Director of Canadian MEd in School Counselling Program
As a Program Director, I provide guidance to develop and implement effective delivery of the MEd in School Counselling program. I have worked at City University since 2013 in diverse roles including associate faculty and clinical internship supervisor. As a registered clinical counsellor, I specialize in issues related to loss, trauma and transaction. My interest in bridging practice and academic work in the classroom influences program design, assessment, curriculum development and technology integration.
Research
My research interests include emotional regulation, somatic psychology and contemplative practices in health and counselling education. I am passionate about assisting students with their scholarship activities. I have a background in both qualitative and quantitative research methods—including narrative, phenomenology and theoretical research methods, and statistical analysis.
Teaching
My approach to counselling education embraces a belief that academic preparation and relational somatic practices makes a difference in creating supportive learning environments that facilitate growth and professional development. At CityU, I teach a number of courses in both the MEd in School Counselling Program and in the MC Program.
Publications
- Stella, M. (2018). Developing Emotional Competence through Embodiment to Facilitate Learning: An Educator’s Journey. International Body Psychotherapy Journal, 51-65.
- Stella, M. (2015). Befriending Death: A Mindfulness-Based Approach to Cultivating Self-Awareness in Counselling Students. Death Studies, 1-7.
- Stella M. (2014, December). Cultivating Presence in the Therapeutic Relationship. Insights into Clinical Counselling, 3, 19-21.
- Stella M. (2011). Working with Emotions: A Shambhala Buddhist Approach. Saarbrucken: VDM Verlag Dr. Muller.
Courses
Master of Counselling program:
- Introduction to Counselling Psychology Practice
- Systemic Theory: Diversity and Cultural Psychology
- Grief and Loss in Psychology
- Clinical Supervision
- Practicum Instructor
- Research Methods and Statistics
- Research thesis/capstone Supervisor
Master of Education in School Counselling program:
- Introduction to Counselling Theory
- Professional Growth and Development
- Child and Adolescent Growth and Development
- Research Methods in Education
- Research thesis/capstone Supervisor