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In May 2022, University of Phoenix shared the news that Dr. Hayden Center, Jr., Ph.D., LPC, a counseling core faculty member of the University’s College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, has appeared on EIQ Media’s “The Change” podcast hosted by Adam Baruh, chief executive officer of EIQ Media. 

Much like Dr. Center and University of Phoenix, “The Change” aims to normalize mental health conversations and overcome the stigma associated with discussing psychological health, both in the workplace and in society at large. The podcast welcomes business leaders and other notable individuals who share inspirational stories to help others make positive work and life changes. Each episode delves into topics like emotional courage and intelligence, leading with empathy, business leadership, and, as is the case here, normalizing mental health awareness.

Finding Meaning and Connection in Our Professional Lives

Dr. Center was a guest on a podcast episode entitled “Finding Meaning and Connection in Our Professional Lives,” which saw him discuss how individuals can experience meaning, connection and safety in both personal and professional environments. In particular, he focused on the perspectives of working adult learners during the Covid-19 pandemic and the Great Resignation. 

When speaking to Business Wire about the podcast, Dr. Center reflected on the idea of social connection, noting that when researchers discuss this connection, they’re referring to the feeling of belonging to a group of people, which scientific evidence suggests is integral to feeling satisfied in life. He explained that the podcast gave way to a discussion about how we can use our current knowledge of psychology and counseling to help others not only survive in their workplaces and learning environments but thrive, too. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. has a mental health illness. Given that mental health challenges affect so many people, this discussion point is particularly relevant, especially in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns.

How University of Phoenix Supports Students’ Mental Health

Eighty-three percent of University of Phoenix students are employed while pursuing their education, and 65 percent of these students have dependents. During the podcast, Dr. Center emphasized the unique needs of these working adults and detailed the confidential wellness services that the University’s Life Resource Center offers to help students steer their way through challenges and toward their goals. 

Through the Life Resource Center, students can quickly access 24-hour crisis help, confidential counseling, financial consulting, peer support groups, life coaching and other on-demand tools that support healthy living. With over 5,000 resources on hand including podcasts, webinars, assessments and articles, students have the materials they need to improve their understanding of mental health.

When speaking to Business Wire, Baruh noted that Dr. Center and University of Phoenix make substantial efforts to protect the mental health of their students, showing real concern for the student population. He added that their approach to ensuring safety and connection should serve as a model for other organizations to meet their students’ or workforces’ mental health needs.

About Dr. Hayden Center

Dr. Center is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in addiction issues and has been practicing for more than 35 years. Since completing his doctorate at Auburn University, he has provided more than 500 trainings and workshops on topics like science-based prevention, evaluation, risk and protective factors, cannabis, opioid use disorder and sustainability of health promotion efforts. He has also worked as an evaluator with several local, state and national agencies and organizations. On top of this, he has taught at a variety of universities over the past three decades, including University of Phoenix where he has been teaching since 2020.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix commits itself to advancing the educational goals of adult and nontraditional learners and to helping students identify and achieve the career options and degree programs that best suit their interests. The University’s degree programs are aligned with a large number of in-demand career paths including in cybersecurity, nursing and business. The University also provides flexible start dates and numerous scholarship opportunities so anyone can earn the degree they need to get ahead.

Prospective students can choose from a wide variety of college credit courses, certificates, continuing education for teachers and non-credit professional development courses to get them on the right track to their desired careers. 

For no additional charge, University of Phoenix’s Career Services for Life® commitment to active students and graduates provides the resources needed to give individuals a competitive edge in workforce environments. These services include resume and interview support, career guidance and education and networking opportunities. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.