Author Archives: Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

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About Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

As a Family Therapist I help families address and cope with challenges which inevitably arise in family systems and for the children and adults who make up a family. I am an Associate Professor at Stevenson University where I teach courses in "Family Studies" and "Family Therapy". In addition to a Ph.D. in counseling, I have a law degree and I use these two areas to help couples navigate the stormy waters of separation and divorce through MEDIATION and conflict resolution. I have been the lead researcher in studies involving the following variables: "Stress Related Growth", "Satisfaction with Life", "Hope", and"Adaptation to Stress". In addition, I have studied ways in which "Coping", "Spirituality", and "Personality" help individuals adapt to life stressors. I love all the things I do and am passionate about each. Mostly, I am passionate about working directly with individuals and families who are seeking ways to live full, healthy, and happy lives.

Forbearance

Posted on April 16, 2025 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Forbearance is the ability to endure difficulties with patience, self-control, and understanding. It reflects strength in responding thoughtfully rather than impulsively, particularly in frustrating situations. Rooted in empathy and emotional regulation, forbearance fosters healthy relationships and personal growth by allowing … Continue reading →

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Finding Your Sense of Peace

Posted on March 19, 2025 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is a state of inner calm and balance that fosters clarity and resilience. It arises from acceptance, self-awareness, and gracefully navigating life’s uncertainties. Spirituality often plays a crucial role in cultivating … Continue reading →

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Cultivating Joy

Posted on March 10, 2025 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Joy is a profound emotion that goes beyond momentary happiness. It arises from a deep sense of contentment, connection, and purpose. Unlike fleeting pleasure, joy is enduring and rooted in gratitude, meaningful relationships, and self-acceptance. Joy flourishes when individuals embrace … Continue reading →

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Emotional Renewal

Posted on January 29, 2025 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Gage (my golden, furry co-therapist) and I have the privilege of occupying an office in a building originally constructed in the early 1800s. This building houses an old chapel where four congregations share worship space. When the chapel, with its … Continue reading →

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Research on Love

Posted on January 3, 2025 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Love Love has been linked to numerous benefits, including reduced stress, improved mental health, and even longer life expectancy. Psychologists distinguish between different types of love, such as passionate, friendship, and spiritual love. Cultivating love starts with self-awareness and self-compassion. … Continue reading →

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Enmeshment

Posted on December 7, 2024 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

            Enmeshment within families often involves a lack of independence among family members. When two or more family members are enmeshed with each other, boundaries are vague or nonexistent. Signs of enmeshment include a lack of privacy between parent and child, … Continue reading →

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Challenges & Hopes in October

Posted on October 17, 2024 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

As the natural world prepares for winter, let’s consider what new “inner growth” we can foster. The visual changes in nature serve as powerful metaphors for personal transformation. Reduced sunlight and colder temperatures, however, can lower our moods and energy … Continue reading →

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Benefits of Unstructured Play for Children & Adults

Posted on June 4, 2024 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Unstructured Play Now that summer is here, encourage unstructured play for little ones in your life and for yourself! Unstructured play holds profound benefits for children’s development and as a stress release for adults. Unstructured Play Fosters Creativity and Imagination. … Continue reading →

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Friendship

Posted on April 11, 2024 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

The irony of today’s technology is that it connects us with more people, more often than ever before, and yet feelings of loneliness and isolation are higher than ever! Turns out that good old fashioned face-to-face friendships are essential to … Continue reading →

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Emotions & Moods

Posted on March 12, 2024 by Thomas K. Swisher, J.D., Ph.D.

Is It a Mood or Emotion? If you’re like most people, you often find yourself “in a mood” or feeling a strong emotion. While emotions usually have identifiable sources, the sources of moods are often unclear. Emotions tend to be brief while moods can be long lasting. Emotions have … Continue reading →

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