Cindy Anderton
Associate Professor

Education: Ph.D. – Educational Psychology, Southern Illinois University – Carbondale with an emphasis on Counselor Education and Supervision.

Certification and Licenses: Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois; Nationally Certified Counselor

Clinical Areas of Interest: LGBT* issues in counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Group counseling approaches, Mental Health Crisis Intervention/Counseling, Trauma informed care, Religion and Spirituality

Research Areas of Interest: Alternative pedagogical methods for learning, Group counseling, Qualitative research approaches, Religious Identity/Sexual Orientation Identity Conflict, LGBT* issues in counseling, Religion and Spirituality

Service Work - University/Community/Profession: Editorial Board, Ad-Hoc Reviewer on the Journal for Specialists in Group Work; University of Wisconsin – Whitewater Chancellor's Task Force on LGBT* Issues; College of Education Committees; Wisconsin Counseling Association; Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Counseling

Teaching Philosophy: I see learning initially from a developmental perspective where students need the opportunity to gain the foundational knowledge needed at their developmental level. However, I believe foundational knowledge is not enough and deeper learning occurs through the process of being critical thinkers, evaluators, and constructing personal meaning of the knowledge students are acquiring. Deeper learning involves taking risks and offering students a safe environment in which they can challenge the material, challenge each other, and challenge myself as their instructor. I strive to create a safe space in the classroom where support and challenge are balanced and the voices of all my students can be heard. I believe that the application of knowledge is the final important step in the learning process as knowledge for its own sake is not enough. Learning is a lifelong process and engaging in the learning of becoming a counselor is just the first step in that process. Finally, learning is not just about academic learning and perhaps even more important learning includes self learning and committing to enhance your own personal growth and development.

Interests Outside of School: Biking, Hiking, Running, Racquetball, Video Games, Spending time with family and friends, Spontaneous Road Trips, Traveling

Favorite Quotes: "That which does not kill us makes us stronger" ~ Friedrich Nietzsche

"Life presents us with challenges and opportunities for growth when we least expect it or want it. We can rise to the occasion, embrace this growth opportunity, and commit to the journey life has offered or we can choose to remain trapped in the creation of our own stagnation." ~ C.L.A.