Writer, Author, and Lecturer in Psychology (University of British Columbia) / Blogger @ The State of Us
Supporting academic and public discourse in the psychological and social sciences. Specializing in (1) educational development and leadership; (2) writing, editing, and content creation; and (3) business and community consulting.
Writer, Author, and Lecturer in Psychology (University of British Columbia)
Services & Consulting
Services & Consulting
I offer a variety of consulting and educational services for groups and organizations, including the moderation of community-based discussion groups, educational seminars and lectures, and cafés. For the past six years, I have led Café-Philo and Psych Café discussion groups in community and university settings in order to support discourse on some of the challenges we are currently facing as a species. I also offer more tailored consulting aimed at community and organizational education and development, particularly in matters related to the psychological and social sciences and their relevance to health and well-being.
My approach to group consulting and community education is rooted in the existential and humanistic domains of psychology, which focus on meaning, purpose, and growth. I offer practical guidance and support, education, and leadership in a nonjudgmental way to help groups, organizations, and businesses maximize their potential.
What is existential psychology?
Existential psychology is based on the premise that life is short, and so it is important to live authentically. This idea of ‘authentic living’ is at the heart of my definition of personal wellness. It means knowing who you are and living with greater self-awareness. It means taking responsibility for your life and your actions. It means living in a way that maximizes your potential as a human being in order to find true and authentic happiness.
When striving to live authentically, it is also important to reflect on life’s biggest questions. Questions like, “Why am I here?” and “What should I be doing?” can help you better understand your place in this world. To this end, it is not enough to simply become more aware of yourself. To find true happiness and peace in life, you must also foster a sense of meaning and purpose. You must wrestle with the questions, find your own answers to those questions, and both clarify and strengthen your relationship with the world. Authenticity is an important goal for individuals as well as groups, community organizations, and businesses, and I similarly approach all of my teaching and consulting with authenticity and purpose in mind.
The goal of humanistic psychology is similar: to help you gain awareness of your inner potential. This is one of the main tenets of self-actualization, described by Maslow as the process of realizing your true potential. Whether in a group setting or in the community more broadly, this is a main focus of my teaching and consulting: to help others gain awareness of their inner strengths and potentials on all levels, from the physical to the emotional and spiritual. I believe in the humanistic principles of genuine acceptance, positive regard, and empathy, and approach all interactions with kindness and understanding while encouraging new perspectives and insights in a nonjudgmental and safe space. To this end, I also believe strongly in the principles of equity and inclusion.
Group Events & Workshops
I also offer a variety of community and group services. These include workshops (half-day, full-day, or weekend), educational seminars and lectures, business consulting and education, and community engagement and discussion moderation. I am happy to hold an event in a place of business, a community centre, or at a venue of your choice. Alternatively, I am happy to coordinate a space for you depending on your needs, with potential venues and accommodations on Bowen Island if you wish to integrate the “island experience” into your learning.
Workshop, seminar, or corporate topics might include:
- Exploring the Science of Holistic Health and Wellness
- Fight or Flight, or Frenzy? Managing Stress in a Demanding World
- You, Your Health, and Climate Change
- From LGBT to QIA+: A Practical Introduction to Gender and Sexual Diversity
- The Psychology of Personality and Individual Differences
- From Conspiracy Theories to Political Extremism: Why Do People See the World the Way They Do?
- Science Literacy: Reading, Evaluating, and Thinking Critically about Scientific Research
To book a workshop or educational event, email me at davidking2311@gmail.com to start the conversation.