In September 2024, we shared that two South University, Savannah Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling* (CMHC) students were chosen to be part of the National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC) fellowship program.
With over 50 million Americans facing mental illness and substance abuse challenges, the fellowship aims to address the critical shortage of licensed clinicians and increase the number of diverse professionals in the field. Fellows receive a monthly stipend, specialized field training, and technical assistance to support their career and educational growth. The program also awards funding to internship sites to help lower supervision costs.
This year, we caught up with student and fellow Hollicia Kemzan to learn more about her fellowship experience and time in our CMHC program!
A Passion for the Mental Health Field
Hollicia’s desire to work in mental health stems from her 12 years in the military. During that time, she witnessed and experienced significant challenges that deeply affected her own mental health.
“Through these experiences, I developed a profound desire to support others who are navigating difficult circumstances,” she shares. “I am dedicated to helping individuals heal, grow, and achieve their personal goals. I want to provide a listening ear and meaningful guidance to those who need it most.”
Support and Community at South University
Hollicia chose to earn her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree at South University, Savannah due to its convenient location and strong reputation in the community. “I had heard great things about the program,” she says. “I felt it would offer the support, resources, and environment I needed to thrive in my academic and professional journey.”
Within the program, she’s found a community of like-minded students and faculty passionate about making a difference. “It’s a unique environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and growth well beyond the duration of the program,” she says. “The faculty and staff at South University have played a crucial role in preparing me for my goals by providing a rigorous academic curriculum alongside practical hands-on training. Their support has fostered my personal and professional development, and I feel confident in my ability to make a meaningful impact in the field of counseling.”
Extra Insight and Career Readiness
Receiving the fellowship has provided Hollicia and the other fellows with financial support as they pursue their degrees. It also includes additional opportunities, such as workshops on preparing for licensure exams*.
“The fellowship has provided me with invaluable insight into the mental health field. I have been able to grow my skills through exposure to various techniques, resources, and counseling approaches that will benefit me in my career,” she says. “I have gained a deeper comprehension of the counseling process, especially in relation to the licensure testing requirements. This has allowed me to feel well-prepared for the future.”
The program has also reinforced the value of networking and building connections. Through it, she has met other up-and-coming professionals equally committed to delivering mental health care to diverse communities.
Making a Positive Impact
As Hollicia grows her mental health career, she plans to specialize in counseling adolescents, particularly those at risk for or struggling with homelessness. “I aspire to open a group home for runaway youth where they can find both emotional support and a safe environment,” she explains. “I am deeply committed to helping these individuals find stability, healing, and hope for the future.”
For Hollicia, a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion is integral to how she approaches her field and her work. She believes firmly that all individuals, regardless of background, deserve access to compassionate and competent mental health care.
“As a counselor, I am determined to ensure that my services are accessible to everyone and that no one is excluded based on their identity,” she says. “I want to make a positive impact by offering support and understanding to individuals from all walks of life.”
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*Graduates are required to pass the national certification exam and obtain a state license in order to work in the field. (Exam names vary by program) Please refer to the State Professional Licensure Determination and National Certification/Licensure section of the University catalog for additional information. South University cannot guarantee each graduate will pass the required licensure examinations. South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion.
