Meet Erica Parrish (PhD Candidate)

Erica Parrish, M.S., NCC, LSC, LCPC, PhD Candidate, is a licensed clinical professional counselor and licensed school counselor in Bozeman, Montana, with over 15 years of experience spanning school counseling, education, and clinical mental health. She recently completed a three-year term as Assistant Board Chair of the Montana School Counseling Association (MSCA) and currently serves as an adjunct professor in the CACREP-accredited counseling program at Montana State University. She is also the founder of ELM Coaching & Counseling, where she supports teens, young adults, and families through life transitions, anxiety, and goal-setting.

Professional Background

  • Credentials: M.S. in Counseling-Oregon State University; National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed School Counselor (LSC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).

  • Experience: 15+ years across K-12 school counseling, education, and clinical settings, supporting students and families through challenges and personal growth.

  • Higher Education: Adjunct professor, CACREP-accredited counseling program, Montana State University.

  • Leadership: Three-year term as Assistant Board Chair, Montana School Counseling Association (MTSCA).

  • Practice: Founder, ELM Coaching & Counseling, Bozeman, MT — counseling and teen-focused life coaching, in person and via telehealth.

Areas of Expertise & Advocacy

  • Motivational Strategies: Applies motivational interviewing alongside person-centered and solution-focused techniques to help students set and achieve meaningful goals.

  • State Leadership: Advanced statewide initiatives and advocacy for the school counseling profession during her tenure on the MTSCA board.

  • Teaching: Trains the next generation of school counselors as an adjunct instructor at Montana State University.