Joyce Davidson, Ph.D.

Director

My theoretical approach to counseling definitely integrates a number of my favorite theoretical systems. This is because I never met a theory I didn't like and I never met a theory I thought was the whole picture. Essentially, I believe that meaning and purpose are the most salient factors in a person's ability to operate in the world with energy and balance. So I start with a spiritual/ existential flavor to my work. I think that the way we experience our world is a combination of what we learn from our environment, the conclusions we draw from what we experience, and the temperament with which we are born. So I throw in family systems, learning theory and phenomenological approaches, such as Adlerian theory. I believe we sometimes use logic and reason to understand and behavioral practice to change habits, so I use a little CBT when a client seems to respond to that. But we often understand things best when we think metaphorically and symbolically so I have allowed myself to be influenced by Jung and Milton Erickson. Finally, none of this can occur unless the interpersonal connection in the therapy room is strong so I value the contributions of folks like Rogers and Kahn. In addition, real progress in psychotherapy may be limited by biochemistry if a person is too depressed to engage or too anxious to focus. Then I value the contribution of psychopharmacology. Each case is different and my approach varies. Maybe I would call it Therapy de Jour.

My areas of professional interest are a good fit for the college population. I am interested in identity development, in individuation, in trauma recovery, in relationship enhancement, and in management of depression and anxiety. In addition to the standard Counseling Psychology training of a doctoral program, I have additional training in Adlerian psychology, family systems, and EMDR along with workshop exposure to a lot of other approaches.

My supervisory style is pretty developmental and starts with a lot of trust that my supervisee will be able to identify and share the needs that he/she has. This takes a relationship of trust between my supervisee and me. I would always rather know when my supervisee thinks (s)he may have "blown it" so we can apply some encouragement, any damage control necessary, and some confidence that imperfection is an acceptable and useful condition. I am primarily focused helping my supervisee feel equipped and confident to do clinical work. To this end we view tape, discuss therapeutic options, explore the relationship with clients, and work to identify the supervisee.s strengths as well as areas for growth. In addition, I like to spend some time discussing areas of professional development and career choices.

I am married and have three grown daughters, and seven terrific grandchildren, six of whom are boys. I love my work and I love socializing especially in smaller groups. Cooking is fun for me, reading is my escape, and traveling is something I never can get enough of. I hate exercise but am constantly resolving to become a better person and do more of it.