At A&M-Commerce, you are part of a diverse community of individuals who want to see each other succeed and flourish.
Desiree L. Stephens, Ph.D. Ad Interim Assistant Professor
- Alum
- Faculty
Dr. Desiree Stephens believes in the mantra, “If you don't know, find out.”
She was inspired to study psychology to understand her cousin's Autism diagnosis. Her desire to advocate for him and others instilled a passion for understanding human development and mental health that led her to become a counselor.
Her pursuit of lifelong learning has carried her from being a student to her role as a professor driven to continually strengthen her skills and broaden her knowledge in research, education, supervision, counseling and advocacy.
A Conversation with Dr. Stephens
What would you tell a student who is thinking about attending A&M-Commerce?
Apply. You won't regret the decision to take that first step in higher education. Here at A&M-Commerce, you are part of a diverse community of individuals who want to see each other succeed and flourish. This is a family you will have for years to come. I believe it speaks volumes that I have obtained all my degrees at A&M-Commerce. The mentorships I have received throughout the years have kept me here, in addition to affordability, accessibility, support and simply being amongst a group of exceptional colleagues who have walked along this journey with me.
What draws you to your discipline?
Being able to aid in developing future clinicians working with diverse segments of society.
What has been your favorite course to teach?
Introduction to Play Therapy
Tell us about a project you are currently working on or recently completed.
I’m collaborating with Dr. Figley and Dr. Kiser on a workbook for the text “Helping Traumatized Families” (2nd Edition).
Educational Background
- Ph.D., Counseling, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2020
- M.S., Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2015
- B.A., Psychology, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2013
Awards and Honors
- Honorable Mention, Graduate Student Ethics Competition, American Counseling Association, 2019
Research Interests
- Multicultural counseling
- Counseling competencies
- Child and adolescent therapy