Mel Whalen

Mel Whalen, PhD, LP is an Adjunct Professor at the Michigan School of Psychology (MSP), where they supervise students in the Master of Arts (MA) program. Dr. Whalen’s academic journey includes degrees in sociology, women’s studies, and linguistics, which they later integrated into psychology to address generational trauma through practical, humanistic approaches.

• Focus on neurodivergent, queer, and marginalized populations
• Specialization in Deaf adults, parents of Deaf children, and Deaf-hearing couples
• Research interest in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for complex trauma
• Advocacy for language accessibility in Deaf families
• Humanistic teaching philosophy emphasizing authenticity and self-disclosure

Dr. Whalen’s work bridges systemic marginalization and clinical innovation, advocating for therapists to engage in personal growth through their own therapy to better serve clients.