Greetings, ASERVIC Members and Guests,
My name is Dr. John J. S. Harrichand, and it is a privilege to serve as the 56 th President of the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC). I am honored to lead this vibrant and committed community of professionals who are dedicated to thoughtfully
integrating spiritual, ethical, and religious values into the counseling profession.
I extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Janeé Avent Harris, our Immediate Past President, for her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment over the past year. Her vision and service have significantly strengthened ASERVIC and positioned us for continued growth. I would also
like to express my appreciation to the dedicated leaders who are rotating off the Board: Dr. Abigail Conley (Journal Editor), Dr. Stephanie Dorais (Board Member), Dr. Awa Jangha (Board Member), and Dr. Leila Warraich (Board Member). We are deeply grateful for their valuable contributions and service. At the same time, I am pleased to warmly welcome our incoming leaders: Dr. Anita Neuer Colburn (President-Elect), Dr. Mary Whiting (Secretary), Dr. Heidi Henry (Board Member), Dr. Kathy Richardson (Board Member), and Samantha Turner (Graduate Student Representative).
Our theme for 2025-2026, Sacred Spaces: Honoring Diverse Spiritual and Religious Journeys in Counseling, reflects our profound respect for each individual’s unique path. This reverence for diversity and the journey of growth, development, and transcendence forms the foundation of ASERVIC. I am deeply encouraged by the incredible talents and dedication I see in ASERVIC. We are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of a hurting world. We are called to provide safe, sacred spaces where individuals can explore their spirituality and navigate the complexities of their human experience. As we move into the new fiscal year, I am filled with hope and gratitude, knowing that together, ASERVIC is a community of counselors, educators, and professionals dedicated to integrating spiritual, ethical, and religious values into the counseling process.
If you are looking for ways to become more actively engaged in ASERVIC, there are many meaningful opportunities available. These include serving on committees, participating in graduate student and professional development events, and contributing to our Interaction newsletter or Counseling and Values journal. Your involvement not only supports your own professional development but also enriches the shared resources and sense of community that benefit all ASERVIC members. Feel free to contact me at [email protected] In the months ahead, we look forward to sharing updates on new initiatives designed to broaden our reach, enrich our educational offerings, and deepen the sense of connection within our ASERVIC community. We are especially excited about the planning underway for our 2026 Virtual Conference scheduled for June 7-12, 2026 (mark your calendars), and are eager to gather again to learn, grow, and celebrate our shared commitment.
As we continue our vital work, I look forward to collaborating with the ASERVIC Board, Committees, and each of you to address the needs of our clients, students, communities, and the nation. I am excited to share my vision for ASERVIC—one that builds upon the strong foundation laid by our predecessors and fosters an inclusive, supportive, and empowering community where every member feels valued and inspired to engage. ASERVIC’s Goals for 2025–2026 include:
-Maximizing Engagement in the 2026 Virtual Conference
-Delivering Dual-Format Continuing Education Opportunities
-Hosting Seasonal Webinars
-Enhancing Member Communication Through the Interaction Newsletter
-Growing ASERVIC Membership by 1–2%
-Supporting Graduate Student Involvement in Research and Professional Development
-Offering and Promoting Research Awards
-Promoting the Counseling and Values Journal
-Collaborating with State Divisions and ACA Branches
-Advancing the Spiritual and Religious Best Practices (formerly Competencies) Implementation
I encourage you to stay engaged, share your insights, and contribute to shaping the future of our
organization. You can stay connected by following us on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and
Facebook, as well as visiting our website for the latest news and opportunities.
Thank you for your continued dedication to ASERVIC and for the meaningful work you do to
integrate spiritual, ethical, and religious values into counseling. Together, we can continue to
make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
In wellness,
John Harrichand
ASERVIC President (2025-2026)
