Rochester Hills, Michigan — March 2026 — Dr. Tobi Russell, owner of Rochester Area Counseling Services and full-time faculty member at Central Michigan University, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Samuel T. Gladding Unsung Heroes Award by the American Counseling Association (ACA). The award will be presented at the American Counseling Association National Conference in April 2026 in Ohio.

The Samuel T. Gladding Unsung Heroes Award highlights the vital role professional counselors play in supporting individuals, families, and communities, and recognizes those whose steady dedication often occurs behind the scenes but has a lasting impact.

Dr. Samuel T. Gladding, former president of the American Counseling Association and past trustee of the American Counseling Association Foundation, long advocated for the counselors whose day-to-day work directly supports individuals in need but whose efforts are often overlooked. Dr. Gladding referred to these dedicated professionals as “Unsung Heroes.” He and his wife, Claire, established the award to recognize and celebrate these important contributions to the counseling profession.

Dr. Russell has dedicated more than 25 years to providing counseling services across multiple settings, including residential facilities, outpatient agencies, and private practice. Since 2011, she has owned and operated Rochester Area Counseling Services, a group private practice serving individuals and families in Michigan.

Throughout her career, Dr. Russell has worked with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a wide range of mental health and substance use concerns, including anxiety, trauma, non-suicidal self-injury, and addiction. Her work reflects a deep commitment to supporting clients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Russell is committed to preparing the next generation of counselors. She has taught at Baker College and Oakland University and currently serves as a full-time faculty member at Central Michigan University, where she educates and mentors future counseling professionals.

Dr. Russell holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Eastern Michigan University, a master’s degree in counseling and a doctorate in counselor education from Oakland University.

“I would like to thank the American Counseling Association for choosing me as the 2026 recipient of the Samuel T. Gladding Unsung Heroes Award,” said Dr. Russell. “It is an honor and a privilege to be a licensed professional counselor. Being able to impact clients through what is often a challenging time in their lives and to guide students at the beginning of their careers as counselors is truly a gift. I am grateful for this national acknowledgement from my peers and I look forward to many more years of making a difference as a counselor.”