Dr. Debbye Garner

Director of Master of Education in School Counseling Program

Dr. Debbye Garner serves as the Program Director for the Master of Education in School Counseling program in the Dorothy M. Bush College of Education at Dallas Baptist University. A retired public-school educator with extensive experience in education and student support, Dr. Garner brings both practical experience and a passion for preparing future school counselors to serve students, families, schools, and communities with excellence. 

Throughout her career, Dr. Garner has been committed to helping students recognize their potential while equipping educators and counselors to respond to the academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of children and adolescents. At DBU, she teaches and oversees courses throughout the school counseling program, including pre-practicum, practicum, and preparation for professional certification. 

As Program Director, Dr. Garner provides leadership in curriculum development, student advising, field experiences, certification preparation, and partnerships with school districts. She is especially passionate about developing strong relationships between DBU and surrounding school districts to create opportunities for aspiring school counselors and to help meet the growing need for highly qualified, compassionate counseling professionals. 

Dr. Garner believes that school counseling is more than a profession; it is an opportunity to serve. Her approach to counselor preparation reflects DBU's commitment to Christ-centered education by encouraging candidates to lead with integrity, compassion, wisdom, and a genuine concern for the whole student. She strives to help future counselors understand that their influence can extend far beyond academics and can make a lasting difference in the lives of students and families. 

Her passion for mentoring others is rooted in her Christian faith and her belief that God uniquely equips individuals to influence the lives of those they are called to serve. Dr. Garner considers it a privilege to walk alongside graduate students as they develop their professional identity, strengthen their counseling skills, and prepare to become servant leaders in schools and communities. 

Outside of the university, Dr. Garner values faith, family, service, and opportunities to encourage and mentor others. She approaches both her personal and professional life with a desire to live purposefully, serve faithfully, and help others recognize the possibilities God has placed before them.