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Richmont Graduate University Featured on Chattanooga’s Local 3 News

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Admissions leaders highlight the growing need for mental health and ministry professionals across Tennessee

Chattanooga, TN — Richmont Graduate University’s commitment to advancing mental health and ministry was recently featured on Chattanooga’s Local 3 News. Vice President of Admissions Michelle West and Admissions Counselor Jake Gettys represented the university in a televised interview focused on the increasing demand for trained professionals in counseling and ministry throughout Tennessee communities.

During the segment, West and Gettys shared how Richmont equips students through its Christ centered and clinically excellent programs to meet the rising need for mental health services and spiritual care. They emphasized the university’s mission to prepare graduates who bring healing, restoration, and transformation into the lives of individuals, churches, and communities.

The conversation also highlighted the unique challenges facing communities across the region and the critical role that well trained counselors and ministry leaders play in addressing those needs. Richmont’s integrative approach to faith and clinical practice continues to set it apart, preparing students to serve with both professional excellence and spiritual depth.

With campuses in Chattanooga and Atlanta, along with an online modality, Richmont is expanding its reach and impact. Students are equipped not only with knowledge, but with real world experience that allows them to step directly into meaningful work that serves their communities.

Watch the full interview: youtube.com/watch?v=ltMlugEFrXc

Richmont Visits New Life Church in Canton, Georgia and Celebrates DMin Candidate Pastor Allan Malloy

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Richmont Visits New Life Church in Canton, Georgia and Celebrates DMin Candidate Pastor Allan Malloy

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Richmont Graduate University recently had the opportunity to visit New Life Church in Canton, Georgia through the invitation of Doctor of Ministry candidate Pastor Allan Malloy. During the service, Pastor Malloy graciously welcomed representatives from Richmont to the stage to share about the university’s programs and mission with the congregation.

Pastor Malloy spoke about his journey in Richmont’s Doctor of Ministry program as he prepares to graduate from the cohort. His experience reflects the impact that theological training and spiritual formation can have on leaders who are serving their churches and communities while also bringing the message of hope and healing through mission work around the world.

Associate Vice President of Admissions Michelle West and Director of Marketing and Communications Dr. Rochelle Mason were delighted to meet members of the New Life congregation and introduce them to Richmont’s graduate programs in counseling and ministry. The visit was especially meaningful as Dr. Mason and Pastor Malloy were classmates in Richmont’s first Doctor of Ministry cohort.

This visit reflects Richmont’s Church Connection Strategy, where the university connects with ministries and congregations that are helping bring healing, restoration, and transformation to individuals, churches, and communities.

The Richmont team is grateful for Pastor Allan Malloy’s warm hospitality and for the opportunity to share with the New Life Church congregation about the programs and mission of Richmont Graduate University.

To learn more about Pastor Allan’s Story: https://youtu.be/tJccslj8bL4?si=nyNm9tsqSbaEHS72

To learn more about New Life Canton: New Life Church

Richmont Alumna Laura Janelle Downey Named One of Atlanta’s Most Influential Women

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Richmont Alumna Laura Janelle Downey Named One of Atlanta’s Most Influential Women

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Richmont Graduate University is proud to celebrate alumna Laura Janelle Downey, a graduate of the School of Ministry, who was recently named one of Atlanta’s Most Influential Women in the February 2026 issue of Modern Luxury’s The Atlantan.

Downey is an award-winning journalist, lifestyle influencer, and Executive Editor of WebMD’s Point-of-Care print products. Throughout her career she has been known for thoughtful storytelling that encourages people to see new possibilities in their lives and pursue their purpose with confidence.

In addition to her leadership in media, Downey is deeply committed to her faith and to serving others through ministry and missions work. Her life and work reflect a passion for God and a desire to use her influence to uplift, encourage, and impact communities both locally and globally.

Her professional journey has included roles ranging from celebrity reporter to college professor, and she previously served as president of the Georgia Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, where she led record breaking fundraising efforts.

Downey often points to Matthew 19:26 as a guiding verse in her life: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Richmont is honored to celebrate Laura Janelle Downey’s continued leadership and influence. Her recognition reflects the impact our graduates are making in media, ministry, and communities around the world.

Photo courtesy of The Atlantan / Modern Luxury. Photography by Caitlin Tabilog.

Latest Episode of The Chalice: Healing from Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma with Dr. Lorrie Slater

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Latest Episode of The Chalice: Healing from Infidelity and Betrayal Trauma with Dr. Lorrie Slater

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Richmont’s podcast, The Chalice, continues its mission of bringing healing, restoration, and transformation through thoughtful conversations with experienced counselors, faculty, and ministry leaders. Each episode highlights the wisdom and expertise of professionals who are helping people navigate life’s most difficult challenges with both clinical insight and Christian faith.

In our latest episode, we welcome Dr. Lorrie Slater, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Director of the Henegar Counseling Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee. With decades of clinical experience, Dr. Slater shares valuable insight into infidelity and betrayal trauma and the deep emotional and spiritual impact it can have on individuals and relationships.

During the conversation, Dr. Slater discusses how betrayal affects a person’s sense of trust, safety, and identity, while also offering hope for healing. She explains what the process of rebuilding trust can look like and how individuals and couples can begin moving toward restoration.

Episodes like this reflect Richmont’s commitment to highlighting the expertise of counselors and professors who are equipping others to bring healing and transformation in the lives of those they serve.

Listen to the full episode here:
https://youtu.be/Qb1L7Jklk7A

More about Henegar Counseling Center: Home – Henegar Counseling Center

Richmont Graduate University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Receives CACREP Reaffirmation Through 2034

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Richmont Graduate University is proud to announce that its Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree program has been reaffirmed for accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) through 2034.

The CACREP Board of Directors met in February to review the final results of Richmont’s site visit. Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the Board voted to reaffirm accreditation for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, extending Richmont’s standing as an accredited institution committed to excellence in counselor education.

The site-visit team offered exceptional commendation of the program, describing the review as “setting the standard” for what a CACREP site visit should be. This affirmation reflects the strength of Richmont’s academic rigor, clinical training, faculty leadership, student engagement, and mission-driven commitment to preparing highly competent counselors.

CACREP accreditation is widely recognized as the gold standard in counselor education. Reaffirmation ensures that Richmont’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program continues to meet and exceed national standards for curriculum, clinical experience, faculty qualifications, student support, and professional preparation.

Richmont extends sincere gratitude to the students, faculty, staff, and alumni who participated in interviews and contributed to the site-visit process. Their professionalism, dedication, and passion for the counseling profession were instrumental in this outcome.

“We are deeply grateful for our entire Richmont community,” said university leadership. “This reaffirmation reflects our shared commitment to excellence in clinical training and our mission to prepare counselors who integrate faith and professional competence in meaningful service to others.”

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Richmont Graduate University equips students with the knowledge, clinical skills, and professional formation necessary to serve individuals, families, and communities with integrity and excellence.

Richmont’s Inaugural Institutional Success Day Inspires Collaboration and Growth

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Richmont Graduate University recently hosted its inaugural Institutional Success Day, an event designed to inspire collaboration, spark innovation, and strengthen the university’s internal organization. Thoughtfully planned and executed by Chief of Staff Devin Pritchett and Director of Institutional Effectiveness Peter Brindley, the event brought together faculty, staff, and stakeholders for a day of connection and shared purpose.
The day opened with an inspiring address from University President Dr. Timothy Quinnan, who celebrated the past year’s achievements and shared practical insights on productivity, work-life balance, and rest. His words set the tone for a day of reflection and forward momentum.
Dee Ann Turner, three-time best-selling author, former Chick-fil-A executive, and founder of Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC, provided an inspirational message on fostering a Culture of Care. Turner emphasized the importance of creating environments where individuals and organizations thrive, and her message motivated attendees to cultivate meaningful connections and drive organizational success.

“After hearing her speak at our Institutional Success Day, I read Dee Ann Turner’s Bet on Talent: How to Create a Remarkable Culture that Wins the Hearts of Customers. It definitely has profound relevance to serving students!”

— Dr. Josh Rice, Dean of the School of Ministry

The event also featured interactive sessions and opportunities for collaboration, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and unity as Richmont prepares for an impactful fall semester.
The success of this inaugural event reflects Richmont’s mission to advance God’s work of healing, restoration, and transformation. Institutional Success Day exemplified the university’s dedication to excellence and its commitment to empowering its community to thrive.

Dr. Stanley Hoover, Assistant Dean of the Richmont Graduate School of Counseling, Named APsA Teaching Scholar by the American Psychoanalytic Association

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Dr. Stanley Hoover, PhD, LPC, ACS, Assistant Dean of the School of Counseling and Associate Professor of Counseling at Richmont Graduate University, has been recognized as an APsA Teaching Scholar by the American Psychoanalytic Association’s Teachers’ Academy. He is one of only six educators nationwide selected for the prestigious yearlong program dedicated to enhancing psychoanalytic education.

Participating in the program reflects Dr. Hoover’s commitment to sharing the rich insights of psychoanalytic thought with future mental health professionals. “I wanted to replicate that kind of deeply formative experience for my students at Richmont,” he shared, describing how his own advanced psychoanalytic training profoundly shaped his personal and professional life.

At Richmont, Dr. Hoover has redesigned and revitalized the university’s psychodynamic counseling course, one of the few such required courses in the nation. His efforts focus on fostering an engaged and transformative learning environment where students deepen their understanding of psychoanalytic ideas and learn to apply them effectively in the counseling room.

Dr. Hoover’s recognition as an APsA Teaching Scholar underscores his dedication to preparing the next generation of mental health professionals to engage with their clients authentically and facilitate meaningful change.

 

Richmont and Cumberland Counseling Centers Join Forces to Enhance Accessible Counseling in the Community Through Local Churches

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Richmont is pleased to announce a new partnership with Cumberland Counseling Centers, set to launch in January 2025. Cumberland will assume responsibility for the operations of the Hope Counseling Centers, originally founded by Richmont, ensuring the continuation of high-quality, accessible counseling services vital to our communities.

Cumberland Counseling Centers will collaborate with local churches to establish fully operational counseling centers within their facilities. This initiative will provide affordable services to parishioners and the broader community while ensuring fair compensation for counselors.

In addition, these centers will serve as pivotal sites for Richmont’s clinical mental health interns, providing them with critical hands-on experience and the opportunity to fulfill their required clinical hours. This partnership enriches the interns’ education and enhances the quality of care available to the community.

Together, Richmont and Cumberland Counseling Centers are dedicated to advancing God’s work of healing, restoration, and transformation in the lives of individuals, churches, and communities.

Executive Director of Cumberland Counseling Centers, Alexandra Thompson, LCSW comments, “Richmont’s mission is exactly aligned with ours: they don’t just want to educate excellent therapists; they want to create therapists to go and be the hands and feet of Jesus. We are committed to honoring the original vision of the Hope Centers while also bringing our unique approach to creating high-quality, accessible mental health services. This collaboration allows us toserve even more people in a financially accessible way while still pointing to the power of God’s healing.”

Richmont president Timothy Quinnan concurred, “Richmont couldn’t be more pleased to partner with Cumberland Counseling, given their shared commitment to extending superior, faith-based mental health counseling services to ever-wider circles in the community. Delivering these vital services through sites at the churches people attend shows the integrative approach both our organizations take to helping others reclaim their wholeness.”

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