For Dr. Kylie McBride, pursuing a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Counseling for Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella was a pivotal decision. Already walking alongside couples, families, and leaders through life’s toughest moments, she knew the importance of combining her pastoral calling with clinical training. The program helped her move beyond surface-level solutions to a deeper, systemic understanding—reshaping her work as a coach, minister, and educator. Through her books, coaching, and leadership, Dr. McBride continues to advocate for healing that is honest, ethical, and essential.
What inspired you to pursue the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Counseling for Marriage and Family Therapy at Capella?
Dr. Kylie McBride: I was already doing the work—walking with couples, leaders, and families through real pain—but I wanted to do it responsibly. Calling without competency can cause harm. I pursued the certificate because I needed clinical grounding to match the weight of the conversations people were trusting me with. Insight into the clinical diagnoses sharpened my ability as a pastoral counselor and helped me realize when situations were beyond my scope.
My training at Capella taught me to think systemically, not just spiritually or motivationally. It shifted my focus from fixing behavior to understanding patterns—and that has made my work more ethical, effective, and sustainable.
How does your counseling background inform your work as a coach, educator, and minister?
Dr. Kylie McBride: It keeps me grounded. Counseling reminds me that purpose without healing becomes pressure, and leadership without self-awareness creates damage. I’m more intentional about boundaries, pacing, and listening. I don’t rush people or myself past painful experiences to get them “back in the game.” Whether I’m teaching, coaching, or ministering, I create space for truth—because transformation doesn’t happen where people are pretending. Transformation takes place when time is given for change and healing.
Your books address healing and leadership. What did writing them reveal to you about the emotional weight leaders carry?
Dr. Kylie McBride: Writing forced me to slow down and sit with what leaders rarely say out loud. I had negotiated life without giving authentic attention to healing past trauma. Because I am had been relatively successful, there was little indication that I needed to pause of process those traumatic experiences. Writing caused me to confront myself. Like so many, I was leading while wounded—carrying responsibility, vision, and other people’s expectations with no permission to be human.
The writing process deepened my conviction that healing isn’t optional for leaders. It’s not self-care—it’s stewardship. Unaddressed pain doesn’t stay private; it shapes decisions, culture, and people.
What advice would you give to adult learners or professionals considering counseling or therapy as part of their leadership journey?
Dr. Kylie McBride: Don’t pursue counseling work for credentials or credibility—pursue it for accountability. This path will require you to face yourself first, and that’s where the real leadership begins. Can you lead the person in the mirror?
Respect the distinctions between coaching, counseling, and ministry. While there are similarities and overlaps, the nuances require varied levels of expertise. Honor those requirements through a wholehearted pursuit of learning and proper credentials. Stay humble. Stay supervised. And don’t rush the process. Depth takes time, and time is necessary to lead with wisdom, compassionate and authenticity.
Are you a proud Capella graduate making an impact in your field or community?
We’d love to hear your story. Share your accomplishments and be considered for a future alumni spotlight by submitting the Alumni Accomplishments Form. Your journey could inspire others to keep reaching for their goals.
