Counseling Center Staff
- Mental Health Therapist
- joseph.ayers@wku.edu
- 409 Potter Hall
- 270-745-3159
I was born and raised right here in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and attended McNeill Elementary, located just across from the baseball field. My connection to WKU has been lifelong, beginning when I joined the Hilltopper community in 2014 as a student in the Psychology Department and a member of Greek Life. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2018, with a minor in Clinical and Community Health Services, and continued my education at WKU by earning my Master’s degree in Counseling in 2021.
I will always speak highly of the WKU Counseling Program. Throughout my time in the program, I gained valuable experience in building therapeutic relationships, utilizing evidence-based approaches to counseling, and developing the clinical skills necessary to support clients. Just as importantly, I built connections with peers and mentors who helped shape me as a counselor.
Outside of the office, I’m a huge fan of sports, television, film, video games, and all things nerdy. You can usually find me cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles ????, Golden State Warriors ????, North Carolina Tar Heels ????, or Bayern Munich ⚽.
I truly believe counseling can be helpful for everyone, but it requires willingness, honesty, and a commitment to yourself. My goal is to create a counseling space centered around YOU. where you feel comfortable being authentic, exploring challenges, and working toward growth.
I believe therapy does not always have to feel like a doctor’s office. It can be meaningful, challenging, emotional, exciting, and even fun. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective counseling, and I strive to create an environment where clients feel heard, respected, and supported.
My approach incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), client-centered practices, humanistic approaches, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Together, we may explore skills, patterns, emotions, and personal goals while developing practical tools that fit your life. Sessions may include psychoeducation, reflection exercises, and achievable goals that help you continue growing outside of our time together.
I’ve also been known to bring out a Nintendo Switch when needed, sometimes having something to do with our hands can make opening up a little easier.
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