Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences (PHLS) associate professor Nathan Grant Smith has been recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a Fellow of the Society of Counseling Psychology (Division 17).  Fellow status is awarded to those who have made substantial contributions to the field that are unusual and outstanding. It recognizes excellent contributions to the field that go above and beyond the ordinary. 

Consideration for this award centered on Smith’s research on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) health and HIV prevention.  His national service to the field and advocacy work on behalf of LGBT persons and persons living with HIV were also considered

Research

Smith’s research focuses on issues of stress and coping, with an emphasis on marginalized groups. Most of his work has targeted LGBT persons and the health outcomes associated with stigma and discrimination as well as preventing HIV transmission via examining the links between stress, coping, and HIV risk in vulnerable groups, such as gay and bisexual men.  

National Service to the Field

Smith has made significant contributions to the field of counseling psychology through extensive service to APA.  For example, he began his service shortly after receiving his doctorate.  He served on, and then chaired, the APA Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Concerns (CLGBTC), during which he helped to develop APA policy regarding LGBT issues.

Advocacy

An example of Smith’s advocacy for LGBT individuals’ rights and well-being is his development of a high school lesson plan for teaching about sexual orientation. “I saw a need for LGBT issues to be more fully integrated into the high school curriculum,” said Smith.  “So I led a partnership with the APA Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools (TOPSS) to develop a unique lesson plan for teaching the psychology of sexual orientation.”

All of Smith’s contributions to the field of counseling psychology led to his recognition as Fellow of the Society of Counseling Psychology (Division 17). His extensive involvement in service to APA, numerous advocacy and outreach activities, and research has distinguished him as a leader in counseling psychology.

“I am honored to be among the leaders in counseling psychology and humbled by the recognition of my peers,” said Smith.   “Fellow status in the Society of Counseling Psychology signifies that my work is having an important impact at the national level. Moreover, I am proud to be counted among the Fellows of the Society of Counseling Psychology; they are leaders in social justice and are making important contributions to the lives of marginalized populations.”  

“This is a well-deserved honor for Dr. Smith,” said PHLS department chair Ezemenari Obasi.  “His research is improving outcomes for a vulnerable population, and we look forward to seeing his impact in the years to come.”

For more information on Dr. Smith and his research, please visit his website at www.coreresearchteam.com.