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Chicago | Professor, Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)

Jerry F. Westermeyer, Ph.D.

Overview

Overview

I believe the aim of education is to invite participation that best develops strong, independent thinking, inspires individuals for continual learning and promotes social justice. The process of education should continue after graduation as students transcend both content and teacher over time. To best metabolize a discipline and become truly independent critical thinkers, students must, in part, both reject and accept (or take in) aspects of teachers and mentors.

I believe that dialogue, in which both teacher and students may learn from each other, is a key component of education. Consequently, I emphasize discussions in my class that focus on problem solving skills, listening and tolerating different interpretations and solutions. I believe that the highest form of scholarship involves paradox and so class dialogue should involve questions that imply two or more credible responses. In shared inquiry, a form of dialogue I use extensively in my classes, students are asked to respectfully listen to others and to support their interpretations with evidence and logic. I believe that diversity is best advanced by such authentic dialogue.

I also believe that research and science on one hand and clinical practice and social justice on the other hand are not inimical to one another—but rather serve each other. To best promote social justice and clinical training, a solid foundation in research and science is essential—and my heroes easily move in interdisciplinary and multiple spheres based on empirical science.

I teach at Adler University because I love teaching and I believe in its students. In general, I find most Adler students motivated to learn and to help others. I consider it a privilege to teach such students.

Please email or call me 312.662.4351 if you have questions or would like more information about me.

Education

Education

  • Ph.D., Committee on Human Development, The University of Chicago
  • M.A., International Relations, The University of Chicago
  • B.A., Political Science and History, St. Mary’s College
Licensure

Licensure

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP, Illinois)
Professional Memberships

Professional Memberships

  • American Psychological Association (APA)
  • Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA)
  • Society for Research in Psychopathology (SRP)
Select Publications

Select Publications

  • Waters, D. P., Westermeyer, J. F., Gralewski, C., Schneider, M. F. & Warkentin, M. (2008). Lifestyle among abuse-reporting outpatients. The Journal of Individual Psychology, 64, 55–66.
  • Westermeyer, J. F. (2004). Predictors and characteristics of Erikson’s Life cycle model among men: A 32-year longitudinal study. The International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 58, 29–48.
  • Westermeyer, J. F. (2001). Severity of psychosocial stressors scale. The Corsini encyclopedia of psychology and behavioral science, third edition, 4. (pp. 1498–1500). New York, NY: Wiley & Sons.
  • Westermeyer, J. F. (1998). Predictors and characteristics of mental health among men at midlife: A 32-year longitudinal study. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 68, 265–273.
  • Westermeyer, J. F. (1993). Schizophrenia. In P. Tolan and B. Cohler (Eds.), Handbook of clinical research and practice with adolescents. (pp. 359-385) New York, NY: Wiley & Sons.
Select Presentations

Select Presentations

  • The PCMAD (Primary Care Mood and Anxiety Diagnoser): Noteworthy Briefs from the Field, PCMAD: A Self-Report Scale for Improved Detection of Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 15(5), 26–27, 2008
Awards

Awards

  • Adler School Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching, 2008–2009
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology Research, Michael Reese Hospital, 1982–1983

Chicago Campus

Located in the heart of the city, the Chicago Campus was designed to provide and inspire the learning and living experience. To that end, we have created an environment that caters to your mental, emotional, and intellectual growth. Our classrooms are bright and spacious with windows to the outside world and the latest technology. In our Library, you will find every resource you need to research, form, and shape your journey. At Adler University, we have more than enough room to share your thoughts and flex your intellect.

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