POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks Behavioral Sciences hosted the annual Midwest Christian Psychology Conference on Dec. 1 in the Gittinger Music Building.

Five schools attended the conference: John Brown University, Evangel University, Central Methodist University, Southwest Baptist University, and College of the Ozarks. Each school brought behavioral science students to present, listen to presentations, and hear from keynote speaker, Heather Freeman. Freeman is the Founder & Executive Director of Awaken360, a counseling organization in Springfield, MO. The title of her presentation was “Using Biblically-based CBT in the World Today.”

There were 26 oral presentations, as well as three posters and one artistic presentation. The presentations covered a variety of topics, including internships, theoretical papers, and empirical research.

“The Midwest Christian Psychology Conference is an opportunity for students to showcase their professional development,” said Rebecca Hendrix, professor of behavioral science. “As presenters, students get to learn from their projects as well as inform others of their experiences. Research can be an intimidating process, so the ability to first try it out in a supportive environment can make it exciting rather than daunting.”

“Presenting at the Midwest Christian Psychology Conference was an opportunity that will help open doors for me in the future regarding graduate school as well as preparing me for any larger national conferences I may attend in the future,” said Cody Jones, senior psychology major, who presented on his internship at a private counseling practice from summer 2023.

Over 30 College of the Ozarks students and professors volunteered to run the conference, acting as room moderators, greeters, preparation staff, and clean-up crew.

Students and staff in attendance were able to network with each other and with local job or graduate school opportunities. Potential employers included FosterAdopt Connect, Missouri Job Center, Elevate Branson, Jordan Valley Community Health, Missouri Department of Social Services, and Awaken360. Three graduate schools also attended the conference, including Evangel University, John Brown University, and Central Seminary.

The Midwest Christian Psychology Conference will be hosted by John Brown University next year.

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The above press release is from College of the Ozarks.