Mark M. Leach, Ph. D.

 

I am an Associate Professor in the Counseling Psychology Program at the University of Southern Mississippi, where I have worked since 1992. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Cincinnati, and then earned my doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Oklahoma.

 

My research is in the broad field of multiculturalism. More specifically, I tend to focus on white racial attitudes and how the processes may be similar to other attitudes, and also how they interface with counseling. I also concentrate on the relationship of psychology and religion, most notably God images, forgiveness, spirituality, and the virtues. Related to these interests I am beginning to focus some attention on why and how people choose various sections of the Bible to justify their attitudes while neglecting other parts. My interest in cultural aspects of suicide has recently grown, and I have done some work comparing international ethics codes, which I find challenging but interesting.

 

My graduate level courses include classes in diversity, individual and group practica, psychology and religion, and various foundational courses, while my undergraduate courses include abnormal psychology.

I have been on a number of editorial boards including The Counseling Psychologist , the Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development , and Counselor Education and Supervision.

I am also on the Executive Committee and Newsletter Editor for Counseling Psychology (Division 16) of the International Association of Applied Psychology, and have been involved with Division 17 of APA.

I am licensed in the state of Mississippi and also conduct evaluations for a local mental health center and the state.

 

CREDENTIALS

Licensed Psychologist (Mississippi #33-515)
Prov. Registered, Province of Newfoundland #114 (inactive)
Civil Commitment Examiner (Mississippi #94-06)
Competency Examiner (Mississippi)