About Us

Growing up as an only child with older parents and a father who was a pastor made my adolescence and high school years complex. Fortunately, I met a compassionate social worker, Mary, who provided guidance during difficult times, helping me navigate challenges, poor decisions, and feelings of isolation. That experience ignited my passion for helping others, shaping a lifelong commitment to supporting individuals through life’s obstacles. While I wasn’t certain what form this calling would take, I knew it would be central to my purpose.

Denise Hayes & Associates Counseling and Consultation, LLC is the realization of that vision. We provide compassionate, expert counseling services across the lifespan, along with engaging workshops and presentations that promote mental health awareness and reduce barriers to seeking support. Over time, my passion has expanded beyond clinical care to include fostering healthy organizational cultures. My dedication to service is reflected not only in my professional work but also in my leadership and volunteer roles within nonprofit organizations.

 

Our Mission

At Denise Hayes & Associates, we are committed to empowering individuals and organizations through counseling, consultation, and leadership development. We believe in fostering resilience, inclusiveness, and well-being in every space we serve. Let us partner with you to create a healthier, more supportive future.

Consultation Services

At Denise Hayes & Associates, we offer expert consultation services tailored to organizations in higher education, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. Our approach involves deeply understanding an organization’s history, culture, and community while aligning strategies with its mission and goals. We recognize and build upon each organization’s unique strengths, identifying opportunities for sustainable growth and improvement.

• Our Consultation Expertise Includes:
  • Integrating counseling and health services for a seamless care experience
  • Reviewing and updating university policies on alcohol and drug use
  • Developing interdepartmental collaborations on college campuses
  • Strengthening partnerships between campus entities and local communities
  • Restructuring financial strategies for continuing care retirement communities to enhance admissions, staffing, and governance stability

Higher Education Administration

Leadership in higher education demands adaptability and strategic vision across diverse institutional landscapes. From public and private universities to urban and rural settings, leadership roles are shaped by institutional growth phases, transitions, and external influences. Dr. Hayes brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, offering coaching, consulting, and strategic guidance to administrators and organizations.

• Previous Leadership Roles in Higher Education:
  • Associate Vice Provost for Health and Wellness, Indiana University Bloomington – Led system-wide mental health and wellness initiatives, overseeing Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Health Services, and the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy.
  • Vice President for Student Services, The Claremont Colleges – Provided leadership for Counseling and Student Services, Multicultural Centers, the Office of Religious Life, and the Office of Disability Services.
  • Associate Dean of Students, DePauw University – Oversaw Multicultural Affairs, Student Health and Counseling Services, and Career Services.

Nonprofit Leadership

Nonprofit organizations are the backbone of strong communities, providing critical services and advocating for social change. Dr. Hayes’ dedication to nonprofit leadership stems from childhood and continues today through extensive board service and volunteer leadership.

• Previous Leadership Roles in Nonprofit Organizations:
  • President, Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors (AUCCCD) – Supported the professional growth and leadership development of college and university mental health service directors.
  • Vice President, Board of Directors, Pilgrim Place – Contributed to the governance and strategic planning of a senior residential community committed to lifelong service and social impact.
  • Chapter President, Secretary, and Graduate Advisor, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Served in multiple leadership roles within this international service organization dedicated to academic excellence and social advocacy.

Current Role:

Secretary, Indiana Association of Black Psychologists – Advocating for culturally competent mental health care and working to destigmatize mental health issues in African American communities. Currently serving a second term.