ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Tuesday, Milligan University hosted the third annual Create Conference, welcoming counselors from across the region.

The conference spotlighted key areas such as research, employment, advocacy, training, and education for both school and clinical mental health counselors. Attendees engaged with presentations, participated in a career fair, and listened to keynote speaker Colleen Weems.

She said in her speech that there is a greater need for collaboration between school counseling and clinical settings.

Participants left with valuable insights to enhance their education or advance their careers. According to Milligan University Counseling Program Director Rebecca Sapp, the conference was established to address a “disconnect” noted between graduate program students and the practical school-clinic dynamic.

“Our students faced challenges in linking their research methods class with practical counseling in the field. So, we organized this conference to emphasize the importance of their findings and the application of research in their careers,” Sapp explained.

“This event cleverly combines multiple facets, including advocacy. We often have speakers discuss the unique needs of special populations, as well as fostering employment links, offering employers a platform to share about their work,” she added.