Maxwell J. Crouch
Welcome to my Counseling Portfolio. I am Maxwell James Crouch, a dedicated counseling graduate student committed to fostering growth, resilience, and well-being in the individuals I serve. This portfolio showcases my education, counseling philosophy, practical experience, and professional competencies.
About Me
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Counseling at Concordia University Wisconsin. My career began as a special education teacher, later transitioning into general education, where I developed a passion for supporting students’ emotional and mental well-being. My counseling approach integrates Gestalt therapy, Adlerian theory, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), all rooted in empathy, collaboration, and goal-oriented growth.
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Preferred Setting & Client Population
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School-based counseling
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Summer work in teletherapy or inpatient mental health settings
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Long-term goal: private practice incorporating nature/adventure therapy
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Primary client population: Adolescents, especially high school students
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Personal note:
I am passionate about helping students feel seen, heard, and supported during one of the most pivotal stages of life. My goal is to create a safe, empowering space for them to explore identity, relationships, and future goals.
Educational Background
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University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
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B.S., Exceptional Education (K-12), May 2021
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Concordia University Wisconsin
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M.S.Ed., School Counseling (in progress, expected Summer 2028)
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Counseling Philosophy & Approach
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Personal Counseling Theory:
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Gestalt Therapy - Present-moment focus, mind-body integration, somatic awareness.
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Adlerian Theory - Emphasis on belonging, significance, purpose, and encouragement.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Practical, skills-based interventions for emotional regulation and resilience.
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Core values:
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Collaboration with clients
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Respect for individual differences
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Strengths-based, empowering approach
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Inclusivity and cultural humility
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Competencies
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Interpersonal Communication - Building trust, reading emotional cues, adapting communication style.
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Flexibility & Adaptability - Adjusting counseling strategies to meet client needs.
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Congruence & Genuineness - Honesty and transparency to foster trust.
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Professional Boundaries - Balancing empathy with role clarity.
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Self-Awareness & Multicultural Competence – Recognizing privilege and learning from diverse perspectives.
Artifacts
Educational Platform Paper
07/29/2025
This paper outlines my preferred counseling setting, client population, and personal counseling theory, shaped by both my professional background and graduate studies in counseling. Drawing from my experience as a special and general education teacher, I envision beginning my counseling career in a school setting, working primarily with adolescents. I discuss how Gestalt, Adlerian, and Cognitive Behavioral approaches align with my worldview and intended clientele, as well as the active, collaborative role I expect to take in therapy. The paper also reflects on my motivation for entering the counseling profession, my faith-based perspective, the support systems that sustain me, and my growth thus far in the program.
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Adolescence: A Guide For Teens and Parents
07/25/2025
This fact sheet, Adolescence: A Guide for Teens & Parents, provides an overview of the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that occur between ages 10 and 19. It outlines key developments in each domain-such as puberty and brain growth, expanding thinking skills, and evolving identity-along with common challenges like risk-taking behaviors, academic pressures, mental health concerns, and relationship changes. Practical, research-based tips are included to help families promote healthy sleep, nutrition, emotional regulation, critical thinking, and positive communication. Designed to be accessible for both teens and parents, this resource encourages understanding, balanced boundaries, and shared strategies for navigating adolescence successfully.
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Reflections
VIA Character Strengths & Counselor Dispositions Reflection
08/01/2025
This reflection explores my VIA character strengths-Love, Curiosity, and Social Intelligence-and how they connect to Concordia University Wisconsin’s counseling dispositions. Through personal stories and feedback from my wife, I examine how these strengths were shaped by my upbringing, how they support my counseling goals, and the challenges they sometimes present. I also identify key growth areas, including perspective and self-regulation, and discuss strategies for strengthening them to become a more self-aware, adaptable, and effective school counselor.