Kristen Doran, PsyD, LPC
Professor
Business, Computing & Social Science
Contact Information
Marple901 S. Media Line Road
Media, PA 19063
610-723-2000
Room Number: 3312
Contact Faculty
Degrees
- Doctor of Clinical Psychology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
- Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
- Master of Science in Counseling and Educational Psychology, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
Academic Biography
Dr. Kristen Doran is a tenured Professor of Psychology and a Licensed Professional Counselor. She holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) from West Chester University (WCU), a program accredited by the American Psychological Association. Kristen's education also includes two Master of Science degrees, one in Clinical Psychology and the other in Counseling and Educational Psychology, both from WCU. Prior to her advanced degrees, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University. As a first-generation college student who started at a community college, Kristen is deeply committed to supporting and advocating for the success of community college students. Kristen's expertise in treating anxiety, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive-related disorders stems from two years of training at the Pearlman School of Medicine and the University of Pennsylvania's Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety (CTSA), which she completed during her doctoral studies. She specializes in supporting adults, employing therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy (PE), exposure and response prevention therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Presently, Kristen serves as a certified PE Consultant on The PEACE Project at the CTSA. In this role, Kristen supports clinicians providing specialized care to those affected by violence.
Theoretical Approach, Experience, and Temperament
My teaching philosophy centers around fostering a lifelong love of learning while creating a safe and supportive classroom environment. I believe in engaging students through active learning strategies, encouraging higher-level thinking, and providing experiential opportunities to deepen their understanding of the subject matter. To achieve this, I prioritize creating a safe learning environment where students feel valued and free from judgment. I cultivate a strong sense of community and connection among students, fostering an atmosphere that promotes effective learning strategies and encourages participation. In addition to teaching the content, I recognize the importance of imparting practical skills and promoting personal growth. I aim to boost students' self-esteem, confidence, and self-awareness, empowering them beyond the classroom. Practical skills such as time management, organization, decision-making, and critical thinking are also emphasized to equip students for success in various aspects of their lives. Ultimately, my teaching philosophy acknowledges each student's individuality and respects their unique perspectives and experiences. I strive to address the whole person, appreciating the multiple life roles they hold and creating an inclusive learning environment that supports their growth and development. At DCCC, Kristen teaches Personal and Career Development (PSY 130), Personality Theories (PSY 200), and Abnormal Psychology (PSY 220).
Scholarly Interests
- Academic success for first-generation college students
- Treatment efficacy for PTSD and OCD
- Technology adjuncts to PTSD and OCD treatment
- Effectiveness of teletherapy
- Cannabis use
- Group interventions for burnout
