Counseling and School Psychology

Welcome to the Department of Counseling and School Psychology, where we offer three distinguished graduate programs: a Master of Science in Counseling (MS), a Master of Science and Specialist in School Psychology (MS/SSP), and a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling (PhD). Our department is dedicated to cultivating skilled professionals through rigorous academic training, ethical practice, and a commitment to multicultural competence. Our programs emphasize personal and professional development, ensuring our graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields. Through innovative coursework, hands-on clinical training, and extensive community engagement, we prepare our students to excel as leaders and practitioners in counseling and school psychology.

Dr. Raul Machuca joined the Counseling program in 2011, bringing extensive expertise and a diverse educational background. He holds a BS in Psychology and a BA in Public Administration from Colombian institutions, as well as an M.Ed. and Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the University of New Orleans. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in Florida, Dr. Machuca is also a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, and Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH). His interests include cognitive behavior therapy, resilience theory, evidence-based practices, technology in counseling, multicultural and LGBTQ issues, and supervision. Dr. Machuca has served as the Past-President of the Florida Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (FACES) and is the current Chair of the Chapter Faculty Advisor Committee for Chi Sigma Iota (CSI).

The mission of the Department of Counseling and School Psychology is to promote academic excellence while preparing caring, ethical, and highly skilled professional counselors and psychologists to work in a wide range of culturally diverse environments. Sensitive and responsive to the diverse society in which they live and work, our faculty strive to model lifelong learning and foster critical and creative thinking in professional interactions with each other, students, and the wider community.

The Department of Counseling and School Psychology carries out its mission with particular attention to the core commitments of Barry University:knowledge and truth, inclusive community, social justice, and collaborative service.

We are committed to continuous improvement through collaborative processes. Thus, we:

• Offer a comprehensive range of professional courses and programs to prepare leaders for the 21st century in the fields of Counseling and School Psychology.
• Continuously update programs to reflect changing societal needs.
• Strive to nurture students to become highly accomplished professionals, living with integrity and leading with a sense of service and stewardship.
• Help students to successfully advance in their chosen profession.

Earn your Counseling (MS) in the Bahamas, experiencing the same innovative coursework, clinical training, and community engagement that foster personal and professional growth. Whether studying in the U.S. or the Bahamas, our programs are continually updated to reflect societal needs, ensuring our graduates enter their professions with confidence and integrity