EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, LICENSURE AND  INTERESTS

  Education

I received a BA degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, with a major in Psychology in 1971.  I attended Covenant Theological Seminary for one year, where I studied theology and completed an internship in pastoral counseling.  I then attended the Rosemead School of Psychology, a graduate school focused on integrating Christian theology with preparation in the field of professional psychology. I received a Ph.D. from this institution in 1976. (www.rosemead.edu)

  Vocational Experience

I was first employed by Bethany Christian Services, in Sheldon, Iowa.  There I provided counseling and other psychological services until 1979.  I was employed by Pine Rest Christian Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from 1979 to 1983, where I provided counseling and psychological services to inpatients as well as outpatients.  In 1983, I began a private practice in Rapid City, South Dakota.  My practice consists primarily of counseling, as well as performing psychological evaluations for a variety of purposes.  I spend a significant portion of my time doing marriage counseling, and perhaps an equal amount of time working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, or who are struggling with normal life stresses.  I also work with people who have compulsive sexual behaviors, or who experience the residual effects of sexual abuse.  I have provided consultation to a number of agencies that provide services in the areas of chemical dependency, family counseling, vocational training, troubled adolescents, developmental disabilities, and determination of vocational disability.  I have had some brief college teaching experience.

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  Licensure and Professional Organizations

I was first licensed to practice psychology in the state of Iowa.  I have since been licensed in Michigan and Nebraska, and am currently licensed in South Dakota.  I am currently a member of the American Psychological Association, the South Dakota Psychological Association, and the American Association of Christian Counselors. (www.aacc.net)

  Professional Interests

I have a strong interest in enabling people to nurture and preserve their marriages. When the satisfaction and joy derived from marriage diminish, it is time to evaluate the cause, and determine what areas need rebuilding.  The value that I place in marriage has come largely from my own experience.  I have been married since 1971, and have two children, who are now young adults.  I view marriage as a privilege, a gift from God that requires understanding, care, and conscious maintenance.  For more information, go to the articles on marriage contained on this website.

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I have similarly strong interests in helping people cope and overcome depression, chronic anger, and anxiety. These conditions result from the accumulation of emotions that are common to all of us.  They deprive people of pleasure and satisfaction, and sometimes prevent them from accomplishing things of importance in their lives.  For more information, go to Articles by Dr. Swenson.

As noted under the section, Christian Perspective, I am particularly interested in integrating the principles of the Christian faith with psychological functioning.  I believe that the nature of a person’s relationship with God is a significant factor in how they live their life.  For more information, go to Christian Perspective, and Articles by Dr. Swenson.