Katie Dolieslager, M.A.

What do I do at the Counseling Center?

I am currently a doctoral student in the Counseling and Supervision program at James Madison University. As the Suicide Risk Reduction and General Outreach Graduate Assistant in the Counseling Center, my main priority is educating and informing both students and faculty on mental health topics. Some of these topics include reducing the risk of suicide, dealing with depression, anger management, impacts of social media, and understanding self harm. Part of my role is to also help with general outreach events on campus throughout the school year.

What do I do at JMU outside of the Counseling Center?

Outside of the Counseling Center, I currently work for a community based non-profit and desire to make positive impacts in the communities I live and work in.  While working with my outpatient clients, I use a humanistic approach and incorporate mindfulness, expressive therapy, play therapy techniques, and nature as co-therapist. My goal is to become a professor and counselor educator through teaching, supervision, and giving presentations to the public regarding specific mental health topics.

I love spending time in nature with my husband and dog. You can often find us backpacking on the Appalachian Trail or Shenandoah River. I also love exercising my body and my mind through strength training and being in a book club with my friends. Lastly, being in community with family and friends is another major source of self-care for me.