Dr. Katey Shirley Named to Leadership Position With Nebraska Counseling Association
Bellevue University’s Dr. Katey Shirley was named President Elect-Elect with the Nebraska Counseling Association.
The Nebraska Counseling Association is a counseling community with approximately 550 members, with six districts to connect counselors across the state.
Dr. Shirley, an Associate Professor with the College of Arts and Sciences who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, joined the NCA in September of 2020 after moving from New Jersey to Nebraska. It was a way for her to re-establish herself as a clinician after moving to a new state.
As President of NCA in 2024-2025, her role will be to oversee all of the committees and six districts within the state and connect NCA to the Midwest Region and the American Counseling Association.
“I'm excited at the opportunity to continue working with the leadership team in a more significant manner. As President Elect-Elect, I hope to learn more about the changing roles and needs of counselors across Nebraska,” Dr. Shirley said. “As I grow in my role, I hope to strengthen the bonds of this group of diverse clinicians, so that we may unite in service, advocacy, education, and support. I want all counselors to feel they have a voice at the table.”
Dr. Shirley earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Old Dominion University and has worked in the counseling field since 2004. Her areas of focus include researching and reducing suicidality, and she enjoys sand tray therapy as a technique for self-care.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).