POSITION DESCRIPTION

• |
• Full Time

Director of the Doctorate Program in Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D.)

Rivier University, in partnership with the national search firm Scott Healy & Associates, invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the Doctorate Program in Counseling and School Psychology. Rivier University seeks a collaborative and experienced leader to serve in this important role. The Director of the Psy.D. program ensures the quality and integrity of academic programs, providing leadership to faculty and staff including curriculum development, APA accreditation processes, and student advisement. Clinical expertise is valued through experience in clinical supervision and maintaining licensure as is appropriate.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong collegial engagement with students, faculty, and staff and the ability to expand and foster collaboration with clinical sites while building partnerships to enhance the University’s impact on the behavioral health workforce development.

The Division of Counseling and Psychology encompasses three degree levels including an undergraduate program in psychology; graduate programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and a M.Ed. in School Counseling and a recently APA accredited doctoral program in Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D).

This is a 12-month, full-time administrative position with an annual teaching load of 12 credits. The Director will report to the Dean of Counseling and Psychology.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Leadership: Provide leadership for the Psy.D. program ensuring alignment with the Rivier University’s mission and goals.
• Curriculum Development: Oversee the design, implementation, and evaluation of the counseling curriculum to ensure it meets APA accreditation standards.
• Student Advisement: Ensure clear, consistent, and documented advisement to students related to their individualized program of study.
• Faculty Supervision: Recruit, mentor, and evaluate faculty members, fostering a collaborative and supportive academic environment.
• Student Recruitment and Retention: Develop and implement strategies to attract and retain high-quality students, including outreach, admissions, and support services.
• Accreditation and Compliance: Ensure the programs and maintain compliance and accreditation with APA and other relevant regulations and standards.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the program's budget, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Partnerships and Outreach: Build and maintain relationships with internship sites, including professional organizations, community agencies, and alumni.
• Research and Scholarship: Promote and support faculty and student research initiatives, contributing to the field of counseling.
• Advising and Mentorship: Provide academic and career advising to students, supporting their professional development and success.
• Professional Competencies: Demonstrated ability to apply technology to foster counseling skills and techniques.

Qualifications:

• Education:D. or Psy.D. in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
• Experience:Minimum of 5 years of experience in higher education administration, with a focus on counseling programs.
• Licensed or license eligible as a professional counselor in New Hampshire.
• Skills:Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively across administrative units. Possess knowledge of accreditation standards and processes. Competence in using technology for educational and administrative purposes.
• Learning Modalities: Experience with online and hybrid program delivery.

About Rivier University:

Rivier University is a four-year, Catholic institution that welcomes students from all backgrounds and provides a transformative and supportive educational experience. Located in Nashua, New Hampshire, Rivier was founded by the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary and Sister Madeleine of Jesus in 1933. Throughout its history, the University has been dedicated to providing a learning environment that educates the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Our graduates excel professionally, academically, and in service to their communities. Rivier’s 68-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, labs, athletic fields, and student resources.

The University offers liberal education and programs of professional practice at both the undergraduate and graduate level to ~2,700 students. The core mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world is actualized in undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral programs. Rivier recruits for 60 academic programs including doctoral degrees in Leadership and Learning (Ed.D.), Counseling and School Psychology (Psy.D.), and Nursing Practice (DNP).

About the Division of Counseling and Psychology:

The Division of Counseling and Psychology is offers a variety of degree programs and licensure via on-campus and online modalities for prospective therapists, counselors, and psychologists. Degrees are offered at the undergraduate, professional studies, graduate, and doctoral levels. Supporting the critical need for behavioral health professionals, the Department engages students at all academic levels. A focus on experiential learning is evident in coursework, as well as internship and practicum opportunities. These experiences enable students to connect theory with practice in real-world settings.

About the Community:

Nashua, New Hampshire, has been voted the “Best Place to Live in America” twice by Money magazine, and it’s easy to see why. In 2024, Nashua earned the No. 1 spot on WalletHub’s “10 Safest Cities in America” list, reinforcing its reputation as a community-focused city with a strong quality of life. Nashua is centrally located in the heart of New England, with an easy drive to beaches, mountains, and major metropolitan areas. Located 45 minutes from Boston and 30 minutes from Manchester, Nashua is close to a wealth of cultural, professional, and recreational destinations. Residents enjoy access to a variety of restaurants, parks, local shops, and events, along with outdoor options like Mine Falls Park, which offers scenic trails and kayaking routes right in the city. The city’s economy is diverse, with a healthy mix of service and high-tech companies providing a strong employment base and plenty of options for career growth, internships, and professional development.

Application and Nomination Process:

All correspondence relating to the position of Director of the Doctorate Program in Counseling and School Psychology at Rivier University should be directed in confidence to the University’s executive search consultant:

Jamie Marcus, Vice President

Scott Healy & Associates

jamiemarcus@scotthealy.com

A complete application should include the following:

1. Cover Letter outlining your interest and qualifications for the position;
2. Updated CV;
3. Three (3) professional references with title, institutional affiliation, email address and direct phone numbers. (No references will be contacted without written permission from the candidate.)

Applications received by September 15, 2025 will receive priority consideration. The search will remain open until the position is filled.

Rivier University is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Rivier University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran or marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability in admission or access to, treatment in or employment in its programs and activities. Additionally, Title IX requires that the University not discriminate on the bases stated above.