Learner Stories: Deborah Moore

Sergeant/Clinical Supervisor, NYPD

In early 2001, Deborah Moore was researching the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder on law enforcement officers as part of her Capella University doctoral program. A few months later, the September 11 terrorist attacks turned her research into a roadmap for effective treatment.

"On that day, I was able to develop a counseling approach for officers on the front lines," said Moore, a sergeant with the New York City police department. "The research was still fresh in my mind, and our action plan was later used to counsel officers across the entire force."

Moore's upward career path has closely mirrored her educational accomplishments. Starting as a patrol officer, she later taught at the New York Police Academy while completing traditional bachelor's and master's degrees. However, when she was assigned to NYPD's employee assistance program, Moore knew the increased time demands would not accommodate a regular class schedule. She chose Capella's counseling studies program because of its practical applications. "Working with police officers, I needed a direct emphasis on clinical counseling skills, and that's what Capella delivered," Moore said.

Moore completed her dissertation, which explored coping strategies to handle the stress of police work, and earned her PhD in 2004. She was promoted to clinical supervisor of the employee assistance program and also runs a small private counseling practice — in addition to teaching two courses as a Capella University adjunct professor.

Despite a hectic schedule, Moore strives to give learners the same level of attention she received in the online courserooms. "At Capella, I was blessed to have instructors that didn't make me feel like I was working in isolation," Moore said. "Now, I try to make sure my learners know there is an actual person behind the computer screen, ready to help them when needed."