معرفی
James M. Geckler serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Counseling, Educational Leadership, and School Psychology at Rhode Island College. Based in Horace Mann Room 231, he can be reached via email at jgeckler@ric.edu or by phone at 401-456-9633. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Penn State (2016), complemented by advanced degrees in mental health counseling and psychology.
His formal education includes:
- Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision, The Pennsylvania State University, 2016
- C.A.G.S. in Mental Health Counseling, Rhode Island College, 2013
- M.A. in General Psychology, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, 2008
- B.A. in Psychology, Kent State University, 2005
Dr. Geckler's research explores the intersection of identity development, particularly among marginalized and oppressed populations, with a focus on LGBTQ individuals and children. He investigates stigma reduction strategies and the role of multicultural competency in counseling practices. His clinical work emphasizes adolescent mental health and case conceptualization within diverse contexts, aiming to foster inclusive therapeutic environments that address systemic oppression and promote mental well-being for vulnerable groups.
His scholarly contributions examine school connectedness and social problem solving in bullying prevention through collaborative school-based teams. These works highlight culturally responsive interventions for enhancing adolescent mental health outcomes and reducing bullying incidents via systemic approaches that strengthen school climate and student belonging.
Professional affiliations include:
- Rhode Island Mental Health Counselors Association
- American Counseling Association
- Association of Counselor Education and Supervision
- Association of Multicultural Counseling and Development
- North Atlantic Association of Counselor Education and Supervision
While specific grant details are unlisted, Dr. Geckler's development of Project TEAM demonstrates active mentorship of graduate students and leadership in school-based mental health initiatives. His course instruction spans counseling theory, research methods, and clinical practicum training for future mental health practitioners.
Dr. Geckler co-developed Project TEAM, a school-based initiative addressing mental health needs of bullies, victims, and bystanders through collaborative counselor-researcher-practitioner teams. This program emphasizes culturally relevant interventions to improve school climate and student well-being, with presentations at national conferences highlighting its application in diverse educational settings.
