Dr. Pete

Author/ Psychologist/Mental health counselor / Academic Executive /Sports Performance Coach

Peter J. Economou, Ph.D., ABPP earned a Ph.D. in counseling psychology and is Board Certified in Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dr. Pete joined the esteemed faculty at Rutgers University- Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP) as the Director of the MAP program and Associate Professor. Dr. Pete has completed various international relief projects, which included working with children and adults with developmental disabilities in the Caribbean, and individuals with HIV and AIDS throughout Africa. Studying at Seton Hall University, Dr. Pete was conferred a B.S. in Biology, studied Neuroscience at the graduate level, and was conferred a M.A. and an Ed.S. in counseling and psychological studies and mental health counseling.

Dr. Pete is licensed by the state of New Jersey to practice psychology and as a Professional Counselor (LPC), and in New York as a psychologist. He approaches therapy from a cognitive orientation, primarily of Beckian Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

He creates an open dialogue about treatment techniques and goals are set and evaluated monthly. It is his belief that many of our concerns are routed in learned experiences and we can train our minds to function at the optimal envisioned level. Dr. Pete has also studied eastern philosophy including Buddhism and Yoga which lead to his interest in the third wave cognitive and behavioral therapies. There are several techniques including advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).
Dr. Pete has trained at a variety of mental health settings treating individuals across the life span, and has always focused on cognitive and behavioral therapies. His training included working with elite (e.g., university) and professional (e.g., NFL, MLS and NHL) athletes, methadone and other substance abuse clinics, family treatment centers, university counseling and disability support services, hospital settings including neuropsychology assessment and intensive outpatient services, assisted living facilities, private practice, and a summer camp for students with developmental disabilities. Dr. Pete offers interdisciplinary treatment including referrals to psychiatrists, physicians, nutritionists, physical trainers, nurses, social workers, and other professionals that can assist an individual to achieve the stated goals. Lastly, Dr. Pete has completed myriad of research projects where he has presented at national and international conferences. His research interests vary including studies investigating the impact of stress and trauma on learning, memory, and executive functioning, the varying romantic relationship models and differences between the heterosexual and homosexual populations, gender, and the affects of heterosexism and stress on sexual minorities. Dr. Pete is an active member of several professional organizations.