Abnormal Psychology

David Kays

PsyD

Doane University

My name is Dr. David Kays and I am an adjunct instructor in the Psychology department. I have a PsyD in clinical psychology, work as a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Oregon, and have been teaching various courses in the field of psychology since 2015. I believe that both education and therapy share core elements, including vulnerability, growth, and self-evaluation. When we seek therapy it is often because what we have been doing is no longer working or accomplishing our goals. Similarly, it is often a goal of pursuing education to ask for help, to be equipped with new knowledge and skills, and to hopefully apply them with wisdom to our lives and careers. It is a vulnerable place to ask for help, to ask for the perspective of another. I believe (from personal and professional experience) that the first step of healing, recovery, and transition begins with validation and acknowledgment of where we currently are. It is difficult to define and pursue hope without first identifying where we are and where we want to go. I believe that both academic endeavors and the therapy room are spaces to validate and nurture the process of defining and aligning with our values, while incorporating new information and skills. I prioritize respect and honor as it is a privilege to listen to the stories and individuals that I serve. In these spaces, growth can happen. I see my role as helping people feel secure and aware, equipping them to wisely take risks aligned with their values, and to establish a space where students are able to integrate new learning into their lived experiences.