Photos Courtesy of Pepperdine Counseling Center
The Pepperdine Counseling Center is available to all students for a wide range of services free of charge. It is staffed with licensed professionals with a Christian focus.
Director Connie Horton
Favorite Movie: Patch Adams
Favorite Food: Enchiladas (ideally with green chili)
Time at Pepperdine: 10 years
Why do you do what you do? “[It is an] incredible gift to be able to work with such amazing, bright students who will change the world. To be able to help these talented students remove their obstacles so they can use their gifts fully is very rewarding.”
Any advice for students on having a successful school year? “Recognize that college life, though incredibly rewarding, comes with stress. Thus, [it is] important to remember to add coping (which can include social, physical, spiritual dimensions). Take care of yourself and your friends.”
Associate Director Nivla Y. Fitzpatrick
Favorite Movie: The Shawshank Redemption
Favorite Food: Hamburgers
Time at Pepperdine: 10 years
Why do you do what you do? “I have a heart for helping people.”
Any advice for students on having a successful school year? “Plan to sleep, plan to socialize, plan to not plan sometimes and just be in the present.”
Alcohol and Other Drug Program Coordinator Robert Scholz
Favorite Movie: Good Will Hunting
Favorite Food: Cincinnati Chili and Baby Back Ribs
Time at Pepperdine: 10 years
Why do you do what you do? “I see it as a privilege to work with students during such an important time in their lives. I work in a profession where we help students develop a new story for their lives that impacts their relationships, motivation in their academics and greater purpose in life.”
Any advice for students on having a successful school year? “Live intentionally — schedule your time in a way that promotes balance in your life. Set aside time to study, connect with friends, spend time with God, exercise, eat and sleep.
Staff Therapist Shelle Welty
Favorite Movie: Inception
Favorite Food: Curry
Time at Pepperdine: 4 years
Why do you do what you do? “I love to see people make positive change in their lives and live out more and more of their full potential.”
Any advice for students on having a successful school year? “Be sure to keep space for the truly important things in life — spiritual growth, relationships and fun and meaningful activities.”
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