Dr. Katey Shirley Recognized by SAMHSA for Contributions to Counseling Field
Dr. Katey Shirley, professor of counselor education at Bellevue University, earned recognition as the August 2025 Fellow of the Month by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The program recognizes participants in the Minority Fellowship Program and highlights their contributions to behavioral health.
Key Facts
- Dr. Katey Shirley named SAMHSA Fellow of the Month for August 2025
- Dr. Shirley served as a 2013–2014 MFP doctoral fellow through NBCC Foundation
- Holds a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from Old Dominion University
- Teaches in Bellevue University’s CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program
- Has more than 15 years of experience in youth behavioral health and over 10 years in counselor education
- Served as immediate past-president of the Nebraska Counseling Association
SAMHSA Recognition and Fellowship Program
Dr. Katey Shirley, professor of counselor education at Bellevue University, has been named the August 2025 Fellow of the Month by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
SAMHSA, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, leads efforts to improve the behavioral health of the nation and the lives of individuals living with mental and substance use disorders.
The Fellow of the Month program highlights individuals who have participated in SAMHSA’s Minority Fellowship Program (MFP). Each month, SAMHSA features a current or former fellow and shares their work and contributions in the behavioral health field.
Academic Work and Leadership
Dr. Shirley was a 2013-2014 MFP doctoral fellow through the National Board for Certified Counselors Foundation (NBCCF). They earned a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from Old Dominion University and teach in Bellevue University’s CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Dr. Shirley has more than 15 years of experience in youth behavioral health and over 10 years in counselor education.
They have also served in leadership roles, including as immediate past-president of the Nebraska Counseling Association. Dr. Shirley supports students, collaborates with peers from the MFP, and combines teaching, leadership, and clinical work in the counseling field.
Dr. Shirley credits the MFP for helping shape their professional path by providing mentorship, connections, and opportunities to lead and contribute to the field.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 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 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).