Dr. Justin Ciralsky is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at Milligan University. He sees his role as coming alongside others who may be struggling and walking with them on their journey toward becoming who they hope to be. Dr. Ciralsky believes counseling is both an art and a ministry, a sacred opportunity to help others find healing, wholeness, and hope through relationship. As a counselor educator, he works with and learns from students who feel called to serve others in their moments of need, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and character necessary to excel as both clinicians and servant leaders. His goal is to cultivate a learning community marked by humility, curiosity, and spiritual growth, one where students are encouraged to think deeply, serve faithfully, and pursue excellence together in their calling to Christ-centered service.

A proud Milligan alumnus, Dr. Ciralsky graduated in 2007 and is grateful to once again call Milligan home. He deeply values the formative role the university played in his own spiritual and professional growth and is excited to give back to the place that gave him so much.

Dr. Ciralsky is a Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) with an active school counseling license. He earned his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of the Cumberlands. His research interests center on attachment, relationships, and counseling children, youth, and young adults.

Before joining the faculty at Milligan, Dr. Ciralsky served as a mental health counselor, school counselor, youth pastor, and campus pastor. These experiences allow him to integrate theory, practice, and faith as he prepares future counselors to lead with empathy and integrity.

Guided by his life verse, “Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well” (1 Thessalonians 2:8), Dr. Ciralsky views his role at Milligan as an opportunity to live out that calling. He considers it a privilege to invest in the next generation of servant leaders as they grow into professionals who lead with curiosity, kindness, and Christlike compassion in every space they serve.

Education:
Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision, University of the Cumberlands

Clinical and Professional Experience:
Licensed Professional Counselor Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP)
Active School Counseling License
Mental Health Counselor, School Counselor, Youth Pastor, Campus Pastor