical or counseling psychology or related professions. The major provides students with coursework related to the practice of psychology, including a firm foundation in the science and theory of human behavior. Students in this major are well prepared for graduate programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy and related fields. Graduates also gain skills and knowledge to immediately enter the workforce in a variety of social service organizations and programs that serve children and families, individuals with substance abuse problems, chronic mental illness, victims of domestic violence, and others.
The Psychology Department will create a healthy, sustainable environment that fosters student engagement & leadership in an interconnected world through meaningful educational experiences that contribute to the public good.
Meet a Current Scot
Zella Belcher
Hometown: Maryville, Tennessee
A double major in Psychology-Counseling and Criminal Justice, Zella enjoys that her majors give her opportunities to work one-on-one with people and help them better their lives. “After my time at Maryville is completed, I would like to further my education and become a drug and alcohol abuse counselor,” she explained.
She has been able to use her counseling knowledge in a real-world setting through an internship and volunteer work at the Day Reporting Center in Knoxville, where felony offenders are provided supervision and service to reduce recidivism. Her faculty advisor and the Career Center were instrumental in helping her secure the opportunities.
Zella is an active member of Psi Chi, the College’s psychology honors society, and serves as a mentor with the Academic Success Center.
Meet a Recent Grad
Abby Garrett ’23
Currently: Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at ETSU
Since high school, Abby knew she wanted a career in counseling. Maryville College proved the perfect environment to foster her learning and help her develop her educational and career goals. “I felt heard and understood by my professors,” she said. Through the challenges and opportunities in her coursework, Abby felt encouragement to remain dedicated to her goals, had engagement with the community, and made strong connections with her peers and faculty.
One such opportunity was presenting her undergraduate Senior Study titled “The Effects of Music and Animal-Assisted Intervention on Stress” at the Southeastern Psychological Association annual conference in the spring of 2023. Her long-term career goals include earning her LPC-MHSP licensure after completing the master’s program.
