معرفی
Douglas Crews serves as Associate Professor of Social Work within Belmont University's College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, bringing expertise from his PhD in Social Work (University of Utah), MSW (University of Central Florida), MDiv (Vanderbilt University Divinity School), and BA in Religion (Belmont University). A Licensed Master Social Worker and certified Spiritual Director, he has extensive clinical experience with developmentally disabled individuals, older adults, LGBTQ+ communities, and college students through prior ministry work with the United Methodist Church and therapeutic social work practice.
His educational credentials include:
- PhD in Social Work, University of Utah
- MSW, University of Central Florida
- MDiv, Vanderbilt University Divinity School
- BA in Religion, Belmont University
Dr. Crews' research centers on self-compassion and mindfulness as transformative tools intersecting with diversity, social/economic/environmental justice, and LGBTQ+ issues. He critically examines religious trauma within spirituality-social work integration while advancing social work education methodologies. His work consistently emphasizes identity formation, belonging, and truth-seeking in marginalized populations through innovative pedagogical approaches.
Analysis of his 2014-2021 publications reveals persistent focus on self-compassion applications across diverse contexts - particularly LGBTQ+ coming-out narratives, sexual violence recovery, and eco-mindfulness practices. He employs creative qualitative methods including six-word essays and ecomaps while bridging social work with yoga therapy, hip-hop culture, and environmental consciousness to develop culturally responsive interventions.
His scientific recognition includes:
- Belmont University Chaney Distinguished Professor Teaching Award (2022)
Dr. Crews actively mentors students through faculty sponsorship of the Bridge Builders LGBTQ+ Student Group and Muslim Student Association, while collaborating with campus counseling services and leading international study programs. His teaching portfolio spans Crisis Intervention, Mindfulness, Mental Health, and Exploring Human Diversity courses in the BSW program, reflecting commitment to experiential learning and social justice advocacy.
Though not lab-affiliated, he cultivates interdisciplinary partnerships across campus to address mental health disparities and promote inclusive environments, particularly through his work with Muslim student populations and LGBTQ+ communities at this Christian university context.
