Called to Help

At William Carey University's Psychology and Counseling Department, our expert faculty and staff are committed to nurturing scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and creative expression, enabling students to serve others while mastering the theory and practice of behavioral sciences.

Our department prides itself on offering students unparalleled opportunities to apply their learning in real-world settings, fostering both personal and professional growth. Through our comprehensive curriculum, students have the chance to engage directly with the community and gain hands-on experience in a variety of field settings. These include psychiatric hospitals, school guidance centers, adult daycares, addiction treatment facilities, nursing homes, programs for adolescent offenders, group homes, and residential facilities for intellectually disabled individuals, among others. Additionally, opportunities in sheltered workshops and medical clinics allow our students to develop a deep understanding of the behavioral sciences, preparing them for a future of meaningful impact and service.

You've got questions - We've got insights!

Are you fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind? Do you feel called to help others navigate the complex mix of emotions and thoughts? Explore the intersection of faith and science in our Psychology and Counseling programs at William Carey University, where we equip you to make a profound difference in lives and communities.


Meet the Chair

Dr. Ritchie Sheridan

Richard Sheridan is the Chair of the Psychology department at William Carey University. He began serving in the Psychology department in 2014. Dr. Sheridan has served multiple client populations in various clinical contexts during his career. He has provided therapeutic services to individuals, families, children, adolescents, adults, married couples, and elderly clients. Across Nevada, Louisiana, and Mississippi Dr. Sheridan provided individual, couple, group, and family therapy in community, school, clinic, and in-home settings as well as a juvenile prison. Dr. Sheridan has also served as a bivocational associate and youth pastor for a few churches in Mississippi and Louisiana.

Dr. Sheridan’s doctoral studies focused on Milan Systemic therapy, the MRI group, and the works of classic marriage and family theorists. His dissertation entitled “A Phenomenological Study of the Motivations of Individuals and Families seeking to become Non-Kinship Therapeutic Foster Parents” is a qualitative study focused upon interviewing potential foster parents to understand their motivations for seeking to become therapeutic foster parents.

Degrees and Certifications

  • Ph.D., Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Louisiana Monroe, 2014
  • Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Counseling, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, 2004
  • Bachelor of Arts, Biblical Studies and Psychology, William Carey College, 2001
  • Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) in the State of Mississippi (License- 1555).