Welcome to the Spring 2026 Semester!

Alumni Spotlight

We continue our new feature that shines light on some of our recent alums. Read below to hear what they are up to and advice they have for current students.

Meet Madison Moore (she/her)!

What year did you graduate and from what JMU Counseling Program?

I graduated with my M.Eds.. from JMU's School Counseling program with the Clinical Mental Health track in May 2023.

What was your motivation to become a part of school counseling?

I was motivated to be a part of the School Counseling Program as my elementary school counselor served as a huge role model in my life, and I wanted to be that same person for my own students. As I grew older, I fell in love with psychology as well as mental health, which sparked my interest to also work in the Clinical Mental Health field. Ultimately, I love helping people in moments of need and supporting in any way I can to help them grow and accomplish their goals.

What future do you see for yourself in School Counseling?

In my future, once I complete the Counseling and Supervision Doctoral Program at JMU, I see myself stepping into a counselor educator role as well as a supervisor role to best support counselors in training and supervisees in the school counseling and clinical mental health field. I plan to advocate for the counseling profession while supporting the future generation of counselors finding their true counselor identity.

What are your particular research or practitioner areas of interest?

My research and practitioner interests center on supporting children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing stress, anxiety, and trauma. I am especially interested in narrative and humanistic approaches that help clients externalize problems, reshape self-stories, and develop resilience as well as self-compassion.

What advice do you have for current students?

My advice for the current school counseling master's students is to take those few extra classes to fulfill the Clinical Mental Health requirements. I have opened so many professional pathways, having both tracks in my master's level coursework. Throughout your program, stay curious and give yourself space to grow professionally as well as personally. Be vulnerable and know that your learning never truly stops. Take advantage of all of the amazing opportunities and resources the program will provide you with. It is important to seek supervision, mentorship, and a counseling community as counseling is relational work, and you never have to do it alone. Building your network
matters. Finally, prioritize your own well-being and self-compassion. Oh, and do NOT forget to advocate for yourself once you are in the school systems.

What advice to you have for a prospective applicant?

My advice for a prospective applicant is to approach the application process with thoughtfulness and authenticity. Reflect on why you are drawn to counseling, how your values align with the profession and the program. The JMU School Counseling Program was absolutely life changing for me through the small cohort style, experiential learning, and very knowledgeable as well as personable professors. If you want a program that will support you during your time with the program and years after you graduate, this program is the one for you. Do NOT stress about the group style interview. Everything will be okay, have an open mind and view it as you starting your counseling network. At the end of the day, JMU is the best place on earth!