Student Profiles

Students in NYU Steinhardt’s online counseling master’s programs come from a variety of backgrounds but share a dedication to helping others achieve mental wellness and success. Counseling@NYU has helped prepare them for their roles in schools, clinics, private practices, and other settings.

Meet some of the Counseling@NYU students, and read in their own words why they choose this program and how their experiences are preparing them to become effective mental health counselors and school counselors.

For more information about the diversity of Counseling@NYU students, explore our class profile.

Mental Health Counseling

Alexander V. Badillo

New York City

“Earning my master’s in this field carries special significance for me. I finally discovered what it was that I was meant to do. Helping others has always been very important to me, and I recognized that perhaps I needed to leverage that into a vocation.”

Read Alexander’s story.

Lisa Ferazzoli

Boston, Massachusetts

“Prior to starting Counseling@NYU, I was working as a physician assistant in internal medicine. This experience working with patients with both physical and mental health issues is what ultimately inspired a change in my work trajectory.”

Read Lisa’s story.

Kathryn Mullett

New Jersey

“While I was well aware of the solid reputation of NYU, I had no idea just how much passion and purpose NYU would awaken in me as both a student in counseling and as a 50-year-old woman.”

Read Kathryn’s story.

School Counseling

Andy Barnes

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

“The faculty and fellow students have pushed me to be intellectually stimulated and genuinely curious to a degree I did not know I was capable of. I leave the program ready to hone and refine what makes me a high-quality school counselor.”

Read Andy’s story.

Marlene Wright

Coral Springs, Florida

“I’m a career changer but always knew I wanted to work with children from a counseling standpoint. After almost 20 years in marketing/sales, I made the leap and decided to apply to NYU’s online program.”

Read Marlene’s story.