David P. Mann

I have two connected quotations that both inspire me and frame my approach to life. The first is “Dare to take the journey that begins where the path ends” (anonymous) and the second is “For we walk by faith and not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Both sayings encourage me to face the uncertainties of life with the assurance that although I may not be able to see what’s around the next corner, keep taking steps in the direction of new possibilities.

The areas of counseling that I am most passionate about: 

The areas of counseling that I am most passionate about are helping individuals, couples, and families deal with the real life struggles of anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, relational issues, losses, life transitions, personal growth & wellness, and spiritual/religious issues. Being a fellow life journeyer, and having walked alongside numbers of people dealing with these issues, I am dedicated to helping people not only work through their difficulties but to grow personally in the process.

Hobbies and Interests

I enjoy being outdoors and especially visiting the Great Lakes. Whether its traveling down a scenic highway on my motorcycle or walking down a shoreline looking for beach glass, the fresh air and beauty of nature does much to restore me.

Philosophy of Counseling

I believe we were all created to live our lives to our fullest potential and yet, as I have written elsewhere, “Living can be hazardous to one’s health.” In other words, in the everyday living out of our lives we encounter difficult events, people, and circumstances that can wound us in a variety of ways. We are affected as a whole person which includes how we feel, think, and relate to others. The role of the counselor is help people deal effectively with the difficulties they are experiencing as well as to nurture personal growth and the discovery of their potential in the process.

Professional and Community Involvement

In the nearly 40 years of my career, I have served in the roles of pastor, Hospice chaplain, professional counselor, and counselor educator. I have been involved in the counseling profession as a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES), Ohio Counseling Association (OCA), and Ohio Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (OACES). I have served terms as president of both OCA and OACES and presented seminars and workshops on the local and State levels. I train graduate students in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program of Ashland University/Ashland Theological Seminary as well as provide clinical supervision for Counselor Trainees (clinical interns) and Licensed Professional Counselors. I have provided professional counseling services and consultation in private and group practice as well as in community mental health. I have specialized training and experience in working with ministers and missionaries as well as others whose spirituality and religion are important aspects of their lives.

Education and Credentials

Ph.D., Counselor Education and Supervision—Kent State University (Kent, OH)
M.A., Pastoral Counseling—Ashland Theological Seminary (Ashland, OH)
B.S., Pastoral Studies—North Central University (Minneapolis, MN)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision Designation - (OH License # E-1847)
Professor of Counseling, Ashland University/Ashland Theological Seminary