R.J. Davis, Ph.D. - Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator

In which online degree program(s) do you teach?

M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Why did you start teaching?

I started teaching because I love to share information. I also believe education can and should be transformative. I have had the benefit of being taught by some outstanding teachers and wanted to pay it forward. In my current position, I train people to help others. In this way, I get to pay it forward every day.

What's the best advice that you have ever received?

The best advice I have ever received was to look for and live in "the positive." It is always there, but sometimes you must look closely.

What's the best advice that you could give your students?

Read everything you can get your hands on. I love reading, and knowledge is empowering! Being a lifelong learner keeps you young!

What is the one book you think everyone should read?

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.

What qualities make someone particularly successful in mental health counseling?

A strong sense of empathy is the first one that comes to mind, but self-awareness is vital as well.

What do you think is the biggest challenge that people in the profession face today?

I think compassion, fatigue or burnout are the biggest challenges facing individuals in all helping professions. Another challenge is raising public awareness to mental health issues. We can do more. In fact, we must.

Tell us something your students may not know about you.

I was a public middle school teacher for a decade and loved every minute of it! I am certified to teach English, American History, Speech, and Theatre. My previous career goals included acting and politics.