Sara W. Bailey

Dr. Sara W. Bailey transforms traditional models of counseling education through her innovative approach to teaching and research. As an Assistant Professor of Counseling at the Communication University of Lynchburg, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her students. Dr. Bailey earned her PhD in Counseling and Counselor Education from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she honed her expertise in Addiction Counseling, Career Development, and Legal and Ethical Considerations in Counseling. Before entering academia, Dr. Bailey served as a Research Fellow at Wake Forest Baptist Health. During her tenure there, she concentrated on substance use counseling, which laid the groundwork for her current research pursuits. Her scholarly interests are diverse yet interconnected, focusing on later life issues, the development of empathy in helping professionals, and the complex interplay between co-occurring substance use and suicidal ideation. Dr. Bailey's work is characterized by a commitment to advancing the field of counseling through both her teaching and research. She is particularly passionate about preparing future counselors to address the nuanced challenges faced by individuals dealing with substance use and mental health issues. Her dedication to fostering empathy in helping professionals is evident in her classroom, where she encourages students to engage deeply with the material and with each other. In addition to her academic responsibilities, Dr. Bailey is actively involved in various professional organizations, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about best practices in counseling. Her contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as she strives to bridge the gap between research and real-world application. Through her work, Dr. Bailey continues to influence the next generation of counselors, equipping them with the skills and insights necessary to make a meaningful impact in their communities.