Professional Background

Dr. Keli DeCarlo is an adjunct professor in the School of Education—Counselor Education. She has earned a Ph.D. in Psychology from Northcentral University in 2019, an M.Ed. in School Counseling (K–12) from California University of Pennsylvania in 2010, and dual B.S. degrees in Special Education (N–12) and Elementary Education from California University of Pennsylvania in 2006. DeCarlo has expertise in teaching a diverse range of courses, including School Counseling Internships One and Two, Introduction to Addictions, Introduction to Crisis Counseling, Residency: Special Topic: Grief and Loss, Psychological Testing and Assessment, Diagnosis of Psychopathology, Residency 2: Advanced Professional Practice of Counseling, Introduction to Play Therapy, Foundations of School Counseling, and Family and Couples Counseling.

DeCarlo is a school counselor for Albert Gallatin Area School District in Southwestern Pennsylvania, having commenced her career in 2006 as a middle school learning support teacher for grades 6–8. In 2008, she transitioned to the role of middle school math teacher for grades 7-8. In 2010, she became a school counselor in her district, presently serving two elementary schools and enjoying her work with the elementary population, catering to about 550 students. As the team leader for the District Counseling Department, DeCarlo played a pivotal role in developing the K–12 Comprehensive School Counseling Program. Beyond the school setting, she worked as a Behavioral Specialist Consultant for a private practice while obtaining her licensure. She provides supervision to counseling interns and counselors pursuing licensure.

Part of DeCarlo’s teaching philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach that incorporates effective communication within a dynamic technological environment. She demonstrates a passion for the field, embraces openness to change, and strives to provide students with real-world scenarios, enabling them to actively engage in their own learning and development. DeCarlo’s dissertation, titled “The Correlation of Connectedness and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Adolescents,” has been successfully published. DeCarlo was a Division II Collegiate Athlete in swimming. Currently, she is training for another ultramarathon and has a strong affinity for trail running. With a 12-year-old daughter named Madeline and two yorkies, Popo and Penny, her life is enriched by both family and a love for athletics.

• Northcentral University, Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, Ph.D., 2019
• California University of Pennsylvania, M. Ed. School Counseling, K–12 (CACREP Program), 2010
• California University of Pennsylvania, B.S. Special Education, N-12, 2006
• California University of Pennsylvania, B.S. Elementary Education, 2006