User:Smithmr72

Dr. Michael Robert Smith (born Nov 17, 1971, Duluth MN) is a internationally published academic, researcher, and leader in the field of integrating body-mind counseling. His work has been considered groundbreaking with historical significance in the field of Counseling research for the focus placed on integrating spirituality and alternative, body-based therapies into the counseling process.

Dr. Smith's dissertation research found that the higher levels of counselor Spirituality and Self-Actualization were associated with increased effectiveness of counseling sessions. This line of research had never before been pursued and was the first of its kind to associate practitioner spirituality, as well as other personality traits, with counseling effectiveness.

Dr. Smith received his Masters degree in Educational Psychology/Counseling from the University of Minnesota in 1996 and his Ph.D. in Counselor Education from the University of Nevada-Reno in 2002. In 2002, Dr. Smith was awarded an Assistant Professorship of Counselor Education at the University of Wyoming.

Since 2000, he has been a prolific writer and researcher, publishing over 13 peer-reviewed, scientific journal articles. His most recent publications include a book chapter in the upcoming book "Spirituality as a Fifth Force," entitled "Finding the Spirit Within: Religion, Spirituality, and Faith Development in Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Individuals."

Over the past decade, Dr. Smith has given over 35 invited international, national and regional conference presentations of his research. Michael has been an active member of the American Counseling Association (ACA). He was a past Associate Editor and Editorial Board Member of the ACA journal "Counselor Education & Supervision" and has been a Board Member of the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling.

Dr. Smith, currently practices in Santa Fe, NM. He publishes frequent articles and his latest research findings at www.imagine-wellness.com.