Rachel M Heater

Rachel M Heater is an Adjunct Professor in the Marriage and Family Therapy Department at Mercy University's School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. She holds a doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy and maintains a private practice serving children, families, and couples.

• Teaching Focus: PSYN 605 (Couples Therapy), CNSL 620 (Systemic Approaches to Counseling), PSYN 710 (MFT Clinical Research Project)
• Previous Courses: PSYN 101 (Intro to Psychology), PSYN 210 (History of Psychology), PSYN 234 (Perspectives in Parenting), PSYN 226 (Computers for Behavioral Science)

Dr. Heater’s research centers on family dynamics and the therapeutic power of rituals, particularly family dinners. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes collaborative learning, curiosity, and building classroom community. She is certified as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, highlighting her expertise in couples therapy, trauma, and court-involved families.

Her professional work intersects with clinical practice, family systems theory, and behavioral science applications, though no recent publications or grants are detailed in the provided text.