The Shrinks
Why Do People Do What They Do?
Peter J. Economou, Ph.D. earned a Ph.D. in counseling psychology and is a cognitive and behavioral psychologist. Dr. Pete completed his internship training to earn a Ph.D. in counseling psychology in 2011 and completed post-doctorate clinical training in neuropsychology while joining the faculty at Felician College in the Counseling Psychology M.A. program as an Assistant Professor that same year. He is alsp an adjunct professor, a former collegiate swim coach, and a humanitarian. He completed various international relief projects, which included working with children and adults with developmental disabilities in the Caribbean, and individuals with HIV and AIDS throughout Africa. Studying at SHU, Dr. Pete was conferred a B.S. in Biology, studied Neuroscience at the graduate level, and was conferred a M.A. and an Ed.S. in counseling and psychological studies and mental health counseling, respectively.
Dr. Pete is licensed by the state of New Jersey to practice psychology and as a Professional Counselor (LPC), and in New York as a psychologist. He approaches therapy from a cognitive orientation, primarily of Beckian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He creates an open dialogue about treatment techniques and goals are set and evaluated biweekly. It is his belief that many of our concerns are routed in learned experiences and we can train our minds to function at the optimal envisioned level. Over the past several years, Dr. Pete has studied eastern philosophy including Buddhism and Yoga. He has found benefits from infusing these principles into the counseling practice which include techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
Dr. Pete has trained at a variety of mental health settings treating individuals across the life span. His training included methadone and other substance abuse clinics, family treatment centers, university counseling and disability support services, hospital settings including neuropsychology assessment and intensive outpatient services, assisted living facilities, private practice, and a summer camp for students with developmental disabilities. Dr. Pete offers interdisciplinary treatment including referrals to psychiatrists, physicians, nutritionists, physical trainers, nurses, social workers, and other professionals that can assist an individual to achieve the stated goals.
Dr. Pete has completed myriad of research projects where he has presented at national and international conferences. His research interests vary including studies investigating the impact of stress and trauma on learning, memory, and executive functioning, the varying romantic relationship models and differences between the heterosexual and homosexual populations, gender, and the affects of heterosexism and stress on sexual minorities. Dr. Pete is an active member of professional organizations including the American Psychological Association (APA; divisions 17, 40, 44), The New Jersey Counseling Association (NJCA), National Academy of Neuropsychology (NAN), New Jersey Psychological Association (NJPA), Latino Psychologist Association of New Jersey (LPANJ), and the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies (CLAGS).
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