HU appoints chair for department of mental health and wellness

May 1, 2018 | Education |

The Harding University Cannon-Clary College of Education has appointed Dr. Todd Patten chair of the department of mental health and wellness, a new department overseeing the professional counseling program and marriage and family therapy program. His appointment is effective Aug. 1, 2018 .

An associate professor and licensed professional counselor, Patten has been with the University since 2004. He served previously as director of the clinical mental health counseling program and dean for student success. In 2017 Patten was awarded the University's Teacher Achievement Award. He was awarded the R. Blair Olsen Distinguished Professional Service Award in 2015 by the Arkansas Counseling Association. He has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, administration and clinical mental health counseling. He has served as director of therapeutic group homes and has served on the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.

“I am confident Dr. Patten will provide strong leadership for these programs and begin work to develop further initiatives in the mental health and wellness areas to serve the profession, the community and the church,” said Dr. Donny Lee, dean of the college. “We have served many students over the years in both programs, and our graduates are making a difference in many communities around the state and nation. I am convinced this change will provide a strong path toward some great opportunities in the mental health and wellness area.”

As chair, Patten will provide leadership and guidance for director of professional counseling Jenene Alexander, and director of marriage and family therapy Justin Moore.

“The programs within the department of mental health and wellness enjoy a long history of excellence and success,” Patten said. “I consider it an honor to work alongside this esteemed faculty as we dream about the future, grow and strengthen our programs, and build upon the good reputation we share.”

Patten received his bachelor’s in biology from Harding; master’s in clinical psychology from Abilene Christian University; and doctorate in counseling from the University of Memphis.

To learn more about the programs and services offered by Cannon-Clary College of Education, visit www.harding.edu/education or call 501-279-4242.