Sean Davis

Sean Davis is a Professor of Marital and Family Therapy at the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University. He holds a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy from Virginia Tech (2005) and is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 45885).

• Specializes in common factors across effective MFT models
• Focuses on bridging the scientist/practitioner gap in MFT
• Promotes international MFT education through student programs in Mexico and Italy

Education

• BA in Family Studies, Brigham Young University
• MS in Marriage and Family Therapy, Brigham Young University
• PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, Virginia Tech
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of Kentucky

Research Interests
Dr. Davis leads research on common factors in couple and family therapy, emphasizing the integration of techniques, alliance, and therapist presence. His work extends to clinical supervision frameworks and ecological self-of-the-therapist issues, reflecting a commitment to both theoretical and practical advancements in MFT. Publications demonstrate consistent focus on synthesizing common factors into education and practice, with recurring themes in therapist training and alliance dynamics.

Scientific Awards

• 2020 AAMFT Training Award
• 2015 & 2014 Journal of Marital and Family Therapy Article of the Year Awards
• 2011 Alliant International University Provost’s Pillar Award for Excellence in Scholarship
• 2010 Journal of Marital and Family Therapy Reviewer of the Year Award
• 2006 & 2005 AAMFT Dissertation and Graduate Student Research Awards

Contributions
Co-author of the seminal textbook Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods and the foundational book Common Factors in Couple and Family Therapy. His editorial work spans books and journal articles, with a focus on training materials, therapeutic frameworks, and cultural considerations in MFT.