About the Conference 

The event will be held on Wayne State's campus in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. 

The Counseling Psychology Programs at Wayne State University and Western Michigan University are thrilled to co-host the 36th Annual Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference during a two-day event, March 21-22, 2025, at the McGregor Memorial Conference Center at Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan.  

This year’s conference theme is Counseling Psychology Rooted in Community: Advancing Critical Consciousness and Systemic Change.  This conference invites scholars, faculty and graduate students across Counseling Psychology programs to showcase research and scholarship via symposia, paper sessions, posters, roundtable discussions, or workshops. 

• Friday Main Conference Registration includes admission to all main conference activities and refreshments.  
• Day 1 of the conference will include midday refreshments and snacks. 
• Day 2 includes a light continental breakfast, and a keynote lunch. 

Online Registration

• Pre-Conference Registration Information

  Please note: That pre-conference registration and main conference registration fees are separate.

  Faculty and students from the Counseling Psychology Programs at Wayne State University and Western Michigan University are thrilled to host the 36th Annual Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference. The event will be held on Wayne State's campus in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. Conference registration includes access to all main conference activities. 

  Registration Times

  • Friday, March 21, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
  • Saturday, March 22, 2025 - 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.   

  Contact info.GreatLakes2025@groups.wayne.edu for questions.

  Pre-Conference Workshop and Continuing Education (CE) Fees

  Please select the workshop(s) you would like to attend. Workshops are not concurrent.

  Topic	Contact hour	Day	Start Time	Student Fee	Professional Fee
  Workshop #1: New Thinking in Ethical Decision-Making Presenter: Dr. Mark Leach, Ph.D., LP	1.5	Friday, March 21, 202	9:00 a.m.	$10.00	$45.00
  Workshop #2: Implicit Bias Training Presenters:  Janeé Steele, Ph.D., LPC Charmeka Newton, Ph.D., LP	1.0	Friday, March 21, 2025	10:45 a.m.	$10.00	$45.00

  Contact info.GreatLakes2025@groups.wayne.edu for questions.

  Please note: that participants must join and attend the full workshop in order to earn CE credit. Attendees are responsible for confirming that psychology CE sponsored by SCP are accepted by their profession’s state licensing board. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology maintains responsibility for this program and its content. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0157. 

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  Pre-Conference Presenters

  

  Mark M. Leach, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Development at the University of Louisville. He has been the Director of Training at two universities and a Department Chair. He earned his doctoral degree in counseling psychology from the University of Oklahoma and completed an internship at the University of Utah. Much of his scholarship has revolved around psychological ethics on both national and international levels and he has recently begun work in the subarea of behavioral ethics. He has engaged in work for the American Psychological Association and the International Association of Applied Psychology in various capacities, including currently being Vice-Chair of the Ethics Code Task Force, charged with developing the next version of the APA ethics code. In addition to teaching and research he worked with clients in different capacities over many years, been an expert witness, a consultant, and a visiting scholar.

• Main Conference Information

  Faculty and students from the Counseling Psychology Programs at Wayne State University and Western Michigan University are thrilled to host the 36th Annual Great Lakes Regional Counseling Psychology Conference. The event will be held on Wayne State's campus in the heart of Detroit, Michigan.

  Conference registration includes access to all conference activities, a Friday evening social event, a continental breakfast on Saturday morning, and Saturday lunch. Please note that pre-conference registration is separate.

  Online Registration

  Registration for Friday, March 21 is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  Registration for Saturday, March 22 is open from 7:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

  Conference Fee Schedule

  • Early Registration (by March 1, 2025)
    • Student: $45.00
    • Professional: $95.00
  • Regular and Onsite Registration (After March 1, 2025)
    • Student: $55.00
    • Professional: $105.00

  Contact info.GreatLakes2025@groups.wayne.edu for questions.

  Please note: that participants must join and attend the full workshop in order to earn CE credit. Attendees are responsible for confirming that psychology CE sponsored by SCP are accepted by their profession’s state licensing board. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology maintains responsibility for this program and its content. APA Division 17, Society of Counseling Psychology is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Board for Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0157.

• Speakers at the Conference

  

  Dr. Ezemenari Obasi, Ph.D., is a counseling psychologist and the Vice President for Research and Innovation at Wayne State University. He received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University and completed his clinical internship at Harvard Medical School’s McLean Hospital. Dr. Obasi's research, which has attracted more than $35 million in grants, including $19 million as the primary investigator, with a focus on advancing health equity science and the neurobiology of stress. 

  Prior to joining Wayne State University in 2024, Dr. Obasi served as the associate vice president for research administration at The University of Houston, and well as associate dean for research and as a department chair. Notably, he is the founder and director of the university's HEALTH Research Institute, established in 2016, which became one of the top-ranked institutes. Under his leadership, he established the NIH/NIMHD-funded U54-RCMI Center for Addictions Research and Cancer Prevention, making profound strides in health equity initiatives, especially within Black and Latino/a communities.

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  Dr. Kevin Cokley, Ph.D., is a distinguished counseling psychologist renowned for his extensive research on African American psychology, focusing on racial and ethnic identity development, academic motivation, and achievement. He currently serves as the University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor and Associate Chair for Diversity Initiatives in the Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan. 

  Dr. Cokley earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Georgia State University. His research challenges prevailing stereotypes, particularly the notion that African American students are anti-intellectual, and critically examines how racial and ethnic identities influence academic outcomes. In recent years, he has explored the impostor phenomenon and its impact on mental health and academic performance among minoritized students.   Throughout his career, Dr. Cokley has authored numerous publications, including the book "The Myth of Black Anti-Intellectualism: A True Psychology of African American Students" (2014) and the edited volume "Making Black Lives Matter: Confronting Anti-Black Racism" (2021). His scholarly work has significantly contributed to understanding the psychological and environmental factors affecting African American student achievement.  

   Dr. Cokley is a fellow of the American Psychological Association and has served as the Editor-In-Chief of the Journal of Black Psychology. His dedication to advancing the field of counseling psychology and his commitment to addressing issues of race and education make him a highly esteemed figure in his field.  Please visit Dr. Cokely's website and the newly edited book, The Impostor Phenomenon: Psychological Research, Theory, and Interventions (2024).

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  Dr. Melanie M. Wilcox, Ph.D., ABPP, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology at the University at Albany. She currently serves as President of Division 17, the Society of Counseling Psychology, and is also a member of the APA Committee on Socioeconomic Status, a former Chair of the APA Board of Educational Affairs, and an Associate Editor with the Journal of Counseling Psychology and Training and Education in Professional Psychology. Her research focuses on culturally and structurally responsive psychotherapy and training, racial and socioeconomic inequity in higher education, and racial and social justice more broadly. She has authored or co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed articles, 100 peer-reviewed presentations as well as continuing education wrokshops, and has co-authored numerous APA policy statements and guidelines related to antiracism and equitable admissions and graduate training. Dr. Wilcox has been nationally recognized for her scholarship, leadership, teaching, and advocacy, earning multiple awards including recently the 2024 Karl F. Heiser APA Presidential Award for Advocacy, the 2024 Training and Education in Professional Psychology Outstanding Contribution Award, and 2022 Division 17 Fitz & Linn Kuder Early Career Award for Distinguished Scientific Contributions to Counseling Psychology. Beyond her academic and advocacy work, Dr. Wilcox is a licensed and board-certified counseling psychologist who works part-time in private practice with the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy based in Atlanta. She specializes in culturally and structurally responsive approaches to psychotherapy and assessment, LGBTQ+-affirming care, and the treatment of trauma and addiction.

• 2025 Conference Program

  Pre-Conference Workshops

  We are excited to offer two pre-conference workshops at the 2025 conference. All Sessions are located at McGregor Memorial Conference Center, Wayne State University.

  Friday, March 21, 2025

  9:00 a.m.

  • Workshop #1: New Thinking in Ethical Decision-Making
    Presenter: Dr. Mark Leach, Ph.D., LP 

  10:45 a.m.

  • Workshop #2: Implicit Bias Training
    Presenters: Janeé Steele, Ph.D., LPC and Charmeka Newton, Ph.D., LP 

  General Conference Program

  More information is coming soon.

• Information for Presenters and Poster Sessions

  All presentations are scheduled for 50 minutes, and they start on the hour. All presenters will need to clear your allotted room in time for the next scheduled presentation in the room.

  Poster Session

  Symposia and Roundtable Discussions

• Where to Stay and What to Do

  Hotels Nearby

  Cambria Hotel Detroit Downtown  

  • 600 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226
  • Rates starting at $197.00
  • 2.16 miles away from Wayne State University
  • Reservation information

  Detroit Foundation Hotel

  •  250 W. Larned St., Detroit, MI 48226
  • Rates starting at $369.00
  • 2.6 miles away from Wayne State University
  • Booking and availability

  The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection By Hamilton  

  • 1401 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI 48216
  • Rates starting at $144.00
  • 1.89 miles away from Wayne State University
  • Reservation information

  The Inn on Ferry Street  

  • 84 E. Ferry St., Detroit, MI 48202
  • Rates starting at $166.00
  • 0.8 miles away from Wayne State University
  • Reservation information

  Westin Book Cadillac Detroit

  • 1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226
  • Rates starting at $190.00
  • 2.2 miles away from Wayne State University
  • Reservation information

  What to do 

  Detroit is a city full of energy, history, and culture. From world-class museums and live music to sports games and vibrant neighborhoods, there's always something happening. Whether you're exploring the Detroit Institute of Arts, catching a show, or strolling along the Riverwalk, the city offers experiences for everyone. Events and activities during your visit.

  Campus Dining Locations

  Wayne State University offers a variety of dining spots and coffee shops right here on campus. Please see list below for highlights. Not listed coffee shops on campus include Moka & Co and -320 Coffee & Creamery. 

  Convenience Stores and Pharmacy

  Wayne State’s campus has several convenient options for your needs. Midtown Market, located on the first floor of the Student Center, offers fresh snacks, drinks, and essentials. Just off Anthony Wayne Drive, you’ll find a 7-Eleven for quick grab-and-go items and an on-campus pharmacy providing medications and personal care products. 

  Planetarium Show at Wayne State University

  Embark on a journey through the cosmos at the Wayne State University Planetarium, offering engaging shows suitable for all ages. 

  • 4841 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 
  • Showtimes: Friday: 6:00 - 7:15 p.m. & 7:30 - 8:45 p.m.

  Eastern Market

  A bustling marketplace featuring local vendors, fresh produce, and specialty shops. Don't miss the renowned cheese shop for a delightful treat. 

  • 2934 Russell Street, Detroit, MI 48207 
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

  Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

  • 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202 
  • Hours: Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.; Saturday: 9:0 0 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

  Current exhibitions at the DIA 

  • Tiff Massey: 7 Mile + Livernois: On view through May 11, 2025, this exhibit showcases works inspired by Detroit's rich cultural heritage. 
  • Painted with Silk: The Art of Early American Embroidery: Running until June 15, 2025, this exhibition highlights intricate embroidery art from early America. 

  Belle Isle Aquarium & Conservatory

  Explore North America's oldest aquarium and the adjacent conservatory, featuring diverse aquatic life and lush plant collections. 

  • 3 Inselruhe Avenue, Detroit, MI 48207 
  • Hours: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

  RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles at Fox Theatre

  Experience an electrifying journey through The Beatles' iconic eras, from Sgt. Pepper to Abbey Road, performed live at the historic Fox Theatre. 

  • 2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 
  • Date & Time: Friday, March 21, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.

  Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO)

  • Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 
  • Dates & Times: 
    • Friday, March 21, 2025, at 10:45 a.m.
    • Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 8:00 p.m.
    • Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.

  Cafés on Wayne State University’s Campus

  Kitab Café and Bookstore 

  • 411 W. Canfield Street, Detroit, MI 48201 

  The Bottom Line Coffee House

  • 4474 3rd Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  Detroit Sip 

  • 7420 W McNichols Road, Detroit, MI 48221 

  Avalon Café and Bakery (Willis) 

  • 422 West Willis Street, Detroit, MI 48201 

  New Order Coffee Roasters (Midtown) 

  • 3100 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  Shinola Hotel (Parker’s Alley) 

  • 1449 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226 

  Restaurants on Wayne State University’s Campus 

  Cass Cafe

  A laid-back café and bar with eclectic art displays, offering a menu of creative American fare and vegetarian-friendly options. 

  • 4620 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  The Midtown BBQ and Brew

  A cozy spot with a menu of comfort food classics, BBQ, and craft beer. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. 

  • 4100 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails

  A must-visit for fresh, seasonal dishes and inventive cocktails, located a short walk from campus. 

  • 15 E Kirby Street, Detroit, MI 48202

  HopCat Detroit

  Known for its extensive craft beer selection and "cosmik fries," this is a popular hangout for students and visitors alike. 

  • 4265 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  Go Sy Thai

  Quick, affordable, and flavorful Thai dishes in a casual setting, perfect for a lunch break. 

  • 4240 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  The Potato Place

  Famous for their oversized baked potatoes loaded with a variety of toppings, from classics like broccoli and cheddar to unique combinations featuring meats, seafood, and veggies. A great spot for a filling and affordable meal! 

  • 107 W Warren Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201 

  Supino Pizzeria

  • 6519 Woodward Ave Detroit, MI

  Shield’s Pizza

  • 5057 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI 48202

  Babo: Address

  • 15 E Kirby St #115, Detroit, MI 48202 

  Off-Campus Must Try Restaurants

  Ladder 4 Wine Bar

  Housed in a former fire station, this wine bar offers a curated selection of natural wines paired with a menu of modern European-inspired dishes. 

  • 3396 Vinewood, Detroit, MI 48208 

  Marrow

  A butcher shop and restaurant hybrid focusing on locally sourced meats and seasonal produce, with a menu that highlights the best of the region. 

  • 8044 Kercheval St, Detroit, MI 48214 

  Grey Ghost Detroit

  Known for inventive American cuisine and craft cocktails, featuring expertly prepared meats and creative small plates. 

  • 47 Watson St (at Woodward Ave), Detroit, MI 48201 

  Selden Standard

  Farm-to-table dining emphasizing shared plates and a seasonally driven menu with fresh local ingredients. 

  • 3921 2nd Ave (Selden), Detroit, MI 48201 

  Slows Bar BQ

  A Detroit institution renowned for its savory, slow-cooked barbecue, including the famous 'Yardbird' sandwich. 

  • 2138 Michigan Ave (at 14th St), Detroit, MI 48216 
• Important Information Regarding Campus Navigation

  Interactive Campus Map

  Visitors Parking  

  Wayne State University offers parking to visitors all over campus. For any campus parking assistance, please call 313-577-1979. Street parking is at an hourly rate, whereas structures and lots are a one- time payment for all day parking. To guide you to a particular lot or parking structure, visit the campus map. Current parking rates.  

  All lots and structures (Except Parking Structure 4) allow you to use a debit/credit card to gain entry. Street parking is available using the app “ParkDetroit”. 

  All conference locations are within a five-minute walking distance of each other. Conference activities will be held in McGregor Memorial Conference Center, St. Andrew’s Hall, the Community Arts Auditorium, and Bernath Auditorium- Undergraduate Library.

  

  

  Room: 1400 - 1^st Floor (Floor Plan)

  

   

  

  Room Locations: 1^st Floor: BC and D; 2^nd Floor: E, FGH, and J

  

• Contact Information
  • General conference questions
    • info.GreatLakes2025@groups.wayne.edu
  • Campus parking assistance
    • 313-577-1979
  • Wayne State University Police
    • 313-577-2222