Russ Curtis

Russ Curtis is a Professor of Counseling at Western Carolina University (WCU), serving as coordinator of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. He holds a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, an MHDL in Clinical Counseling from UNC Charlotte, and a BA in Business Management from NC State University.

His research focuses on integrated care, adolescent anxiety, positive behavioral interventions in schools, and growth mindset. He has authored/co-authored influential works such as Integrated Care: Applying Theory to Practice and produced instructional videos like Integrated Care in Action and Positive Psychotherapy: Helping People Thrive (2013 Editor’s Choice award).

Russ has published in journals like the Journal of Mental Health Counseling and maintains an active YouTube channel with 1.4M views across 135 countries, featuring 80+ counseling instructional videos. His work emphasizes bridging clinical and educational settings, particularly in fostering resilience and holistic care for at-risk populations.

Teaching interests include counseling theories, assessment, and positive psychotherapy. He has supervised hundreds of school and clinical counselors over 20 years, advocating for evidence-based practices in mental health.