Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

College/School

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Department/Program

Counseling

Thesis Sponsor/Dissertation Chair/Project Chair

Michael D. Hannon

Committee Member

Muninder K. Ahluwalia

Committee Member

Angela I. Sheely-Moore

Abstract

This study explored the lived experiences of Latin/a/o/x counselor education (CE) leaders, with particular attention to their identities and pathways to leadership. Employing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the research sought to understand how these leaders made meaning of their personal, cultural, and professional journeys while navigating systemic barriers and opportunities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a diverse group of Latin/a/o/x leaders serving in counselor education programs and professional organizations at the state, regional, and national levels. Analysis revealed key themes, including cultural identity as a foundation of resilience, the complexities of navigating racialized academic spaces, the transformative role of mentorship, and a deep-rooted commitment to social justice in leadership. Participants also described confronting white supremacy embedded in the counseling profession and emphasized the importance of decolonizing leadership and counselor education, as well as promoting antiracist practices in their work. The findings highlight the significance of cultural capital, culturally responsive support systems, institutional accountability, and culturally grounded leadership in advancing equity and inclusion within counselor education and leadership.

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