Daniel Gutierrez
Daniel Gutierrez, Ph.D., LPC, CSAC, is a professor whose research focuses on mental health strategies that support resilience, well-being, and human flourishing in the face of chronic stress and life challenges. His scholarship spans two primary areas: the development of evidence-informed interventions to promote individual and community thriving, and the exploration of contemplative practices and spirituality as pathways for personal transformation and social renewal.
A licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor, he brings over a decade of clinical experience into his teaching, research, and mentorship.
He was named a Fellow of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Central Florida. A former president of the Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), Dr. Gutierrez currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Counseling and Values, the leading journal for research on spirituality and ethics in the counseling profession.
Follow his substack at https://lifedeathcomedy.com
Stephanie Dorais
Stephanie Dorais, PhD, LMHC is a counselor educator and licensed mental health counselor with a background spanning data analytics, mental health, and behavioral economics. She began her career in quantitative research after earning a B.S. in Statistics and Operations Research from NYU’s Stern School of Business and later pursued behavioral science research after obtaining a doctorate in counseling from William & Mary.
Her research explores how psychological traits—such as mindfulness, hope, and emotion regulation—shape health-related behavior, financial and economic decision-making, and long-term well-being.
With over 20 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Dorais also teaches behavioral economics, applied statistics, and research design. Her applied work translates psychological insight into data-driven strategies for improving health and financial outcomes.