Welcome to the Fall 2025 edition of The Listening Hat. This issue celebrates the meaningful work of our students, faculty, and alumni who continue to model compassion, curiosity, and care in every setting. From community partnerships and conference presentations to student achievements and research highlights, our department continues to make an impact that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Since joining Stetson this past July, I’ve been deeply inspired by the remarkable work happening within our Department of Counselor Education. I continually see faculty who are deeply committed to their students’ growth, and students who are serving their communities with compassion, curiosity, and courage. It’s been a joy to witness, and to join, a scholarly community so rooted in purpose and care.

Our department is in a season of community building, and I am excited to relaunch a quarterly newsletter as a way to keep our Stetson counseling community connected: students, faculty, alumni, and site supervisors alike. The Listening Hat was chosen as a nod to Stetson’s history and our shared commitment as counselors. The hat honors our university’s namesake; the listening reflects the empathy and connection that define our work. My hope is that The Listening Hat serves as a space to celebrate achievements, share ideas, and reflect on what unites us as Hatters and as counselors.

This issue highlights the many ways our community is learning, leading, and making an impact: from the classroom to the counseling office, and from campus to the broader world. Thank you for being part of the story we continue to write together.

With gratitude and enthusiasm,

W. Bradley McKibben
Chair, Department of Counselor Education

For Trinideé, the path to counseling began with a passion for advocacy and a commitment to helping others find hope after trauma. Before joining Stetson's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, Trinideé earned a B.A. in psychology and communication studies from Rollins College, where she balanced her studies with work for the college newspaper and the Department of Justice’s victim services division. “These jobs cemented my passion for advocacy and my desire to work directly supporting individuals with trauma,” she said, “leading me to Stetson’s Counselor Education program.”

During her second semester, Trinideé joined Stetson's Hatters Behavioral Health Coalition, a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant project. What began as a one-semester role evolved into nearly two years of experience supporting grant students, integrated behavioral health initiatives, and the management of a federal grant.

One of her most meaningful experiences in the department came during internship, working with a teen client who had recently been discharged from the hospital following a suicide attempt. "At first, they struggled with suicidal ideation and lacked future orientation," Trinideé recalled. "Nearly a year later, and the client was recently in a session daydreaming about what their life would look like as an adult, laughing about their week, and describing upcoming events they are looking forward to with friends." For Trinideé, watching the client’s transformation over time has been a deeply meaningful part of her training. "Seeing clients' long-term progress, getting a glimpse into a year of their lives, and supporting development towards their goals has been a truly rewarding experience."

Her time in the program has also expanded her sense of calling. Before practicum, Trinideé was certain of two things: "my desire to work with adults with trauma and to never ever work with kids. Now, my specialties are adults with trauma and teens." She noted that being pushed her outside of her comfort zone has allowed her to discover new passions and gain valuable experience.

Trinideé has advice for students beginning the program: "Embrace the people and opportunities surrounding you; whether that means engaging in organizations, taking part in research, reaching out to professors, or simply speaking more with peers." She emphasized the importance of connection, sharing that building relationships within her cohort has led to invaluable support and lasting friendships. She also encourages new students to embrace the nerves that come with beginning practicum, noting that feelings of fear or self-doubt “aren’t signs of weakness; they reflect how deeply you care about the work.” She encourages peers to trust their training and lean into the learning process with confidence.

Outside the classroom, Trinideé finds balance in simple joys: "I enjoy watching way too many movies and TV shows, hanging out with friends, and attempting to try coffee at every coffee shop in the Central Florida area." Trinideé’s professional journey reflects the heart of our department: growth, courage, and a deep commitment to helping others heal.

Dr. Brooke Bugni joined the department as Assistant Professor of Practice and Clinical Coordinator in 2024. A doctoral graduate from the University of North Texas, Dr. Bugni has quickly become a dynamic presence in our department. Specializing in animal-assisted counseling, Dr. Bugni has worked with her three certified therapy dogs for years, and she also practices equine-assisted therapy, describing horses as “magicians when it comes to helping people get in touch with themselves in the present moment.”

What energizes her most is teaching and mentoring students at Stetson. “Seeing them in practicum and internship, applying what they’ve learned with real clients, is such a cool stage of development. The learning curve is steep, but students are ready and enthusiastic!”

Currently, Dr. Bugni is collaborating with fellow Stetson faculty to establish a practicum site designed to provide more intensive training and evaluation opportunities. “I hope to help set up a site that allows us to achieve the highest possible level of training for our students,” she said. Her guiding philosophy in counseling emphasizes the power of presence. “Learning how to truly listen to our clients, not just what they are saying, but the way they are saying it and the emotions behind what they are saying, is a superpower,” she said.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Bugni enjoys fishing, golfing, and exploring ancient history. With her innovative approach to counseling and dedication to student growth, Dr. Bugni continues to inspire the next generation of counselors at Stetson.

Dr. McKibben has been appointed an Associate Editor for Measurement and Evaluation in Counseling and Development, a leading national journal published by the Association for Assessment and Research in Counseling...

Dr. Eng shared his scholarship on counselor wellness, resilience, and the measurable impact of counseling at national and international conferences, showcasing Stetson’s global and professional reach...

Dr. Daisy Zhou (’20), a third-year assistant professor at Texas State University, has quickly made her mark as an educator and researcher in the counseling field. She teaches courses including research methods, assessment in counseling, career counseling, and human development, while also conducting research on anti-racism in counselor education and creativity in counseling. 

Reflecting on her time in our department, she emphasizes the value of community. “In addition to the knowledge and skills I have learned, I feel more grateful for the community. I met many great colleagues here, and some of them became the closest friends of mine. Their friendship and mentorship have been a big part of my professional and personal journey,” she said.

Her experiences at Stetson inspired her to pursue a PhD in counselor education and supervision, which she completed at Idaho State University after graduating from Stetson. “At Stetson, I experienced a great deal of personal and professional development, and the faculty mentorship demonstrated the healing power of education. So, I applied to the PhD program. It turned out to be one of the most exciting and beautiful journeys of my life,” Dr. Zhou shared.

Now, as a counselor educator, she finds great fulfillment in working closely with students. “Listening to their perspectives and witnessing their growth are very rewarding. It’s also a humbling experience, as I’ve been learning about creativity, resilience, and compassion from them,” she said.

Dr. Zhou has clear advice to current students and recent graduates: “Build a community. Build your community. This program is the first place I've ever been where people are truly committed to lifelong learning, wellness practices, and healthy interpersonal relationships. You will graduate one day, and the community will continue to grow and adventure with you.” She also treasures the lighter, joyful moments of her Stetson experience. “One of the most unforgettable [memories] is the holiday parties. It was a lot of fun to spend time with the community and have a meaningful celebration after a long semester,” Dr. Zhou said.

Dr. Zhou’s work highlights what it means to be a Stetson counselor: engaged, empathetic, and committed to making a difference.

We love hearing from our alumni and celebrating your continued impact in the counseling profession. Our newly redesigned alumni webpage provides multiple ways for you to stay connected to Stetson and to our department, specifically!

My favorite part of the winter holiday break is…

...going out of town to visit family and making s’mores by the fire. 

- Dr. Allanah Roberts-Headley

...spending time with friends and family back home in Rhode Island. While I have fallen in love with the warm winters that Central Florida offers, there is something special about anticipating snow during the holiday season with family. 

- Dr. Timothy Eng

...the holiday traditions. My family celebrates Christmas, and we decorate our house in coastal holiday decorations (this year's project is a new flamingo themed tree), host an annual Christmas cookie exchange with friends, and cook a big meal on Christmas Day.

- Dr. Bradley McKibben

For questions or comments email:
counseloreducation@stetson.edu