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Eric W. Cowan, Psy.D.
Associate Professor of Counseling Psychology
Email: cowanwe@jmu.edu
Phone: 540-568-7900
Office: Cleveland Hall, Room 211
Education & Professional Qualifications
Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Virginia
| Ph.D | California School of Professional Psychology |
|---|---|
| M.S. | James Madison University |
| B.A. | James Madison University |
I dropped out of college to be a rock star but the world wasn’t ready for my lack of talent so I had to go back and get a bunch of degrees. I was raised with three brothers (two of them older) so my early research focused on narcissistic wounds and the development of compensatory structures in self formation. Self psychology/intersubjectivity theory became a main interest of mine, especially as they intersect with Humanistic approaches. The theory and practice of counseling forms the core of my teaching and research, and I maintain a small private practice. Studies in consciousness and a lifelong interest in mythology, religion and human potential inform my reading and teaching in transpersonal studies. A recent trip to India offers new areas of collaboration with fellow psychologists there. My greatest achievement is shooting the Pillsbury Doughboy on TV with my b.b. gun while skipping school as I was repeating the third grade.
Teaching Interests & Program Affiliations
| Faculty: | Counseling Psychology |
|---|---|
| Courses: | Theories of Counseling Practicum Group Counseling Process of Counseling Psychopathology and Intervention Planning Transpersonal Psychology |
Scholarship
My scholarly interests include self-psychology, intersubjectivity, counseling process, consciousness/transpersonal psychology.
Selected Publications:
Book and book chapters:
- “Ariadne’s Thread: Case Studies in the Therapeutic Relationship”
- “Becoming a Community Counselor: Personal and Professional Explorations.” Boston: Lahaska/ Houghton Mifflin
- "Thriving! A Manual for Students in the Helping Professions," published by Lahaska/Houghton Mifflin.
Professional Service
I organized JMU’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), which provides individual, couple, family and group counseling, along with psychological assessment, to children, adolescents, and adults in the community. I was recognized by the JMU Mortarboard for Outstanding Teaching.
