Dr. Jillian Mahatha

• Instructor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Dr. Jillian Mahatha (Dr. J.) has, for over a decade, passionately practiced as a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina and Texas. She is a certified play and trauma therapist and is an approved supervisor. She owns and operates a private practice in Texas, where she sees clients from North Carolina virtually.

Dr. Mahatha has been an adjunct professor in the Mental Health Counseling Program at BVU since 2024. She earned a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision in 2023 from Walden University and a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2012 from Capella University. 

Dr. Mahatha’s teaching philosophy includes Bandura’s belief that there is a relationship between self-efficacy and motivation. If one has a weak sense of self-efficacy, they may view their set academic goals as obstacles. In turn, this causes anxiety, decreases motivation to accomplish educational goals, and diminishes performance and the desire to progress (Pervin et al., 2005). She aims to design experiences that encourage students to think critically and analytically while creating a nurturing environment that inspires students to reach their goals and remain motivated.

When not working, she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, playing board games, cycling, studying French, and listening to music.