Dr. Cheryl Dueck Smith
Educators have a profound impact on the lives of the students they serve. In addition to providing a creative learning environment, they also provide emotional support. I have a passion for equipping educators to attend to the complex emotional needs of their students. I want to share my expertise in working with relational issues as a marriage and family therapist so that educators can gain resources and a greater understanding of how to walk alongside students who are struggling from issues stemming from their home environment.
Professional Experience: I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy. In addition to my clinical practice, I supervise unlicensed therapists working in local schools with On-Site Counseling. I have been an adjunct professor at Fresno Pacific University for ten years.
Personal Experience: I have lived overseas in Lithuania, Czech Republic, and Zambia. I developed peace club curriculum for schools in Zambia that are now used around the world.
Honors and Awards: Dennis B. Guernsey Award, School of Psychology, 1998, “Recognizing a Christian lifestyle which balances academic responsibilities and clinical skill with personal, family, and spiritual concerns.”; Dean’s Award, School of Psychology, 1996 for demonstrating academic competence, strong Christian faith and a commitment to the integration of psychology and theology; Summa Cum Laude Graduation Honor for Academic Excellence, Fresno Pacific College, 1993
Publications: Smith, Cheryl Dueck (2020). Fighting fatigue. Christian Leader, Vol. 83, No. 5.; Smith, Cheryl Dueck (2007). Mourning dance. Christian Leader, 70:3:15.
Recommended Readings: One of my favorite books is "The Gift of Being Yourself" by David Benner
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 139
Favorite Activities: I love to go for walks with friends, enjoy a good laugh over a shared meal, and get lost in a great novel.
Family Info: Married to my husband, Peter, since 1993; two young adult sons
What Matters: Knowing that we are deeply loved by God
Pet Peeves: Mansplaining!
What I Like About FPU: The emphasis on community and shalom.