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About Babendir

Sheila Babendir, EdD, LPC, is a professional counselor, counseling educator and visionary leader with a rich and diverse background in the fields of mental health, integrated healthcare and academia. With a doctorate degree in counseling psychology and a passion for fostering positive change, she has dedicated their career to the betterment of individuals and communities.

In her current role as Associate Dean, Dr. Babendir oversees all aspects of the counseling program including curriculum development, faculty management, programmatic operations and adherence to accreditation standards. As a counseling educator, she brings an experiential approach to the classroom, inspiring the next generation of counselors to integrate theory with practical skills. Through mentorship, she empowers students to navigate the complexities of the counseling profession with cultural competence, empathy and a commitment to social justice.��

Dr. Babendir has practiced in a variety of mental health venues over the past two decades with a plethora of populations. She has worked with geriatrics, children, families and the seriously mentally ill.�� She has worked in the school setting, community behavioral health setting and the medical clinics. In the arena of integrated healthcare, Dr. Babendir has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between mental and physical health, recognizing the interconnectedness of both. Her work in the private practice medical field with the embedded model of integration led to a patient-centered approach that addressed the holistic needs of individuals.

Dr. Babendir is committed to advancing the counseling profession as evident through active engagement in professional organizations, conferences and initiatives that promote the evolution and relevance of counseling in our communities.

Dr. Babendir received a Doctor of Education in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University in 2008 and a Master of Science in Counseling Education and Counseling Psychology from University of Wisconsin- Madison in 1995.