John Savell holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in working with Children and Families. With over four-and-a-half decades of experience in the mental health field, he has worked in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, prison settings, neuropsychological rehabilitation centers, private practice, and several colleges and universities throughout Texas. He currently serves full-time as the Department Chair for Behavioral Sciences and Community Services, and Professor of Psychology at �鶹��ý and is the Program Coordinator of the Human Services Program and the General Psychology Graduate Program. An ordained minister through Foundation Ministries, he serves on the Board of Directors for Chi Alpha Ministries at TCU in Fort Worth and Bethesda School of Ministry. He is also an accomplished author and is in the process of completing a book titled, “Matters of the Heart, How Wounds Become Sin”.

Originally from Southern California, Deborah relocated to Texas to complete her BS in Counseling Psychology at Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU), followed by her MS in Clinical Psychology at Abilene Christian University (ACU). She has also earned a Ph.D. in International Psychology with a concentration in Organizations and Systems at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP). She currently holds memberships in the American Psychological Association (APA) and Division 52 (International Psychology). After teaching in the Social Sciences department at Newman International Academy for 5 years, she has returned to her alma mater at SAGU as a faculty member in the Behavioral Sciences department. She primarily teaches statistics, testing, and research courses. She is the clinical psychology graduate program practicum coordinator, as well.

Deborah’s passions include teaching, researching, presenting, and mentoring. Her primary research interests include missionary wellness, burnout, relief work, karoshi, and the intersection between missions and psychology. She is also an active researcher in various capacities (i.e., reviewing, data entry, collection, and analysis).

Professional Experience: 17 years in the mental health field. Currently licensed as a Board Approved LCSW Supervisor through the state of Texas. Served as an Administrator of a for-profit hospital along with other roles within the same agency for a total of 7 years in direct practice settings.  Served in various roles for a community mental health authority, providing crisis services and clinical oversight for 9+ years. Since 2020, served as a City Councilman, Juvenile Court Liaison, and City Financial Officer for the City of Oak Leaf.  Dr. Godsby also speaks and provides training on the topics of self-care, compassion fatigue, empathy, trauma-informed care, suicide, and mental health care.

Degrees

• DSW- Walden University
• MSSW- University of Texas at Arlington
• B.S. -Pre-Professional Counseling, SAGU
• AA-Biblical Studies, SAGU
• AA- Psychology, SAGU