Southwestern College, based in Santa Fe, is celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing graduate degrees primarily in counseling. College President Thom Chesney described the institution as a "best-kept secret" on the south side of the city. The college plays a vital role in addressing the shortage of counselors in Northern New Mexico, where demand for behavioral health services continues to rise.
Read More
In the last decade, Southwestern College has awarded over 400 graduate degrees and more than 200 certificates, according to graduation data. The Tierra Nueva Counseling Center, located on campus, serves as both an educational site for students and a behavioral health agency. Clinical Director Denise Moore reported that the center hosts approximately 500 clients and conducts around 7,000 therapy sessions annually, welcoming patients regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.
As part of their training, new interns at Tierra Nueva participated in a rite of passage ceremony on September 24, coinciding with the start of classes at the college. This year marks a significant milestone for Southwestern College as it continues to contribute to the field of behavioral health in the region.