University of Western States Partners with USA Deaf Sports Federation to Provide Sport and Performance Psychology Services for 2025 Deaflympics

Posted on by alaurence

University of Western States (UWS) is proud to announce its partnership with the USA Deaf Sports Federation (USADSF) to provide comprehensive sport and performance psychology services for the U.S. team competing at the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan. The collaboration underscores UWS’ leadership in sport and performance psychology, while creating hands-on learning opportunities for its students to gain experience working with elite athletes.

The USA Performance Psychology Team for the 2025 Deaflympics will be led by UWS’ Becky Clark, Ph.D., a three-time Deaflympian and gold medalist. UWS’ work will focus on equipping athletes with evidence-informed tools to optimize performance and mental health as they prepare for the global stage.

“This partnership is a unique and powerful opportunity to provide our students with immersive, culturally competent training while addressing the unmet mental performance needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes,” said Nathan Long, Ed.D., president of University of Western States. “We are honored to play a part in ensuring the U.S. team has the mental and emotional tools they need to succeed at the 2025 Deaflympics.”

Dr. Clark will lead a multidisciplinary team of certified mental performance consultants, licensed therapists, and five UWS doctoral students specializing in sport and performance psychology. The group will provide virtual and in-person support to athletes throughout 2025 and on-site at the Games in Tokyo. Services will include individual mental performance consultations, group training, and clinical mental health support.

The partnership between UWS and USADSF is a reflection of both organizations’ commitment to advancing performance psychology and mental health in historically underrepresented groups, particularly within the realm of Deaf Sports.

“This collaboration with University of Western States represents a pivotal step forward in supporting our athletes’ mental performance and mental health,” said Jeffrey Mansfield, president of USA Deaf Sports Federation. “By tapping into UWS’ expertise in sport and performance psychology, we aim to empower our athletes with the tools they need to excel. This collaboration ensures our Deaflympians are resilient athletes prepared for any situation and able to optimize their performance at the highest level.”

A core component of the program is equipping UWS students with cultural competence in Deaf culture, American Sign Language (ASL), and strategies to overcome communication barriers. The doctoral students will gain hands-on experience while earning academic credit, and their participation will be considered a unique study abroad opportunity for the 2025 academic year.

UWS faculty members Dr. Sarah Castillo, Ph.D., and Dr. Gily Meir, Ph.D., will join the effort, bringing years of expertise in sport and performance psychology to the team. The partnership also includes Skip Flanagan, UWS sport and performance psychology doctoral student, co-founder of the National Deaf Athlete Center and former professional baseball player, whose expertise and insight will enhance the program’s impact.

“This initiative provides an unprecedented level of performance and mental health support for Deaflympians,” said Dr. Clark. “We are committed to supporting these athletes in optimizing their overall performance and mental well-being and ensuring they are at their best on the world stage.”

University of Western States Holds Inaugural White Coat Ceremony for Naturopathic Medicine Students

Posted on by alaurence

Event marked significant milestone for growing Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program

University of Western States (UWS) held its inaugural White Coat Ceremony for students in the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (NMD) program on Friday, April 11, at 3 p.m. PT on the UWS campus.

The White Coat Ceremony serves as a powerful rite of passage in health care education, marking the students’ transition from the classroom to clinical settings. The donning of white coats symbolizes professional readiness to begin working with patients and take on the responsibilities of a healthcare provider.

The inaugural class of students will now enter the next phase of their clinical training, working with patients under the supervision of licensed naturopathic physicians. This ceremony celebrates both the accomplishments of UWS’s first naturopathic medicine cohort and the program’s role in preparing health care providers in integrative, whole-person care.

“The Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program represents a bold step forward for UWS as a leader in whole-person health,” said Nathan Long, Ed.D., president of University of Western States. “This inaugural ceremony celebrates the students who chose to lead the way and reinforces our shared mission to transform lives through a human-centered approach to health care.”

Launched in fall 2023, the Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine program was designed in response to the growing demand for clinicians trained to treat the root causes of illness through personalized, prevention-focused care. As chronic illness and mental health challenges continue to rise nationwide, there is an urgent need for practitioners who can integrate nutrition, functional medicine, and evidence-informed approaches – all central elements of the UWS curriculum.

“This cohort has demonstrated admirable dedication and a strong work ethic as they embraced the responsibility and the honor of being our first class of naturopathic medicine students,” said Dr. Marcia Prenguber, Dean of the College of Naturopathic Medicine. “That hard work has prepared them for the next phase of their clinical training, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel as practitioners.”

The naturopathic program reinforces UWS’s impact in the Portland community, where students receive hands-on training, which provides low-cost care to the public Connected Whole Health Clinic. By expanding access to affordable health care while offering real-world experience to its students, UWS continues to demonstrate how higher education institutions can drive both community wellness and student success.

The ceremony featured remarks from university leadership and faculty, a keynote address by Portland-based naturopathic physician Georgiana Cullen-Kerney, the ceremonial white coat presentation, and a reception that followed.

University of Western States and University of The Fraser Valley Reaffirms Agreement to Expedite Pathway to Doctor of Chiropractic Degree

Posted on by alaurence

University of Western States (UWS) and University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) have reaffirmed an agreement on a high-quality accelerated pathway for UFV Bachelor of Kinesiology students to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree from UWS. Qualified students can save up to a year of study by integrating their studies, maintaining the rigorous academic and clinical training needed for success while completing both degrees in less time.

UFV students who meet specific academic criteria can apply credits earned in the UWS DC program toward their UFV bachelor’s degree. This approach not only streamlines the path to a chiropractic career but ensures students receive a strong evidence-based education that prepares them for real-world patient care.

“UWS and UFV have created opportunities for aspiring chiropractors to gain the advanced, high-caliber education needed to meet growing demand for non-invasive, evidence-based care,” said Dr. Nathan Long, President of University of Western States. “This renewed agreement reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence and removing barriers for students to provide them with a clear, efficient path toward meaningful careers in health care.”

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of chiropractors in the U.S. will grow 10 percent between 2023 and 2033, as people seek nonsurgical, drug-free pain treatment to improve overall wellness.

“This collaboration is a shining example of the kind of partnerships and innovation The Community Solution Education System wants to promote,” said Dr. Michael Horowitz, Chancellor of The Community Solution Education System, of which UWS is a proud member. “By working together, UFV and UWS are helping students achieve their academic and professional goals more efficiently while preparing them to meet the needs of patients.”

UFV’s Bachelor of Kinesiology program provides a strong foundation for chiropractic education, focusing on human movement, anatomy, exercise physiology, and hands-on experiential learning. With small class sizes and specialized tracks in exercise science and pedagogy, the program aligns seamlessly with UWS’ rigorous Doctor of Chiropractic curriculum.

“UFV Faculty and students are excited about the learning opportunity this partnership provides. Access to a high-quality DC program in close proximity to UFV is important to UFV students” notes Dr. Lara Duke, Dean Faculty of Health Sciences at University of the Fraser Valley. “UFV is excited these students can return to the Fraser Valley for practicum opportunities and employment upon completing their DC degrees.”

Through partnerships like this, UWS continues its commitment to providing comprehensive, evidence-informed health education, with a focus on fostering strong clinical skills and building meaningful patient relationships. The renewal of this partnership with UFV highlights both institutions’ shared dedication to offering students a clear, supportive path toward successful careers in health care.

How Environmental Factors Shape Health: A Whole Person Approach for Clinicians

Posted on by pciampanelli
A young man wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt holds his face in his hands.

Rebecca has been battling chronic migraines for years. Despite visiting numerous specialists, no one can pinpoint the cause. Each provider focuses on treating the symptoms, prescribing medications that offer only temporary relief. No one asks about her home, nestled in a valley frequently blanketed with wildfire smoke, or her office, located near an industrial zone known for poor air quality. Unless her physicians know to look for these pieces of the puzzle, the connection between Rebecca’s environment and her migraines will go unnoticed.

As environmental health threats become more prevalent throughout the United States, our most vulnerable communities are often the ones that suffer the most.

To improve health outcomes, providers must consider how environmental factors contribute to patient health. That’s why University of Western States emphasizes a whole person approach to care, helping clinicians consider not just the immediate symptoms but also the broader context in which their patients live.

Learn how you can stay informed about environmental impacts on health—and how you can use this knowledge to adopt a whole person approach to health care.

A Whole Person Approach to Treatment

Rather than isolating individual symptoms, clinicians who adopt a whole person approach take into account the physical, mental, emotional, and environmental factors influencing a patient’s well-being.

At the UWS, degree programs in naturopathy and chiropractic prepare students to take a holistic and individualized approach to health.

For example, naturopathic medicine includes an emphasis on nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and detoxification strategies to help patients manage chronic diseases influenced by environmental stressors.

In chiropractic care, practitioners often explore how lifestyle and environmental conditions impact the musculoskeletal system, integrating techniques such as spinal adjustments, exercise therapies, and ergonomic counseling to reduce the risk of chronic pain.

Environmental Factors in Patient Care: Practical Applications for Clinicians

Incorporating environmental considerations into clinical practice requires vigilance and adaptability. Utilizing the following strategies, clinicians can make a significant impact on their patients’ overall health, aligning care with a whole person approach.

Ask About Environmental Exposures During Assessments

Incorporate questions about a patient’s environment into your intake process. This could include asking about:

  • Air quality in their area (e.g., exposure to pollution, wildfire smoke)
  • Potential exposure to harmful environmental factors in the workplace
  • Proximity to environmental hazards (e.g., mold, pests, or extreme weather conditions)
  • Access to clean water and healthy food sources

Monitor Local Environmental Conditions

Stay informed about environmental conditions in your region, particularly if you’re practicing in areas prone to wildfires, drought, or high levels of pollution.

Tracking local air quality, water contamination levels, or pesticide use can help you tailor your care. For example, during periods of poor air quality, you might advise patients with respiratory conditions to stay indoors and use air filters.

For example, the state of Oregon has the Oregon Tracking Program, designed to “provide data and information on environmental hazards, exposures, and health effects in an effort to promote public health action and reduce the burden of environmental-related health conditions.”

Address Nutrition and Detoxification

Many environmental toxins accumulate in the body through food and water sources. Some health care providers can encourage patients to follow a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods to help the body combat environmental stressors.

In the Naturopathy program at UWS, future physicians are trained in evidence-informed natural health care that considers environmental impacts in their whole-person approach. “Our program is designed to address the body, mind, and spirit with a focus on functional medicine,” says Marcia Prenguber, ND, FABNO, dean of the College of Naturopathic Medicine. “We aim to provide graduates with a wide array of tools they can use to work with patients, including training in botanical medicine, physical medicine, pharmacology, clinical nutrition, and homeopathy.”

UWS’ Role in Promoting Whole Person Care

At the UWS, we are committed to training health care professionals who see the patient as a whole person—not just a collection of symptoms.

Our programs in naturopathy and chiropractic equip clinicians with the knowledge and tools to implement integrative approaches that include a deep understanding of environmental factors. This training encourages a whole person approach to care, helping clinicians consider not just the immediate symptoms but also the broader context in which their patients live.

By fostering a mindset that acknowledges the significant influence of a patient’s surroundings, UWS graduates are better prepared to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. We believe that healing the body, mind, and environment are intertwined processes, especially in regions where nature and climate shape the health landscape.

Environmental Impact on Health: Takeaways for Clinicians

The environment plays an undeniable role in shaping the health of individuals, particularly in ecologically diverse regions such as Oregon.

UWS’ programs encourage health care providers to adopt a whole-person perspective, empowering them to not only address symptoms but also to identify and mitigate the root causes of illness shaped by environmental stressors.

By integrating environmental awareness into clinical practice, practitioners can offer patients a path that honors the deep relationship between mind, body, and the world around us.

For clinicians seeking to enhance their understanding of holistic health and environmental influences, programs in naturopathy and chiropractic at UWS offer the education and training needed to make a meaningful impact.

Learn more about how you can advance your career and help patients achieve better health outcomes through integrative, whole person care.

New Associate Dean Dr. Joshua Rubinstein, Naturopathic Medicine Clinical Education

Posted on by pciampanelli
A banner image bearing University of Western States branding and brand colors reads, "Faculty Profile: Joshua Rubinstein, ND."

After 21 years of naturopathic medical practice and teaching students at Bastyr University, Joshua Rubinstein, ND, has come to University of Western States as its new associate dean of the College of Clinical Education in Naturopathic Medicine.

Working with students in a clinical setting, “I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t,” Dr. Rubinstein says.

Dr. Rubinstein has published a chapter for the “Naturopathic Foundations Textbook”and worked with Bastyr University as its clinical sciences chair, even being elected as a faculty senator.

Says Dr. Rubinstein, “I look forward to doing more leadership work here [with University of Western States] as well.”

He feels eager to work on designing a new clinic program and sharing his knowledge. “I wanted to find a place where I felt like I could make a meaningful contribution and that I could actually be of service, especially in a leadership role,” he says.

Staying Grounded in a Clinical Setting

From his time in his clinic, Dr. Rubinstein has gained skills he plans to share with students at University of Western States. First is how to connect with patients. As much as he can, he holds space for patients to process whatever they need to. “It’s important to me that patients feel safe and supported in their time with us in the clinic. There’s an art to that.”

He takes time to get to know his patients, understanding their diets, exercise habits, stress levels, and sleep health. These are areas not always covered in a typical primary doctor visit, but it’s important for naturopathic doctors to go deep into these foundations of health.

“In the long term especially, we need to address all those aspects of a person’s health that are those foundational pieces in order to really have lasting change,” Dr. Rubinstein says.

Teachings to Come

Other areas that his students will focus on include dermatology, chronic pain, and autoimmune diseases. Opioids are often prescribed to manage pain, but with naturopathic medicines, homeopathic medicine, and nutrition, there are ways to modulate and reduce inflammation in the body that are typically much safer than conventional medications, Dr. Rubinstein says.

Developing relationships with mentors has been helpful to Dr. Rubinstein in his career, so he encourages his students to do the same, arming themselves with the ability to connect and ask questions even after graduation. Dr. Rubinstein aims to provide students with the skills to be successful in both the business and health care aspects of practicing naturopathic medicine.

The Future of the Field

“I think that this medicine has so much to offer,” Dr. Rubinstein says. As a father of three, he’s grateful to homeopathic medicines for managing struggles of early childhood, such as teething pains. He was able to help his children in a very safe and cost-effective way, which is one aspect of naturopathic medicine that he loves.

He sees a necessity for naturopathic medicine doctors in the primary care environment and hopes to see those roles become more widely accepted. Similarly, he would like to see residency opportunities continue to expand, especially for positions in VA medical facilities, for example, where he thinks naturopathic doctors can greatly help our veterans.

“We’re a fairly small profession, but I think we pack a lot of punch.”

Understanding the Difference Between Mental Health Technicians and Counselors

Posted on by pciampanelli
I young man sits on the floor hugging himself and resting his head on his knee.

Mental health technicians and counselors share similar goals but have differing duties, educational requirements, and professional focuses.

Navigating the world of mental health professions can be overwhelming, given the various roles and responsibilities involved and the vast number of career opportunities rising in the field.

The Bureau of Labor Status predicts that employment in mental-health-related occupations to grow faster than the 3% average of all occupations. Two critical positions in this field are mental health technicians and counselors. Although they work towards the common goal of improving patient well-being, their duties, educational requirements, and professional focus differ significantly.

University of Western States offers multiple programs focused on mental health, including the M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and the Ed.D. in Sport Performance Psychology, CMHC specialization. Both help students to pursue clinical licensure in their state.

At UWS, students learn a whole-person approach to mental health care. Specifically, with our clinical mental health counseling programs, students learn how to assess the emotional, physical, social, spiritual, and intellectual components of the whole person to make functional improvements.

What Is a Mental Health Technician?

The primary job description for a mental health technician is a worker who monitors patients’ behavior and health and works closely with other mental health care professionals to inform a well-balanced treatment plan. They work in settings such as hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and outpatient clinics, collaborating with a team of health care professionals to deliver comprehensive care.

What Does a Mental Health Technician Do?

The primary responsibilities of a mental health technician are:

  • Monitor and administer medications: Observe medication administration and monitor behavior, taking note of the patient’s behavior before and after administration. Report observations back to health care professionals involved in the patient’s treatment plan.
  • Patient behavior and mood monitoring: Identify changes in behavior or emotional states that may indicate a need for crisis management.
  • Aiding patients with any necessary physical activities: Assist with daily living tasks such as personal hygiene, grooming, and recreational activities.
  • Crisis management: Monitor and recognize any irregularities in the patient’s mood/behavior and escalate to their family and health care professionals if intervention is necessary.
  • Arranging transportation: Escort and/or arrange for transportation for patients to and from appointments.
  • Recreational activities: Direct patients to participate in recreational and therapeutic activities.

What Is a Counselor?

Professional counselors are trained mental health practitioners who support individuals facing various challenges, including emotional distress, relationship issues, and personal growth. They utilize their knowledge and expertise to get to know clients, analyze their behaviors, and provide solutions to problems they are facing. Professional counselors typically can work in private practices, schools, hospitals, and other various settings.

What Does a Counselor Do?

The primary responsibilities of a mental health counselor are:

  • Run counseling sessions: conduct individual, group, or couple counseling sessions tailored to the individual’s needs.
  • Utilize evidence-based techniques: Address need-based issues by calling upon evidence-based techniques as a solution.
  • Crisis management: Monitor behavior in counseling sessions, and read the reports from other health care professionals working with the client to observe any signs of harmful thoughts/behaviors.

Mental Health Technicians vs. Counselors

While both careers are within the mental health field, there are some key differences between the career responsibilities as well as education and licensing requirements. A mental health technician is a professional who monitors a patient’s behaviors, helps with daily functions, and reports progress to other mental health professionals in the field, such as the clients’ professional counselor. Mental health technicians and counselors have specific roles and responsibilities that differ but work together to treat a patient in need.

Key Differences Between Mental Health Technicians and Counselors

Education Differences

Mental Health Technicians: To become a Mental Health Technician, typically an associate or bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement. This can vary depending on the specific employer/state employed. Similarly, licensure may also be required.

Counselors: To become a counselor, you need a master’s degree in counseling from an accredited program. UWS is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. NWCCU is a recognized accreditation organization by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Licensure requirements vary by state and involve completing supervised clinical hours and passing a licensing exam.

Salary Differences

Mental Health Technician Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a psychiatric technician is $43,650 a year.

Mental Health Counselor Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a mental health counselor is $59,190 a year. (Note that numbers include counselors who may not necessarily be licensed.) If you get your licensure to become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, there is a potential to increase the salary range.

Feature Mental Health Technicians Mental Health Counselors
Primary Role Monitor patients’ behavior, assist with daily living, & report to professionals. Conduct individual/group counseling, analyze behavior, & apply evidence-based techniques.
Work Setting Hospitals, residential treatment facilities, & outpatient clinics. Private practice, schools, hospitals, & various mental health settings.
Education Requirements Associate or bachelor’s degree (varies by employer/state). Master’s degree in counseling, meet supervised-hour requirements, & obtain professional licensure.
Average Salary $43,650 $59,190

Start Your Mental Health Career at UWS

If you have your bachelor’s degree and are looking to take the next step in your career and put yourself on the path to licensure in the mental health counseling field, the UWS Clinical Mental Health Counseling program is a great fit. We offer an M.S. or an Ed.D. In Sport Performance Psychology With Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization that can help to prepare you for further advancement in your mental health career. Request more information about which path might be right for you and your career goals.