Everette Coffman, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, assistant professor of instruction in the Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program, presented two research-based poster sessions at the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES) Conference held Oct. 8鈥�12 in Philadelphia.
Coffman's first presentation, "Effectiveness of a Substance Use Training on Counseling Students鈥� Knowledge and Attitudes," examined the impact of online substance use training 鈥� including Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment and Motivational Interviewing 鈥� on counseling students鈥� knowledge and attitudes. The study, co-authored by Jacqueline Swank, PhD, of the University of Missouri, and Sondra Smith Adcock, PhD, of the University of 91社区, emphasized the importance of reducing stigma and enhancing competencies in working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders. The research supports integrating such training into counselor education curricula.
Everette Coffman (right) and Olivia King with their poster presentation.
Coffman also co-presented "Attachment Styles, Daily Spiritual Experiences, and Spiritual Competencies: An Examination of the Relationship in Counseling Students" with MFT student Olivia King. The study investigated how counseling students鈥� attachment styles and daily spiritual experiences impact their development of spiritual and religious competencies 鈥� an area often underemphasized in counselor education. Findings indicated that secure attachment is associated with higher levels of spiritual competency, while daily spiritual engagement alone may not be sufficient to foster competency without structured training. The research also explored implications for counselor preparation, supervision, and curriculum development. Aaliyah Torres, an MFT graduate, also contributed to the research.
鈥淏oth presentations were well received and generated meaningful discussions with other counselor educators and doctoral students,鈥� Coffman said. 鈥淚t was also a valuable professional development opportunity for my student, who actively engaged in the presentation process and networking sessions.鈥�